That is what motivates activists? Sorry, but I've been very active in recent elections, and the daily antics of the Whitehouse press briefing had nothing to do with my motivation. Even when Ari was in.
"The difference between a good press secretary and a bad press secretary is that a good one puts the reporters on defense. The defensive tone carries into their reports and into their coverage."
I would like to see an example of that. Seriously. I want to see a Helen Thomas piece in which she was writing defensively because of Ari Fliescher's clever banter. I enjoy watching Rumsfeld's press briefings, but you will note that the press certainly hasn't become defensive about its reporting of the war. If anything, they've become progressively more biased. The Whitehouse press corps are a bunch of jackals. Since you obviously watch the press briefings you must be fully aware that what is said in the briefings and what makes it into their reports are two completely different things.
Exactly what are you implying here? That it gets people to the polls to vote? Evidently my meaning bypassed you. I'll state it once more. Watching a good fight with the presscore charges the batteries of conservative activists, especially when we WIN. It is an emotional booster, just as watching France get it's comeuppence is a boost around here. Sorry you don't recognize how essential that is for so many, but evidence surrounds you of its importance. A base in good spirits is nothing but good for the GOP. No, it is not WHY people vote GOP but it keeps a smile on someone's face throughout the day when they make a call or knock on a door. We've had precious little boosters lately to raise flagging spirits.
As to the other, do your own homework.