Modern media and the destructive representation of conservativism

Predictably, this is just one of many such instances, but while Democrats can sleep off their scandals like Ted Kennedy nursing a hangover following a dalliance with a certain bridge, journalists are all too willing to hit 88 mph in the doctor’s Delorian in order to uncover (or retread) alleged GOP misconduct. Whereas evaluations of John Kerry’s service record were equated to blasphemy in 2004, coverage of the investigation into George W. Bush’s National Guard activities, were reported nightly until it was revealed that the story was completely fabricated. While the latter example did result in Dan Rather’s unceremonious dismissal from CBS, it unquestionably re-directed the national dialogue for weeks on end.

And yet the encumbrances placed upon conservatives by media outlets, extend far beyond refuting purported wrongdoing. Policy proposals are held against anecdotal sob stories and hyperbolic rhetoric, while missteps are often sufficient cause for the evisceration of not only the individual in question, but also all those with whom he or she is aligned. Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wis.), in attempting to advance his plan for the economy was brutally denigrated because his agenda would “decimate the poor”, while Mitt Romney on the other hand was bewilderingly attacked for his “binders full of women” comment.

For Conservatives, it’s a no win situation, as the sins of one are often linked to distant cohorts in even the most tenuous manner available.  Todd Akin’s ignorant and inflammatory rhetoric regarding rape and pregnancy became a clamorous blunder that had media personalities demanding apologies from the likes of Reince Priebus in addition to other leading party figures. However, when house member Rep. Charlie Rangel (D-N.Y.) called Tea Partiers “white crackers”, and further emphasized how he only cared for life in war when the fallen looked like him, it’s was just business as usual; dumpster fires will burn and Rep. Shelia Jackson Lee (D-Texas) will say astonishingly idiotic things, nothing to see, no further comment.