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Holding the media accountable
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In recent years, many have charged the mainstream media with displaying extreme bias in its coverage of events as well as people. Indeed, there is the belief that agenda journalism has replaced attempts at disseminating information to the American people in an impartial manner. Such charges multiplied at a dizzying rate during the recent presidential elections. Radio talk show host, John Ziegler, decided to turn this issue into one of national discussion by writing and directing Media Malpractice: How Obama Got Elected and Palin Was Targeted .
On June 4, 2009, residents of Boston and Greater Boston had the opportunity to see this documentary at The Studio Cinema in Belmont, Massachusetts. A riveted audience watched stunning examples of the media’s subjectivity as it covered the presidential election and candidates. Mr. Ziegler’s documentary shows that this slanted coverage resulted in many Americans being ill-informed about the candidates and the political arena in general. Moreover, an interview with Sarah Palin has a particularly strong impact. When the governor responds to attacks leveled against her family, including a clip of Tina Fey’s so-called comedic routine about Palin’s definition of marriage, it is difficult to remain indifferent to her desire to see dispassionate coverage and journalistic honor.
Since the election, the media’s behavior has continued to raise concerns about a lack of objectivity. Despite tough economic times, the first couple enjoyed a date night in New York on the taxpayer’s dime. Yet, much of the media presented it as President Obama’s gallant gesture towards his wife. Further, the ABC network is planning a forthcoming special during which Obama will discuss his ideas for health care reform. During this televised event, an opposing or alternative view will not be presented.
As for the media’s treatment of Governor Palin, the coverage of David Letterman’s appalling comments about her and her 14-year-old daughter, equally demonstrates that little has changed. Palin’s overall response to Letterman has been described as being part of a feud; her individual remarks have been labeled as ‘swipes’. In a recent Slate article, senior editor, Dahlia Lithwick, contributed to this idea of a mutual quarrel. Additionally, she portrayed Sarah Palin’s reaction to Letterman as unreasonable and indicated that the Alaska governor shouldered some of the blame in this unfortunate story.
John Ziegler’s Media Malpractice presents a compelling portrait of how the mainstream media has abandoned its duty vis-à-vis the American people. Indeed, political preferences now appear to take precedence over professional integrity. A serious problem, such behavior ultimately serves as a vigorous denunciation of this democracy and an abuse of power.
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