September 19, 2025

In North Korea, independent media is strictly forbidden. All media outlets are state-owned, rigidly controlled by Kim Jong Un’s Workers' Party of Korea.

We are certainly not there yet. But it seems that Donald Trump has been taking notes.

This week, Trump moved beyond merely weaponizing the government against his political opponents — he openly abused the presidency to silence his critics. 

As I reflect on where we stand — only eight months into a four-year term — I am struck by the near-total collapse of corporate television and print outlets, not only because of its speed but its completeness. 

At the start of this administration, I expected legacy media to pull its punches. I did not anticipate it would fire or suspend late-night comedians. Mostly, I did not expect the capitulation to happen so quickly — or across so many outlets at once.

So where does that leave us?

Each of us has a choice about what media we consume and who we support — with our attention, our subscriptions and our wallets. There is a small but vibrant independent media community poised to serve those committed to democracy. But it cannot grow without our support.

Those of you reading this newsletter already know about Democracy Docket, its scope and its mission. If you are not yet a premium member, I encourage you to join.

But don’t stop there. Dozens of other independent outlets also deserve support. Seek them out, give them a chance, and, if you are able, help them thrive.

Tomorrow, I will share some of my personal recommendations with premium members. In the meantime, I urge you to do your own research, trade suggestions with friends, and build your own list of trusted sources.

If we rise to the occasion, support independent voices, and demand better, we can build a stronger media ecosystem than the one that failed us. If we do not, we risk losing not only the free press, but the democracy it exists to defend.

The choice is clear. The responsibility is ours. And the time is now.