Jordan Birnbaum

Host

But There IS No Rehab For Political Junkies...

Aug 14, 2013·95 visitors

Allison MacDonald

Cohost

Stage· 204 messages

Aug 14, 2013

She's worked for Real Time with Bill Maher, The Huffington Post, and now MSNBC. She learns more by 4 AM than I do all day. Allison MacDonald knows what it means to be a political junkie. So let's try to find out what she knows and we don't, shall we?

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:00 PM

Allison, I presume?

Allison MacDonald · 7:00 PM

Hi!

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:01 PM

Hi I'm so happy you made! And a big hello to everyone in the audience.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:01 PM

I'm glad you guys aren't simply creatures of the night

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:01 PM

So to get started, Allison, why don't we provide a little background on you professionally?

Allison MacDonald · 7:02 PM

Oh suure

Allison MacDonald · 7:02 PM

I am a producer at msnbc in New York, where I've been working for about 6 months. Before ms, I was at Huffington Post for a short bit and before that, I was working for Bill Maher for 3 years, doing research.

Allison MacDonald · 7:03 PM

So in other words, I'm a huge conservative.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:03 PM

So it's fair to say you have had a great deal of insight into the world of political media

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:04 PM

Which leads me to my first question. What do you think constitutes the gap between what political coverage ought to be vs. what it is?

Allison MacDonald · 7:04 PM

Well, I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that the news is now a 24-hour machine.

Allison MacDonald · 7:05 PM

And therefore, the networks are competing for ratings.

Allison MacDonald · 7:05 PM

Which means that the Casey Anthony trial will get more play than it ought to.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:06 PM

So back in the days of network broadcasting, wasn't providing the news an obligation in exchange for securing the broadcast rights?

Allison MacDonald · 7:06 PM

I also think (and this is only in terms of TV) that certain stories may be more important, but they aren't fit for TV.

Allison MacDonald · 7:06 PM

Haha, right. Or something traditional like that.

Allison MacDonald · 7:06 PM

But I guess I'm probably speaking too much about TV. But that's what I know.

Allison MacDonald · 7:07 PM

I feel the print outlets and a lot of the nightly news programs do a very good job covering what's important.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:07 PM

I guess that leads to the question of what are ratings doing involved in news?

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:09 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rick Rosner

“Watching the current crop of politicians is like watching a bad reality tv show.”

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:10 PM

agreed. I guess they make for good ratings.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:10 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“oh my god! can't we get rid of reality t.v. yet?? ugh.”

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:10 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rick Rosner

“I limit my reality tv watching to HGTV.”

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:11 PM

I'm afraid to admit to the reality television of which I avail myself.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:12 PM

I have a bad feeling that Allison just lost Internet connection

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:12 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“isn't there a concern about what makes "good ratings" and "actual news" though? And why do you think certain things aren't suitable for the news on T.V.? I think that telling the truth on the news and T.V. is more important now than ever”

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:13 PM

I mean, tying rating to the provision of the news is the same as allowing money into politics.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:13 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“Jordan - *gasp* say it isn't so! You watch Real housewives don't you? lol”

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:13 PM

Not THAT bad

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:13 PM

But Survivor? (maybe.)

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:14 PM

So I guess what I would advocate is a federally mandated provision for independent media

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:14 PM

that the broadcast companies would have to provide sufficient air time

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:14 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“Well, Rachel there was a lawsuit brought against a major network by the people who were trying to bring the rBGH story to the light, and the court found that networks aren't actually bound to report truth on the news.”

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:15 PM

That makes me think of the movie the Insider, when "industry" was able to get 60 Minutes to quash a story about the link between smoking and cancer.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:16 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“@Jordan: Indeed. NPR is supposed to be that, but it gets too much public funding. I notice them being conspicuously quiet on big issues.”

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:16 PM

If we could be honest with ourselves about the most obvious conflicts of interest that exist around us, the majority of people's lives would improve enormously

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:17 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“exactly one thing shouldn't have anything to do with the other... which is why investigative journalism is not pretty much outlawed”

Allison MacDonald · 7:17 PM

I'm back. Sorry. Internet problems.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:17 PM

ahh - that's what we figured

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:17 PM

fortunately the audience filled in pretty nicely

Allison MacDonald · 7:17 PM

Give me a second to catch up here

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:18 PM

it's OK - we'll start fresh!

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:18 PM

We were talking about how the ratings affect the news

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:18 PM

Do you think that in the industry there is an acceptance of this as a necessary reality, or do people find it distasteful and something to be shed?

Allison MacDonald · 7:19 PM

Well, yes and no.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:19 PM

★ Spotlighted from Trey Williamson

“Allison, you're back! We were all so worried about you!”

Allison MacDonald · 7:20 PM

I think some shows, and I won't name them, focus more on stories that are less important and easier to talk about and get the audience to watch

Allison MacDonald · 7:20 PM

i.e. Anthony Weiner

Allison MacDonald · 7:20 PM

And I think there is certainly pressure at msnbc because we think of ourselves as different than CNN and Fox in terms of what we cover.

Allison MacDonald · 7:21 PM

But we still need people to watch us in a non-election year.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:21 PM

★ Spotlighted from ed goldsmith

“The only thing worth while on TV is c-span ! The audience gets to watch and listen to speakers and then make up their own opinions! We then turn to other channels that have their own agendas and begin to spin what was on c-span...”

Allison MacDonald · 7:21 PM

C-SPAN is amazing.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:21 PM

Of course, 100% of what is broadcast on C-Span is BS, but at least it's unfiltered...

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:22 PM

I mean that which emerges from the people who spek on C-SPAN, AKA the elected officials.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:22 PM

speak

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:23 PM

OK Allison, so Bill Maher, Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert...it's been talked about before, but why do you think comedians have taken such a large role in political coverage

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:23 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“MSNBC is different. Quality is above and beyond what is seen on most other networks. :)”

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:24 PM

shout out to MSNBC, although they take it a little too easy on Obama, in my humble opinion. (When's the last time someone actually typed that out?)

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:25 PM

think Allison has gone down again.

Allison MacDonald · 7:25 PM

Haha

Allison MacDonald · 7:25 PM

I am back. Sorry, I think my bandwidth is losing steam

Allison MacDonald · 7:25 PM

First, I was going to say C-SPAN is publicly funded, no?

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:26 PM

I'm not sure - maybe a friend in the audience can google for us?

Allison MacDonald · 7:26 PM

Ha, yes

Allison MacDonald · 7:26 PM

On the comedy thing

Allison MacDonald · 7:26 PM

I think news comedy is more popular because it's just so damn good right now.

Allison MacDonald · 7:27 PM

It wasn't always this good. The Brits were always better at it than we were

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:27 PM

So do you think that because these guys are such clever writers people don't need the news like they used to?

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:27 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“it reminds me of the days of the courts, kings and queens.. the jesters were the ones who knew everything that went on and everyone knew to ask the jester when others were being dishonest”

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:28 PM

My point being that back in the day, when Leny Bruce was having his life destroyed for political comedy...

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:28 PM

people were more reliant on the news to get info. But now, why bother with Dan Rather when you can have Bill Maher?

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:29 PM

No offense to Dan Rather, who I respect very much, BTW

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:29 PM

★ Spotlighted from ed goldsmith

“It is the ultimate reality tv...non filtered as you said...and so funny to see I congressman or senator talking to an EMPTY room!”

Allison MacDonald · 7:29 PM

I also think that everything HAS to have entertainment value now.

Allison MacDonald · 7:29 PM

I don't think it was always like that.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:29 PM

★ Spotlighted from ed goldsmith

“I agree totally with you JB I think it's a farce but at least we see the actual people that are supposedly representing us and then get to hear the BS they are trying to spin themselves”

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:30 PM

Now, do you think the media should be playing a role in trying to point out the reality behind this political farce, or simply to cover it?

Allison MacDonald · 7:30 PM

Between what political farse? Which one

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:31 PM

I mean, the way the media simply covered the lead up into the War In Iraq, repeating the bullet points provided to it, instead of reporting on the facts that disputed the information they were given

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:31 PM

as one example

Allison MacDonald · 7:32 PM

Right. I think the biggest thing missing here is real, hard reporting

Allison MacDonald · 7:32 PM

Which is very expensive, unfortunately

Allison MacDonald · 7:32 PM

There's certainly not enough real reporting. Although there was in Iraq.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:33 PM

But the reporting was only widely broadcast after we were there for several years

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:33 PM

The media played into the whole "Mission Accomplished" thing pretty aggressively

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:34 PM

So here's an interesting media question of the day - what do you think about the Hillary Clinton documentaries being considered on various networks?

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:34 PM

The Republican Party is freaking out in that it serves as some kind of endorsement.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:34 PM

Do they have a point?

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:35 PM

I mean, it's not in my nature to consider whether a Republican has a point...

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:36 PM

But in this case, I think I would find it offensive if say Fox News broadcast a flattering 2 hour documentary on Marco Rubio

Allison MacDonald · 7:36 PM

Haha

Allison MacDonald · 7:36 PM

Well, I can't speak much to the NBC part of it

Allison MacDonald · 7:37 PM

So as not to get fired

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:37 PM

lol - sorry - that's a good point

Allison MacDonald · 7:37 PM

But the Hillary thing is interesting

Allison MacDonald · 7:37 PM

And the Clintons in general

Allison MacDonald · 7:37 PM

I feel they haven't had a tough interview in quite a long time, from either side of the media aisle.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:38 PM

Do you think that having your job provides a different perspective on politics in the US?

Allison MacDonald · 7:38 PM

Yes

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:38 PM

how?

Allison MacDonald · 7:38 PM

But only because it's my job to know what is happening

Allison MacDonald · 7:38 PM

Most people don't have the time to understand the ins-and-outs of Congress, or read every op-ed on Stop and Frisk

Allison MacDonald · 7:39 PM

But it's what I get paid to do, so I learn a lot

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:39 PM

Lucky

Allison MacDonald · 7:39 PM

And that definitely informs my opinions.

Allison MacDonald · 7:39 PM

Or at least, I hope it does

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:39 PM

So when you become more informed, what are some general trends you see across the board?

Allison MacDonald · 7:39 PM

But I'm feeling very cynical about politics these days

Allison MacDonald · 7:40 PM

It depresses me that Congress can't get anything done

Allison MacDonald · 7:40 PM

The Voting Rights Act, for example

Allison MacDonald · 7:40 PM

Because of the Supreme Court ruling it's up to Congress to act on this.

Allison MacDonald · 7:41 PM

And they won't. Even though John Lewis, who had his head bashed in during a civil rights protest that led to VRA, is a sitting member of Congress

Allison MacDonald · 7:41 PM

It's shameful.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:41 PM

To what extent do you think the "will of the people" is considered in Congress?

Allison MacDonald · 7:41 PM

The "will of the people" in my opinion, is the "will of the people who can pay"

Allison MacDonald · 7:41 PM

Every political problem comes back to that: the corrosive role of money in politics

Allison MacDonald · 7:42 PM

Don't you think?

Allison MacDonald · 7:42 PM

The will of the people and the interest of the people is blocked by special interests

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:42 PM

Yes. but I wonder whether Citizens United is the cause or simply another development in a long line of corruption since our founding.

Allison MacDonald · 7:42 PM

I think the latter

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:43 PM

Sadly, me too.

Allison MacDonald · 7:43 PM

Lobbying and special interests have been around for a long time

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:43 PM

Especially when I think about "A People's History" by Zinn.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:44 PM

So to what extent do you think that solutions exist for our problems but are simply unknown?

Allison MacDonald · 7:44 PM

Give me an example

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:45 PM

Too-big-to-fail. Obamacare. The Drug War.

Allison MacDonald · 7:45 PM

On all three, I am optimistic that there is a solution

Allison MacDonald · 7:45 PM

But policy is complex

Allison MacDonald · 7:45 PM

And it takes time, and unfortunately failure

Allison MacDonald · 7:45 PM

But I think the political system that is responsible for enacting these laws is too flawed for solutions to be plausible, I guess

Allison MacDonald · 7:46 PM

What do you think?

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:46 PM

Well, the good news is that we have accumulated sufficient amounts of failure to meet your criteria

Allison MacDonald · 7:46 PM

I think policy can come very close to solving our problems

Allison MacDonald · 7:46 PM

Haha

Allison MacDonald · 7:46 PM

Look at Social Security, for example

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:46 PM

Yes, I think there are simple solutions to all 3, and to almost all problems in the world.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:46 PM

except human nature.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:47 PM

Social security?

Allison MacDonald · 7:47 PM

Well, social security was enacted because old people were poor

Allison MacDonald · 7:47 PM

right?

Allison MacDonald · 7:47 PM

And now, a lot less old people live in poverty

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:47 PM

yes, that's part of it

Allison MacDonald · 7:47 PM

So that is a political solution

Allison MacDonald · 7:47 PM

It was.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:47 PM

agreed.

Allison MacDonald · 7:48 PM

But I think compromise was possible then

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:48 PM

are there any issues about which you feel very passionate about a particular solution?

Allison MacDonald · 7:48 PM

That's a very good question.

Allison MacDonald · 7:49 PM

I believe in publicly financed elections.

Allison MacDonald · 7:49 PM

I believe that is a solution to a lot of our problems

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:49 PM

pretty simple solution right there

Allison MacDonald · 7:49 PM

Right.

Allison MacDonald · 7:49 PM

You?

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:49 PM

Non-privatized prisons

Allison MacDonald · 7:50 PM

What do you think of Eric Holder's move yesterday on mandatory minimum sentences?

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:50 PM

I pretty much hate ALL conflicts of interest, because I know that human nature, including mine, is very easily corrupted.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:50 PM

I think it is long overdue

Allison MacDonald · 7:50 PM

I think it's interesting that there's not a whole lot of opposition to it

Allison MacDonald · 7:51 PM

Like it's about time.

Allison MacDonald · 7:51 PM

Our prison population has increased by 800 percent (!!!!) since 1980

Allison MacDonald · 7:51 PM

Half of that is drug sentences

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:51 PM

Yes, but I fear the prison lobby is too powerful fopr even Holder and Obama.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:52 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“YES! non-privatized prisons and money out of politics would solve SO MUCH”

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:52 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“I always get frustrated with the pace of policy. I always drop any attempt to effect change at the top and drop down to the bottom and get to work. At least I see something happening!”

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:52 PM

OK, Allison. to what extent is your constant awareness of global happenings a drag on you emotionally? Does it ever get you down? Would you disconnect if you could?

Allison MacDonald · 7:53 PM

Haha YES!!

Allison MacDonald · 7:53 PM

I wrote a segment on fetal pain today

Allison MacDonald · 7:53 PM

I was writing it at 6am

Allison MacDonald · 7:53 PM

Feeling quite depressed

Allison MacDonald · 7:53 PM

It's basically the scientific theory (that has been debunked) behind the 20-week abortion bans popping up everywhere in the country

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:54 PM

gross. do you think that sometimes people remain unaware because they don't want to feel depressed?

Allison MacDonald · 7:54 PM

It's possible

Allison MacDonald · 7:54 PM

Although I don't understand it

Allison MacDonald · 7:54 PM

People who don't read the news

Allison MacDonald · 7:55 PM

I think it probably makes me annoying to be around. Like when I drink, I usually just argue with strangers about politics, which I'm sure gets annoying

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:55 PM

I feel the exact same way. Like, I wish I could think about something else....I just can't.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:55 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“@ Allison me and you would get along great! I do that all the time! lol”

Allison MacDonald · 7:56 PM

I got into a fight with a financial services lobbyist at Buzzfeed's Anthony Weiner event on Monday night

Allison MacDonald · 7:56 PM

We fought about Glass-Steagall

Allison MacDonald · 7:56 PM

Rachel - that's awesome. I'm sure you're nicer than I am.

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:56 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“I agree, Rick - the information has been there! However, do you think that broadcast reflects enough momentum to override prison lobby power?”

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:56 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rebecca Westbrook Toker

“Rick - that I am sure of - public opinion is clear. BUT WHAT ABOUT POLICY?”

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:57 PM

All righty, we're coming up on an hour, which means it's time to go out on a note of optimism.

Allison MacDonald · 7:57 PM

Nice!

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:58 PM

Allison - name something about the media or politics that gives you reason for optimism. (Holder's new stance on minimum sentencing is no longer an option!)

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:58 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rick Rosner

“But if so, isn't it bullshit that the President needs Sanjay Gupta to make a push?”

Allison MacDonald · 7:59 PM

Elizabeth Warren

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:59 PM

What a GREAT answer!

Jordan Birnbaum · 7:59 PM

Here's a good question - of all the guests you ever met on RT, who was as wonderful as you hoped they'd be?

Allison MacDonald · 8:00 PM

Let me think: Cornel West

Jordan Birnbaum · 8:00 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rachel McDonnell

“i say tawkers take over this country.. I think we got a pretty good handle on things.. unlike apparently most of the people who we entrust to govern us”

Jordan Birnbaum · 8:01 PM

another great answer.

Allison MacDonald · 8:01 PM

Thank you for the flattery.

Jordan Birnbaum · 8:01 PM

Allison - thank you so much! This was so much fun!

Jordan Birnbaum · 8:01 PM

Audience - love you guys!

Allison MacDonald · 8:01 PM

Thank you !!! Jordan and audience

Jordan Birnbaum · 8:01 PM

★ Spotlighted from Rick Rosner

“every revolution has a point of entry.”

Allison MacDonald · 8:01 PM

Sorry about the shady internet connection

Allison MacDonald · 8:02 PM

Watch NOW with Alex Wagner at 12 pm

Allison MacDonald · 8:02 PM

every day!

Jordan Birnbaum · 8:02 PM

Yes! Great show!!!

Allison MacDonald · 8:02 PM

Haha

Jordan Birnbaum · 8:02 PM

See everyone soon!

Forum · 94

Forum· 94 comments

95 visitors

Tawkers AdminAug 12, 2013, 12:54 PM

Welcome to the Forum! To get involved, click “Who is Here” and “Listen” to others in the Tawk. And don’t forget to “Like” comments you want the Hosts to see. They only see comments that get enough likes to become “Overheard”

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:05 PM

And when there's no news they just create some.

Trey WilliamsonAug 14, 2013, 7:06 PM

Did you know that the press coined "Summer of the shark attack" was the lowest frequency of shark attacks in decades... there just wasn't anything else to report on and it was a catchy story!

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:09 PM★ Spotlighted

Watching the current crop of politicians is like watching a bad reality tv show.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:10 PM★ Spotlighted

oh my god! can't we get rid of reality t.v. yet?? ugh.

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:10 PM★ Spotlighted

I limit my reality tv watching to HGTV.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:10 PM

haha @ Rick well yes that is more USEFUL reality tv lol

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:11 PM

I repeat 'granite and stainless steel' in my sleep.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:12 PM★ Spotlighted

isn't there a concern about what makes "good ratings" and "actual news" though? And why do you think certain things aren't suitable for the news on T.V.? I think that telling the truth on the news and T.V. is more important now than ever

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:12 PM★ Spotlighted

Jordan - *gasp* say it isn't so! You watch Real housewives don't you? lol

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:13 PM

There is no limit to the ignorance of the audience. I hope I'm at least towards the strong end of the bell curve.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:14 PM★ Spotlighted

Well, Rachel there was a lawsuit brought against a major network by the people who were trying to bring the rBGH story to the light, and the court found that networks aren't actually bound to report truth on the news.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:14 PM★ Spotlighted

exactly one thing shouldn't have anything to do with the other... which is why investigative journalism is not pretty much outlawed

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:14 PM

@ Rebecca.. well that is comforting. really? awful.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:15 PM★ Spotlighted

@Jordan: Indeed. NPR is supposed to be that, but it gets too much public funding. I notice them being conspicuously quiet on big issues.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:16 PM

and what is worse is that the masses truly believe that the news IS giving them the truth when like you just showed Rebecca, this is mostly not the case

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:16 PM

Let me find the story for you, Rachel. I know I saw it in a food documentary, but there's a print trail, too.

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:17 PM

I was EVP of Globalvision. We offered news from around the world - diffrenet perspectives on the same issue. But you had to choose what to believe.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:17 PM

@ Rachel: Fox news watchers. *shudder.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:17 PM

p.s. Jordan "Survivor"? I just heard they are coming up with a reality show about people stranded on an island I see reality tv as one big psychological experiment on those on the shows and those who watch

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:17 PM

Rick - do a Tawk about that!

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:18 PM

thanks Rebecca I'd love to read the story you were talking about :)

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:18 PM

I'll host with you, if you want!

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:18 PM

We'll talk . . .

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:18 PM

@rick "you had to choose what you believe" makes me think when did the news become opinion based?? It wasn't always that way :/

Trey WilliamsonAug 14, 2013, 7:19 PM★ Spotlighted

Allison, you're back! We were all so worried about you!

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:19 PM

@Rachel. News always requires some personal judgement - of course, colored by our individual perspective.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:19 PM

and Jordan you get a pass for your reality tv habit I guess.. because you are awesome :) just stay away from real housewives lol

ed goldsmithAug 14, 2013, 7:20 PM★ Spotlighted

The only thing worth while on TV is c-span ! The audience gets to watch and listen to speakers and then make up their own opinions! We then turn to other channels that have their own agendas and begin to spin what was on c-span...

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:20 PM

yeah I know but they used to try and be as objective as possible didn't they? or maybe I am wrong.. I could be wrong wouldn't be the first time lol :)

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:22 PM★ Spotlighted

MSNBC is different. Quality is above and beyond what is seen on most other networks. :)

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:23 PM

i.e. fox news?

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:24 PM

Because if we didn;t laugh at politics we couldn';t stop crying.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:25 PM

exactly @ Jordan.. everyone is too easy on our President it seems to me.. but another topic I guess :)

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:25 PM★ Spotlighted

it reminds me of the days of the courts, kings and queens.. the jesters were the ones who knew everything that went on and everyone knew to ask the jester when others were being dishonest

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:27 PM

"C-SPAN receives no government funding; operations are funded by fees paid by cable and satellite affiliates who carry C-SPAN programming."

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:27 PM

(from their site)

ed goldsmithAug 14, 2013, 7:27 PM★ Spotlighted

I agree totally with you JB I think it's a farce but at least we see the actual people that are supposedly representing us and then get to hear the BS they are trying to spin themselves

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:28 PM

or did these people have to become such clever writers because the news isn't doing it anymore?

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:28 PM

Who could create such a great topic as Anthony Weiner?

ed goldsmithAug 14, 2013, 7:28 PM★ Spotlighted

It is the ultimate reality tv...non filtered as you said...and so funny to see I congressman or senator talking to an EMPTY room!

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:29 PM

And that imbecile in San Diego.

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:30 PM

And Rand Paul, Ted Cruz.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:30 PM

but maybe it wouldn't be that way if ALL news had decided to keep its integrity instead of hopping on the "short attention span" band wagon..

ed goldsmithAug 14, 2013, 7:31 PM

Would like to get Llisons take on Pres of US going on Jay Leno to joke about embassys being closed down...3 days later calls a press conf to let us know how serious this really is?

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:32 PM

@ Ed - YES!

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:32 PM

Here's an article, Rachel. Unsurprisingly, it was Fox news. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jeffrey-smith/monsanto-forced-fox-tv-to_b_186428.html

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:33 PM

thank you Rebecca.. of COURSE it was FOX.. how are they even considered credible anymore?

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:34 PM

@ Allison can you explain why it is so much more expensive to do hard hitting reporting? :) Are you talking about going into the field and reporting? because reporting cold hard facts should be more expensive?

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:34 PM

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jane_Akre It's in the documentary "The Corporation." Recommended. It's on Youtube.

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:35 PM

At this point we know it all re Hillary, if we have been conscious the last 20 years. She's got my vote.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:35 PM

Rachel, I think it's expensive in terms of advertising dollars lost or gained.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:36 PM

@ Jordan haha.. yeah and are they ones to talk anyway? @Rebecca - ah that makes sense and again back to ratings and $$

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:37 PM

I do not really trust democrats or republicans anymore :/

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:38 PM

I belonged to the Peace and Freedom Party when those two things really existed.

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:39 PM

Well, at least we dreamed of those two things.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:39 PM

gotta keep dreaming I guess Rick.. :)

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:39 PM

Or die.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:40 PM

@Rick that too if you want to look at the negative side lol. I'll die dreaming how bout that? sounds good to me

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:41 PM

As Woody Allen says: I'm not afraid of dying - I just don;t want to be there when it happens.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:42 PM

YES! We all know money in politics is the worst thing to happen to politics!

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:43 PM

so you are well informed on these issues Allison which is amazing but how much do you think TV news covers say the ill fate of our country because money in politics? Does it get talked about at all by any major news stations? aside from MSNBC ;)

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:45 PM

the founding fathers sat down and said this is great we get to run a country, but how do we keep everyone else from overthrowing us, then came the myth of "freedom and justice for all" propaganda since the beginning sad because it is a beautiful idea

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:47 PM

They wanted to form a MORE perfect Union. Not sure that they expected perfection - and they didn't get it. But not as bad as it could be.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:47 PM★ Spotlighted

I always get frustrated with the pace of policy. I always drop any attempt to effect change at the top and drop down to the bottom and get to work. At least I see something happening!

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:49 PM

@Rick I am sure you are right but the native inside me screams... really? we had it pretty right if you ask me. ;)

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:49 PM

(native american I meant)

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:50 PM★ Spotlighted

YES! non-privatized prisons and money out of politics would solve SO MUCH

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:50 PM

And look what happened to the natives. But not by my ancestors - they were busy getting raped and murdered by Cossacks.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:52 PM

yeah just goes to show you that the corrupt world REALLY doesn't know how to learn from the PEACEFUL people and groups of the world one example among many I am sad to say

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:53 PM

SO what do you think about CNN's broadcast of Sanjay Gupta's weed documentary? Do you think that will finally reduce the number of people imprisoned on drug charges?

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:53 PM

That was a big move for a network.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:53 PM

our prison system is the most ridiculous thing I have ever witnessed I think.. on top of lady gaga even! lol

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:54 PM

He could have been on the right side of the issue 50 years ago, I'd be more impressed.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:54 PM

@ Rick EXACTLY funny how people don't realize making marijuana illegal was mainly a political decision in the first place

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:55 PM★ Spotlighted

@ Allison me and you would get along great! I do that all the time! lol

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:55 PM★ Spotlighted

I agree, Rick - the information has been there! However, do you think that broadcast reflects enough momentum to override prison lobby power?

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:55 PM

@Rebecca - It'll get them ratings; and that's of course what its about

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:56 PM★ Spotlighted

Rick - that I am sure of - public opinion is clear. BUT WHAT ABOUT POLICY?

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:56 PM

Maybe its time

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:57 PM

not when I get going on a subject I am passionate about especially what is happening in our country lol

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:57 PM★ Spotlighted

But if so, isn't it bullshit that the President needs Sanjay Gupta to make a push?

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:58 PM

maybe politically his hands are tied as are most of our politicians which is why speaking the truth among the masses is so damn important right now!

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:58 PM

but it is bs

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 7:59 PM

Yes of course, he's a politician. What a pity.

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 7:59 PM

Hahahahahahaaaaa. Yup. That is bullshit.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 7:59 PM★ Spotlighted

i say tawkers take over this country.. I think we got a pretty good handle on things.. unlike apparently most of the people who we entrust to govern us

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 8:00 PM

All 10 of us?

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 8:00 PM

we will need a flag though... @Rick have to start somewhere right? ;)

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 8:01 PM★ Spotlighted

every revolution has a point of entry.

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 8:01 PM

Thanks Allison! Great to hear from a person in your position's perspective! :)

Rick RosnerAug 14, 2013, 8:01 PM

Thanks J & A!

Rachel McDonnellAug 14, 2013, 8:02 PM

and thanks Jordan! Don't watch too much Survivor this week ;)

Rebecca Westbrook TokerAug 14, 2013, 8:02 PM

Thank you both!