Reply #16: My letter to Keith Olbermann

[VolcanoJen]

I've written a few times to Keith, and what's really cool is that he personally responds every now and again. Thanks for the suggestion, maggr!!

Subject: Keith, you're letting us down.

When you first returned to MSNBC, your fans, and newswatchers everywhere, were ecstatic at the new format: A "countdown" of stories, at least five different, major stories per night. The format ensured that we wouldn't have to endure an entire hour spent covering one story... remember, like back in the Monica Lewinsky days?

I was shocked that last night's "Countdown" chose to cover various "aspects" of the Michael Jackson "story" in all five segments. Since the cable news networks have gone "All-Jacko-All-The-Time" today, I expect "Countdown" will deliver more of the same tonight.

Mr. Olbermann, it's been quite a news day. 27 people were murdered in a terrorist attack against British interests in Istanbul, Turkey. Over 100,000 Londoners took to the streets to protest the state visit of George W. Bush. In our own country, thousands of protestors are in Miami, scuffling with police during their protests against the FTAA talks. The American Association for Retired People (AARP) has apparently sold its soul to corporate interests in supporting the Senate Medicare Bill, and their many, many members are none too pleased about it. And, by the way, another soldier has been killed in Iraq.

Please rescue us from the frivolous, wall-to-wall coverage of Michael Jackson. On this important news day, I, and your other faithful viewers, look forward to your even-handed coverage of the day's events.

Please don't let us down. The only place to watch the real news today has been Newsworld International and the BBC. I'm saddened that my own country's newscasters, two years after the horrific events of 9/11 that touched you so personally, have returned to "business as usual," covering sensational stories that are of no relevance or significance to, frankly, anyone.

Thank you very much for listening.