[John SBM]

I think you may be unaware of how reporters treat the "real story".

First, during an election campaign, anything the Democrat candidate says is the truth, and he/she is just showing the courage to state it openly. And all good reporters know that most of societies problems are the fault of business, religion and evil conservatives. If only the government was free to do more, to move forward, to make progress, this would be a better world. And if a Democrat incumbant is facing problems that occurred on his/her watch, it must be the fault of someone who is trying to undermine their prospects and undercut their efforts.

Conversely, every good reporter knows that the Republican candidates can't be trusted. Every story that includes comments from the Republicans must also include criticism and reaction from the more honest Democrat opponent. Any support for a candidate by a business or religious group must be cited as the right-wing extemists banding together. And of course, any campaign statement speaking ill of a new government program, or of attempts to cut back on taxes and spending must be countered with complete reporting of the terrible consequences.

Of course, I am only basing the attributes of a good reporter on what I see as the best reporting in the biggest papers and media outlets, so I may be glossing over some of the more latent details.

[Robert357]

I understand your frustration with the media, but look at some of the stories that slip out of the newspapes. The Sacramento BEE has been telling a lot of factual stories that are really damning to Davis and the Democratic party. Not all newspapers are the New York Times, the LA Times or the SF Chronical.