Political Debate on Fox

I completely agree with Julia Piscitelli. The only way to change people's minds is by showing them why they are wrong ["Why Democrats Should Go on Fox," usnews.com]. You cannot do this unless you know where they are coming from and what their arguments are. As a Democrat, I watch Fox and read Drudge—not because I agree with them. It's actually because I don't agree with them. I want to know what the other side is saying so I know how to respond. How can you fight the opposition if you're not in tune with their thought process? And you know, sometimes (albeit rarely) I agree with some of the conservative pundits' points or concerns. If Obama and White House aides gave their side on Fox maybe they could convince a few people with their informed ideas, but at the very least they will appear confident in their policies and show they can debate the pressing issues with the opposition.

Comment by Bridget of VT

A democracy depends on conflict—disagreement and exploration of all sides will always result in a better product. I'd have more respect for Obama's administration if they defended their positions on Fox instead of trying to silence Fox News. There is room for improvement though—[Sean] Hannity and [Alan] Colmes were much better than just Hannity. Fox News needs more [like] Colmes. Keep at it Julia.

Comment by Brad of TX

There's nothing wrong with thoughtful, well-reasoned debate. Unfortunately, this is not something that Fox or CNBC—to name two particularly egregious examples—are willing to foster on the air. The quality of the reporting and discourse on both of these networks is poor, and as a nation we are paying a steep price: a misinformed public and the decline of reason as a guiding principle.

Comment by Todd of PA

People aren't misinformed because of what they see or hear in the media. People are misinformed because they are ignorant. I work as a part-time manager at AutoZone; we get customers who want to buy a part to fix their car, but can't tell us if they have a 4-cylinder engine or a 6-cylinder engine. These customers are not stupid; they are ignorant of automotive basics because they were never educated. People believe or disbelieve what they hear or see in the media, or are easily influenced not because they are stupid but because they are not being educated about much of anything. In surveys and research we are constantly finding that knowledge of so many issues that we are facing today is sorely lacking both with the general public and elected officials.

Comment by Matt of TX

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