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Treasury Secretary Calls NY Times 'Obsolete' at Summit

12/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

At the New York Times DealBook Summit, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the Times is becoming obsolete and accused it of misleading reporting on U.S. President Donald Trump’s health.
Bessent dismissed the Times as a "fever swamp" and said the administration can maintain its tariff agenda despite a pending Supreme Court case.
Bessent asserted that China would honor its commitments to buy American farm products under a recent trade deal.

History

Historical Context

The 1971 Supreme Court case New York Times Co. v. United States allowed the publication of the Pentagon Papers, reinforcing press freedom by ruling that prior restraint was unconstitutional. This landmark decision continues to resonate today, as Secretary Scott Bessent's recent criticism of the Times highlights ongoing tensions between media and government, particularly regarding transparency in reporting on President Trump.

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Story summary

At the New York Times DealBook Summit, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the Times is becoming obsolete and accused it of misleading reporting on U.S. President Donald Trump’s health.
Bessent dismissed the Times as a "fever swamp" and said the administration can maintain its tariff agenda despite a pending Supreme Court case.
Bessent asserted that China would honor its commitments to buy American farm products under a recent trade deal.

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