http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wium/local-wium-953863.mp3
Macomb, IL – The panelists discuss whether the Obama administration is ducking the mainstream media by disseminating its message through on-line methods.
Devin Dwyer of ABC News writes that the White House Press Office produces a website, a blog, a YouTube channel, and a Flickr photo stream. It also uses Facebook and Twitter, plus it produces a mix of daily video programming that includes news-like shows that highlight the president's accomplishments.
Dwyer said White House cameras have been granted free reign behind the scenes, while broadcast news outlets have been blocked from certain events traditionally open to coverage.
The Shop Talk panelists say it's not unusual for those in power to try controlling the message. The different on-line sources offered by the White House might provide some level of transparency.
But the panelists also point out it's important for the president to engage with reporters who can ask questions about issues important to the public - issues the president might rather not talk about.