Addendum to "A Free Press?"

I promise not to run long here. If anyone doubts the validity of what I had to say in my lengthy little rant about a free press, they do not have to look further than Sudan today. While government thugs were busy roughing up American journalists and diplomatic personnel, an official said openly—on camera, no less—that there is “no free press” in that troubled country. The government thugs were attempting to bar reporters from a designated photo-opportunity with Sudan’s president du jour. (I still prefer my du jours lightly roasted, with the almond and garlic sauce.)

One of those getting the bum’s rush was reporter Andrea Mitchell. I seem to recall that she’s married to Alan Greenspan, a fellow who holds considerable power here at home. Whooo, boy! I’ve made some boo-boos in my time, but hustling the Fed chairman’s wife isn’t one of them. In the world according to Those People, we’ve invaded sovereign nations for lesser offenses.

A lower-grade kleptocrat from the Sudan government stated later that those who attempted to eject the reporters from the room “would be dealt with.” Over here, that might mean being called into your supervisor’s office and being told that your behavior is unacceptable. Over there, it might mean they’re going to take you into the alley and shoot you in the back of the head.

Enjoy your canned peas and instant mashed potatoes, Ms. Miller. Things could be worse.