HEADLINES: Can alter message

Fascinating! You made my point beautifully!

Last week, The Press ran my editorial about media bias. Although it used the example of an Associated Press story on immigration law, Donald Trump’s name was only mentioned once in my letter, and that was within a quote. It seemed obvious the purpose of my writing was to point out that the AP is, in general, guilty of frequent news bias. Yet The Press titled my editorial “Press: Beware AP Trump bias.” How many readers would have avoided an editorial with “Trump” and “bias” in the title, assuming it would be a pro-Trump commentary? Why not title it “Press: Beware AP slanted reporting?” There is a difference, however subtle.

This was not about Trump. I was neither defending him nor was I necessarily commenting on the actual AP story subject. Liberals and conservatives alike should be on constant alert for the factual accuracy of any news reporting, and discern facts from opinion or commentary. It’s the thinking person’s job. Although The Press technically did nothing wrong since this is an opinion page, it just shows how even headlines can alter a message or further an agenda. It happens frequently with the AP, which used to be a neutral organization. Sadly, lack of objectivity these days has infected most news outlets across the entire political spectrum.

This followup could be titled either “Press: Title disparaged Trump,” or honestly and to the point “Press: Yeah, we showed a little bias.”

CYNTHIA MARLETTE

Coeur d’Alene