The purpose of this dialog is to delve into one of the most important political problems of our time.

Our U.S. Constitution provides for a free press but how free is it? Our domestic media outlets are free enterprise businesses who are for the most part, privately owned and operated. That being said, every privately owned media company in America is subjected to the bias of its editors, owners or board of directors.

So, what happens when a news story first appears in the newsroom? The editor or news director makes the important decision on whether or not to cover the story. Stories that are given approval move onto the assignment desk where they’re handed down to the writer or reporter. When the work of the writer or reporter is complete, the story makes its way back to the editor and is either approved for publication/broadcast or, marked-up for further clarification.

In a perfect world, completed news stories would be presented in full for public consumption. Non-political stories such as those covering weather or sporting events are rarely manipulated by publishers or owners prior to public consumption but, the same cannot be said for political stories or, worse yet, election coverage.

The administrators and moderators of this site want to offer you a very warm welcome. Your participation is very much needed to further the debate of ‘political bias’ in our media.

Outcomes

First and foremost, we want to hear about media corruption and how it’s adversely affected you, your community, your state or nation. Please be professional and accurate. Please Include published articles, audio or video files that support your story. If you need assistance, we’re here to help you. Unethical media behavior should never go ignored or be allowed.

As citizens of the United States of America, how should “We the People” unite to bring the necessary reforms to our local, state and national media? Some might argue that we’re powerless in ever reforming the privately owned media. Perhaps to some degree that’s true but, we have access to government agencies such as the FCC. In addition, we have access to those who choose to advertise with the media company(s) in question. Perhaps we should also begin the debate of a ‘public’ media outlet that could better serve “We the People?” Does PBS do all it could to counter the falsehoods we’re all subjected too? Readers are encouraged to contact your local PBS stations. Let PBS know that we rely on them to hold the private media companies accountable.

In closing, as Americans, we are not powerless. State’s without the power of initiative, referendum and recall should unite to obtain these rights. On the national level, we should put pressure on those seeking federal elective office for either a constitutional convention to address this issue or, debate, followed by action to provide for a national referendum process to confront corruption at every level of U.S. government. Our elected officials and, those who they appoint work for us. Anyone, public or private, found guilty of violating the ‘public trust’ should face stiff penalties.

Written by: Steven E. Thompson