AP U.S. Government and Politics Flashcards: First Amendment: Freedom of the Press
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
In a case involving national security, can the government easily stop a newspaper from publishing sensitive information?
No, even in cases involving national security, the Supreme Court affirms a heavy presumption against prior restraint, making it very difficult for the government to prevent publication.
Card 1 of 10
All Flashcards (10)
In a case involving national security, can the government easily stop a newspaper from publishing sensitive information?
No, even in cases involving national security, the Supreme Court affirms a heavy presumption against prior restraint, making it very difficult for the government to prevent publication.
What is the relationship between the Supreme Court and individual liberty regarding freedom of the press?
The Supreme Court's interpretations of the First Amendment reflect a strong commitment to individual liberty by protecting the press from most forms of government censorship.
Which institution has been central in bolstering the freedom of the press?
The Supreme Court has been central in bolstering (strengthening) the freedom of the press through its interpretations of the First Amendment.
What is the "heavy presumption against prior restraint"?
It is a legal principle affirmed by the Supreme Court stating that the government bears a very high burden of proof to justify any attempt to censor or prevent a publication beforehand.
If the government tries to stop a news story from being published because it involves national security, what must it overcome?
The government must overcome the Supreme Court's heavy presumption against prior restraint, which is a very high legal barrier to clear.
What is prior restraint?
Prior restraint is a form of government censorship that prohibits speech or publication before it occurs. The Supreme Court holds a heavy presumption against this practice.
A government agency learns a news outlet is about to publish a story on its secret surveillance program and seeks a court order to stop it. What First Amendment principle is at stake?
The principle at stake is the freedom from prior restraint, as the government is attempting to prevent publication before it happens, a practice the Supreme Court heavily disfavors.
What is the Supreme Court's general stance on prior restraint?
The Supreme Court maintains a heavy presumption against prior restraint, meaning it is generally unconstitutional for the government to stop the press from publishing information.
What legal standard did the Supreme Court affirm to support freedom of the press?
The Supreme Court affirmed support for a heavy presumption against prior restraint to bolster the freedom of the press.
How does the Supreme Court's interpretation of the First Amendment reflect a commitment to individual liberty?
By establishing a strong standard against prior restraint, the Court's interpretation prioritizes the press's right to publish freely, which is a key component of individual liberty.