President-elect Donald Trump has instructed congressional Republicans to block a bill aimed at protecting press freedoms, effectively ending its chances of passing in the U.S. Senate. The bill, which aims to limit federal law enforcement surveillance of journalists and protect journalists’ sources, has bipartisan support. However, Trump’s influence within the Senate Republican Conference makes it unlikely that the bill will be brought to a vote.
The House Judiciary Committee and House already approved the bill, but with Democrats focused on confirming judicial nominees, it is unlikely that the Senate will prioritize the press protection legislation without unanimous consent from all 100 senators.
The bill, known as the PRESS Act, has been supported by press advocacy groups and journalists’ unions, who emphasize its importance in protecting news sources and journalists across the political spectrum. They argue that it is a necessary safeguard against government targeting of journalists and their communications.
Concerns have been raised about Trump’s stance on press freedom, with worries that he may seek retribution against journalists who criticize him. Trump’s past behavior, including surveillance and legal threats against journalists, has raised red flags for press advocacy groups.
Overall, the fate of the PRESS Act remains uncertain as congressional Republicans, under the influence of Trump, resist its passage. Journalists and press advocacy groups continue to push for the bill’s protection of press freedoms in the face of potential threats.
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