... With the exception of Mitt Romney, Fox now has deals with every major potential Republican presidential candidate not currently in elected office.But, is this an entirely bad thing? Jay Bookman of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution observed:The matter is of no small consequence, since it’s uncertain how other news organizations can cover the early stages of the presidential race when some of the main GOP contenders are contractually forbidden to appear on any TV network besides Fox.
C-SPAN Political Editor Steve Scully said that when C-SPAN tried to have Palin on for an interview, he was told he had to first get Fox’s permission — which the network, citing her contract, ultimately denied. Producers at NBC, ABC, CBS, CNN and MSNBC all report similar experiences. ...
... In effect, though, Fox and its candidate/stars are condemning themselves to an ideological ghetto. By not appearing on other outlets, the candidates not only lose access to a broader audience, they also aren’t forced to develop a broader message. Fox and its audience becomes their entire universe, and the only way to compete for popularity within that universe is to get more and more conservative.The emphasis on party purity and loyalty intensifies. The circle gets tighter, the echoes get louder, the island gets smaller. ...
Posts
4 comments:
The Politico article notes that Newt Gingrich, also under Fox contract, has appeared on ABC and NBC.
What are the terms of Palin's contract? Did CSPAN ask Fox, then Fox asked Palin? Is this a convenient excuse for her avoidance of the media? Perhaps Fox knows that she'd be eviscerated anywhere else, so, in the interest of protecting its property, protects her.
What will this mean about debates? That all debates will be carried exclusively on Fox?
Is this country destined for a two state solution? I think we already tried that. Many people died and the wounds still aren't entirely healed.
It could be a very childish thing.
Susie may tell her mom that she wants you to come over and play. Susie's mom calls your mom. Your mom talks with you about playing with Susie. You say, "NO WAY!" Your mom gives Susie's mom a diplomatic excuse.
So, NBC, say, wants to interview Sarah. NBC calls Fox. Fox talks with Sarah about doing an NBC interview. Sarah says, "NO WAY!" Fox tells NBC that Sarah is unavailable, for contractual reasons.
The contract would only have to contain a clause like "Sarah Palin will appear on other networks only with the consent of Fox and Sarah Palin."
Well, it is my understanding that as soon as one, or more of those people declare a candidacy, their money making days with FOX are over. They can't be a paid talking head for Fox, while campaigning.
Post a Comment