U.S. Journalists Dwell On Personality (Press, 24 April 1984)

On 24 April 1984, New Zealand Press Association reported insights from Washington regarding the media's critical portrayal of government figures, focusing on recent comments from New Zealand's Prime Minister, Sir Robert Muldoon. He lamented that journalists often highlight negative aspects of governmental performance, a sentiment echoed by figures in Washington, including President Ronald Reagan. This effect, while noted, does not significantly change the manner in which news is reported. The American public appears to sympathise with these complaints, with U.S. Appeals Court Judge Irving Kaufman criticising the media as "aloof, arrogant and insensitive." The critique extends to the way American journalism frequently focuses on personal attributes and characteristics of political figures rather than just their policy decisions. Publications like "Time" magazine emphasise that understanding a candidate's temperament is key to evaluating their fitness for office. Journalists in Washington are known for their relentless pursuit of the truth, a trait that has historically led to significant political consequences, such as the downfall of President Nixon during the Watergate scandal. Presently, Attorney General-Designate Edwin Meese is under scrutiny due to reports revealing questionable conduct. The absence of a robust official secrets act in the U.S. enables journalists to expose sensitive information, including allegations involving the CIA's actions in Nicaragua, which have sparked outrage in Congress. With a substantial number of journalists operating in Washington and constitutional protections for the press, few secrets remain concealed for long. Major newspapers are also financially equipped to allocate resources to in-depth investigations, which may take time to yield results, further dissecting policies for their electoral ramifications. The relationship between politicians and the media is complicated, particularly in Washington, characterised by a culture of scepticism. Journalists scrutinise the actions and motives of government officials closely, often leading to a perception that the press is overly critical and cynical. This skepticism towards the press was notably articulated by former Vice President Spiro Agnew, who labelled journalists as “nattering nabobs of negativism.” Ironically, Agnew himself resigned due to legal troubles, highlighting the risks associated with public life. Additionally, the article discusses the media's tendency to delve into the private lives of public figures, illustrating the intensity of Washington's political environment. This dynamic fosters leaks and insider information that contribute to the sensationalism of stories about internal governmental conflicts. The government sought to limit press access during the Grenada invasion, a move met with strong backlash from journalists, though some members of the public appeared to support the government's decision, prompting introspection within the media. The article also highlights the media's self-scrutiny, noting a recent case where "The Wall Street Journal" dismissed a reporter for unethical practices related to insider information. The scandal was compounded by revelations about the reporter's personal life, showing the media's commitment to transparency, even when it involves sensitive or potentially damaging information. The involvement of notable financial figures, like Peter Brant, who has advised the New Zealand Government, connects the international investment sphere to the unfolding media landscape in the U.S., further demonstrating the intertwined nature of politics and journalism.

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