By Robert Laurie ——Bio and Archives--July 14, 2014
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The letter, signed by the Society of Professional Journalists and the Poynter Institute, among others, accuses the White House of "politically driven suppression of news and information about federal agencies." It asks the president to create an ombudsman charged with enforcing his goal of government transparency, and asks Obama "issue a clear directive telling federal employees they're not only free to answer questions from reporters and the public, but actually encouraged to do so.” “We believe that is one of the most important things you can do for the nation now, before the policies become even more entrenched,” the letter says.
“They're all journalists. ...And if the day that they stopped - the day that they sort of sit back and say, you know, we don't need to write a letter. The White House is telling us everything that they're supposed to, is the day that they're no longer doing their jobs.”In other words, "every day for the last five years." Earnest argued that Obama has been open about White House visitor information, and even allows media access to fundraising events in private homes. He's just that open!
“Reporters for years clamored to get access to fundraisers the president hosted or attended that were hosted in private homes. Reporters now have access to those when this president goes to a private home.”Sure, you could argue that he's just inviting his closest media allies to nice parties thrown by Hollywood royalty, but why quibble? This is the new definition of transparency! Here in the future, when the administration throws you a scrap, you lap it up, say thank you, and write something complimentary. You don't want to end up on the enemies list, do you?
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