Let's all boycott the GOP responses to the SOTU. If everyone tunes out when they come on,
maybe the networks will get the message.
= new reply since forum marked as read
"It's like listening to a large clicking beetle. He keeps clicking his tongue and smacking his lips.
Also sounds like he's whining and really nervous."
I suspect the practice of covering responses to the SOTU were a matter of public interest but also required under the Fairness Doctrine that was established by the FCC in 1949 requiring all holders of broadcast licenses to provide for the communication of differing views on matters of public interest. It was a way of giving access to the radio and television mediums for differing voices on these issues.
But, in 1985 the FCC Chairman (previously having served as an attorney on the Reagan 1976 and 1980 campaigns) issued a report that found that the Doctrine harmed public discourse and violated 1st Amendment rights of holders of broadcast licenses. (I'm sure the report was "fair and balanced"
. The Supreme Court, however, had upheld its constitutionality but as the court became more conservative they began to question its effectiveness and it appeared they were prepared to limit its reach.
In 1987 the then FCC Chairman abolished the Doctrine on a 4-0 vote. Congress made several attempts to codify the Doctrine but faced threats of vetos from Reagan and Bush senior.
There have been several additional attempts but it appears they are going nowhere. I doubt they would get much traction because the right will argue that with the internet, social media, etc. everyone has access to get their message out.
The fallacy, of course, is broadcast media is still a powerful soapbox from which to express your ideas.
