Posted on 11/12/2016 12:47:54 PM PST by Former MSM Viewer
Is it legal for the media to knowingly broadcast/publish false info on Pres. Candidates?
Was there ‘intent’?
I’m not sure on proving this one but I would in a Trump FCC begin to heavily fine networks for having pundits on that advocate violent protests, ant-Trump rhetoric or bad language which has become the norm on CNN.
They will hide behind Freedom of Speech. But I am asking about knowingly willful deceit with intent reported under the banner of Freedom of the Press.
The question is: under the banner of Free Press, are they allowed to intentionally deceive with the intent to affect the outcome of an election.
I know it would be difficult to prove in a court of law, and we don’t want our govt censoring thru intimidation. But a free press has responsibility to maintain impartiality as well as make every effort to be factually correct.
Yes, and they know it. Lawyers, however, cannot.
And is refusing to report relevant facts that might oppose their stance considered deceitful?
It is a slippery slope to deal with Freedom of the Press. The Founders had an even more rabid press.
That said, when the press abandons journalistic standards and functions as a super PAC, they cease bring the press and are guilty of campaign financing laws.
Given the wikileaks evidence, a real justice Dept could probably make a case.
What I’m getting at here is that conservatives have to battle a biased press, unions, govt workers, outside agitators, etc. While respecting their 1st Amendment rights, we must ensure they do not cross over into abusing their rights to influence an election.
Of course, there should be no campaign finance restrictions either. First Amendment thingy there, too.
See #10
From the standpoint of criminal law it is legal.
The Broadcasting/publishing of lies, aka slander/libel, is a civil (tort) issue.
As it should be in a free country.
FCC licenses on all media need to be reviewed.
JPJones ... So your mantra is “Bring Back the Fairness Doctrine!”
As always, competition is the answer.
Yes, it is. Libel/slander is difficult to prove when a public figure is involved. The bar is high, but if one can establish actual malice, or wanton and willful disregard for veracity, then the case can be made.
“JPJones ... So your mantra is “Bring Back the Fairness Doctrine!”
No, I want anti-trust laws enforced on a dishonest media that is poisoning our country with its monopoly.
“As always, competition is the answer.”
5 companies own ALL media in this country.
There is no legal case, neither criminal nor civil here.
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