Historically, those dedicated to factual, independent journalism — those committed to telling the truth, no matter where it leads — could count on support from the government of the United States. America has always set the standard for press freedom around the world. Sadly, that is no longer the case.

Today we are witnessing purposeful, calculated attacks meant to discredit the very integrity of journalism. The attacks are conducted by people who would prefer to wield power free from accountability and out of the public eye.

Threats to take away reporters’ credentials, or intentionally spreading misinformation, are part of a deliberate effort to undermine an independent press and other institutions essential to our democracy.

And fair and honest reporting by respected news organizations that contradicts a leader’s narrative and pokes holes in his claims gets dismissed as “fake news.” The goal is to challenge the veracity of true but unfavorable reporting so that the public will ignore it and tune out.