That video from Deadspin that illustrated how your local station is not writing their own opinions and editorials has gone quite viral, and is being discussed in newspaper and network news ...and probably a few boardrooms. Here's an example of how the stations are handling it. This memo was distributed by KATU Portland general manager Robert Truman, but you can probably guess that the text was distributed to all stations by Sinclair Broadcast Group headquarters.
Anyway, it's the local newsreaders who are bearing the brunt of the public's ire. Yes, they could refuse to read the boilerplate they are sent from the home office, or they could quit, but quitting your job has serious consequences when you've signed a lopsided contract with penalties and you still have a mortgage payment every month. The whole issue reminds us of how we've let our commitment to a free press down, and labor rights down as well.
(Image via Samantha Swindler)
Anyway, it's the local newsreaders who are bearing the brunt of the public's ire. Yes, they could refuse to read the boilerplate they are sent from the home office, or they could quit, but quitting your job has serious consequences when you've signed a lopsided contract with penalties and you still have a mortgage payment every month. The whole issue reminds us of how we've let our commitment to a free press down, and labor rights down as well.
(Image via Samantha Swindler)
Chilling!
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