Reply #557: Dear Mr. Gaines: [View All]

[wordpix]

Dear Mr. Gaines:

I am writing to express my dismay and outrage over Keith Olbermann's suspension. Below is a message I sent to Phil Griffin. Since I wrote this, I have read the clause KO was fired over, which refers to outside activities that may " jeopardize his or her standing as an impartial journalist." KO has never pretended to be impartial; he is a progressive liberal and I would expect him to donate to such candidates and causes. Further, the clause states such activities "may include participation in or contributions to political campaigns or groups that espouse controversial positions."

Are you ready to argue that bona fide Democratic candidates approved by Dem. state committees and elected in Dem. primaries are "campaigns or groups that espouse controversial positions?" If so, the logical conclusion is that Democrats are "controversial" just for having Democratic positions.

You may have a giant lawsuit on your hands. I for one, will be happy to contribute to the KO Defense Fund.

Sincerely,
Wordpix

Dear Mr. Griffin:

I am shocked and saddened to learn you have suspended KO for donating to Democratic candidates. That is absurd. First, we all know that Keith has Democratic leanings, so it's no surprise that he would put his money where his mouth is. Second, I am a big KO fan who watches him nearly every night and never have I heard him ask viewers to give money to any candidate, so I disagree that he's violated some sacred trust with you, his employer, and me, his viewer. Third, Keith is a citizen of the US and as such, he has the right and freedom to donate to whomever he chooses within legal limits. Why should he have to ask "daddy" (a.k.a. you) for permission to donate to a certain candidate? I don't have to ask my employer for such permission, and I'm guessing very few people do.

By your reasoning, Keith should ask your permission to vote for certain candidates, too. It's outrageous. Please put Keith back where he belongs at MSNBC. He's glib, he's smart, he's great at interviewing, he gets the facts and he stands up for me and other progressives. I wouldn't be watching MSNBC as much as I do if it weren't for KO who enlightens, educates and entertains. BTW, my 85 year-old mother with Alzheimer's, who can't stand much TV, loves KO, too.

Sincerely,