Part 6/7:
For many journalists, the lack of transcripts will impede their ability to accurately report on the president's statements. Without a written record, cross-referencing facts becomes a labor-intensive process, leading to potential inaccuracies which could misinform the public. In addition, it compromises the integrity of the press as a watchdog entity, essential for a functioning democracy.
The decision to scrub written records from public availability may lead to a chilling effect on reporting and criticism of government policies. Journalists rely on exact quotes and documented facts to provide verifiable stories. When such information is withheld or altered, it becomes easier for misinformation to spread and for narratives to be shaped without proper scrutiny.