LA TIMES: Keith Olberman-Unexpected Folk Hero Whose Anti-Bush Views Drove Up Ratings

[kpete]

Keith Olbermann's gloves come off
Anti-Bush views have driven up the ratings of the former sportscaster's MSNBC show.


By Matea Gold, Times Staff Writer


SECAUCUS, N.J. — The Democrats may have wrested back control of power in Congress, but that hasn't quieted the ire of Keith Olbermann.

Last week, he delivered one of his trademark blistering critiques of the country's leadership — this time charging that President Bush failed to learn the lessons of Vietnam by perpetuating the "monumental lie that is our presence in Iraq." And don't think the victors of the midterm election are going to escape his sharp tongue.

"If the Democrats don't undo a lot of the things that have been done, like the Military Commissions Act and many of the other infringements on freedom, as I see it, there will be a special comment with their name on it," Olbermann vowed on a recent afternoon, wearing a crisp, striped shirt and suspenders, his large frame hunched over his desk at the cable news network's Secaucus headquarters.

..................

But Olbermann's occasional soliloquies — typically a no-holds-barred excoriation of the Bush administration — have dramatically elevated his profile in the last several months, especially in the liberal blogosphere, and helped drive up the ratings for the third-place cable news network.

The longtime sportscaster, who doesn't vote and eschews any political identity — "I may be a Whig, possibly a Free-Soiler," he quipped — has nevertheless become an unexpected folk hero for the frustrated left. One woman approached him in a New York restaurant recently and burst into tears as she thanked him.

much more at:
http://www.calendarlive.com/printedition/calendar/cl-et-olber27nov27,0,6528595.story?track=tothtml

[blogslut]

1. Props to KO

From a big paper. Awesome!

[devilgrrl]

12. A big BAD paper!

Sorry, the LA Times sucks ass.

[blogslut]

14. Probably

But then, they all suck in my opinion. My father was a newspaperman and I learned about the suckage when I was a wee tot.

[a kennedy]

2. Great read.....thanks

:kick: :patriot:

[DemReadingDU]

3. Keith Olbermann! woohoo!

:woohoo:

[madokie]

8. ..

[Webster Green]

4. KO doesn't vote?!

Holy crap!

That makes no sense at all.

[sallyseven]

9. Yes it does. That way he can bang everyone who acts jerky.

[SquireJons]

23. There's no excuse for not voting n/t

[Radio_Lady]

40. Agree completely with you, Squire. I'm sick and tired of people who don't vote saying...

"Well, I don't care -- you can choose the President (Governor) (House members) (Senators)."

"I can be more objective that way. Whoever is wrong is who I'll vote against."

Makes me really mad. I don't know what to say. He has gone down a couple of pegs in my estimation.

[Shakespeare]

44. That's not why he doesn't vote. See my other post. n/t

[Shakespeare]

43. Old school journalists frequently take the same position KO does, and for a reason.

They (used to) want every whiff of subjectivism, any hint of bias removed from their work as reporters. This is not about laziness, or making excuses.

He's like Murrow in many ways--this is just another example of journalistic practice that has fallen by the wayside, along with far too many of the profession's ethics.

[Radio_Lady]

46. I agree with you on that, Shakespeare. But when did any of the "old school

journalists" tell an interviewer they DIDN'T VOTE? I think that's a new low... you don't have to make yourself neutral to report in a neutral mode. I did it all the time for years, mostly on a CBS owned-and-operated radio station because that was CBS' position at that time -- seems quaint, doesn't it? The show moderator was a "devil's advocate" and had to present and be able to discuss both sides of a question. It was more "fair and balanced" than Fox News purports to be.

I'll stand by my statement, unless someone can find a quote for me.

[Shakespeare]

48. It used to just be assumed they didn't vote.

I have no idea what kind of a quote you're looking for, but I'm a former print journalist, and was taught this by some of the best old newspapermen in the country.

[Radio_Lady]

50. Quote would say something similar to what KO said. It was assumed, perhaps, but

who checked it out? Who actually asked them? I'm a radio - TV person, and not that familiar with print journalists of the time -- I'm 67 years old -- what about you? Were you in the NYC market?

Do you know if Edward R. Murrow voted, or any of the other TV people I worked with or watched in NYC in the 1960s?

Walter Cronkite, Dan Rather, Chet Huntley, David Brinkley, Barbara Walters, Tom Brokaw, Mike Wallace?

Might be interesting to tap the memory of one of my acquaintances, who was a producer on "See It Now" -- I'll email him and see what he says!

Thanks for your comments.

[GoneOffShore]

47. Not voting is as much of a right as voting

In addition, many journalists prefer not to vote, as they feel that it gives them a clearer perspective.

There is also the whole issue of journalistic neutrality. I respect Keith Olbermann even more now.

I would also posit that perhaps those serving in the military not be allowed to vote until they have finished their service. It would insure that they were not voting to support or oppose an administration that was waging war.

Of course, I've become increasingly convinced that unless one has served the country in one form or another, the right to vote should hinge upon said service. And yes, I think Charlie Rangel was right.

[Radio_Lady]

51. I disagree completely. A person who doesn't vote is not exercising a right.

He/she is simply choosing to avoid the elective fray, for whatever reason. Where does THAT come out to be a right?
I certainly think a journalist can be still be neutral if he/she votes! Where does one position really equate completely with the other?

Think of it this way. Am I a better driver if I get my operator's license, but then don't drive? No way. I'm just a licensed driver who isn't driving. It just keeps me out of the fray -- I don't have to make any mistakes that way.

On the other issue, in college, we used to debate the topic of a two-year term of national service for all young people after high school. I believe that would be a good thing for the country. But, again, you would pit the military service against other types of service, similar to the Peace Corps or service in America, whatever. Should young people in OTHER types of national service be allowed to vote -- but those in the military... not be allowed? Not very likely. That's opening another whole can of worms.

Here's what I believe. Every person who is eligible to vote -- should vote as soon as he/she is of voting age, and continue to express his or her opinions in all elections. No exceptions, even for "neutral" journalists.

Sorry I can't come to terms with your position. Let's just agree to disagree.

Warm regards,

Radio_Lady in Oregon

[GoneOffShore]

53. Would you make voting compulsory?

As they do in Belgium.

[Radio_Lady]

56. It's an interesting concept, but I've never investigated it very deeply.

We were mostly invested in debating national service and abolishment of the Electoral College.

This is an interesting U.K. web site which presents the varying positions of British citizens:

http://www.democracyseries.org.uk/democracy_and_voting

[AngryOldDem]

64. I have to agree

I was a little disappointed when I read that. While it in no way invalidates his right-on commentaries, I think he needs to participate just a little more in the process. But, it's also his right NOT to vote.

And as for the guy who is "monitoring" Keith's commentaries (the O'Reilly man) -- he forgot one thing. Keith uses well-documented and widely available FACTS to back up what he says, unlike O'Reilly, who makes things up as he goes along and twists history into whatever shape suits his arguments, and then twists things again when he is caught in his duplicity. Big difference between the two, no?

[blogslut]

10. Actually, it does

From an objective, neutral journalism standpoint.

[tavalon]

11. It's too bad and yet, it does make sense

You would think his vote would remain private but there would be speculation and he is a much stronger commentator if no one is able to discern his political bias. I like that our greatest champion could also turn on us for inappropriateness on our part. We need a neutral watchdog and he is the best.

[Webster Green]

13. OK.....I'll buy that..

I mean....KO is a God, so I was letting him slide, but I was surprised he doesn't vote.

My friends and acquaintances won't get off that easy though.

[Kber]

18. Besides, as an NYC resident, he's not exactly in a swing district

nt

[Radio_Lady]

41. Sorry, Webster. What's sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander...

I DON'T THINK ANYONE'S A GOD, JOURNALIST OR OTHERWISE.

I am very surprised he didn't vote. It doesn't matter if he lives on New York City or not.

There is no excuse for not voting.

Good night and good luck.

Radio_Lady in Oregon

[mzmolly]

22. I think those in the media should remain impartial, if possible.

But, I do agree that someone so passionate is generally unlikely to stay home on election day.

[high density]

26. He didn't in 04

But Tweety said something on election night this year about how "we voted," as if Olbermann had voted this time around... It wasn't very clear though.

[Clark2008]

5. Happy to be the 5th recommend.

:kick:

:loveya: for Keith.

[JudyM]

24. That is the cutest donkey I've seen. n/t

[malaise]

6. I love Keith Olbermann

One fearless man among party hacks. KO:yourock: :yourock:

[madokie]

7. Even my wife likes him and she doesn't pay much attention to the 'news'

She's a nurse and has to deal with the bush* malmisadministrations wrong headed appoach to health care on a daily basis.

[Bitwit1234]

15. Right Wing Media

The republican owned media SAY they are in the business to make money. Practically every single solitary outlet is right wing biased.

So if they are out to make money, they see where Keith Olbermann has driven up the ratings on his show, and if they are really out to make money instead of perpetuating the republican point of view why not have more middle of the road or democratic shows.

[warrens]

16. Notice how even though Dems won't take power for a month

Suddenly everything on the cable networks is the Dems' fault or responsibility?

I know they need to talk about SOMETHING, but couldn't they wait until the Dems introduce legislation to criticize it?

[williesgirl]

17. I like that he will go after Dems if they don't do what we hired them to do. recommended

[havocmom]

19. Reporting and commenting on THE TRUTH drove his ratings up

[nam78_two]

20. He doesn't vote?

Thats so odd....I didn't know that :wow:
I love KO but I am really surprised by that...

[Radio_Lady]

42. Right. He scoffed at voting in his interview. Depressing to me, completely dumb.

I've never felt that Walter Cronkite, Dan Rather, Tom Brokaw, Chet Huntley, David Brinkley and Mike Wallace... DID NOT VOTE.

People who do not vote in the United States are to be completely condemned.

As I said earlier, I'm a big KO supporter (and am watching his show right now), but to know he doesn't vote is really a downer for me.

It's just my opinion. Flame me if you want.

[mzmolly]

21. I look forward to KO holding Democrats feet to the fire as well.

I too have cried "thanking" Keith Olbermann, but it's been in the comfort of my home. ;)

THANK YOU KEITH!

[HCE SuiGeneris]

25. 2.15 million viewers of O'Liely... I knew

it was bad, but didn't know it was that bad. :puke: :crazy: :puke:

[knitter4democracy]

27. I hate to ask this, but when is he on?

We just got MSNBC, and I can't seem to find when his new segments are on. Could someone clue me in?

[grasswire]

28. eight o'clock eastern

with a repeat later in the night.

[knitter4democracy]

31. Every night? When does he tend to do the Special Comments?

He's really on every night? I tend to avoid tv news like the plague, but I really like KO's comments.

[Virginian]

32. He only does special comments when inspired.

In case it wasn't mentioned, he is on MSNBC. He follows Chris Matthews' Hardball. I wish he was on a broadcast station so everybody could see him.

[knitter4democracy]

60. I will! Thanks!

I caught some of his show last night. I will make sure to check it out from now on.

[The Count]

35. 8 and 12AM. DU usually warns you of comments as newsletters go to

many DU-ers. So, stay tuned here and don't miss another one - it's how I do it.

[annabanana]

39. Show's named "Countdown"

(to help you look it up)

[Radio_Lady]

52. For folks on the West Coast, "Countdown" airs at 5 PM Pacific Time,

as well as 8 PM PT on MSNBC. Check your local/cable/satellite listings for your time zone.

[hsher]

29. This is why Jon Stewart had better not get too lazy...

... and why his manager had better not presume. ;)

[LuckyLib]

30. Folks were so tired of the mountains of bullshit oozing from Washington

and the complete numbness of the corporate media that someone telling it like it is is a breath of fresh air. MSNBC is still corporate, but our national Media voices are few and far between -- Frank Rich, Molly Ivins, KO . . .

edited for spelling

[Randypiper]

33. These aren't Anti-Bush views,

They are Pro-American views

[The Count]

36. Nicely put. or as I like to put it - "what everyone thinks"

He speaks for all - hence the popularity.

[WoodyD]

34. KO Rocks

We've long been KO fans, but since he started his special commentaries, he regularly gets standing ovations at our house. And the point is not Bush-bashing. The point is that our freedoms are being taken away under the guise of protecting our freedoms, we've been lied to and the carnage continues to mount in Iraq, our environment and our economy are being trashed and raided, and the administration panders to corporate interests while trampling on the rights, hopes and dreams of ordinary Americans. His commentaries are anti- Worst President Ever. I think we can count on KO to go after the Dems as well if they don't deliver, and even (fat chance, I know) to give Dubya his props in the unlikely event that we plunge into the Bizarro-World and he does something right. That's the major difference between KO and the right-wingnuts. He's protesting the policies this president embodies, whereas if Pelosi balanced the budget, brought a peaceful and stable government to Iraq and found a way to give every American free, high-quality health care without raising taxes, the wingnutters would eviscerate her for . . . well, being an uppity woman I guess.

[goforit]

37. Hats off to Keith!!

[Cocoa]

38. free market theory should mean we'll see more of this

Olbermann's good ratings should lead to lots and lots of imitators.

Think we'll see it?

[Radio_Lady]

49. Hard to tell. If they can find another personality who can mix news and

what we used to call "light features" even in the same show -- maybe so. He's pretty unique in my opinion.

Good night and good luck.

[jelly]

63. that's a tough one

In the short term, giving the people what they want will bring in ad revenue for the media moguls. In the long run, broadcasting the truth to the people will hurt the media moguls's bottom line because it will mean more people in power who care more for the people than for the media moguls' bottom line.

Decisions, decisions.

[lpbk2713]

45. If NBC knew what they were doing they would put Keith on the network.

With network exposure he would get better Nielsens than he does on cable. It would be a winning situation for NBC.

[Radio_Lady]

54. Bingo! I believe Keith would attract a younger crowd and great ratings!

Want a new job as head of NBC news program planning department??

[lpbk2713]

55. LOL. No thanks

I'm afraid they would consider me overqualified.


I can walk and chew gum at the same time.

[jelly]

57. Love me some Keith

He only puts to words what many of us had already long known but in this scary world in which we find ourselves, the simple act of telling the truth on a major media outlet has become an act of courage. KO is an American hero.

[ecstatic]

58. I really hope another liberal friendly voice turns up soon

I don't know what it is, but I just cannot get into Keith's show. I don't know if it's the countdown format, or Keith's uptight appearance. :hide:

[Radio_Lady]

61. I understand. Sometimes he's just a little too cutesy with the WORST prizes and

some of the other stuff he does towards the end of the show. I do like his voice, and I accept that he has a slight lazy "L" just a bit better than either Barbara Walters or Tom Brokaw (both officially retired now, but we seem them sometimes).

And I'm getting REALLY tired to the "Flight of the Bumblebee" and the other classical music bits he uses. I think he might do well to revamp some of these older chestnuts.

Just my humble opinion. I still watch most of his shows, but I agree that it would be nice to see someone else try out a newer format.

[CountessMZaleska]

59. he's my man

I give Democrats 6 months to undo Bush's crimes against the constitution or they too will be labeled as CORRUPT and CRIMINALLY LIABLE as the Republicans they replaced. And I mean ALL OF BUSH'S CRIMES.

6 months TOP!

[EFerrari]

62. Welcome to DU, your highness.

:hi: