The Grill Room Inside ‘Original Sin’
Jun 10, 2025
Alex Thompson, Axios reporter and co-author of 'Original Sin' with Jake Tapper, dives into the media's role in covering President Biden’s cognitive decline. He discusses the ethical challenges journalists face, emphasizing transparency and accountability. The conversation touches on Karine Jean-Pierre's political pivot and the implications for the Democratic Party. Thompson explores how media narratives shape public perceptions and the urgent need for responsible journalism in today's complex media landscape.
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Media Narrowly Framed Biden's Decline
- Media coverage focused narrowly on Biden's age as a political vulnerability rather than serious cognitive decline.
- Reporting missed how Biden's White House was adjusting to his worsening condition in late 2023.
Trust Your Reporting Instincts
- Trust your gut when your sources indicate a critical story even if others remain silent.
- Don’t let social media fear or mob mentality cause you to avoid reporting the truth.
Reporter Isolation Over Biden Coverage
- Alex Thompson felt isolated and criticized by peers when reporting on Biden's deteriorating cognition.
- White House communication teams actively undermined challenging reporters, creating a difficult media environment.
