Has the media heighten the many struggles of Obamacare?
Delays Expected
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/28/us/politics/years-delay-expected-in-major-element-of-health-law.html?ref=politics
Avoid Website Overload
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/27/us/politics/white-house-urges-caution-on-health-site.html?ref=politics
Oh the chalkboard. I thought that was expelled with Glenn Beck. I find it ironic how Shepherd Smith has jumbo tron touchscreens and Lou Dobbs (probably in the studio right next to Smith's) has a chalkboard. Anyhow, this is an excellent example of biased journalism. Dobbs continually states "we" as if he is somehow affected by the healthcare problems (when he has very nice healthcare and does not need to worry). He is supposed to be a neutral observer and relay complete, not slanted, information. His presentation is also loaded with so much negative and condescending language towards the president that it almost overshadowed his poor attempt at humility in stating he will not pretend to know what coding errors are. As a prime time journalist reporting on Obamacare, I think it would be wise if I took fifteen minutes to inform myself as to what coding is and what coding glitches comprise of so I may inform the viewers. Rather than explaining the technical aspects of the situation (aspects that were the result of a private company's work under a federal contract), Dobbs just skims over the story in a rhetorical and uninformative manner, again simplifying the narrative to fit the expectations of his viewers. Great video post, Janell.
ReplyDeleteThis is clearly an example of biased journalism. I'm not sure one could expect any less from Fox News reporting on Obamacare. However, I am not sure if they are unfairly criticizing Obamacare or criticizing it any more so than plans laid out by past presidents and other politicians. I feel that whenever politicians come out with plans that are to make drastic changes the opposing side always is somewhat overly critical. This may be a poor comparison, but look at how the liberal media has treated Bush over the war in Iraq. I think whether or not you feel the media is unfairly emphasizing the negative of a certain political policy depends on whether or not you agree with this policy. In time I'm sure the media will move on from Obamacare just as they have moved on from many other politically controversial topics.
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