Operating under the principles of authoritarian rule
In the world of American media, the line between politics and business has become increasingly blurred, as demonstrated by the recent events involving late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel.
Jimmy Kimmel, known for his satirical commentary on the Trump administration, found himself sidelined by his network, ABC, following a series of critical remarks. His comment about the "MAGA gang's" handling of the Kirk shooting, which many perceived as a harsh critique, seemed to seal his fate.
The events surrounding Kimmel are not isolated incidents. Critical reporting in the USA has become increasingly risky, leading to job losses, network pressure, and potential threats to livelihoods. Key media figures, including ZDF correspondent Elmar Theveßen and the Disney-owned ABC network, have been pressured to stop critical reporting on the Trump administration. In ABC's case, the network cancelled Kimmel's show after threats from FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, and local ABC affiliate owners also stopped airing the show under pressure from the Trump administration.
Profits are a significant factor in this unwillingness to take a stance against the Trump administration. When profits are at risk, many are unwilling to challenge the status quo. This pattern of threatening business ruin for non-compliance is a common tactic in various industries.
The Trump administration's actions are not just about politics but about money and power. President Trump is suing the "New York Times" for alleged false reporting, seeking billions in damages. The dispute with tech giants like Meta, Amazon, and elite universities also involves the threat of having business ruined for non-compliance.
Maik Koltermann, editor-in-chief of MOPO, sees parallels between the current situation in the USA and historical mechanisms of abuse of power. He believes that the events in the USA have changed the perspective on how it could have come to certain situations, making it more concrete.
The situation in the USA has led to a shift in the understanding of historical mechanisms of abuse of power. Critics argue that the Trump administration's efforts are aimed at aligning with those who are critical of them, as shown in the case of Jimmy Kimmel.
The question of how events in the USA have come to be is no longer abstract for many, with the explanation being that it's often about money. The events involving Kimmel further demonstrate this connection between money and power in the Trump administration's actions.
However, the struggle for freedom of speech and critical reporting continues. As the media landscape evolves, it is crucial to uphold the principles of journalistic integrity and resist the temptation to compromise for the sake of profits.
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