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Final Thoughts as we Move On

Submitted by James Farrell on Thu, 01/29/2004 - 01:00.

38 people ran for President in New Hampshire. Some ran lots of ads, got national media attention, appeared in debates, drew big crowds, and received thousands of votes. Others shared a store front, campaigned alone, were ignored by the journalists, were sometimes ridiculed, and earned only a few votes.

The ads that ran varied in quality. Some struck an elevated tone, with dignified music, impressive graphics, and imposing images of the candidates. Others were simpler, featuring ordinary people, a memorable phrase, and a concise message. To me, all were welcome.

The candidates have moved on, and the campaign ads have been replaced with spots for the local Dodge dealer or the next new pill to cure your ills. As we wrap up the campaign in NH, and hurtle toward the ultimate experience in consumer advertising--the "Superbowl"--I am troubled.

How can it be that in America, where a mere $1000 can get you a place on the primary election ballot in New Hampshire alongside Kerry, Dean, Clark, and even Bush, that a major television network (CBS), controlling as they do a portion of the public airwaves, and allegedly obligated to advance the public interest and civic life of the nation, can refuse on very dubious grounds to broadcast a political ad with which they disagree, simply because they consider it "controversial"?

The decision of CBS to refuse broadcast of an ad on political grounds is fundamentally contrary to the principle and spirit of free speech. The rationalization by one CBS executive is laughable. "We don't think that those with deep pockets should be able to control the debate on vital matters of public policy" said VP Martin Franks. I agree Mr. Franks. Follow your own maxim. Few organizations have deeper pockets than CBS.

Thomas Jefferson said of contrary political views: "let them stand undisturbed as monuments of the safety with which error of opinion may be tolerated where reason is left free to combat it." View the "Controversial" ad that CBS won't run? Go to http://www.bushin30seconds.org/
Then, write to CBS and tell them to keep the airwaves free for all political opinions.

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