Integrity and Personality

Elizabeth Jensen’s analysis of issues of “personality” versus “journalism” confronting CNN with the onslaught of competition from Fox and MSNBC mirrors America’s battle pitting conservative patriots editorializing the news to fit their agenda against the so-called “liberal media” who attempt to remain objective (“News Still Counts at CNN. So Do Stars,” Feb. 3).

Bernard Shaw’s retirement from CNN left an enormous void; filling it with Paula, Aaron and Connie makes perfect sense, as they all have demonstrated journalistic integrity in their careers.

The real backbone of CNN, however, is their home-grown stars who never receive the respect they are due.

Bill Hemmer not only possesses boy-next-door good looks, he’s smart and always full of facts. Kate Snow’s cover-girl beauty belies her intelligence, dedication, and the respect of everyone on Capitol Hill. Leon Harris is a man for all seasons, truly gifted. Same with Miles O’Brien, aerodynamic expert; Kyra Philips; Rosemary Church; and others.

If you enjoy a bunch of talking-head reactionary rejects from the Big 3 justifying the administration’s policies and mistakes, then I suppose you’ll tune in Fox. There’s room for both.

If one can take Chris Mathews or Don Imus all night long, then go for CNBC. I tried. It’s not possible.

ROLLIN DEXTER

Toluca Lake