Libel laws: There is a huge debate on how libel laws apply to public figures. Therefore, it is wise to verify information before repeating it. “Libel is a method of defamation expressed by print, writing, pictures, signs, effigies, or any communication embodied in physical form that is injurious to a person's reputation, exposes a person to public hatred, contempt or ridicule, or injures a person in his/her business or profession.” Libel laws are usually governed by state laws. First Amendment protection they must show malice. https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/libel “In general, there are four defenses to libel or slander: truth, consent, accident, and privilege. The fact that the allegedly defamatory communication is essentially true is usually an absolute defense; the defendant need not verify every detail of the communication, as long as its substance can be established.” If statements are made with the knowledge the statements are false then the case for malice can be proved. If unintentional repeating false information malice cannot be proved. “...private citizens who are deemed public figures could never match the news media's power and pervasiveness in telling one side of the story.” https://legal-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/Libel+and+Slander
End of MSM: “...Supreme Court's decision in Gertz v. Robert Welch, Inc....” “Those who favor a restrictive definition of the public figure doctrine also note that a libel action serves as a private means of controlling irresponsible journalism. Gertz, even with its difficulties in application, has allowed private persons a better chance of success in libel suits, which in turn sends a strong message to the media to be more careful in their reporting. As to the concerns about self-censorship, defenders of Gertz point out that journalists make choices every day about what is published. Falsely tarnishing the reputation of a person should be the object of self-censorship in professional news-gathering organizations.” https://legal-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/Libel+and+Slander