Similarities in Robert Gibbs, Helen Thomas, General McChrystal train wrecks.

[philly_bob]

There's something in common with Gibbs, Helen Thomas, and General McChrystal -- they were all destroyed by comments they made in an informal setting to a single reporter. As I understand it, Gibbs didn't mouth off about the left in a press conference (press conferences are his job). Thomas didn't make intemperate comments about Israel in one of her published articles (writing articles is her job). McChrystal didn't discuss staff alienation with Obama in a press briefing (briefing the press is his responsibility).

Get my point? In some ways, these cases may indicate a change in journalistic practices, adapted to a gotcha mentality designed for the 24-hour news cycle. I wouldn't want to be quoted on some of the things I say in informal situations.

[LaurenG]

1. Not similar enough. Gibbs didn't get fired and he certainly didn't apologize. nt

[Laelth]

6. Good point--not similar enough. n/t

-Laelth

[sandnsea]

2. Racism and insubordination

is hardly the same thing as saying some people will never be satisfied.

[zipplewrath]

4. Are you avoiding the point, or missing it?

No one said they were the "same thing". They said they arose from the same conditions and were utilized in similar manners by the press. The question is whether that is an appropriate process.

[sandnsea]

5. They didn't arise from the same conditions

Two people made completely inappropriate statements, one after giving a journalist open access to his team.

The other had an interview and made a political observation.

Is the press not supposed to report?

Lumping Gibbs' statement in with two truly inappropriate incidents is what is dangerous. That is gotcha journalism.

[woo me with science]

3. That "gotcha" media!

Sorry, couldn't resist.