Gibbs stands by criticism of Fox
Oct. 13, 2009
White House press secretary Robert Gibbs is standing by the Obama administration's criticism of Fox News, which was condemned by White House Communications Director Anita Dunn.
She has led the charge against America's top-rated cable news network as "sounding so uninformed and blatantly biased."
The subject was raised by Les Kinsolving, WND's correspondent at the White House, at Gibbs' news briefing today.
"Chris Wallace called you the 'biggest bunch of crybabies I've seen in 30 years ... '" he started.
"I thought it was 'whiners,'" Gibbs said.
"…in Washington.' That was in the New York Times. What's your reaction?" Kinsolving asked.
"I haven't cried yet," Gibbs said.
Kinsolving continued, "The Times also quoted the president … as saying, 'I've got one television station that is entirely devoted to attacking my administration.' My question: Did he mean to say one television network, or was he informing this opinion , watching one station, a Fox network?"
Responded Gibbs, "I think the president was clear in what he said. And I think, based on your question, you understand the answer too."
Other reporters followed up on the subject:
"I actually have two questions. The first one is about Fox, though. What would you – how do you respond to criticism that the administration's posture towards Fox News constitutes some sort of bullying or chilling of speech?" asked one.
"We get questions throughout the day, seven days a week, about policies here at the White House, questions that you guys want answered. And our goal is to make sure that you have the facts as you do your job. That's what we do for everybody," Gibbs said.
"Well, specifically, the comments by Anita Dunn about Fox not being a real news network?" the reporter continued.
"I have watched many stories on that network that I've found not to be true. I think everybody in this room has been likely on the other end of a phone conversation with me when I've had issues with your stories. I don't think that's new," Gibbs said.
WND had reported earlier today about criticism from the left-leaning media for the White House's assault on Fox.
"Cutting off a media outlet can be a risky strategy. It can reduce the voice and effectiveness of a politician or a party," Doug Heye, a blogger for U.S. News and World Report, wrote today.
"It's not likely to work, however. The far-left may love potshots at O'Reilly and Sean Hannity, but it loves a healthcare public option, card check, and closing Gitmo even more," Heye added of the White House campaign.
David Zurawik, a media critic for the Baltimore Sun is usually harshly critical of Fox News. But Zurawik blasted the White House campaign as "dangerous to press freedom, and it should concern everyone in the press, not just Fox."