Tuning In the Senate

After the prolonged deliberation that is its trademark, the Senate has voted to open its chamber to live television on an experimental basis, beginning June 1. Radio coverage could start as early as this week. The Senate’s decision climaxes years of argument over the wisdom of allowing its proceedings to go to the public, live and direct. What finally prompted it? The decisive consideration may have been nothing more than rising resentment over the attention and increased news coverage that the House has had since it went on TV in 1979. Yes, competition is a wonderful thing.

Some senators remain concerned that a mass audience might find their customs somewhat eccentric, if not bizarre. The Senate moves at a measured pace, and usually under rules of unlimited debate. Traditionalists say that this allows it to rise above the passions of the moment. None of that need change. The public that tunes in to a Senate debate won’t be looking for “Miami Vice.” What it will be looking for--and is entitled to--is a better understanding of the legislative process, and if that involves putting up with occasional bouts of windbag oratory and similar tedium, then so be it. The House has survived and maybe even thrived on TV coverage. The Senate will, too.