John,
Donald Trump is escalating his war on free expression and his latest target is Seth Meyers. Trump claimed Meyers’ jokes were “probably illegal,” a phrase that should set off alarms for anyone who believes dissent is essential to democracy.
Trump has a long record of targeting networks that refuse to flatter him, pressuring executives, and demanding retaliation against hosts who call out his behavior. These attacks are meant to intimidate. They are designed to bully networks into compliance and scare comedians away from criticizing a man who cannot tolerate scrutiny. If NBC caves to that pressure, every news desk and every writer’s room in America will feel the chill.
Comedy has always played a crucial role in exposing hypocrisy, challenging power, and helping the public make sense of political leaders. Late-night hosts are often the first to call out absurdity and dishonesty. They inform millions who may never watch cable news. Trump understands that, which is why he is working so hard to silence them.
NBC must stand firm and protect the creative freedom of its hosts instead of bending to political intimidation from a man who has openly punished critics.
Tell NBC to stand with Seth Meyers and refuse to bow to Trump’s attacks on free speech.
Trump has attacked late-night hosts for years, He has floated threats of investigations, license challenges, and punitive action against networks that air criticism. His allies have amplified those threats, using their platforms to pressure broadcasters into sanitizing political comedy.
This is the kind of climate that erodes freedom one segment at a time.
When powerful politicians try to punish satire, it sends a message that dissent is dangerous. It discourages young writers, editors, comedians, and journalists from taking risks. It narrows the boundaries of acceptable criticism until only the powerful remain comfortable. That is how societies drift toward authoritarianism.
NBC must affirm that satire is protected speech, that their hosts can speak freely, and that political pressure has no place in programming decisions.
Tell NBC to stand with Seth Meyers and defend the freedom to criticize those in power.
Let’s defend free speech and protect the voices that keep democracy honest.
– DFA Team
