As I watch the CSPAN coverage of the RNC, I find myself alternating between irritated and amazed by what I'm seeing and what I'm not. Since I'll be watching for days, I think I'll be updating this post as thoughts come to me.
- I just noticed that none of the TV networks will be covering the RNC. I wish I knew whether or not the DNC was also ignored, but I suspect it was and it only makes me twice as mad. This NYT article covers a lot of ground.
"TV executives tell us that the convention and campaign coverage provided by the cable channels is sufficient. I don't think so. Around 35 million Americans don't get cable, often because they cannot afford it. To put it in perspective, that's more than the combined populations of Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota. Furthermore, broadcasters legally undertake to serve the public interest themselves in exchange for free spectrum - their licenses don't allow them to pass the buck to cable. Remember also that the vast majority of cable channels are national, not local. So don't look for local campaign coverage on cable, except in the few towns where local cable news exists. Most Americans still must look to their local broadcaster for news of local campaigns and issues."
- If I hear one more Republican cite Abraham Lincoln I'm going to scream. Is it possible to be more disingenuous?
- I asked myself after watching the DNC coverage, "I wonder if the RNC will manage to have as many fat, lying bastards as this?" Answer: yes.
- Arnold Schwarzenegger once again demonstrated how much he totally rules. Who else in the world can cite Nixon as a positive figure and get a positive response? Hell, even I was like, "yeah! Nixon! Rock on, Governator!!!" He's so f'n awesome I can't even believe it.
Posted by Matt at August 30, 2004 01:08 PMread more »