In some circles, it's held that after 9/11 much of the media became caught up in the patriotic fervor which enveloped the country. Journalistic integrity took a two year vacation and many journalists became complicit in the Bush administration's actions, so the accusation goes. With the passing of time and the benefit of hindsight some have looked back and suggested that was definitely a moment in time we don't want to repeat.

Is it happening again? Without a doubt, the media has embraced this president like none before. Some of our networks are serving as de facto government news agencies.

What is particularly disturbing is the way the media has glossed over the completely unprecendented federal spending levels and budget deficit. Time and time again we are reminded that this is what was necessary to avoid a complete collapse of the financial system. The scope and the inherent risk involved in the level of spending and deficit is routinely glossed over.
Certainly, more was made in the media of Bush's 400 billion dollar deficit that Obama's 1.8 trillion dollar version.

Will there come a day when any of these people look back and regret this sad blurring of the lines between news and propaganda, between reporting and enabling? Time will tell, I guess.

I think most media conversation about an issue takes place via interviews and discussions involving members from the other party. Part of Obama's easy ride so far has been the infighting, inconsistency, and confusion amongst the Republican party. The more they find their voice again the more they'll be able to center their efforts on delivery of message.

Media wants money.
Advertisers want viewers.
Viewers want Obama.
News be damned.

Nah, B. I'm pretty sure it's the need for an alternate message. I notice that the last two days, as Republicans have gotten the dander up and started forming ranks on it, there's been a lot more discussion of the health care issue on the major networks.

I agree with McP. The media is so lazy that its willing to take the easy stories written for them by the administration just like they did with the Bush administration until early 2004. What changed then? There was a counter-message that was gaining a foothold. The same thing should happen this time. Its hard to say how long this honeymoon will last, but while the story has the potential to change its up to the opposition to figure out how to make that happen. First they have to realize that merely continuing to blame the media for the current story isn't the way to do it though.

This can be watched instantly on Netflix.

*makes a beeline for Barnes and Noble

Does Fox regret their collusion with Bush?

No.

Its 35% off at Target.

There's your answer

This is a great thread.

STRAWMAN!!