George Clooney Discusses the Challenges of Journalism Under Trump
In a recent interview, actor George Clooney expressed that it’s a “scary time to become a newsman” during Donald Trump’s presidency. Speaking to CNN’s Anderson Cooper, Clooney remarked that many news organizations are struggling, describing the current climate as if they are “on fire.” He particularly noted that Cooper and CBS’s “60 Minutes” have faced direct challenges.
Clooney conveyed his worries regarding the state of the nation but pushed back against Cooper’s assertion that things are at their worst now. “We can argue that we are not,” he said, recalling significant periods like 1968 when America saw widespread unrest.
He voiced concerns over the Trump administration’s treatment of news outlets, labeling it an “attack” on journalism. “It’s annoying, and I think it’s a scary time for many people in the field,” he said, mentioning that “60 Minutes” has been particularly scrutinized. Clooney added that during such times, news is often targeted first, as it’s crucial for informing the public.
Cooper then inquired if Clooney believed “Trumpism” would persist throughout the current presidential term. Clooney didn’t seem to think so, suggesting it would be challenging to maintain. “Remember, Donald Trump is a celebrity; that’s a big part of his identity,” he pointed out, reflecting on his unique status.
While acknowledging Trump’s appeal, Clooney noted that most Americans do not resonate with him in the same way. “When he leaves office, the Republican Party will need to find someone with similar charisma to convey that same message,” he pointed out, implying that such a successor may not be readily available.
Towards the end of the conversation, Cooper asked if Clooney feared Trump would take aim at him personally. Clooney admitted, “That’s true. Everyone is worried about it,” but he emphasized that dwelling on such concerns would prevent him from acting. He concluded by underscoring the importance of setting a good example for his children and standing firm in one’s beliefs, reflecting on the lasting impact of their actions.
