It seems like the politically correct thing to do in the media these days is to bash all politicians – past, present, and even those who have not yet been elected. If a politician is not criticized for some wrong doing every day, then the thinking process among the masses goes like this: Something must be wrong.
Call me old-fashioned or even old, but there used to be a time when knocking the character and/or reputation of anyone, even those in the public eye, was considered slanderous. A verbal attack on air or in print without verifiable facts was simply wrong. As a professional journalist for decades, I was taught to get facts first then broadcast or print an objective news story that covered both sides of an issue after. Not always easy, but definitely doable. The goal was to let the audience draw their own conclusions with the objective information presented.
Yes, I understand the concept of freedom of speech, and that columns and editorials are the proper venues in which to vent. But now that residents in Fall river have decided to elect a third mayor in less than three years to run this city – well, maybe we no longer have time to vent and bring more negative energy into the city. Maybe it is finally time to use the proper channels to create much needed “stability” in a city that needs an image overhaul.
It appears a schism exists between the word ‘ethics’ and ‘journalism.’ The birth of the Internet and social media has bred a whole new generation of people who consider themselves journalists (or people-in-the-know,) and that makes it easy for anyone to use opinion as fact and spew forth venomous barbs mostly at politicians and mainly over the Internet. And not only are these remarks aimed at the politicians, but their family, friends, and of course, the people they hire for their teams too. That is not responsible journalism.
Sure, not all politicians have the best interest of the taxpayers in mind when they go about their day. Back door deals will always be a part of political life. People will continue to be hired for political jobs that are not qualified for. Corruption will always rear its ugly head. But are all these things absolutes? No, because nothing ever is.
Jasiel Correia II has not even been sworn in yet, and he and some of his team members are already falling under attack in the media. Okay, maybe he – like other politicians has said or promised something during a campaign statement that cannot be fulfilled – but maybe there’s explainable reason that some promises cannot be met. Have you ever made a promise you did not keep for good reason?
Whether you agree that a 23 year old mayor can run a city of our size or not, give him a chance. Give the new city councilors and school committee members a chance to make their mark too. Let’s work together for positive change. And let’s do this through responsible journalistic reporting.
Enough negativity already. Who’s with me?
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