Image Control

Generalizations are like sponges. They're full of holes, yet they hold water.

   Some Republicans tend not to like reporters and avoid dealing with them. Why? Because they can't control the questions and often don't know the answers. Result: Embarrassment.
   Example: President Barack Obama has appeared for an extensive one-on-one with NBC's Brian Williams. Candidate Mitt Romney has ignored repeated requests for a similar interview. (Williams noted his request on-air.)
   Example 2: Both Obamas have appeared with ABC's Barbara Walters and all the ladies of The View. The Romneys have not responded to similar requests. (Walters repeated her request on-air.)
   Example 3: Remember Sarah Palin's encounter with ABC's Katie Couric?
   Example 4: Public appearances are carefully stage-managed, with only the faithful allowed admittance. Questions from the press covering the event are banned or ignored.
   Granted, both sides do it, but that does not make it OK. In any case, consider which side is more likely to respond to questions.
   Later, after the event, professional spinners are deployed to redefine, clarify, expand and explain what the candidate "really meant to say."
   That's not good enough. Voters are entitled to hear directly from the candidate what the candidate says and means.
   Otherwise, all is image, spin and marketing. Like selling soap.

   Reporters are obligated to ask questions. Non-answers can be just as revealing as detailed responses.
   Candidates and corporate executives believe that if reporters are not advocates for their positions, they are therefore adversaries, to be treated accordingly.
   Good reporters are neither advocates nor adversaries. They ask the tough questions because they need to be asked.