By Selwyn Duke
So, the Teleprompter-in-Chief held a press conference yesterday to mark his 100th day in office. And I understand that no one in the media fainted. Of course, when I hear all these stories about people passing out during Obama's appearances, I can't help but wonder if it isn't just that his soporific speeches aren't quite as riveting as the hype would suggest.
Regardless, not only did the media elude the arms of Morpheus, it also appears that they did their job. That is to say, since their job seems to be that of public relations team for the TOTUS (Teleprompter of the United States — alas, no, it's not original), they certainly sank to the occasion.
The piece de resistance was a question asked by Jeff Zeleny, who, not surprisingly, is attached to the New York Slimes. He chose to inquire about a most pertinent and pressing matter, asking, "During these first 100 days, what has surprised you the most about this office? Enchanted you the most from serving in this office? Humbled you the most? And troubled you the most?"
Wow, Jeffrey, it's great that mom and dad spent all that money on journalism school.
Now, although I think that question speaks for itself, let's be clear on this. You're at a press conference with the man some people refer to as president. I won't call it an honor, but it's certainly a rare and significant opportunity. You can ask any question under the sun, and with these interesting times in which we live, there's certainly no dearth of pressing matters. But you will have a chance to ask only one question — one, that's it. And you choose something smacking of gossip-column frivolity?
Hey, isn't it great that the Gay Lady and her minions are on the front lines of American news gathering?
© 2009 Selwyn Duke — All Rights Reserved
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