Letters March 9

Enemy

In calling the press “the enemy of the American people,” President Trump attacks the same journalists and publications and broadcast networks which propelled him to victory in the Republican nomination and into the office of the U.S. President. Now that the press continues to report the truth, much of it critical, any that do not support Trump are labeled “fake news” by him.

It is more than ironic that when Trump makes an accusation, it is as if he were talking about himself. “Crooked” Hillary applies more to Trump than it does her, such as Trump University and his stiffing of contractors. Why did he settle the lawsuit against Trump University if he thought it had done nothing wrong? Trump knew he would lose, because the so-called “University” was a scam; in other words, crooked.

As far as fake news, Trump generated most of it and continues to do so.

America needs a strong and unfettered (free) press. We need journalists who dare to speak truth to power. If we lose that, we start down the slippery slope to losing our rights and losing our freedom. Unchecked presidential power could lead to the loss of democracy itself. First, you muzzle the press. Then you muzzle the courts. And then it is easier to grab more and more power.

I personally worked for 18 years employed with Whitman County. Much of my work was covered by the Whitman County Gazette, and many times it was critical. Did I claim those articles were fake news? No, of course not. Did I think some of them were unfair? Sure. But did I stop talking to the reporters? No, I did not. At times with some reporters, I exerted more caution and gave shorter answers, and eventually we returned to a fairer, mutual relationship with more open give and take. Could I have carried resentment into the future and not subscribe to the Gazette and Bulletin? Sure, but I continue my subscriptions because I believe a free, healthy, and independent press is extremely vital.

No, Mr. President, the press is not the enemy of the people, but I am beginning to conclude that you are.

Mark Bordsen,

Colfax