The Institute for Business Development of Argentina (IDEA) spoke out in defense of press freedom and called for a public debate without insults or disparagement, following President Javier Milei's attacks against LA NACION. Through a statement, the organization focused on "the responsibility of those elected to govern." Under the banner of "promoting a public debate based on respect and responsibility," the institute stated: "Freedom of the press and respect for ideas, even when differences exist, are fundamental pillars of democratic coexistence. At IDEA we believe that public debate should take place within a framework of pluralism of opinions, dialogue and respect, without insults or disparagement." The organization then underscored the duty of officials when facing differences in public discussion. "Those elected to govern must act responsibly and contribute to a respectful public debate. Insults against journalists in the exercise of their profession contradict that duty," it stated. Milei's attacks on journalists over the coverage of the $LIBRA case drew rejection from organizations and political leadersTeresa Suarez - APThe organization also linked this stance to the situation of the country: "In a context in which citizens are making a collective effort to achieve the country's stability and development, at IDEA we insist on the need to promote and respect freedom of the press and of expression, and to sustain a public debate based on respect, tolerance and responsibility." The statement came after Milei questioned this Friday the journalistic coverage of the $LIBRA case, following the President's dismissal in the investigation. During his speech at the Faro Foundation dinner, the president accused LA NACION of using the case to "extort the government and evade taxes." Milei's attacks against LA NACION prompted a call from IDEA to respect press freedomAnibal GrecoIn that portion of his remarks, he named Hugo Alconada Mon, Carlos Pagni, Paulino Rodrigues, Natalia Volosin and Luis Novaresio, who covered the case, and called them "sleazy and corrupt." Shortly after, he stated: "The ones who should burn at the stake are the sons of bitches." The remarks drew rejection from press organizations and leaders from various political sectors, including allied sectors of the ruling party. The Association of Argentine Press Entities (Adepa) rejected the President's reaction to his dismissal in the $LIBRA case and warned of an escalation of insults against the press. "Replying, refuting and clarifying should never be replaced by insult and disparagement," it stated. For its part, the National Academy of Journalism issued a statement questioning Milei's repeated insults against journalists and noted that death threats had been made. The institution warned about the consequences of institutional violence for democracy. The repudiation also extended to figures from Peronism, the Radical Civic Union, the Civic Coalition and Pro, who expressed their solidarity with the journalists singled out by the president.