E&P's Sam Smith gets it:
Miller needed to step back and say "thanks Bob, but no thanks -- you're the story now." Reporters are obligated to the truth, and allowing themselves to be pimped by those who would use them as tools against the truth is a crime against the profession and the society it serves. Protecting that which you are bound to expose is malpractice."
Judith Miller is choosing to martyr herself against common sense, journalistic integrity and the Times's own policy on revealing source (that is, sources that use you to pass disinformation must be burned). Fuck her.
Posted by Aaron S. Veenstra ::: 2005:07:19:11:42
I agree 100 percent. After one member of the Association of Health Care Journalists suggested "boycotting the Times," others are falling all over themselves to align themselves with this "poor down-trodden woman," to wit:
Just wondering, can we send her gifts? I know printed media is not permitted.
But, how about things like candy, flowers, candles, body lotion,....etc....stuff that might comfort her.
Or this from the NY Writers Guild:
POSTCARDS FOR JUDY
The Guild received a suggestion from several members that we publish the address of the jail where Judy is being held, and call on our members to send her a postcard of support once each week while she remains imprisoned. It's a great idea, and we urge everyone to take part in this easy and inexpensive way to help Judy get through her ordeal.
Here's the address:
Judith Miller
c/o Alexandria Detention Center
2001 Mill Road
Alexandria, VA 22314
Although Judy is allowed to receive an unlimited amount of mail, the prison's rules do not permit books, magazines, or newspapers unless sent directly from the publisher. All mail is examined for contraband. We suggest simple cards with appropriate personal greetings and words of support.
The Guild thanks all those who took part in the silent protest and rally in front of The Times this past Wednesday. We felt strongly that this sad day for journalism in our country deserved our attention.
The Guild also extends its support and gratitude to The Times for its unwavering backing of our member and the journalistic principles at stake.
And, finally, this, after several members bombed the listserv hoping to get a corporate statement of support for Miller:
The AHCJ should issue a brief, pointed statement. It should focus on the principle of press freedom, not on any individual. This does not require a vote; it should be an executive decision.
Martyr, indeed. I smell another book deal.
Also keep in mind, this is the woman for whom the NYT had to issue a lengthy apology, because her pre-war WMD coverage was entirely bogus. She still stands by it, of course.