MSNBC debate moderator Rachel Maddow hugged both Democratic candidates after the debate.
The following is an excerpt from OpinionJournal’s “Best of the Web” at WSJ written by the editor, James Taranto.
Problem and Solution
- “Kasich: Americans Need to Be Hugged”—headline, Washington Examiner, Feb. 5
- “Rachel Maddow Hugs Clinton & Sanders in a Warm DNC-Sanctioned Embrace”—headline, Bustle, Feb. 5
News of the Tautological
“Bernie Sanders Disappoints Some Atheists With His ‘Very Strong Religious’ Feelings”—headline, Religion News Service, Feb. 8
Question and Answer
- “What Happens When You Get Stoned Every Single Day for Five Years”—headline, Washington Post website, Feb. 1
- “You Agree With Bernie Sanders (but You Might Not Know It)”—headline, Daily News (New York), Feb. 7
Die Lahmstrommedien
It looks as if the media in Germany are having some of the same problem as America’s own MSM. Klaus Brinkbäumer of Der Spiegel complains of “the outrage and hatred that is currently being directed at the media in Germany.” He writes:
In times like these, especially, the quality media cannot allow cost-saving measures to kill the very thing that sets them apart from the loudmouths—namely their capacity for research and reporting, i.e., local reporters, foreign correspondents and investigative teams. We need to take the time necessary to have a true understanding of contexts and be able to explain them properly, and we must maintain a moderate tone and not allow ourselves to descend into the ruckus. Modern life demands immediate gratification, but journalism requires clear thinking and calm.
The piece is titled “Press Versus Liars: Doing Good Journalism in These Trying Times.” He makes some good points, but here’s a pro tip: If you’re trying to strike a moderate tone, you might want to avoid leading with the word “liars.”
For more “Best of the Web” click here and look for the “Best of the Web Today” link in the middle column below “Today’s Columnists.”
