Week 1/Article: Romney Meets the Press

Date: December 9, 2011
Author: Ashley Parker

Page Number: 3

Summary:

Mitt Romney, seems to only address his campaign in structured situations that he can control. Due to this, Romney often declines to answer questions from reporters and indicates that he prefers a more orderly process during which he can deliver responses at length, and have a full discussion of a topic. However, this has lead to mini press revolts, as in Tampa, Fla. when Romney refused to take questions but claimed that he holds press availabilities “almost every day.”

Romney’s style of addressing the press, contrasts sharply with that of Newt Gingrich, his rival, who has made more than 50 appearances on Fox News since the start of his campaign. Earlier this year, Chris Wallace, the host of “Fox News Sunday,” chastised Mr. Romney on air for not appearing on his show: “His campaign says he is still not ready to sit down for an interview,”. But on Tuesday, Romney agreed to an interview set for Dec. 18. The interview was straightforward and fair.

Since the interview, Mr. Romney has made himself more accessible. At a rally in New Hampshire, he did an interview with a local Fox affiliate before taking questions from the gathered press, and invited them along to knock on voters’ doors with him. He even went to the sidewalks and allowed reporters to ask questions. 

Questions:

I. The main problem that was address was Romney's appearance to the public. 

II. n/a

III. n/a

IV. n/a

V. The author of the article seems to have a negative position against Romney. The author uses mockery though out the article. For example,

 "Afterward, a traveling reporter grumbled: “Romney took more questions than I think he ever has, and still managed to make no news!” 

Which is perhaps just the way he would like to keep it." The author also cites quotes and facts that show the public criticizing Romney.

VI. This information in the article would directly affect Romney who is public figure in the political arena. The information could either help or work against Romney as a candidate in the election. Some of the public might be pleased that Romney is addressing the press, while others might feel disapproval that he hasn't done so till now. 

Work Cited:
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/09/mitt-meets-the-press/