I've been an avid reader and member of DailyKos and a couple of other progressive blogs for a few years now but I hardly ever write my own diary. Today I feel especially compelled because my level of frustration with the blogs I enjoy reading is starting to boil. The John Kerry trashing is killing me.
When John Kerry won the nomination battle the blogsphere support for him was tepid at best. Then, throughout his campaign he became the lefty hero, elevated beyond the level of even Howard Dean. Bloggers fawned over his nomination speech, cheered at his campaigning and reveled in his clear debate victories. John Kerry was the greatest hope for our generation of progressives. His motives were never questioned. He was the classiest, most dignified man of impeccable character.
But now, when he is in the midst of leading an incredibly important battle... When he is backed by some of the most revered liberal figures... When he is not only speaking for our community but has taken the time to speak with us... Bloggers immediately question his motives, his commitment and his character.
Obviously people have the right to whatever opinion they may have. But I am having a hard time taking these writers seriously any more. How can they be so fickle and expect to be taken seriously?
To me, this is the biggest reason why bloggers are having trouble getting traction in the media. It is not that they are unabashedly un-objective. They won't be taken seriously by mainstream America until they stop with the bandwagon jumping.
And for someone who actually believes in John Kerry, among others. For someone who believes not only in the fight but in the fighters. The blogsphere is looking more and more like a sideshow rather then a true dedicated source of information.
Am I the only one?