Reed Condemns Trump Admin’s Attempt to Restrict Free Speech & Freedom of the Press

WASHINGTON, DC -- After Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth issued a memo seeking to restrict how journalists can cover the U.S. Department of Defense going forward -- calling for a signed pledge not to gather any information, including unclassified reports, that hasn't been authorized for release -- U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, condemned the move and issued the following statement:

"This is an ill-advised affront to free speech and freedom of the press. This goes beyond attempting to suppress criticism -- Mr. Hegseth's goal appears to be eliminating a critical check on government corruption, unlawful practices, and the misuse of taxpayer dollars.

"Secretary Hegseth's restrictions on the press are part of a broader attempt by this Administration to cover up missteps, stifle independent journalism, and obscure the truth.

"American journalists are not, should not, and must not be mere stenographers for the party in power or the Pentagon itself. Their job is to independently uncover and report the truth, hold those in power accountable, and help keep the American people informed.

"Both Democrats and Republicans should speak out against this. We must defend the Constitution and the right to speak freely about government actions without being unfairly silenced or controlled by the government itself."

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