The more you trash the media, the sharper their pencils get.
Public figures are fond of bad mouthing news outlets and reporters when their shortcomings are made public.
A certain candidate today launched particularly strong tirades at reporters during a televised news conference, slapping the terms sleaze and loser aganst individual reporters.
Many politicians and corporate executives believe that those who do not advocate their views are therefore adversaries. Reporters are neither. They ask tough questions because they need to be asked.
Typically, journalists ignore fulminations and diatribes aimed at them, and refrain from using such personal attacks in their writing. If a particularly juicy verbal assault is against an opposition candidate or business competitor, however, they will report it. And when they uncover illicit activities of a candidate, they will report that, too, because it's their job. Criticism of their own news-writing ability is usually ignored, since reporters answer to their editors and not to candidates.
There comes a time, however, when a line is crossed. Smart politicians know where that line is, and know not to cross it. They recognize that reporters have their job to do, and part of that job is to probe for truth and ask tough questions.
Some, however, have not learned where that line is, or they believe they are immune from repercussions.
Today, a certain candidate, in attacking journalists in general and some individually, was asked if his attitude toward the news media would be the same if he should be elected President.
His reply: "Yes. I'm not going to change."
Here are two things this candidate should consider:
1/ Never pick a fight with someone who buys ink by the barrel.
2/ If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.
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