Margaret Sullivan, media columnist, in today's Washington Post:
It makes good sense for media organizations to be careful and noninflammatory in their news coverage. That kind of caution continues to be a virtue.
But a crucial part of being careful is being accurate, clear and direct. When confronted with racism and lying, we can’t run and hide in the name of neutrality and impartiality. To do that is a dereliction of duty. [snip]Journalists don’t need to see themselves as political advocates when they say obvious things in plain terms. And doing so doesn’t make them Democratic operatives as their pro-Trump critics are sure to charge.
Her own paper is (finally) getting the message, both in its reportage and its editorial page, clearly labeling malignant dimbulb Donald "Not Exonerated" Trump's recent racist outbursts for what they are. Other media outlets are finally reaching the point where they can't avoid the obvious, but far too many are still using euphemisms or couching his racist remarks as "some are calling" or other weaselly crutches. We see you, and history will judge you harshly.It just means they are doing the most fundamental job they have: telling the truth as plainly and directly as possible.
BONUS: The Daily Show has a humorous take on the not-so-humorous weaselly euphemisms.
