A New Fix for a News Junkie

I am a functional news junkie. I use the word “functional” because I’ve learned to employ little tricks to curb my habit. One of these tricks includes not watching the 24-hour news channels, i.e. CNN, on primary nights, because if I do I end up sleeping with one eye open watching the returns, which in turn makes me crazy and unbearable to deal with the following day.

I recently posted a rant detailing my intense dislike of Campbell Brown on CNN, when in fact, other than Mr. Straight-No-Chaser, Jack Cafferty, I’m getting fed up with more than a few of CNN’s anchors. In lieu of suffering through Campbell’s broadcasts, I’ve found a new guilty pleasure, Keith Olbermann on MSNBC. I’m obviously new to the Olbermann phenomenon, because Loverman’s hipped me to the fact that Olbermann’s been spinning his unique mojo since his days at ESPN, but new to the game or not, I’m digging this fine, smooth talker, who’s exhibiting a special brand of passion seldom seen on mainstream television news.

Brazile Holds It Down

Now for a word about the recent political punditry and media coverage… On Tuesday evening I turned on CNN just as Democratic political consultant (and super delegate) Donna Brazile PUT IT DOWN and expressed what I’ve been feeling for months. Brazile made it clear how sick and tired she is of “some white Democrats” referring to the party as “my” or “mine,” and not “ours.” She called folks on their use of “coded language,” and the lack of inclusiveness when detailing the diverse demographics of the party and finally, she stepped to Campbell Brown when Brown foolishly pressed Brazile on being undecided in regards to her preference between Obama and Clinton. Brazile clarified that she’s never claimed to be undecided, but as a super delegate, she’s “undeclared.” Campbell paused, and then went on to try to bait Brazile and force her to step forward with her declaration. Brazile refused to take the bait and did as she’s done throughout the entire primary season--- stood her ground and made her case for a fair and unbiased process.

It was during this exchange that it became perfectly clear why I’ve grown to dislike Campbell Brown since her move from NBC to CNN. Brown's been awarded with the prime 8pm slot, immediately following Lou Dobbs, and prior to Larry King. In an attempt to shake her “girl next door” persona, she’s assumed the role of a “baiter.” Instead of engaging her guests in a conversation/dialogue, she seems to assume what she wants them to say and tries her best to “bait” or “goad” them to provide her presumed appropriate response. If her guests don’t agree with her or if she feels she hasn’t been successful in getting what she wants, she’ll rephrase the question three or four times in a doggish manner to get the goods, sometimes meeting with success, but most often, not. It’s really annoying.