The people’s watchdogs no more

OPINION:

I am old enough to remember when most of the reporters and pundits in the news media functioned as faithful watchdogs for the public by challenging our government and those in authority, regardless of political party. That was the blessing of our cherished freedom of the press.

Now it seems that many of those in the news media have abandoned that role and are instead essentially serving as cheerleaders for the government by supporting favored government actions and ignoring disfavored government actions. Meanwhile they are serving as watchdogs on behalf of the government itself by exposing and criticizing, in very negative terms and descriptions, any prominent individuals or organizations in disagreement with the government on any of its actions.

DANIEL P. MCKIM

Springfield, Va.