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Tesla’s Troubles: Stock Plummets as Teachers Union Calls for Sell-Off

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Key Takeaways:

  • Tesla’s stock value dropped over 25% in early 2025 due to poor European sales.
  • The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) is urging investors to sell Tesla shares.
  • AFT leader Randi Weingarten highlights risks, including Tesla’s high stock price compared to earnings.
  • Concerns over falling profits, sales decline, and political backlash are key issues.
  • Progressive groups are protesting and boycotting Tesla.

Tesla’s Stock Takes a Nose Dive

Tesla, the electric car giant led by Elon Musk, has faced significant financial challenges recently. The company’s stock has plummeted over 25% in early 2025, largely due to struggling sales in Europe. This downturn is linked to Musk’s alliances with far-right politicians, which have sparked public backlash. As a result, investors are growing wary, and the situation is becoming increasingly dire for Tesla.

AFT’s Push Against Tesla

The American Federation of Teachers is now stepping into the fray, urging major investors to reconsider their holdings in Tesla. AFT leader Randi Weingarten has reached out to top asset management firms, warning them about the risks of holding Tesla stock. With a price-earnings ratio of 142, significantly higher than the S&P 500 average, Tesla’s stock appears overvalued. Weingarten emphasizes the need to protect workers’ retirement funds, as Tesla’s stock continues to decline and European sales drop sharply.

Why Teachers Are Worried

Weingarten’s concerns are multifaceted. Tesla’s earnings and profit margins are slipping, indicating potential loss of pricing power. Sales in crucial markets like California and Europe are in freefall. Additionally, increasing competition in electric vehicle charging, a sector Tesla once dominated, poses further threats. These factors raise significant red flags for investors, prompting the AFT to act.

Musk’s Controversial Politics

Weingarten’s actions are also influenced by her ties to the Democratic Party and labor unions’ long-standing opposition to Musk. Musk’s embrace of far-right figures has alienated many, including union members and progressive groups. This political stance has not only affected Tesla’s sales but also led to organized protests and boycotts, further hurting the brand’s image.

What’s Next for Tesla

As pressure mounts, Tesla faces an uncertain future. The AFT’s campaign and declining sales could drive the stock even lower. With increasing competition and a challenging market, Tesla must address these issues swiftly to regain investor confidence and market share.

The Bigger Picture

This situation reflects broader trends in business and politics. Companies are increasingly scrutinized for their leadership’s political stances, impacting their financial health. Tesla’s case serves as a reminder of the intertwined nature of corporate performance and public perception, highlighting the importance of aligning business practices with societal values.

GOP Governor Fights to Save Medicaid

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Key Takeaways:

  • Nevada’s Governor Lombardo opposes proposed Medicaid cuts in the new GOP budget.
  • The budget could cut $880 billion from Medicaid over a decade.
  • Lombardo emphasizes Medicaid’s importance for Nevada’s health care and economy.
  • Over 72 million Americans rely on Medicaid nationally.

Understanding the Budget Cuts

A recent budget proposal by House Republicans has sparked concern, particularly over cuts to Medicaid, a vital health program for low-income individuals. While the budget doesn’t explicitly mention Medicaid, the proposed $880 billion reduction likely targets this program. This has led to bipartisan anxiety, as seen in Governor Lombardo’s stance.

Who is Governor Lombardo?

Joe Lombardo, Nevada’s Republican Governor, recently urged Congress to spare Medicaid from cuts. Despite endorsing Donald Trump, Lombardo recognizes the program’s importance for Nevada’s health care system. He argues that cutting Medicaid could have severe consequences, impacting health outcomes and economic stability.

Why Medicaid Matters

Medicaid provides health coverage to millions, including children, the elderly, and those with disabilities. It’s a joint federal-state program, allowing states flexibility in tailoring benefits. For Nevada, Medicaid has been crucial in expanding school health services, reducing uninsured rates, and enhancing behavioral health care.

The Governor’s Argument

Lombardo mailed a letter to Congress, highlighting Medicaid’s role in Nevada’s progress. He noted improvements in health outcomes and productivity, stressing that cuts would hinder the state’s ability to adapt to demographic changes. Specifically, he opposes rolling back expansion funding, imposing per capita caps, and reducing hospital taxes.

Impact on Health Care Providers

Beyond patient coverage, Medicaid is essential for health care providers. Hospitals and clinics rely on Medicaid reimbursements to operate, staff facilities, and invest in services. Cutting funds could lead to closures and reduced care quality, affecting both patients and workers.

A National Concern

With 72 million enrolled, Medicaid cuts could have nationwide repercussions. States like Nevada, which have expanded services, stand to lose significant federal support. This could disrupt care for vulnerable populations and strain local health systems.

A Divided GOP

Lombardo’s opposition highlights internal GOP divisions. While some Republicans emphasize budget cuts for fiscal responsibility, others like Lombardo argue against harming essential programs. This debate underscores broader challenges in balancing budget constraints with social responsibilities.

Conclusion: Pressure on Congress

As the budget moves through Congress, Lombardo’s letter adds to the growing pressure to protect Medicaid. Supporters argue that the program’s benefits outweigh costs, preserving it as a lifeline for millions. The outcome will significantly impact health care access and state economies, making this debate a critical moment for policymakers.

EU Rolls Back Environmental Rules to Boost Competitiveness Amid Global Race

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Key Takeaways:

– The European Union is set to reduce environmental regulations to stay competitive with the U.S. and China.
– This shift comes amid concerns over slow economic growth and pressure from businesses and key EU countries.
– Proposed changes include watering down green standards and cutting energy costs.
– Environmental groups and some lawmakers oppose the move, calling it a step backward for sustainability.

EU Eases Environmental Rules to Stay Competitive

The European Union is gearing up to relax a set of environmental rules as part of a broader effort to boost itscompetitiveness on the global stage. This move comes as the EU tries to keep pace with the United States and Chinaamid growing concerns over slow economic growth.

At the heart of this shift is a push to make it easier for businesses to operate in Europe. Companies and key EU memberslike France and Germany argue that high energy costs and strict environmental standards are putting them at a disadvantage compared to other major economies.

What’s Changing?

The EU plans to unveil proposals that would weaken certain environmental and human rights standards. Two key regulationsin the crosshairs are:

1. Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD): This rule requires large companies to report on their climateimpacts and efforts to reduce emissions.
2. Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD): This mandates companies to address harmful environmentaland human rights issues in their global supply chains.

Under the proposed changes, companies would only need to report on their supply chains every five years instead ofannually. Additionally, the rules would apply only to larger companies with over 1,000 employees, up from the currentthreshold of 250 employees and a €40 million turnover.

Why Is the EU Making These Changes?

The EU’s focus has shifted to boosting its economy and remaining competitive in an increasingly tense global landscape.U.S. President Donald Trump’s “America First” strategy has added pressure, raising fears of a potential trade war.

EU industry chief Stephane Sejourne explained that businesses are already under strain as they work to decarbonize and adaptto a “war economy.” He said, “We cannot ask our companies to invest massively in reporting resources when they should befocused on competing globally.”

A Debate Over Mistakes

Some EU lawmakers now admit that the original rules may have been too ambitious. French centrist Marie-Pierre Vedrennerecently called the regulations a “mistake,” despite previously supporting them. She emphasized, “The world is changing, andsometimes we need to revisit our decisions.”

However, not everyone agrees. Environmental groups and left-wing lawmakers are pushing back against the changes, warningthat weakening the rules could harm companies that have already invested in sustainability efforts.

Amandine Van Den Berghe of the environmental law NGO ClientEarth said, “Changing course now would be very detrimental toleading companies committed to sustainability. If the race is to the bottom, we won’t win.”

A Step Forward for Green Tech

Despite the rollback of some environmental rules, the EU insists it remains committed to its climate goals, including becomingclimate-neutral by 2050.

To support this, the EU will introduce its “Clean Industrial Deal,” a package of measures aimed at strengthening the cleantechsector. EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen stated, “The fact that the U.S. is moving away from the green agenda doesn’tmean we will follow. Instead, we need to step forward.”

The EU also plans to lower energy costs and simplify approval processes for renewable energy projects. However, businesseshave expressed concerns that these measures may come too late to address the current challenges.

The Big Picture

The EU’s decision to ease environmental rules reflects a broader struggle to balance economic growth with sustainability.Billions of dollars in investments, jobs, and the planet’s future hang in the balance.

As the global race for competitiveness heats up, the EU must navigate this tricky path carefully to avoid undermining its long-term environmental goals. The world will be watching to see if this move pays off or backfires.

Trump Voter Loses Job After Believing Campaign Promises

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Key Takeaways:

  • Ryleigh Cooper, a young federal worker, voted for Trump due to promises of lower living costs and free IVF.
  • After the election, she lost her job, losing health insurance and future planning for her children.
  • Trump’s IVF plan wasn’t free, leaving Cooper feeling betrayed.
  • Her story highlights the impact of broken political promises on ordinary workers.

A Young Worker’s Decision

Ryleigh Cooper, a 24-year-old from rural Michigan, faced a tough choice during the 2024 presidential election. She worked for the federal government, earning $40,000 a year, and loved her job in forestry. Ryleigh and her husband dreamed of starting a family, but the high cost of IVF made it difficult.


Promises and Hope

During his campaign, Trump promised to make IVF free. Ryleigh saw this promise on TikTok and believed it. She also trusted Trump when he said he wouldn’t cut federal jobs under Project 2025, a plan to reduce the federal workforce.

For 15 minutes, Ryleigh stared at her ballot, thinking about the child she wanted. She decided to vote for Trump, hoping he would keep his promises.


Broken Promises

Three months after the election, Ryleigh’s world crumbled. Trump, along with Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, began cutting federal jobs. Ryleigh was fired, losing her health insurance and the maternity leave she needed.

She learned about Trump’s new IVF plan four days after losing her job. But the plan wasn’t free, and Ryleigh was now unemployed.


A Hard Lesson

When Ryleigh read the White House announcement about IVF, she felt betrayed. The headline said, “Delivering on promises for American families,” but Ryleigh thought, “That’s bulls—.”

Her story shows the real-life impact of broken political promises. Ryleigh learned a hard lesson: always verify what politicians promise.

Judge Demands Proof on Trans Military Ban

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Key Takeaways:

  • A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to provide evidence for banning transgender soldiers.
  • The government must answer eight questions by Saturday morning.
  • The judge wants data on military spending, mental health, and transgender service members.
  • Legal experts predict the administration may appeal to avoid sharing the information.
  • Advocates call the ban unfair and harmful to qualified servicemembers.

Judge Orders Trump Administration to Back Up Trans Military Ban

A federal judge is pushing the Trump administration to prove its claims about transgender soldiers in the military. Judge Ana Reyes gave the government until Saturday morning to answer eight tough questions. The judge wants to know if the ban on transgender servicemembers is based on real evidence or if it’s just unfair.

The Trump administration argues that transgender soldiers could hurt the military’s ability to fight. They say gender dysphoria, a condition where a person feels their gender doesn’t match their body, is a burden. But Judge Reyes isn’t convinced. She wants to see the facts.


What the Judge Is Asking For

Judge Reyes has asked for specific information to judge the fairness of the ban. Her questions include:

  1. How much money the military has spent in total from 2015 to 2024.
  2. How much the military spends on mental health care for all soldiers, not just transgender ones.
  3. The total cost of all surgeries for soldiers, including both necessary and elective procedures.
  4. Other mental health conditions, besides gender dysphoria, that the military considers incompatible with service.
  5. The exact number of transgender soldiers currently serving in the military.

Legal experts say this information will likely show that the costs and challenges linked to transgender soldiers are very small compared to the military’s overall budget. This could prove the ban is unnecessary and unfair.


The Government’s Challenge

The Trump administration now has just two days to gather all this data. Legal analyst Andrew Torrez says the government will likely struggle to meet the deadline. He predicts they’ll try to appeal the judge’s order or even ask the Supreme Court to step in.

Meanwhile, advocates for transgender soldiers are speaking out. Brandon Wolf, a survivor of the Pulse Nightclub shooting, called the ban a “total disgrace.” He said it will force thousands of qualified, trained soldiers out of the military just because of who they are.


Why This Matters

The case highlights a bigger debate about equality and fairness in the military. Supporters of transgender soldiers argue that they have served bravely and deserve respect. They say the ban is based on prejudice, not facts.

The judge’s questions are designed to uncover whether the ban is truly necessary or just an example of discrimination. If the government can’t provide clear evidence, the ban could be overturned.


What’s Next?

The deadline for the government to answer is tight, and the stakes are high. If they fail to provide the information, the judge could rule against them. But legal battles often take time, and this case may end up in the Supreme Court.

For now, transgender soldiers and their supporters are waiting anxiously to see if justice will be served. One thing is clear: the fight for equality in the military is far from over.


This case is a reminder that even in the military, fairness and equality should matter. Judge Reyes is holding the Trump administration accountable for its claims. The next few days will show if they can back them up.

Instagram Glitch Floods Feeds with Violent Content

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Key Takeaways:

  • Instagram users encountered violent videos in their Reels feed due to a technical glitch.
  • Meta apologized, referring to the incident as a glitch and is working on a fix.
  • The issue arose amid changes in content moderation policies.

Instagram users were startled when their Reels feeds unexpectedly displayed graphic and violent content. This disturbing situation caught the attention of CNN anchors Kate Bolduan and Sara Sidner, who sought insight from reporter Clare Duffy. Meta has since apologized, attributing the issue to a glitch and assuring users of ongoing efforts to resolve it.

What Happened on Instagram?

The glitch caused Instagram’s Reels section to suggest videos with sensitive content warnings, including footage of violence and harm. Users were alarmed to find such graphic material in their feeds, prompting widespread concern and discussions on social platforms like Twitter.

Changes in Content Moderation

Coinciding with this incident, Meta has been updating its content policies, scaling back automated moderation. Mark Zuckerberg noted that these changes could lead to more harmful content appearing on the platform. While this shift may not be directly linked to the glitch, it raises questions about content oversight.

Why Was Violent Content on Instagram?

Instagram’s vast content volume presents challenges in moderation. While the platform aims to filter harmful material, vulnerabilities in screening processes can allow violent content to slip through, especially during system updates or glitches.

Aftermath and Ongoing Efforts

Meta is addressing the issue and reviewing its systems to prevent future occurrences. This incident underscores the complexities of maintaining a safe digital environment, highlighting the need for robust content moderation strategies to protect users from inappropriate material.

Katy Perry Leads Historic All-Female Crew on Blue Origin Space Flight

Key Takeaways:

  • Katy Perry joins Blue Origin’s first all-female crew since 1963.
  • The crew includes notable women like Lauren Sanchez and Gayle King.
  • Blue Origin, Jeff Bezos’ company, has flown 52 people to space.
  • The New Shepard rocket offers a brief but thrilling space experience.
  • This mission marks a significant step in diverse space exploration.

Historic All-Female Crew to Soar with Blue Origin

In a groundbreaking move, pop icon Katy Perry is set to embark on a historic space journey as part of Blue Origin’s all-female crew. This mission, the first of its kind since Russian cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova’s solo flight in 1963, underscores a significant step toward diversity in space exploration.

Joining Perry are esteemed individuals such as Lauren Sanchez, Jeff Bezos’ fiancée, and Gayle King, co-host of CBS Mornings. The crew also includes research scientist Amanda Nguyen, rocket scientist Aisha Bowe, and producer Kerianne Flynn, showcasing a blend of talent and expertise.

Blue Origin’s Endeavors in Space Tourism

Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, ventured into space tourism in 2021 with its New Shepard rocket, named after astronaut Alan Shepard. This vehicle has successfully launched 52 individuals into suborbital space across 10 missions, offering a unique experience with mere minutes of microgravity.

The New Shepard’s journey is brief, lasting about 11 minutes, but thrilling. It reaches beyond the Karman line, the recognized space boundary, before landing safely in Texas. Past passengers include William Shatner and Bezos himself, highlighting the program’s appeal.

A Vision for Space Beyond Tourism

While Elon Musk aims to colonize Mars, Bezos envisions a different future. His plan involves moving heavy industry to space to preserve Earth, a concept reflected in Blue Origin’s name, symbolizing our planet as humanity’s origin.

Recent achievements, like the launch of the New Glenn rocket, mark Blue Origin’s expansion into commercial launches. Beyond tourism, the company collaborates with NASA on lunar landers and plans to deploy a satellite constellation, Project Kuiper.

Conclusion

Katy Perry’s mission with Blue Origin is more than a celebrity outing; it’s a milestone in space history. It highlights diverse participation and the broader goals of space exploration. As Blue Origin continues to innovate, its impact on space travel and industry promises to be significant, shaping the future of our cosmic endeavors.

Bible Sparks Debate Over Corporal Punishment Ban

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Key Takeaways:

– Oklahoma passes bill banning corporal punishment for disabled students.
– Debate involved religious arguments between senators.
– Bill passed despite opposition, highlighting controversial policies.

Oklahoma Lawmakers Clash Over Corporal Punishment Ban

A heated debate erupted in the Oklahoma Senate as a new bill banning corporal punishment for disabled students was passed. The bill, SB 364, introduced by Sen. David Rader, aims to end physical discipline in schools for special needs students. However, the debate took a surprising turn when religion became a focal point.

Religious Arguments Dominate the Debate

Sen. Shane Jett opposed the bill, arguing that the Bible supports corporal punishment. He questioned how Rader’s bill aligned with scripture, sparking a lengthy religious discussion. Rader countered by quoting the Bible himself, emphasizing that not all discipline needs to be physical. He stressed the need for special approaches for special needs students, stating the bill ensures discipline isn’t physical.

Jett remained unconvinced, calling the bill a violation of scripture and labeling it socialist. Despite his objections, the bill passed with a 31-16 vote.

Controversial Stances Highlighted

This isn’t Jett’s first controversial stance. He previously supported putting specific Bibles in classrooms and proposed deregulating donkey milk production, drawing attention for unusual policy choices.

Significance of the Bill

The passage of SB 364 marks a significant shift in how Oklahoma schools handle discipline for disabled students, emphasizing the need for non-physical methods. The debate underscored the challenges in balancing religious beliefs with modern educational practices.

In conclusion, the bill’s passage highlights the ongoing debate over discipline methods and the importance of tailored approaches for special needs students.

Trump Pushes GOP Deficit Hawks to Back Budget Plan Amid Deficit Fears

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Key Takeaways:

– Four Republican lawmakers known for opposing deficits are under pressure from Trump to support a budget plan.
– The plan includes $4.5 trillion in tax cuts and $2 trillion in spending cuts over 10 years.
– Critics warn the plan could increase the deficit, despite Trump’s past rhetoric on reducing debt.
– At least one lawmaker, Tim Burchett, said he needs to pray before deciding how to vote.

Trump’s Budget Plan Sparks Tension Among GOP Deficit Hawks

President Donald Trump is urging a group of Republican lawmakers to support a budget plan that experts say could make the national deficit worse. The lawmakers, known for their strict stance against government spending and debt, are now under pressure to back the plan despite their concerns.

The budget proposal includes $4.5 trillion in tax cuts over the next decade and aims to cut spending by $2 trillion. However, critics argue that the tax cuts could outweigh the spending reductions, leading to a larger deficit.

Who Are the Deficit Hawks?
The four lawmakers at the center of this debate are Representatives Thomas Massie of Kentucky, Victoria Spartz of Indiana, Warren Davidson of Ohio, and Tim Burchett of Tennessee. All four have expressed opposition to the budget plan, which is set to be debated on the House floor.

These lawmakers are known for their vocal opposition to government spending and debt. They are often called “deficit hawks,” a term used to describe politicians who prioritize reducing government deficits and balancing the budget.

Trump’s Pitch: Tax Cuts and Spending Reductions
President Trump has long advocated for reducing the national debt. During his presidency, he introduced the Department of Government Efficiency initiative, which aimed to cut waste and improve how taxpayer money is spent.

However, Trump’s latest push for this budget plan has raised eyebrows. The plan includes significant tax cuts, which could reduce government revenue. While it also promises spending cuts, the details of how those cuts will be made are still unclear.

To win over the deficit hawks, Trump has personally reached out to them, including during phone calls. For example, Representative Tim Burchett said he told Trump he needed time to “pray” about the decision before voting.

“I’ll Decide Right Before I Walk Up”
Burchett’s comments highlight the difficulty of the decision for these lawmakers. He told Trump, “I’ll make my decision right before I walk up” to vote. This shows how much he is struggling with whether to support the plan.

The pressure on these lawmakers is intense. A $4 trillion increase in the debt ceiling, which is part of the plan, is already a tough sell for many Republicans, especially those who campaign on fiscal responsibility.

What’s at Stake?
If the budget plan passes, it could have significant implications for the national deficit. Experts warn that the tax cuts could lead to a larger gap between government spending and revenue, making the deficit worse.

At the same time, the plan’s spending cuts are still undefined. Lawmakers have been told that the specifics will be worked out by House committees, which could lead to disagreements down the line.

The debate over this budget plan shows a deeper divide within the Republican Party. On one side are those who prioritize tax cuts and economic growth, even if it means short-term increases in the deficit. On the other side are deficit hawks who believe reducing government debt should come first.

As the vote approaches, all eyes are on lawmakers like Burchett, Massie, Spartz, and Davidson. Their decisions could determine whether the budget plan passes or fails, and whether Trump succeeds in convincing his party to back a plan that may contradict their long-held beliefs.

One thing is certain: the outcome of this vote will have a lasting impact on the national economy and the future of Republican politics. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds!

Trump Picks His Own Reporters: A Big Deal for the Press

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Key Takeaways:

– Trump wants to control who covers him.
– The White House will now pick reporters.
– This move threatens press independence.
– It could lead to biased reporting.
– Americans may lose trust in the media.

Donald Trump has always wanted to control the press. He wants a media that just repeats what he says without asking questions. Recently, the White House made a big announcement. They said the White House Correspondents Association won’t pick the reporters who cover Trump and the White House anymore. Instead, the White House will pick these reporters.

This news made a lot of people upset. The president of the National Press Club spoke out. He said this move is a direct challenge to a free press. For almost 100 years, journalists have made sure Americans know what the president is doing. This is especially important during crises. Independent journalists help keep the public informed.

By taking control of who covers him, Trump is undermining democracy. This move could lead to favoritism and secrecy. The press pool works hard, often on weekends and holidays. They should not be replaced by a handpicked group of insiders. The National Press Club urged the White House to reverse this decision. They want to preserve the integrity of the press pool for the good of democracy.

Why This Matters

Independent media have been warning the mainstream media. They said caving to Trump would not end well. The corporate media needs access to the White House. Without it, they are largely useless. Trump’s actions are an attack on the free press and democracy.

The mainstream press will now feel pressure. They must unquestioningly push Trump’s message. If they don’t, they will lose access to the White House. This means Americans will have even more reason to doubt the motives behind their reporting.

The Impact on Journalism

This move by Trump is a big deal. It threatens the independence of the press. Journalists should be free to ask questions and report the truth. When the government picks who covers them, it becomes harder to do this.

Trump’s actions could lead to biased reporting. Reporters who are handpicked by the White House might not ask tough questions. They might only report what the White House wants them to say. This is not good for democracy. Americans need to know the truth, even if it’s not what the president wants them to hear.

What This Means for Americans

Americans rely on the press to keep them informed. When the government controls who covers them, it becomes harder to get accurate information. This could lead to a loss of trust in the media. People might start to doubt what they read and watch.

It’s important for Americans to stay informed. They need to know what their leaders are doing. A free press helps hold leaders accountable. When the press is not free, it becomes harder to do this.

What You Can Do

So, what can you do about this? First, stay informed. Read from multiple sources. Don’t rely on just one news outlet. Also, support independent media. They often do a better job of holding leaders accountable.

You can also speak out. Let your representatives know how you feel. Tell them you want a free press. You want journalists to be able to ask tough questions and report the truth.

The Future of Press Freedom

The future of press freedom is uncertain. Trump’s actions are a big threat. But it’s not just Trump. Other leaders around the world are also trying to control the press. It’s important to stand up for a free press. It’s one of the pillars of democracy.

In conclusion, Trump picking his own reporters is a big deal. It threatens press independence and could lead to biased reporting. Americans need to stay informed and support a free press. Only then can we hold our leaders accountable and ensure democracy thrives.