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“Donald Trump’s efforts to consolidate major media in the hands of his political cronies is a perfect example of why Congress prohibited TV broadcasters from getting this big in the first place,” said Free Press General Counsel and Vice President of Policy Matt Wood.

If it went through unchallenged, the Nexstar-Tegna deal would result in more newsroom layoffs, as the new bosses fire reporters and churn out more of the cookie-cutter content that comes from the downsizing at local stations.

Eight state attorneys general have filed an antitrust lawsuit to block Nexstar’s pending acquisition of Tegna.

Free Press Co-CEO Craig Aaron talks to Democracy Now! about the Trump administration’s escalating threats against news organizations.

When anti-SLAPP laws are enacted, targeted victims can defeat speech-chilling attacks from powerful individuals and institutions seeking to dodge accountability. 

On Tuesday, Wisconsin State Senator Mark Spreitzer and Representative Brienne Brown introduced three bills designed to support and enhance local journalism across the state. 

The Ellisons’ takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery signals that narrative control can be bought. “Many of the top 35 corporate media companies have compromised journalistic independence in exchange for regulatory favors, financial settlements and political power,” writes Free Press’ Nora Benavidez.

Tim Karr, Free Press’ senior director of strategy and communications, responded to Carr’s warning by posting the text of the First Amendment on X. Carr had threatened to pull the broadcasting licenses of media outlets he accused of “running hoaxes and news distortions” in their Iran coverage.

“The Trump regime’s war on free speech is no joke—and it’s not over,” said Free Press Co-CEO Craig Aaron.

Advocacy groups used the hubbub of the Oscars to draw attention to their causes. Pushing against corporate media consolation, Free Press had a mobile billboard circling the Dolby Theater to protest Paramount Skydance’s likely takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery.