The Media’s Joint Response to Trump’s Attacks

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/08/16/opinion/letters/trump-media.html

Version 0 of 1.

To the Editor:

Re “A Free Press Needs You” (editorial, Aug 16):

Never in my wildest dreams (nay, nightmares) would I have thought it necessary for American newspapers from coast to coast to defend their constitutional role of oversight of government. Public officials serve at our pleasure, subject to criticism and subject to being voted out at the next election.

Our newspapers and other media are central to an informed electorate. Long may they continue to provide us with the eyes and ears to learn how our federal, state and local governments operate.

Jay N. FeldmanPort Washington, N.Y.

To the Editor:

Choosing a day for hundreds of newspapers to publish an inspiring message supporting a free press is certainly admirable, but how about something more meaningful? Show that same solidarity by taking the oxygen out of the White House briefing room. Eliminate the pretense that any reasonable amount of truth is being offered by the administration.

One and all, the press corps should simply not show up, thus depriving the press secretary, or whoever’s turn it is to destroy any integrity that she or he may have, of an audience for the nonsense spewing forth from that podium.

Neil G. BennettNew York

To the Editor:

Re “The Times Joins an Effort to Combat Trump’s Press Attacks” (Business Day, Aug. 15):

The call to arms by The Boston Globe, picked up by your editorial, cited as justification “the administration’s assault on the press.” In fact, the “assault” responsible for the Sturm und Drang has been the concerted, nonstop anti-Trumpism of so much of the media. In the vanguard, and proud of it, is The New York Times, from its wall-to-wall anti-Trump editorials, columns and Op-Ed articles to the slanted reporting of the news.

Only President’s Trump’s over-the-top response, where a more measured response would have served, allows those who heed the call to portray themselves as victims.

Donald NawiScarsdale, N.Y.

To the Editor:

Scanning the comments from newspapers across the country regarding a free press reminds me of a 2010 speech given by President Obama to the graduating class at the University of Michigan. He said: “If you’re someone who only reads the editorial page of The New York Times, try glancing at the page of The Wall Street Journal once in a while. If you’re a fan of Glenn Beck or Rush Limbaugh, try reading a few columns on the Huffington Post website.”

In other words, he advocated being open-minded. His message has resonated ever since. So different from the climate today. I’m grateful for all newspapers, community and national, for keeping us informed!

Edith BroidaFarmington Hills, Mich.

To the Editor:

Reading excerpts from the editorials from around the country, I can truly say (for the first time in a while),“I am proud to be an American!”

William C. MarshallMiami Beach