MSNBC Champions First Amendment in New Ad Campaign Amid Press Concerns

NEW YORK, March 21, 2025 — MSNBC released a poignant new advertisement on Friday, featuring notable anchors reading the First Amendment as the network emphasizes its commitment to freedom of speech during an escalating climate of press scrutiny. The commercial coincides with heightened concerns regarding the rights of the press under the current administration.

The black-and-white promo begins with the phrase, “This is our First Amendment,” followed by Rachel Maddow reciting the opening line: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” Viewers see footage of Maddow alongside other MSNBC figures, including the “Morning Joe” team and Lawrence O’Donnell, as they each take turns articulating the crucial elements of the amendment.

“The First Amendment is a cornerstone of our democracy,” said an MSNBC vice president of marketing. “In this new era, we are reaffirming our dedication to the principles of press freedom and open discourse.” The promotion concludes with the network’s signature slogan, “This is what we do. This is who we are.”

This advertisement marks MSNBC’s first campaign since Donald Trump‘s inauguration earlier this year, as the network aims to address viewer concerns surrounding press freedom. Amid rising tensions, several journalists and commentators have voiced their apprehension about the potential implications for media rights in the current political landscape.

The need for such affirmations comes as the administration has faced allegations of undermining journalistic integrity, prompting discussions on the responsibilities and rights of the press in reporting the truth. The First Amendment stands at the forefront of these debates, and MSNBC is positioning itself as a defender of these essential liberties.

As part of the promotional effort, MSNBC is seeking to foster a dialogue on the importance of protecting free speech. “In a time where truth can often seem overshadowed, we must remind ourselves of what freedom of speech truly means,” said Maddow during a recent broadcast.

MSNBC’s choice to highlight the First Amendment resonates with many in the advocacy community and is likely to stir discussions surrounding media rights. The advertisement is expected to be aired across various platforms, reaching a wide audience amid ongoing national conversations about the role of the press.

In the face of growing reporting restrictions and a challenging environment for journalism, MSNBC has taken a definitive step to galvanize support for a free press, reminding viewers of the foundational rights that safeguard democratic society.