Brian Stelter Scrutinizes the Media: Are We Guilty of Making Democracy Seem Like a Reality Show?

thewrap.com:

CNN’s Brian Stelter critiqued the media for its role in contributing to political theater and spectacle, invoking President Joe Biden’s censure of the press in his White House Correspondents Dinner speech, in which he adamantly stated, “American democracy is not a reality show.”During the introduction of Sunday’s “Reliable Sources,” Stelter reflected on the “reality TV vibe” of the yearly gala held Saturday night, pointing out the attendance of Hollywood “It” couple Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidson, who were invited as guests of ABC News.Taking on a more sober tone, however, he shifted to President Biden’s words at the event, in which he called on the Fourth Estate — a term that refers to the watchdog role of the press and its importance in a functioning democracy — to better approach weighty topics concerning ideals of democracy and freedom.“The first amendment grants the free press extraordinary protection,” Biden said in a clip from the dinner. “But with it comes, as many of you know, a very heavy obligation to seek the truth as best you can — not to inflame or entertain, but to illuminate and educate.

I know it’s tough, and I’m not being solicitous. The industry is changing significantly. There’s an incredible pressure on you all to deliver heat, instead of shed light because the technology is changing so much.