John Edwards wants the government to stop Murdoch’s purchase of Dow Jones and not just because of the devil consolidation but also because of ideology:
“The basis of a strong democracy begins and ends with a strong, unbiased and fair media — all qualities which are pretty hard to subscribe to Fox News and News Corp. The reality is that Americans deserve more news outlets — not fewer. It’s time for all Democrats, including those running for president, to stand up and speak out against this merger and other forms of media consolidation.
“Moreover, given Fox News’ consistent efforts to demean Democrats — they have attacked the character of Senator Obama, Vice President Gore, and many others — no Democrat running for president should accept campaign money from top News Corp executives….The time has come for Democrats to stop pretending to be friends with the very people who demonize the Democratic Party.”
It is not government’s role to punish speakers for their speech. That is the very essence of the First Amendment. It is constitutionally offensive and politically cynical for him to oppose this merger because he disagrees with the buyer. What kind of precedent is that? What happens in 20 years or so, when the Republicans get back in control, and they stop the New York Times Company from doing business because they don’t like its politics.
It’s even more cynical than that. Edwards is just trying to show up Hillary Clinton for getting money from News Corp. executives, including Democrats there. He is demonizing the company and it outlets and led the revolt against the Democrats appearing on a Fox-aired debate. I made fun of the Democrats for being scared of Fox and I’m making fun of the Republicans for being scared of YouTube and CNN.
Politics is about disagreement. If you can’t stand that much heat, then how the hell can you deal with the disagreements that matter, with the people who are said to hate us so much?
This is silliness but dangerous silliness. Stay away from the press Mr. Edwards, and restrain yourself from cynical censorship.
