Lou Dobbs

I found this article via Romenesko's fine site. It's a critique of Lou Dobbs that tries to be a bit of a mystery thriller as well. It seems that Lou Dobbs has had the audacity to ask some tough questions of reporters who appear live on his show -- questions that would suggest the reporters presented their stories in a manner typically slanted in favor of liberal orthodoxy, and Dobbs *gasp* actually sought to balance their views. The suggestions from Dobbs that perhaps Enron is a financial, not a political scandal, and that it is being used opportunistically by Democrats left one reporter "dumbfounded." Why?! Had the reporter not considered those possibilities? If not, why not? Bias? Sloppy journalism? Or what? What would explain the reporter being dumbfounded?

It sounds like Dobbs was justifiably frustrated with CNN's reporters in the two instances cited, and with the cuts at the network (necessary to pay for Paula Zahn and other pretties, no doubt!), it's hardly surprising that journalistic quality has declined. But why that's "embarrassing" for Dobbs and not for the reporters is something I don't get. I think Dobbs was right. Maybe he'll bolt for Fox at some point (doubtful, since he just rejoined CNN), but I actually prefer Cavuto.

As for the missing transcripts, I really doubt Dobbs is trying to hide anything. But I guess anything is possible.

[Posted at 19:08 CST on 02/13/02] [Link]