Stars and Stripes Turmoil, El-Sayed Fox Clash Lead Media News

Former Stars and Stripes Editor Says Pentagon Fired Him Over Censorship Concerns

Former Stars and Stripes editor Erik Slavin said he was fired after publicly stating that censorship would be a “personal red line.” Slavin said his separation notice came directly from the Pentagon and cited insubordination tied to a CBS interview. He connected his removal to a broader shakeup at the military newspaper, including the firing of its publisher, a reporter, and its ombudsman. Slavin argued that Stars and Stripes must remain independent from the military chain of command to maintain credibility with service members who rely on its reporting. (Read More) (PBS NewsHour Rating)

El-Sayed Clashes with Watters During Fox News Interview

News Facts Network reports that Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed repeatedly tried to redirect a contentious Fox News interview with Jesse Watters toward affordability, gasoline prices, healthcare, transportation, and military spending. Watters pressed El-Sayed on Sharia law, transgender policies, Colin Kaepernick, taxes, and past comments. El-Sayed, who is Muslim, said Americans should be free to practice their religion but stressed he would “never” impose his faith on others. The progressive physician also defended higher taxes on extreme wealth and faces Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan’s open Senate race. (Read More) (News Facts Network Rating)

Pentagon Fires Stars and Stripes Reporter After CBS Interview

Lara Korte, a Kansas journalist and former University of Kansas journalism student, was fired from Stars and Stripes after appearing on CBS News to discuss editorial independence at the military publication. Korte said her notice cited “insubordination” and singled out her statement that she worked for Stars and Stripes, not the Pentagon, the administration, or any policymaker. Korte said independent media funded in part by government can reflect the country’s commitment to free expression and public access to information. (Read More) (News From The States Rating)