I'm not going to watch the VP debate tomorrow, as I have a more pressing engagement watching paint dry, but I know some folks *cough* Beth *cough* will be glued to their TV.
I knew about this next item since I was catching up on some political sites yesterday, but it's now the headline on the Drudge Report.
Gwen Ifill, the moderator for the debate who in the past has been slammed for showing perceived bias against the GOP, is releasing a book on inauguration day that focuses on African-American politicians who are 'forcing a bold new path to political power'. A large section of the book obviously focuses on Obama and his road to the White House, and in an online video promoting her book, she says she is happy about "taking the story of Barack Obama and extending it."
It probably won't sell as well if the last chapter features a loss to McCain. Given that, should Ifill be placed in a position where she can impact the progress of the campaign itself?
A non-issue? Journalistic neutrality and all is well? In an ideal world I guess. But I don't think anyone with a clear monetary stake in the outcome of a decision should be placed in a spot of that prominence.
Ifill has been accused of bias in the past, and even Democrats seem to agree with the assessment. Quote: "Ifill told the Associated Press Democrats were delighted with [her answer during a prior VP debate she moderated] because they "thought I was being snippy to Cheney." End quote. (2)
Moreover PBS Ombudsman Michael Getler reported getting many complaints over Ifill's body language and looks of 'disgust' during Palin's nomination speech.
Ok, let's assume they were wrong and as Ifill says she was just doing her job. Fine. I still say the book is a deal breaker. You have to at least maintain the aura of neutrality, and now no matter what the Right will have legitimate cause to question the running of the debate and the questions posed on the stage.
Withdraw and let someone else do the job.
1, and link to video: - http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=76645
I agree with you, Dan. I don't think anyone is as neutral as they might claim to be, but in this particular case, there is a clear bias. Estela
ReplyDeleteSince I didn't even know who Gwen Ifill was before this debate, I don't feel qualified to comment...although the way you described it, it does seem biased.
ReplyDeleteAnd yeah...I'll be glued. ;)
Beth
http://nutwoodjunction.blogspot.com/
Don't miss the debate... What in the world will you write about if you do? LOL.
ReplyDeleteI'll be glued as well and praying that Gov. Palin proves all the 'bad-mouther's' (being polite here) wrong. Looking forward to getting your new address.
Hugs, Joyce
http://tagsandalittlechatter.blogspot.com/
Glad that you have started a migration. I know it will be a pain for you if the transfer does not work well. Beth indicates that we may be able to test by 10/7, so if you wait until the bugs are worked out, your pictures and such should be safe.
ReplyDeleteYes, we will *cough* be watching the *cough* debates tomorrow.
Glad that the swimming went swimmingly :o)