Newspapers Cut Back On Convention Coverage

Forbes:

Washington, D.C. - Forget April. For bean counters at financially troubled newspapers, August is the cruelest month.

Their budget-stretching began with coverage of the Beijing Olympics, which ends Aug. 24. A day later, the Democratic National Convention kicks off in Denver, and the Republican National Convention begins Sept. 1 in St. Paul, Minn. The result is predictable.

"Almost every large news bureau, with maybe a few exceptions, is cutting back," says Jerry Gallegos, superintendent of the House of Representatives' daily press gallery, which is handling newspapers' convention credentials. In some cases, though he won't say which ones, papers have reduced their staffing "by as much as 20%."

Seems the press is being forced to figure out what the public has long known: Obamamania or not, few made-for-media events are as predictable as the overscripted circus of modern American political conventions. Faced with tough budget decisions, newspapers are making a smart move by trimming back on coverage readers can likely do without.

Read the whole story: Forbes

Comments

[Bushed]

Why should they? All they can do is "shill" for Corsi and his libelous book. Maybe we all ought to start reading the "National Enquirer". At least that rag got a story no matter how long it took.

[kellygrrrl]

Well, I'm sure they'll do and say whatever the ReThugs tell them to do - per yoosh

[Daly]

Spot on; the print press had a wonderful opening served up to them; with the MSM at an all time low (I do not watch) they could have lead the way wih truth and honesty. I only saw one paper try new things with a live interview direct to web think it was HRC but much watched and scooped the suit guys.

Print killing themselves with lack of imagination and for whatever reason when they do land a big story they run off to write a book to cash in on big payday; by the time the book hits; old news and worst of all worthless stale news.

[RRK70]

Wait, the endless primary coverage and fascination with Obama was supposed all be about news that sells, yet the CULMINATION of the primaries over the past 12 months with Obama in a 70,000 capacity stadium is NOT worth covering?

[JScott]

It's because the conventions now are BORING!!

[lioness39]

I do not believe the Dems blowout will be boring this year. The Clintons have things up their sleeves.

[edwarvir]

Whatever is up their sleeves the king and queen of drama better make
sure it doesn't spill out on the convention floor. Anyway I am glad that
the msm will not be overflowing with reporters, It will allow Senator O
to breathe and enjoy his own party. I can't wait. I am very excited.


OBAMA/WEXLER 08

[dadw5boys]

What is to cover Cheny's lies ?

Bush ask not to come to the convention.

Police will have it's microwave weapons there to use on the American People.