First, let me state I am sorry to add another diary entry with Dean in the title. Despite bieng a big-time Deaniac, I am not of the kool-aid variety and would love some more diversity on this blog.
I have noticed since Monday night a marked increase on negative media stories on Howard Dean. In addition to the "scandals" over governor records, draft dodging, and Soviet Union, there has been a definite increase in negative coverage of Dean. A few examples: Tuesday's Hardball was devoted to picking apart Dean's Monday performance with none other than Laura Ingram was in the studio. Today Fox had three conservatives on the program bashing him. They even did a segment asking "Is Howard Dean arrogant?"
So why has this happened? I don't think it is merely because he is the front runner, nor do I believe it has much to do with the Rethuglicans percieving Dean as a threat. It has to do with Dean's comments Monday on Hardball. It was no doubt his best TV performance yet, but undoubtably greatly upset every editor, owner, and controller of the mainstream media. In the show Dean called for the re-regulation of the media. He drew attention to facts like all media outlets in one town owned by one company, and how 10 companies control all of the media. He stated we needed a diversity of opinions and voices in order to have a functioning democracy. He also stated he might move to break up some of the media conglomerates.
This statement is sure to cause media conglomerates stress, and will result in an increase in attacks. I agree with Dean's statements wholeheartedly and commend him for his courage on taking on big business, but attacks will increase. Can he take the heat? Kos seems to think so, calling him teflon, and although I agree, I can't help but get a little worried.