In a genuinely craven and stomach-turning move, Nevada PBS dumped Jon Ralston and his superb news show, then clutched its pearls, saying darn they just can’t afford him anymore and besides, he just wasn’t “neutral” enough. Well, here’s a tip for craven PBS management; real journalists are supposed to afflict the comfortable and comfort the afflicted. It’s what they do. But oh goodness, shriek, shriek, they simply can’t be allowed to do that if upsets donors. That would just be horrid. Better the stations air noncontroversial vaguely liberal pablum instead.
Inquiring minds want to know if PBS started having their change of heart about the time Raltson interviewed Jay Rosen about Sheldon Adelson’s purchase of the Review-Journal. Rosen, professor of journalism at Columbia and noted media critic, said it was one of the best interviews anyone has ever done with him. Since the purchase, the Review-Journal is being dumbed down and more than a few reporters have left. Â Now this at PBS. There’s a pattern, and it’s running counter to press freedom.
Yes, this is the same Ralston who questioned what Bernie supporters were doing at the Nevada Democratic Convention. He also asks hard questions to Hillary supporters and most everyone else. That’s what actual journalists do.
Ralston says he will be back after this stealth attack on open reporting. let’s hope so. He’s a treasure.
Gutless weasel from PBS attempts to defend the indefensible.
In an interview with the Review-Journal, Axtell said Ralston provided shows with thoughtful dialogue, but didn’t always fit the PBS mold that viewers and contributors expect of a neutral host. Noting that Ralston wasn’t a “softball interviewer” and asked tough questions, Axtell said: “He had a show that was really thoughtful, but he also really expressed an opinion.”
