The Poynter Institute for Media Studies has long been a breeding ground for activists draped in the garb of journalists – their left-leaning tendencies in plain sight. PolitiFact is under their wing, with Kelly McBride, one of their executives, playing the ever-questionable role of ‘public editor’ for the National Public Radio.
Fox News unveiled plans of a new Saturday night show to be hosted by Lara Trump, member by marriage to the presidential family. In response to this announcement, claimants questioned Fox News’ legitimacy, stating, ‘If Fox News really does see itself as bona fide news channel, the hire of Lara Trump is puzzling. … How can they overlook such an apparent conflict of interest?’ Ridiculous, isn’t it?
Before we delve into that, let’s consider the fact that NBC News once played host to Chelsea Clinton as a reporter. Interestingly, this association transpired as her mother was gearing up for a 2016 presidential race. Her compensation package? A hefty $600,000 annual fee for less than one superficial feature story per month. Convenient, isn’t it?
But the story doesn’t end there. Before the transparency of her role came under scrutiny, Chelsea Clinton had already submitted her resignation. Seems it was a classic case of walking away before the heat get too intense.
In a similar thread, we have Jen Psaki, who, while still serving at the White House, was busy striking deals. Is it not peculiar that such dealings are brushed under the carpet while other cases are made so much of? Once again, the double standards are hard to overlook.
Moving forward, let’s not forget about how MSNBC enthusiastically supported ‘Team Brandon’ by including a White House spokesman on their payroll. It’s quite telling how such additions are met with no qualms over conflicts of interest or the integrity of journalism.
A new addition to MSNBC lineup is a show hosted by Symone Sanders who was once a senior adviser to the infamous Vice President Kamala Harris. The show titled ‘Symone’ will debut this Saturday at 4 pm. If the context doesn’t already make it clear, we see yet again how blurred the boundaries between journalism and political minutes become.
Jen Psaki made her official Sunday morning lineup debut with ‘Inside with Jen Psaki’ in 2023. On a platform where the foundation of journalism should prevail, it was commented, ‘Was it groundbreaking? Barely. Was it different? Scarcely. But was it solid? Maybe.’
When we discuss media ethics, or the rather increasing lack of them, it is hard to overlook such complacency. The issue is not with individuals participating in multiple roles; it is with the acceptance of such a practice as it encourages a monopolistic narrative.
In the present media landscape, conflicts of interest seem to have become the new normal. What’s described as an attempt at ‘saving democracy,’ comes off as biased perspectives permeating the media, creating a skewed representation of reality.
Increased alliances in the media industry only amplify these conflicts of interest, setting a disconcerting precedent for future exchanges between journalism and politics.
It has become ever harder to distinguish between journalism and political agendas. Such overlap not only undermines the core principles of journalism but also serves as a breeding ground for political propaganda.
It is high time for media outlets to introspect and uphold the integrity of journalism. With each questionable hire and skewed narrative, the credibility of not just the individuals involved, but the entire media fraternity comes into question.
In summary, the blurring lines between journalism and political messaging, alongside the selective outrage about conflicts of interest, dampen the pillar of democracy that the media is supposed to be. As such, it’s of utmost importance to draw clear boundaries to ensure media credibility and the democratic accountability it holds.