Sinclair's Mark Hyman Marches in Lock Step with the Far Right

The rational counter to "The Point," "The Counterpoint" critiques and corrects the daily editorial by Sinclair Broadcasting's corporate vice president, Mark Hyman, that is broadcast on all Sinclair-owned television stations across the country. 

by U of Iowa's Ted Remington

One of the purposes of what David Brock has termed the “Right Wing Noise Machine” is to not simply participate in ideological conflict, but to choose and define the rhetorical battlefield before the first shot is fired.

Despite the claims by Sinclair Broadcasting that Mark Hyman is simply a single employee expressing his personal views, it’s obvious to even the most casual viewer that he marches in jack-booted lock step with the far right establishment. Given this, one of the recurring dynamics of Hyman’s commentaries is his attempt to help frame issues in a way that will give his fellow conservatives higher rhetorical ground in an anticipated struggle.

This sort of malignant synergy is on vivid display in Hyman’s recent commentary on the Supreme Court. Suggesting that both Justices Rehnquist and O’Connor might step down soon, Hyman predicts the “mother of all confirmation battles.” (By the way, Mark, could you please get some new writers for your commentary)?  The phrase “mother of all . . . whatever” jumped the shark around January 22, 1991. Of course, “jumped the shark” has jumped the shark by now, too, so maybe I shouldn’t cast stones!).

Laughably, Hyman advises Senate Democrats that supporting a conservative justice to replace Rehnquist will make them look “statesmen-like” and help build “good will.” After all, Hyman argues, replacing a Rehnquist with a conservative will be a “one-for-one” replacement.

I’d like to offer Hyman some advice in the same vein: Hyman ought to embrace the idea of inviting Al Franken, David Brock, or even me to share time on his “Point” segments. Such a move would make him look statesman-like and help build good will.

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You  can experience "The Point" by tuning in to your "local" evening "news" program on KGAN-TV Channel 2  in eastern Iowa or KDSM Channel 17 in the Des Moines/Ames area. 


Mark Hyman
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