Why Dismissal of Fox and CNN Reflects Different Approaches to Media

In the realm of modern political discourse, the relationship between a president and the media is often a topic of heated debate. While many would argue that Donald Trump's approach to dismissing CNN and other news networks was a groundbreaking move, the comparison to President Barack Obama's stance on Fox News reveals a stark and significant difference. This article explores why Obama's more measured approach stood in contrast to Trump's more aggressive one, and how this reflected broader issues in the media landscape.

Obama's Dismissal: A Tactful and Professional Approach

President Barack Obama, in his interactions with media outlets, notably kept a respectful distance from Fox News. He rarely mentioned the network, focusing instead on more balanced and constructive dialogue. This approach was not without reason, as it allowed for a more professional and less confrontational political environment. Obama believed in engaging in meaningful conversations and focused on issues rather than indulging in personal attacks.

"I think a key difference is that Obama barely mentioned Fox News, whereas Trump attacked CNN every time they reported accurately on him and his administration." - Article Author

Trump's Attacks vs. Obama's Respect

Donald Trump, on the other hand, took a more confrontational approach, attacking CNN and other networks when they provided accurate and critical reporting on his administration. Trump's tweets to @FoxNews and his public statements often went beyond mere criticism, venting his frustrations and questioning the integrity of reporters and the network.

"Many will disagree but @FoxNews is doing nothing to help Republicans and me get re-elected on November 3rd," President Trump tweeted, further emphasizing his negative views on the network.

Trump also characterized Fox News personalities as 'garbage,' going so far as to list several individuals and their opinions, suggesting a widespread disdain for the network. This aggressive stance towards Fox News and other media outlets demonstrated a clear disregard for their role in providing balanced and objective reporting.

Media Bias and Propaganda

The origins of Fox News can be traced back to its creation with an overtly conservative bias. The network's initial claim of being "fair and balanced" was later revealed to be a purposeful lie. Fox News's purposeful bias was so pronounced that the company admitted it was only reporting conservative viewpoints and provided documented 'talking points' to control the opinions of its on-air personalities.

Initially, the shock of hearing a Fox News anchor question conservative viewpoints, such as Shep Smith questioning Sean Hannity, was refreshing. However, this instance remains the exception rather than the rule. The network continues to engage in a heavily biased approach, often not providing the full picture but instead delivering a skewed version of events that aligns with the conservative agenda.

Obama's Approach: A Balanced Perspective

President Obama challenged media bias to some extent, but he did not attempt to "dismiss" Fox News or threaten to dissolve it. Rather, he engaged in constructive dialogue and sought to address issues through proper channels. Obama's approach was based on the belief that a healthy democracy requires an informed citizenry, and that media outlets play a crucial role in providing that information.

"President Obama never did any of that. So your claim is specious but it does evidence a specific bias that you seemed to bring to this question." - Article Author

Comparing Trump's Behavior to the Rise of Fascism

The methods used by Donald Trump in his attacks on the press bear a striking resemblance to those employed by Nazi leaders in Germany. This comparison is not merely a hyperbole; it serves to underscore the serious implications of such actions. Just as Hitler and other Nazi leaders sought to control the media to their advantage, Trump's attempts to suppress dissident voices and manipulate public opinion are reminiscent of these historical events.

"Attacking the press is attacking the voice of the people. The purpose is to control and intimidate. To silence and if that fails to discredit and turn perceived enemies into 'the other' an attempt to make them acceptable targets for scorn violence and ultimately even murder." - Article Author

The comparison to the Nazi era is not meant to incite fear, but rather to highlight the importance of upholding democratic principles and the role of an independent media. The performance of President Obama in maintaining a respectful and professional relationship with the media sets a precedent for a healthy political discourse, which is essential for a functioning democracy.

In conclusion, while both Obama and Trump exhibited different approaches to the media, Obama's more professional and respectful stance can be seen as a model for how leaders should engage with the media. The aggressive and confrontational approach of Trump serves to highlight the dangers of eroding the trust between government and the media, and the potential consequences for a democratic society.

References

Democracy Now! Interview with Michael Wolff Books such as “In the Garden of Beasts” for insights on the rise of Nazism in Germany