This article is part of TPM Cafe, TPM’s home for opinion and news analysis.

The White House recently published a new “Media Offenders” page on its official, taxpayer-funded website with a list of reporters and independent media who have criticized President Trump or the administration. This website included progressive content creators that it refers to as “deranged leftists” and “known liars.” 

My name is on the list. 

There are other independent creators, David Pakman and Ed Krassenstein, on the list too. We dared to criticize this administration and disagree with its policies — and are now being targeted personally by the President of the United States.

The White House wants you to see this list and ask: what did they do to get on the list? But what every American should be asking is: why does this list exist at all?

In a democratic society, journalists, independent media, and content creators like myself are supposed to scrutinize government officials. We are supposed to ask difficult questions. We are supposed to challenge official narratives. We are supposed to investigate claims made by people who wield enormous authority over our lives.

The real danger of a government-maintained list of media “offenders” is the message it sends. The message is that........

© Talking Points Memo