The Trump administration has raised concerns about federal government payments to media outlets like Politico, The New York Times, and The Associated Press for subscriptions or content licensing, labeling it potentially “THE BIGGEST SCANDAL OF THEM ALL.” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt revealed over $8 million spent on Politico subscriptions, prompting efforts to cancel these payments led by Elon Musk’s government efficiency team. Trump criticized payments to the “FAKE NEWS MEDIA” for favorable coverage of Democrats, sparking a social media uproar.

This latest clash with the media follows previous confrontations, including the eviction of NPR, NBC, the New York Times, and Politico from Pentagon workspaces. Trump’s scrutiny extends to CBS’ “60 Minutes” and Voice of America, stirring concerns among free press advocates. By intertwining federal spending with media scrutiny, Trump merges two longstanding targets into one narrative.

While Politico denies receiving government subsidies, it emphasizes the common practice of governments subscribing to media for vital information. The New York Times clarifies its government subscriptions, catering to military members and their families. Elon Musk also weighs in, criticizing the AP’s government earnings as wasteful taxpayer spending.

Musk’s focus on USAID funding threatens support for independent journalists globally, drawing criticism from Reporters Without Borders. This potential loss of funding could empower propagandists and authoritarian regimes, warns the organization’s USA branch.

The evolving dynamics between the government, media, and tech leaders like Musk underscore broader implications for press freedom and taxpayer accountability in the media landscape.