Use the following space to answer the essay question below. Be sure to answer all parts of the question. You may
continue on a separate sheet of paper if you need to.
The central debate in the film The Post is whether or not the freedom of the press is subordinate to the
government's need to keep secrets. It is clear that some state-held secrets are necessary for the protection of
the United States citizenry. On the other hand, a government that can hold any secret without checks or
balances could quickly run the risk of tyranny.
Considering the above, write a persuasive essay explaining how best to balance the competing interests of the
press and the state. Under what circumstances-if any-do you think it would be appropriate for the state to
prevent the press from publishing a story? Explain your reasoning.