I disagree.
Nowhere in our Sacred Writings (Declaration of Independence & the Constitution) is it written or expected that the press be truthful or honest. The only control on a free press is exercised in the only place where it counts, and where these treasonous leftist bastards perpetually aim their whispers and dronings at.. in our minds.
Your last remarks are ably covered within the current pantheon of laws regarding espionage, aid and comfort to the enemy, and treason. All that is needed is the political will to pursue this.
It is We the People who are the best guarantor of freedom. Period.
Nowhere in these writings is it said that only a virtuous people could be free, but the FF believed it to be true. There will always be a gap between what the law requires and what common sense dictates. If knowledge of our government's deeds and words is indispensible to a free people, does it not follow that the quality of our government will be directly proportionate to the quality of journalism?
I would edit that slightly...I would say We the People are the only guarantor of freedom.