Free press is vital to all, AP chief tells Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.omaha.com/article/20140221/MONEY/140229797/1697#free-press-is-vital-to-all-ap-chief-tells-greater-omaha-chamber-of-commerce

By Cindy Gonzalez / World-Herald staff writer

A free press isn't a threat to national security but instead strengthens the United States at home and abroad, the head of the Associated Press told area businesspeople Thursday.

“We don't think it's a trade-off between national security and a free press,” said Gary Pruitt, who oversees a nonprofit network that operates in 110 countries. “That's a false choice. We can be stronger and more secure with a free press.”

Fresh off assignment at the Sochi Olympic Games, Pruitt was the speaker for the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce's annual meeting, which drew about 900 to the CenturyLink Center Omaha.

He said he hoped to shed light on the value an unrestrained press has to corporate leaders and other citizens.

FULL story at link.

[liberal N proud]

1. Now if we only had a free press