As President-elect, Donald Trump escalates attacks on the media, urging Republicans to oppose the PRESS Act, which would protect journalists from government surveillance. Veteran journalists express fears over Trump's potential crackdown on press freedoms, drawing parallels to authoritarian regimes. Critics highlight an alarming trend of eroding trust in traditional media, with Trump's administration potentially threatening the backbone of journalistic independence. Trump's appointments of controversial figures further fuel concerns about governance and the integrity of media representation. Major press freedom advocates urge Congress to preserve constitutional rights amidst a shifting political landscape.