Pentagon Moves to Recast Stars and Stripes Content, Sparking Independence Controversy

The Pentagon announced it will take over editorial decisions for Stars and Stripes to refocus coverage on warfighters and military readiness, raising bipartisan concerns that the paper’s editorial independence and First Amendment protections could be compromised; editors and lawmakers emphasize the importance of independent journalism, noting the paper’s long history and governance, while the plan prompts broader debate about military influence over coverage.