As Turkey’s Yeni Safak newspaper marked its 30th anniversary last year, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan lauded its role in defending Turkish democracy. Founded in 1994 as a voice for pious right-wing voters, Yeni Safak initially served as a haven for liberal voices marginalized by the military in the late 1990s. However, its relationship with Erdogan’s Justice and Development Party (AKP) has been complex, with the newspaper often aligning closely with the government. Recently, Yeni Safak’s editorial stance has shifted, drawing attention for its critical coverage of specific government policies, particularly those related to economic management and judicial reforms. The newspaper has been vocal in its opposition to high interest rates, a stance that has put it at odds with Finance Minister Mehmet Simsek. Yeni Safak’s recent headlines have directly challenged Simsek’s policies, claiming they have led to economic stagnation and low industrial output. The newspaper’s criticism extends to judicial reforms, with front-page articles warning of threats to private property rights. This shift has sparked speculation about internal divisions within the AKP, particularly regarding the handling of Kurdish peace talks. Yeni Safak’s stance on these issues has led to tensions within the ruling coalition, with some suggesting the newspaper has become an unofficial opposition voice. Despite this, Yeni Safak maintains its alignment with Erdogan on broader national issues, highlighting the nuanced dynamics of media-government relations in Turkey.