Political News Is Needed
Congratulations to the TV Campaign ’96 Coalition for trying to convince local commercial television stations to provide daily coverage of election issues (“Most L.A. TV Stations Refuse to Set Aside Time for Issues,” Calendar, Sept. 23).
It is dismaying, but not surprising, to learn that some broadcasters feel they have no role to play in encouraging the development of a more knowledgeable electorate.
By shirking this responsibility, broadcasters are violating the public trust that should accompany their licenses.
Grim experience, as well as polling data, tells us most Americans don’t get political information in depth from any source. If TV news gave it to them every day 10 minutes at a time, broadcasters would be earning their access to the public airwaves and democracy would be better served.
ANTONIO R. VILLARAIGOSA
Assembly member, 45th District
Los Angeles
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