The AP’s win against Trump shows principles still have power in the US

‘What is clear is that the AP’s top editor, was right when she made the argument that more was at stake here than the name of a body of water.’ Photograph: Yuri Gripas/EPA

Given the constant flow of bad news – recession nearing, markets tanking, federal agencies run amok – a victory in court for a news wire service might seem trivial.

But the Associated Press’s win against the Trump administration this week is meaningful for two reasons. It underscores the judiciary’s commitment to the first amendment, and it suggests that standing up for one’s principles may not be just a gesture made in vain.