The health of a democracy is measured not just by its laws, but by the free and open exchange of information that fuels it. That’s why journalism is not just a profession, it’s the lifeblood of our democracy. A strong, independent press is essential to holding power to account, shining a light on wrongdoing, and informing the public so they can make informed choices.
However, the landscape ofjournalism is changing, and not always for the better. The rise of misinformation, the erosion of trust, and the economic challenges facing local and investigative reporting threaten the very fabric of our democratic discourse.
This government, under my leadership, will be a steadfast defender of press freedom. We will fight for the rights of journalists to do their job without fear of intimidation or legal threats. We will work to ensure that news outlets, particularly those in local communities, have the resources they need to thrive. We will champion media literacy and promote fact-checking initiatives to combat misinformation and empower citizens to discern truth from falsehood.
Furthermore, we will strive to create a climate where investigative journalism can flourish. A government that is truly committed totransparency and accountability needs a fearless press to hold it to its promises. We will work to ensure that journalists have access to the information they need to hold power to account, and to expose wrongdoing wherever it may occur.
This is not just about defending an industry, it’s about safeguarding our democracy. A vibrant and independent press is vital to ensuring a healthy and informed public sphere. Let us work together to protect the lifeblood of our democracy.
