Through serendipity (aka surfing), I changed upon this excellent essay by Seattle Journalist David Neiwert. He thoughtfully sums my frustrations with what passes for political reporting.

I believe mainstream media are failing in their role to help citizens navigate the waters of civic affairs. Rather than provide clear charts and information about competing craft so people can make informed choices, media spend their time and energy focused on the superficial: the color of this boat, the paper on which that map is printed.

Neiwert’s essay jibes nicely with Robert Jensen’s talk at UW on media, war and politics.