Candidate Speeches: The Public and Private Journalist

By Karen Dunlap

What are principled journalists to do when a presidential candidate gives a speech to them? Should they stand at the candidate's appearance or reserve that as protocol for the president? Should they applaud during the speech or remain quietly noncommittal? Should they give a standing ovation at the end of the speech or remain seated?

Journalists at Unity did all of the above Thursday. Some applauded John Kerry, honored him by standing and were delighted to shake hands with him after he jumped off the platform to greet attendees. Others maintained silence or responded impartially.

When is a journalist in a professional role and when does life allow for displays as a private citizen? How have other journalistic groups responded to political speeches? When the President spoke to the American Society of Newspaper Editors (ASNE) and the publishers association (NAA), some (probably publishers) cheered while others looked a little uncomfortable.

Is there a cultural issue? NABJ members are used to giving a standing ovation for any moderately acceptable speaker.

Unity participants have another chance to define appropriate behavior during speeches: President Bush addresses the group in the morning.

Related:

Candidate extolls diversity (@Unity.org)

Popularity contest and Be on time for Bush (Blogging from Unity)

Kerry: I'd Keep Cross-ownership Rules (E&P)

Democrat's speech draws hearty cheers at journalists' convention (USA Today)

Comments

[Mark A. York]

Journalists certainly know plausible policies without regard for whence they come. They're job is to question candiates on the details and present the pitfalls of said policy. At some level they know whose prescription is more valid based on the facts and the fine points of each policy.