Senator Markey, Colleagues Introduce Press Freedom Resolution

Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) introduced a Senate resolution condemning attacks against members of the media and reaffirming the centrality of a free and independent press and peaceful assembly to the health of democracy in the US. The resolution comes in the wake of the arrest on May 29 of CNN reporters covering protests in Minnesota. This was just one of dozens of reported instances of journalists and photographers being roughly handled by police officers while covering nationwide protests even after having identified themselves as members of the press. “We cannot protect our democracy if we do not protect our press,” said Sen Markey. “Targeting the media and perpetrating violence against them or protestors is un-American and requires our full and vocal condemnation. This resolution is an unequivocal statement from the Senate that we support our journalists, recognize the critical value of their work, and will promote accountability for anyone interfering with their duties.” The resolution is co-sponsored by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Patty Murray (D-WA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT).