re: Why is freedom of the press important in a democracy?

A free press is important so that the people can be better informed (and not only fed what those in power what you to know) to make better decisions at the ballot box. A press that is not free to tell the truth will result in ignorant decisions by voters and less accountability for elected officials as no one will call for resignations, impeachments, or even indictments. It also makes it harder for people to know when their other freedoms are being stepped on, which will lessen the chance of citizens taking up arms.

However, a free press is only as good as the choices the press makes on its coverage and willingness to report the truth. If the press refuses to inform the public and shills for the government willingly, it's the same result as if the government held a gun to their heads and told them what to report on. It's why we need a free press to hold itself accountable to the truth and not be beholden to one party or to the government at large.