Trump’s hush money trial sheds light on the secretive world of ‘catch-and-kill’ tabloids

Former National Enquirer publisher David Pecker’s testimony in Donald Trump’s hush money trial has shed light on the controversial practice of checkbook journalism. The trial revolves around allegations that Pecker orchestrated a “catch and kill” scheme to suppress unflattering stories about Trump by paying off sources.

Pecker revealed that the National Enquirer would pay up to $10,000 for a story, with any amount exceeding that requiring his approval. He also disclosed a secret arrangement with Trump and his attorney Michael Cohen, where they would collaborate on shaping media narratives during Trump’s presidential campaign.

While defense attorney Todd Blanche argued that paying sources is common in tabloid journalism, experts emphasized that it is not standard practice in reputable news outlets. The Society of Professional Journalists condemned checkbook journalism as unethical, stating that journalists should report the news, not suppress it.

Although checkbook journalism is legal, the trial focuses on Trump’s alleged falsification of business records to reimburse Cohen for hush money payments to Stormy Daniels. Prosecutors called Pecker to testify to strengthen their case against Trump.

While the First Amendment protects checkbook journalism, ethical concerns remain. Media ethics experts stress the importance of upholding journalistic integrity and transparency, even if certain practices are legally permissible.

As the trial unfolds, the revelations about checkbook journalism and its implications for media ethics continue to spark debate and scrutiny within the industry.