by Jimmy Yates ´21

Recently, the New York Times released information regarding President Trump’s shockingly low $750 income taxes in past years. He responded with one of his most common defenses: “Fake News,” with no further explanation other than the argument that the New York Times and the media is out to get him. Trump has repeatedly labeled any information or report that does not support his opinion as “fake news.” In doing so, he undermines the First Amendment and the right to freedom of the press and their right to report relevant information whether or not the president likes it. He has used the phrase so much that others have adopted his strategy and labeled any news they disagree with as fake news, blurring the line between unbiased reporting and false information.

In order to restore trust in unbiased media outlets, Trump and others need to stop using “Fake News” as their defense and instead offer evidence and an explanation as to why they disagree with a statement or story. “Fake News” is not a defensible argument, to label something “fake news” is to refuse to acknowledge facts, or is an excuse to avoid answering a question.