Since I’m frequently frustrated over the media’s inability (or disinterest) in playing any kind of political fact-checking role, I figure it’s only fair to point out when someone gets it right. Especially on TV.
As Oliver Willis and my friend Poppy noted, ABC’s Peter Jennings did a straight-up piece last night, contrasting what Bush said about a John Kerry remark and what Kerry actually said. The segment demonstrated, quite clearly, that Bush’s characterization was false. The president, in other words, was lying and hoping he wouldn’t get called on it.
Of course, Jennings didn’t use the “l” word, but he didn’t have to. Show people the truth — Bush’s charge, then why Bush’s charge is false — and the public will have the information they need.
Oliver even has a video of the ABC segment. Take a look; it’s the kind of Journalism 101 we rarely see on television network news.
Post Script: Yes, I realize it’s a shame to make a big deal about such a simple segment, but considering how far TV news has fallen in recent years, it’s only fair to reward adequate behavior with some praise.