Ep 2. The Trump Bump

The Fourth Estate is a documentary series that takes a behind-the-scenes look at The New York Times' coverage of the Trump administration during his first year in office. Season 1 episode 2, titled "The Trump Bump," follows the reporters and editors at The Times as they navigate the uncharted waters of Trump's presidency.

As the episode opens, The Times is struggling to adjust to the shifting media landscape. Trump has labeled the newspaper "failing" and "fake news," and his supporters have launched a campaign to boycott the paper. Despite these challenges, The Times is experiencing a surge in subscriptions, thanks in part to Trump's attacks and the so-called "Trump Bump."

The episode examines how The Times is handling this delicate balance between reporting the news and addressing the concerns of its readers. We see the paper's leadership grapple with whether to adjust its coverage to appease Trump's base or to stick to traditional journalistic standards. At the same time, reporters are working tirelessly to cover the administration's numerous controversies, from the travel ban to the Russia investigation.

One of the key storylines in "The Trump Bump" is the paper's investigation into Trump's business dealings. Reporters are trying to piece together the president's tangled web of financial interests and connections, a task that becomes even more difficult when Trump refuses to release his tax returns. We see the reporters working late nights, digging through documents and chasing down leads, all while dealing with the mounting pressure and criticism.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given unprecedented access to the inner workings of The Times. We see how stories are selected, edited, and fact-checked, and we witness tense discussions between reporters and editors as they navigate complex ethical questions. At times, the process is messy and contentious, but it's clear that everyone at the paper is deeply committed to upholding its standards of journalism.

As the episode draws to a close, we see the impact that The Times' reporting is having on the national conversation. Trump's allies continue to denounce the paper, but the president's critics are increasingly relying on it for trustworthy information. The Trump Bump has turned into a Trump paradox, as the president's attacks on the paper have only increased its influence and relevance in the public sphere.

Overall, "The Trump Bump" offers a fascinating look at one of the most challenging and consequential periods in the history of American journalism. The episode is a testament to the importance of a free and independent press, even in the face of unprecedented attacks and adversity.