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The Media: Playing Tag with John Edwards
BUZZFLASH
READER COMMENTARY
by Joel S.
Multimillionaire trial lawyer. One cannot read an article or watch a news clip of Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards without these words being used to introduce him. For the record, I am not a John Edwards fan. As with all potential candidates, I would like to reserve judgment until more is known about this man; where he stands on key issues is certainly vital to any decision.
While it may be interesting to know that he is a multimillionaire and a trial lawyer, these aren't the pieces of information normally used to arrive at a conclusion, positive or negative, about a candidate. Yet, the media has chosen these particular words to describe this man, repeating this mantra and unceremoniously affixing it to Mr. Edwards as his title. In contrast, during George W. Bush's campaign, he was typically referred to as Texas Governor. Why wouldn't North Carolina Senator be appropriate for Mr. Edwards? Ignoring his political credentials, even Democratic presidential candidate or hopeful appears less biased, considering that "multimillionaire trial lawyer" are not the most flattering words these days.
Looking at Mr. Bush's past, how would he have fared if "failed businessman" preceded his name? Or perhaps "multimillionaire failed businessman"? "Multimillionaire sweetheart deal-maker" has a nice ring to it. In Mr. Bush's case, the media typically presented him in a favorable light, focusing on the more positive aspects of his life. The description of Edwards is additionally odd because of the way the words are used. While "multimillionaire lawyer" wouldn't be particularly flattering, it stands head and shoulders above the phrase with "trial" inserted. There are a number of other politicians, on both sides of the aisle, who are or have been practicing attorneys. Probably even some "trial" lawyers. It is a well established fact that there are a number of multimillionaires in the political arena as well. What is it about Mr. Edwards' millions and law practice that are so noteworthy in comparison?
Many would view Mr. Edwards' experience as an attorney as a positive contribution to the Presidency. Despite the bad rap attorneys receive these days, this career path is still a challenging one, requiring intelligence, strong communication skills and discipline to succeed. Additionally, a self-made millionaire is something that should be respected, especially by Republicans. In this case, however Mr. Edwards is being demonized for his millions. Perhaps because he is willing to shelf some of the tax breaks he could benefit from, and so many in his income bracket are seeking.
The media is in dire need of a shakeup. The exhibited bias is not even subtle anymore. For Mr. Edwards, the "multimillionaire trial lawyer" tag may be enough to prove damaging to his campaign -- even before he has had ample opportunity to establish his view on the issues. I remember another candidate, not so long ago, who had a difficult time distancing himself from the words "stiff," "untrustworthy," and "reinventing himself." Oh yeah... and "Inventor of the Internet."
Joel
S
BUZZFLASH READER COMMENTARY
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