Barack Obama’s Call for Government Control Over Journalism Sparks Outrage

By Michael Dorstewitz

A video featuring former President Barack Obama has recently circulated online, in which he discusses “new forms of journalism” while advocating for regulatory measures to safeguard truth. However, his remarks have drawn sharp criticism for their implications on free speech and the role of government in shaping public discourse.

Obama stated during a June 17 conversation with historian Heather Cox Richardson at the Connecticut Forum that “part of what we’re going to have to do is start experimenting with new forms of journalism” and emphasized the need to “separate facts from opinion.” He later added that such efforts would require “government regulatory constraints,” though he claimed they must align with the First Amendment. Critics argue this approach directly contradicts constitutional principles, as government oversight of media inevitably risks infringing on press freedom.

The comments resurfaced after being posted on X and quickly gained traction, amassing over three million views. Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton condemned Obama’s stance, calling it a “scheme to jail and fine Americans” under the guise of regulating journalism. The rhetoric echoes themes from George Orwell’s dystopian novel 1984, where state control over information leads to the erasure of truth and individual autonomy.

The article also touches on the ongoing U.S. government shutdown, which has lasted 31 days due to legislative gridlock in the Senate. Democrats have faced scrutiny for demanding additional spending on contentious issues, including healthcare for undocumented immigrants, while refusing to pass a continuing resolution to keep federal agencies operational. Legal scholar Jonathan Turley noted that even left-leaning outlets are distancing themselves from Democratic tactics, highlighting the growing public frustration with the stalemate.

The debate over Obama’s proposals underscores a broader conflict between free expression and state intervention. As Orwell warned, any system where “Big Brother” dictates reality threatens the very foundations of democratic society. The former president’s vision, critics argue, represents a dangerous shift toward authoritarian control under the pretense of protecting truth.

Michael Dorstewitz is a retired lawyer and frequent contributor to Newsmax, known for his conservative perspectives on governance and constitutional rights.