Dean Starkman, writing for the Columbia Journalism Review, looks at the "journalism problem" for ESPN. Unlike other organizations that cover a wide range of topics and have a wide range of advertisers supporting them, ESPN's programming contracts and journalism coverage are much more narrow. Starkman looks at the dilemma it has with its NFL and NCAA coverage, given the enormity of the programming contracts that contribute richly to its wealth.
The Australian press watchdog has reminded newspapers of their obligation to provide fair-minded political coverage during the election campaign. The prime minister has been critical of the News Corp. papers' coverage of his party in the run-up to elections next week. Rupert Murdoch's chain comprises about 70 per cent of the country's newspaper circulation. The watchdog has written papers to note they have agreed to provide a "reasonably comprehensive and accurate account of public issues," although it acknowledges their right to hold opinions and favour candidates.
Dell Cameron, writing for VICE, examines the critical issues involved as the United States wrestles with the notion of a media shield law. Cameron argues that the bill would not protect journalists at all but revoke the rights of anyone who reveals government threats to the public. He says it would only help corporate media and would define journalism as a profession and not, more appropriately in his view, as an action.