The Register has an unsigned editorial about Sinclair's dirty tricks today. It starts out all right:
Now the [Smith] brothers have found a way to give a little bit more to the Bush campaign. Sinclair has ordered its 62 TV stations to air "Stolen Honor: Wounds that Never Heal." Though called a documentary, it appears to be little more than an attack on Senator John Kerry.
But the conclusion is stupid.
But nothing should be done to stop Sinclair.
It has the right to air what it wishes.
Though Democrats have filed complaints with federal regulators, the government has declined to get involved in censorship. Sinclair calls the film "news" to avoid federal equal-time rules relating to political campaigns. However, the alternative - for the government to decide what is news - would be truly disturbing.
Viewers will put "Stolen Truth" in perspective. Media watchdogs will weigh in on whether "Stolen Truth" is journalism or propaganda. That is the very nature of a free press that is essential for a free society. People should be able to consider all sources of information - however biased - and make up their own minds.
This essentially argues that whomever has the most access to the most airwaves wins.
I wrote a letter to the editor
If Sinclair Broadcasting has a right to air a 90 minute attack ad and call it "news," American voters truly are out of luck in their efforts to be informed. The media can't or won't police themselves anymore, so it's up to us. KDSM Fox 17 is a Sinclair affiliate, and their local advertisers include: Betts Lexus, Charles Gabus Ford, Iowa Lottery, Menard's, Stew Hansen's Dodge City, and Vatterott College. If you are as concerned as I am about a few media moguls dictating the course of our elections, you should call these and other advertisers and tell them how you feel. You can find out who advertises on KDSM and how to reach them, by visiting www.boycottsbg.com.
I write letters twice a week at least, and the Register has taken to ignoring me. Anyone else in the area want to write in, too?