Part 7/11:
The conversation expands into a broader critique of government transparency. Both speakers acknowledge that government agencies, including the Pentagon, have historically lied or been dishonest at times, especially during conflicts like Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan. For instance, leaks exposing the chaos or dishonesty during the Afghanistan withdrawal reveal the importance of an unfettered press.
The assertion is made that restricting press access—by denying the right to freely cover the Pentagon or requiring pre-approval—undermines the press’s ability to fulfill its constitutional role. It’s a concern shared across political lines: transparency is essential for democracy, accountability, and preventing abuses of power.