In the Realm Informed and Free Citizenship, the United States received its worst
score, obtaining only 12 out of 30 points. The judges found that during the period there
was poor government action against disinformation, as well as government actions aimed
at limiting free expression and access to information, aspects that make up this category.
Regarding the Government's Actions Against Violence Against Media and Journalists
Realm, it achieved 17.54 out of a possible 40; while in the Media and Journalism Control
Realm, it obtained 16.33 out of 30 points, the only one above the average level.
Even though journalistic practice in the United States remains protected by the
Constitution and laws, last year's events saw the erosion of safeguards, such as the repeal
of the Garland Rule, which prohibited the use of legal means to compel journalists to
disclose their leak records. Attacks during coverage of procedures undertaken by federal
immigration agents have also raised concerns about journalistic freedoms. It is estimated
that 170 attacks against journalists were recorded in the United States in 2025. There has
also been a stigmatization of critical journalism spaces by President Trump himself and
prominent spokespeople in his administration. Furthermore, funding for spaces in public
service media was cut, and offices dedicated to diversity were closed. Key events include
the dismissal of more than 500 Voice of America employees, an executive order issued in
March 2025, which placed the affected journalists at risk of deportation.