Archives: Media Ownership

Without question, the revelation of the identity of the Washington Post source known as "Deep Throat" has renewed discussions about the role of the media as the Fourth Estate.  Discussions have focused on the use of anonymous sources to get information that might not otherwise be attainable by reporters in order to get a "better version of the truth."

What many people may not stop to consider is the role an independent and diverse media played in exposing the truths about Watergate.  Whether it is exposing criminal activity going on in the White House or questionable actions taking place in the name of citizens at the local town hall, Americans have the right know what their government is doing.  And that is where the media comes into play.

During the Watergate period, many Americans had access to a morning and evening daily newspaper as well as multiple radio and television stations owned by separate individuals.  Communities were served with different points of view and competition to get "the scoop" was fierce.  Today, however, most communities only have one daily newspaper.  And increasingly, the largest TV broadcasters are attempting to buy these monopoly newspapers and many radio stations in the same market.  This means that much of the news content in the newspaper and on TV and radio could increasingly be exactly the same.  And it also means there are fewer news choices in a given community.

In today’s climate of instant news and media consolidation, it is quite possible that a Watergate-type scandal taking place in the local statehouse or city hall may go uncovered.  Many may recall coverage of Watergate waned after the initial break-in, save largely for the Washington Post.  Of course, this scandal was occurring at the center of American government and in a city where there is no shortage of media outlets.  In communities where the newspaper, radio and TV stations are owned by a select few, it is conceivable and probable that many stories that citizens have a right to know are going uncovered, or at the very least, undercovered.  That is why it is critical that independent and diverse media options are available in all communities to ensure that citizens are getting the information they have a right to know.

Currently, Congress is getting ready to consider legislation that could further consolidate media ownership.  Take action now to let your representatives know that you don’t want a Watergate-type scandal to go unnoticed in your community. Go to Consumers Union and tell Congress to limit broadcaster control of local media as they determine the future of television.