Although he has been in and out of journalism (but in communications) since '79, he differs from other WH press secretaries in his educational and work experience background - most importantly, a BA in philosophy (critical/logical thinking) as opposed to being a "professionally trained communicator" like most WH Comm Dir's over the past 25 years. Heck, even before he got into journalism, he taught physics and geography in Kenya, taught in Cincinnati, and worked as an advocate for the mentally ill in NC.
I think that his sparing successes in press briefings w/ Gregory, Thomas and the like come directly from his ability to see illogical and fallacious arguments presented as questions. He is Rumsfeld-esque in his refusal to accept a question as totally true and will challenge the assertions.
To quote Daniel Patrick Moyniham, "Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but not their own facts."
"I think that his sparing successes in press briefings w/ Gregory, Thomas and the like come directly from his ability to see illogical and fallacious arguments presented as questions."
I think Tony's success with the MSM media types has more to do with his advocacy work with the mentally ill. All liberal Rats are mentally ill too.