Romney sweeps 5 states; select media fail to acknowledge

Photo: Mitt Romney campaignOn Tuesday evening in Manchester (N.H.) former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney spoke to supporters. His theme, “A better America begins tonight”, capped wins in five states. The slogan is catchy, appropriate and inspiring. Some high profile media appeared to miss it all.

Romney’s demeanor and delivery were presidential. His speech was expertly crafted, and one passage in particular reflects a coming to terms on what he needs to do to win in November. Romney said:

“In the days ahead, I look forward to spending time with many of you personally. I want to hear what’s on your mind, hear about your concerns, and learn about your families. I want to know what you think we can do to make this country better…and what you expect from your next President.”

The governor’s wife Ann introduced him. As I’ve often said, she is a remarkable asset.

How did media react? If ever there was an example of an alliance with Democrats, that example is demonstrated on numerous media sites today. Despite the 5-state win, despite that inspiring slogan, a number of big-government-allied media who depict themselves as objective failed to report it.

Here’s a sample of what was above the fold on select news websites early Wednesday morning:

• The Google News home page header ‘Democratic super PAC, environmental group air ad’ gives an idea of what to expect from the establishment search engine on the Web. After a stunning series of races and virtual certainty the GOP nomination has been decided, Google touts President Barack Obama and company’s super PAC. The story was an Associated Press product. Enough said.
• Yahoo ran a typical weight loss story top of the fold, but top of the political headlines at center page was ‘Younger voters in play in 2012’ with a lead that suggested Obama will have a harder time with the under-30 sector who apparently resent declining net worth and reduced disposable income.
• The New York Times spotlighted Rupert Murdoch and—this one’s a real eyeball grabber—Zimbabwe.
• The Washington Post gave top priority to stories about Wal-Mart, Syria and self-deportation.

Those sources are among the most commonly cited or accessed on the Web. So much for balance—empathy with the Left is nothing new in the media sector.

Meanwhile, Erick Erickson at Red State wrote an essay drawing a stark contrast between conservatives and the Left. The piece is uncommonly long for Erickson, but it is well worth a read. One conclusion he reaches is a position I’ve taken repeatedly, that the Left wants to shut down dissenting voices.

Come what may and despite high profile media’s likely advocacy for Dems in November (as in 2008), there was a takeaway no one could ignore on Tuesday evening. Whether you’re a Dem or a Republican, a Romney critic or fan, the former Massachusetts governor looked absolutely presidential during that speech.

Romney will be a challenging foe for Obama.

The iconic Drudge made that clear with multiple headers for Romney atop the page.

(Commentary by Kay B. Day/April 25, 2012)