“...particularly when there are compelling reasons NOT to allow the media and others to shape the candidate’s image and message...”
That is correct, and I have noticed that Trump detractors, and especially Cruz, are spinning it as “Trump is afraid of a girl”.
“Obediently going on Fox”
Yes, and going on Fox after the snarky press release would require him to “submissively” go on Fox.
“.... spin ...Trump is afraid of a girl”...
It would be so ridiculous if that were to stick, because that sidetracks the actual scenario which is:
The interrogators, i.e., the media moderators; no matter WHICH GENDER THEY MIGHT BE, have all of the power in these situations.
The exact parallel is an American Idol type situation where the judges control the rules completely and totally and have absolute power over the contestants.
Trump is smart enough to abstain completely from an inherently no-win dynamic and I am amazed it took so long before any one of these candidates realized that it was time to walk away from this charade.
The venue is unfair and all should cry foul and walk away.
Whether the moderator is male or female, liberal or conservative - no matter - it is the PROCESS that has gone bad.
Go Trump. And don’t give in - this is NOT going to hurt you in the big picture AT ALL.