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Rather trying to defend the press against Trumps charge that they suck is hilarious:
So great, I too am a firm defender of the press, democracy cant work without a free flow of information which include competent journalists who get paid somehow, and who have ways to get their work to the people. The problem is that they have long sucked, and neither they nor their bosses show any willingness to do what it takes for America to have a sound 4th estate, despite Rathers expostulations to the contrary.
“This is not about politics or policy. It's about protecting our most cherished principles. The relationship between the press and the powerful they cover is by its very definition confrontational. That is how the Founding Fathers envisioned it, with noble clauses of protection enshrined in our Constitution.”
Rather also challenged media owners and editors to support reporters who receive harsh blowback over critical coverage.
“Good journalism — the kind that matters — requires reporters who won't back up, back down, back away or turn around when faced with efforts to intimidate them. It also requires owners and other bosses with guts, who stand by and for their reporters when the heat is on."
“I still believe the pen is mightier than the sword. And in these conflicted and troubled times, we should reward the bravery of the men and women not afraid to ask the hard questions of everyone in power. Our nation's future depends on it," he concluded.
Read more: Dan Rather on Trump: 'I felt a shudder down my spine' - POLITICO
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So great, I too am a firm defender of the press, democracy cant work without a free flow of information which include competent journalists who get paid somehow, and who have ways to get their work to the people. The problem is that they have long sucked, and neither they nor their bosses show any willingness to do what it takes for America to have a sound 4th estate, despite Rathers expostulations to the contrary.