If I may, there’s something I need to get off my chest. As democracy remains under siege, it has been frustrating to watch how the press covers politics these days. I am reminded by lessons that came to me during the Nixon years as a CBS News correspondent, which I’ll add here: 1. Enough with Both-sides-ism When one side lies intentionally and repeatedly, they are no longer entitled to the benefit of the doubt. They should be held to account, right away. Do not simply repeat the narratives they spew. 2. Prioritize Live Fact-Checking Rigorous and robust fact-checking is the best defense against misinformation, intentional lies, and deflection. If Trump says the sky is green, the story isn’t that the sky is now green; the story is that the sky is still blue and Trump got it wrong. 3. Ask Lawmakers Hard Questions Ask about the fundamental principles of democracy. Push them to go on the record that Biden won the 2020 election. Ask if they support the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. This writing is not to offer any claim of knowing it all. Your correspondent has made his share of mistakes, but after more than seven decades I believe I have picked up a few useful guideposts. Good journalism is always worth it. Our democracy depends on it. ↓ For the rest of my list, please see my the latest post of my independent newsletter – the link is in my Twitter biography.
@DanRather Thanks for reminding them all Dan
@DanRather In 1923, Nazi Party Chm. "Hitler" failed at violently overthrowing his Bavarian govt. While serving 9 mo.'s prison, he realized that he'd gain power by winning elections. To create an appealing persona, Hitler assembled a propaganda team & used mass media, as did Traitor Trump !!
@DanRather @Weinsteinlaw I wish journalists and reporters and today’s correspondents would take heed to your wisdom It seems like it’s the Trump show wherever you look. I never hear anything about accomplishments of the current administration. It is very disheartening and disappointing
@DanRather Complete failure of the media…allowing trump to lie cheat and steal unchecked And they prefer to talk about Biden’s age or unpopularity
@DanRather We so appreciate you @DanRather
@DanRather This is so true. The media is negligent at best here. Your job as a journalist isn’t to host entertaining discussion and try to appeal to as many people as possible; it’s to tell the truth
@DanRather It's media now -- not press. And Trump means ratings, clicks, money, TV segments, book deals.
@DanRather I've often said this. The major problem with media is that instead of treating Trump like the serious grave danger he is, he was treated like "What is crazy old Trump gonna say next?" Like Fani Willis said (and I paraphrase) " I remember '60 Minutes' and competent journalists"