Meta-media kerfuffle
Not being a citizen of the state of New York, nor friend or family member of its governor, I feel no personal betrayal in the recent news of his behavior. Perhaps there are financial or legislative issues at play that will come to light as a result of this that truly mean he cannot effectively govern his state, and those should be examined.
But I suspect that Mr. Spitzer’s resignation has much more to do with being pilloried by the media. Other high-powered men have made similar decisions, that have not cost them their jobs. But many of those men did it before the 24 hour news coverage we have today–men like Kennedy, FDR, Jefferson.
I find disingenuous the serious questions about whether or not he can govern, given the media’s contention that no one will, apparently, be able to focus on any other aspect of his governing with this kerfuffle going on. But if the media didn’t make such a big deal about it, would it be as distracting?
I’m not saying to push something like this under the rug. A case can be made that a betrayal in the personal realm may mean similar deportment in work and public. And certainly if one commits a crime, it will have an impact on credibility and actual ability to do one’s job, especially a job in the public trust, like governor.
Not much of this media madness seems too focused on that, though. It seems to me to be simply voyeuristic enjoyment of someone behaving badly. And, is that really news? Above the fold? Is that what 24/7 news coverage and instant access online has led us to?