Let's Stay on Topic

In today's Washington Post (Monday, 4/13/09) there is a front page article about Rahm Emanuel, and how he is working with lawmakers to help pass legislation. The writer is showing how Emanuel has been functioning as Chief of Staff in a manner that is different than his previous reputation. "But in his new job, Emanuel is overhauling his image, becoming more valet than hit man, and his formula for moving Obama's agenda through Congress is beginning to resonate. Even Republicans concede that given Obama's early victories, thornier tasks such as landmark health-care, energy and education bills may not be out of reach."

As support for this, the writer then quotes Republican Representative Peter T. King saying, "He's tough, and he's really not that partisan. He doesn't think he's morally superior to Republicans, and that alone will get you far in this environment."

The writer then needs contrast, to show that not all Republicans have the same view of Emanuel that King does. Sure, no problem. But who does the author quote - Newt Gingrich, who yes, he is a republican, but hasn't been in office in 10 years. What would Gingrich possibly know about how Emanuel has worked with lawmakers since becoming Chief of Staff. This isn't anti-Gingrich, but for this article, and this topic, his opinion is not particularly relevant. Can the Post not find a living, breathing Republican who is actually holding office to give a quote? To me this is just lazy reporting. I know Republicans in office is a relatively small number, but there are still 100s of them. Find one, one Republican in office who would say that working with the Obama White House and Emanuel in particular has not been easy.

And you know what, if by some chance you can't find someone to say that, then don't include that portion in your article. We don't need Newt Gingrich's opinion on everything, and in particular, we don't need someone who does not hold office, who is not a lawmaker, spouting off in an article about current lawmaker's dealings with Emanuel.