Wanting to use the media, some politicians intentionally say things. These statements not only attract local attention,
but national as well. Those newspapers and televison outlets sucked in don''t even care they are being used. After all, it sells air time and page space. Yet when the opposite happens watch the sparks fly.
Another aspect is ads aimed at opponents. Negative ones spoken of regarding an adversary are okay. It is all part of the game. However should the t.v. screen make them look bad, that is a different story.
Are the candidates to blame or the media? Did the chicken come first or the egg? Man still has not found the answer to either. We feed on the tidbits those in electronic media put on our airwaves plate. Many actually believe most of the bunk being propagated. Issues are no where as important as image. When was the last time we read a speech text that had
substance to it? Commercial stations rarely offer too many. It is easier to talk half of substance and half of ratings.
The Irag War, the economy, health care, and social security should be top on the list of topics. And honest rhetoric is even more a priority. Anyone can say what the voters want to hear. Any politician giving sufficient air time will sound viable. And yes, those who don''t fit the bill may slip through the media cracks. Bottomline here is the media has a deep rooted
responsibility to publish the truth. It has a duty to treat all candidates equally regardless of financial status. Sadly it does not work that way. And we, yes, us, are also partially to blame here as well.
If more people said enough to the shell game, media executives would be more compliant. When real quaetions are asked and honest answers are given will the media get the message. They can say no to those trying to con them. They could exercise greater control of what is printed in their paper or view on their network.
Maybe the practice will never change. Possibly we never will either. Until one or both does the system will not be fixed. Could it be nobody cares? You tell me.