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Autocratic forces are ascendant.

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Autocratic forces are ascendant in America. But truth-telling independent media is one remaining bulwark against the unrestrained exercise of power. At a time when billionaire owners of corporate media are making accommodations to political leaders, our nonprofit newsroom cannot be bought or broken. Please stand with us.

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Donald Trump is embroiled in a scandal over his ties to Russia. He just fired his FBI director over this, a move widely viewed as Nixonian. So who does Trump meet with today at the White House?

First, the Russian ambassador and foreign minister. Then Henry Kissinger.

And no US photographers are allowed in the room for the meeting with the Russians. Only Russian agency photographers. Because of course.

This is what happens to a TV show when it feels like it has to top itself every season. It’s time to cancel this one.