President Trump and the press

The recent banning of media organizations from the White House news briefings is as shocking as it is disturbing. A free press is the foundation of a free society. However, that press also has the responsibility to present truthful, objective information to their readers. In a July 1817 letter to Thomas Jefferson, John Adams wrote; "When people talk of the Freedom of Writing, Speaking, or thinking,(sic) I cannot choose but laugh. No such thing ever existed. No such thing now exists; but I hope it will exist. But it must be hundreds of years after you and I shall write and speak no more." Unfortunately a portion of the vision from our founding fathers is yet to be envisioned or enjoyed.

Following in the line with some recent protests, might I suggest a day without Trump. After observing President Trump for many years, I believe that not being covered by the press would have a greater effect on him than being covered by an "unfair," "fake news," "enemy of the people" media. No news exposure for a man who craves attention and utilizes unfavorable commentary to garner support would be as powerful as it could be devastating against a campaign that often relies on misdirection and misinformation to get their message out.

Morrie Cook

Gurnee