1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

I commend our judicial system for upholding the First Amendment by ordering the White House to restore the Associated Press’s access to presidential events. This ruling reaffirms the essential role of a free and independent press in our democracy. The court’s decision sends a clear message that the government cannot exclude journalists based on editorial decisions, such as the AP’s choice to continue using “Gulf of Mexico” instead of “Gulf of America.” However, it is imperative that our elected officials also take a stand against the administration’s authoritarian tendencies that undermine our Constitution. President Trump’s actions, including attempts to control media narratives and suppress dissent, pose a significant threat to democratic norms. I urge you to govern with the future of our democracy in mind, ensuring that the rights and interests of the American people are protected against such overreach.