In a way, I think Trump has forced the media find their spines again.

[MinneapolisMatt]

At least temporarily.

Of course not at FOX, but I've noticed a definite shift in the rest of the media's tone.

They seem to be asking much tougher questions - and not just about/to Trump. It spills over into other segments with republicans.

It's sad that it's taken Donald Trump to do this, but I think he's given them permission (by default) to go hard-hitting with republicans in general since he is one of them.

Anyone else feel that way?

[yourout]

1. The media spines were removed years ago. About 2000 to be exact.

[Jackpine Radical]

3. 1981, when they gave Reagan & Co. a pass on everything.

[jillan]

2. I think maybe Obama had something to do with it too. He was definitely going after the media

for reporting the birther story as news. He told them that he gave a speech on the budget and all they talked about was his birth certificate.

[Gman]

4. Not really...

there's no risk in taking on Trump. Furthermore, the mainstream GOP recoils in horror at the thought of Trump being the 2012 nominee. So it's all green lights.

[MinneapolisMatt]

5. Good points everybody.

Thanks!

[Atman]

6. I don't feel that way.

Especially while all our "media" is sitting in temp sets in front of Winchester Cathedral.

[DCKit]

7. They've got no spine, they're just doing what's convenient at the moment.

Not only did they totally neglect to shut down the birthers at any time prior to this week, they provided the platform for that crap. In this particular case, it's a coordinated effort to shut tRump up and out of the (R) pResidential race.

When even Michele Bachmann and Faux Snooze agree (finally) that OUR President is a citizen, something is up... and it's not the simply the truth of the matter.

Any way the wind blows.

[Bluebear]

8. I think Obama burnished Trump's credentials for no reason.