The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge Moore Butts #16 - What Do Politicians Really Think of Journalists? - Encore
Jul 2, 2025
James Moore, a former Conservative Cabinet Minister, and Gerald Butts, Justin Trudeau's former Principal Secretary, discuss the fraught relationship between politicians and the media. They explore how traditional journalism is giving way to sensationalism and the strategies politicians use to navigate this new landscape. The conversation highlights the evolving nature of media training for politicians and the impact of social media on public perception and accountability, revealing the inherent biases in all reporting.
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Politicians' Defensive View of Journalists
- Politicians see journalists as a necessary yet sometimes troublesome accountability tool within democracy.
- They often approach media interactions defensively, balancing message control with scrutiny from aggressive press models.
Media's Swift Shift on Scandal
- Raheem Jaffer's cocaine scandal revealed the swift and merciless nature of media coverage once politicians err.
- Friends in journalism quickly pivot to critical coverage when stories break, illustrating the business-driven press mindset.
Broaden Your News Sources
- Ask others about their news sources to diversify your information intake.
- Recognize that traditional news consumption methods are outdated and there is a vast array of valuable content available.