Pitney asked his arranged question. Reporters looked at one another in amazement at the stagecraft they were witnessing. White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel grinned at the surprised TV correspondents in the first row.
The use of planted questioners is a no-no at presidential news conferences, because it sends a message to the world -- Iran included -- that the American press isn't as free as advertised. But yesterday wasn't so much a news conference as it was a taping of a new daytime drama, "The Obama Show." Missed yesterday's show? Don't worry: On Wednesday, ABC News will be broadcasting "Good Morning America" from the South Lawn (guest stars: the president and first lady), "World News Tonight" from the Blue Room, and a prime-time feature with Obama from the East Room.
Considering how much their ratings have fallen, it would appear that ABC, CBS, NBC etc. (and Reality Star Barack Øbama) are not aware that no matter how much this 24/7 Øbama face time thrills them, it just isn't as popular with viewers as they seem to imagine.
There was a time that no matter how comfy the press was with the government, at least they'd attempt to maintain the public fiction that they were independent. Today's Cult Media doesn't even bother. It's amazing how unaware they are of the disdain we hold them in.
The Gunslinger
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