1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

I am writing as a deeply concerned constituent to urge immediate Congressional action to defend freedom of the press and prevent the criminalization of journalists in the United States. Recent reports confirm that journalist Don Lemon and independent reporter Georgia Fort were arrested by federal authorities following their coverage of an anti-ICE protest during a church service in St. Paul, Minnesota. These arrests represent a disturbing escalation in the treatment of media workers and raise serious constitutional concerns. The First Amendment exists to protect journalists and the public’s right to witness and understand events of national importance. When reporters are arrested or threatened for documenting protests or government activity, our country moves dangerously closer to authoritarian practices that undermine democracy. Journalists must never be treated as criminals simply for doing their jobs. History shows that silencing or intimidating the press is one of the first steps taken by governments sliding toward dictatorship. The United States must not allow these tactics to take root. I urge Congress to take immediate action by: Investigating the circumstances surrounding these arrests Demanding accountability from federal agencies involved Strengthening legal protections for journalists covering protests and public events Reaffirming the United States’ commitment to press freedom and constitutional rights This is not a partisan issue — it is a democratic one. The press must remain free to report without fear of imprisonment or retaliation. Please speak out publicly and take legislative action to ensure that no journalist is arrested for exercising the basic freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution.