The Irresponsible Times

June 26, 2006 in Media

The National Review has an editorial about the New York Times Al Qaeda Intelligence Network that is absolutely correct. What the Times did was absolutely reprehensible. They disclosed a Top Secret program that was effective, completely legal, and was given the proper congressional oversight. It is also virtually imposable to prosecute under any statute.

Had Bill Keller given the information from which the Times article was published to Bin Laden or any other Terrorist, he could have been prosecuted for Treason and or Espionage. But since the information was published in a “News Paper” it is protected by the First amendment. Under no circumstances do we want the Federal government dictating what can and not be published in the media. That is Censorship. Instead we must rely on the good judgement and responsible decision making on the part of editors and journalists when deciding what to and what not to print.

The New York Times exercised its first amendment right in running the story, every right however must be exercised with responsibility. This the New York Times Failed to do. Since the “Good Judgement” of the New York Times is definitely in question nonexistent, their access to government officials, including the White House Press Corps, The Capitol building, and every Federal Agency should be Immediately revoked. Perhaps the access to those facilities and personnel could be reinstated after the Times demonstrates that they can indeed exercise good judgement. A good start in that direction would be revealing their source.

Others Blogging; California Conservative,  Michelle Malkin, Captains Quarters, Gateway Pundit, Blue Star Chronicles