"Splitting the Difference" and the (Very) Big Lie

Michael Barone is a columnist for US News & World Report -- and one of the most respected political analysts working today.

His column today, called "The (Very) Big Lie" and focusing on Democrat charges that President Bush deliberately manipulated intelligence, is well worth reading. Yes, of course, it sets forth (in terms so clear that even a 7 year old could understand) why the whole "Bush lied" canard is so ridiculous.

But what's even more remarkable is that Barone wrote it at all. In the press, particularly when "truth telling" would involve defending Republicans, there's a marked tendency toward an "on the one hand/on the other hand" style of reporting -- an unspoken assumption that, of course, both sides are misstating the facts a little bit.

In the end, those telling the truth are disadvantaged. Just as one can't prove a negative, the truth can't be exaggerated, and so when the press "splits the difference" -- well, then they haven't told the truth.

Michael Barone has. And it's admirable.

Cross posted at CarolLiebau.blogspot.com.