There's a huge, huge difference between begging and opining. The FCC is going to get inundated with thousands of letters from DUers. They need to hear the contrary viewpoint.
Here's the letter I sent to the FCC. Tell me which part sounds like begging.
Dear Federal Communications Commission:
I just got off the phone with a very helpful FCC representative after delivering my opinion regarding the recent brouhaha over Sinclair Broadcast Group's decision to air a program which is unlikely to be flattering to John Kerry, and she suggested that I email them to this address.
I'll state, for full disclosure, that I fully support President Bush's reelection campaign, and therefore my views are not objective, but I believe they are still correct. I think these concerted efforts to squelch the Sinclair broadcast represent a grievous assault on freedom of speech. None of these people were complaining when CBS aired reports unflattering to the President, even though they were based on fraudulent documents and questionable testimony. None of these people complain when news networks, nominally objective, dedicate extraordinary airtime to setbacks in Iraq while scarcely mentioning successes. I'm not happy about either of these broadcasts that do not help my favored candidate, but I would never dream of using the apparatus of the government to silence them.
With one exception. Kerry spokesman Chad Clanton was quoted as saying, "I think [Sinclair's] going to regret doing this. They better hope we don't win." I cannot think of a better example of a chilling effect than a campaign openly threatening retaliation against a broadcaster. This barefaced threat is either criminal or should be. I don't know if it's in the FCC's jurisdiction to investigate such extortionate behavior, but if it is not, could you kindly tell me in whose jurisdiction it is? This should not be allowed to pass.
I blogged about this matter at this address, if you'd care to read my comments in more detail: http://www.politicalities.com/politicalities/2004/10/on_sinclair.html
Thank you for your time. The FCC has a difficult enforcement job, especially this close to an election, and I appreciate the hard work you put in.
Regards,
(name and town)
Okay, maybe the final paragraph sounds a little like begging, but it's true. And yes, I can't resist pimping my blog to anyone who will listen.
Your letter was well written and I hope I did not come off as being rude. I hate Kerry but I also hate massive conglomerates too.The sponsors are the ones in control (of everything) so concern yourself with them.