As Trump hits out at critics, damage to America may go far deeper

South China Morning Post

20 hours ago

Four months into his second term, US President Donald Trump has launched a high-stakes campaign against three pillars of American society: mainstream media, elite universities and the nation's most influential law firms. Through lawsuits, executive orders and threats to funding, he has exerted unprecedented pressure on many institutions, sparking debate about whether his actions signify genuine reform or
personal vendettas
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Critics argue that these confrontations reflect a desire to settle old scores rather than drive meaningful change. Regardless, it raises urgent questions about the future role of these institutions in upholding democracy.
To gauge public sentiment, American broadcaster Michael Smerconish recently polled his audience on which sector – major law firms, academia or the media – is most vital to the nation's interests.
The poll suggests the public recognises all three as essential pillars of society, with law firms rated slightly higher. The close division also suggests that, despite acknowledging the flaws in each sector, Americans perceive all of them as vital checks on government power and crucial safeguards for the rule of law.
The challenges facing each sector have become increasingly pronounced. The American media, long regarded as a government watchdog, faces
a wave of lawsuits and executive actions. These conflicts involve financial and psychological costs, potentially prompting media organisations to exercise greater caution in or even desist from reporting on matters of public interest.
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Elite universities have also come under scrutiny. The administration has threatened to freeze federal grants and is
restricting international student enrolment, citing issues such as campus antisemitism. While it is important to address campus challenges, critics warn these actions risk politicising higher education and may be more about exerting leverage than genuine reform.