Authoritarian Quote by Ted Lieu
“And to me, that is the greatest danger, that people start questioning basic facts and start not understanding the importance of democratic institutions such as the free press. I mean, to call the press the enemy is dangerous and just remarkably bizarre. The press is the only profession protected in the Constitution because of how important the framers viewed the press. But in authoritarian regimes, they control the press. And to me, going down an authoritarian path is the greatest danger that we face as a republic.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: House of Representatives, 2023
Undermining the free press erodes democracy; authoritarian control of media is a grave threat.
In simple terms: Press freedom is essential for a healthy republic.
Defend and support independent journalism.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- voting
- civic engagement
- media literacy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does a free press protect your rights?
- What actions can you take to support it?
May be dismissed as partisan rhetoric.