Ted Koppel concluded tonight’s (Weds.) show with Jon Stewart, who again proved one of the more articulate critics of the media. Stewart suggested that the media is shirking its duty by publicizing the Swift Boat veterans’ unsubstantiated and now widely discredited charges about Kerry’s Vietnam experience.
Koppel suggested that there was a difference “between fact and truth.” The Swift Boat vets accusations were fact, though false.
I find that a disingenuous argument. The distinction is if the accusers are credible, and in such an important event as a presidential campaign, where does Koppel plan to draw the line? Does every accusation get reported and sliced six ways to Sunday even though there is no credible evidence it is plausible?
Still, I’ve got to Koppel credit for having Stewart on again. It builds his credibility. I have three teenagers who probably get a good dose of their news from Stewart. They could do worse.
My only regret is that by watching Koppel and Stewart I missed some of Lance Armstrong on Jay Leno.
The sacrifices we make.