How stupid do they think we are? | Finding a Voice, by Ann Davidow

Just how stupid do politicians and mainstream media types think we are - - as dumb as posts apparently. Recent comments from the likes of Joe Lieberman, or as some refer to him, Holy Joe, and the conduct of Wednesday night’s Democratic debate by ABC stalwarts are an insult to anyone with even a modicum of intelligence or concern about the state of political discourse in this country.

Hillary certainly knows Obama’s patriotism is not at issue. That she was comfortable with the accusatory tone directed at him during the debate was shameful, transparent political maneuvering. As for Stephanopoulos and Gibson, they like so many other media personalities seem to enjoy watching politicians do battle more than they take pride in reporting and analyzing real news or political trends. They are not serious journalists.

It is hard to say, though, who is more disreputable and unprofessional - - the appointed moderators or the garbage collectors some campaigns use to concoct talking points. And if that is all voters hear from the networks and cable it helps to explain why so many have turned to the internet where good information mixes with the virulently false and vindictive. At least, a little digging on line can elicit factual material that compares favorably with the mindless chatter served up by traditional media sources.