US Media "Gores" Kerry: stories are 5 to 1 negative on Kerry Character.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A43286-2004Jul11.htmlPaint by Numbers
How Repeated Reportage Colors Perceptions
By Howard Kurtz
Washington Post Staff Writer
Monday, July 12, 2004; Page C01
<snip>In an era when both Republicans and Democrats increasingly view the media with distrust, the findings could spark a renewed debate on biased coverage in the final months of a tight campaign. But there's no question, based on an accompanying poll, that the press is having an impact on the 2004 election. The more people read and watch, the study says, the more likely they are to echo the themes emphasized by journalists.
The report by the Project for Excellence in Journalism, Pew Research Center and University of Missouri journalism school looked at newspaper, broadcast and cable coverage from late March through early June. Researchers found that coverage often revolved around news events, such as the struggle in Iraq, and not campaign activities.
The most prevalent message about Bush, says the study, is that he is "stubborn and arrogant." Second most prevalent: Bush "lacks credibility." Third: The president is a "strong and decisive leader." Of all the comments about character, 56 percent were negative toward Bush, and 16 percent positive.
The most commonly reported theme about Kerry: he "flip-flops" on issues. Second: He's "very liberal." Third: "A tough guy who won't back down from a fight."
Of all the characterizations, 23 percent were negative toward Kerry, and 4 percent positive. <snip>