Tough times call for tough answers from reporters

By: Sara Crouse

Increasing concerns with the American economy has changed the average news viewer. Today’s viewers have become more skeptical of current news stories. Sometimes reporting a story isn’t quite enough for viewers.

Many viewers are turning to opinionated news sources such as Mr. Cramer from the TV program “Mad Money” for an insider’s tip on the economy. Reporters now have to put their own twist on a story.

Opinion news provides many viewers with a chance to further explore their own beliefs, which is relevant in a time of turmoil for the markets. Viewing a contrasting opinion in news engages the mind and leads to active discussion amongst its viewers. Discussion of the current bailout plan is a hot commodity these days. No longer are the stock market graphs, at the end of the nightly news, what people want to view. We already know it doesn’t look pretty.

The nightly news, although it serves a generic purpose, seems to be lacking in its relevancy to viewers. Neutrality in the nightly news just isn’t enough for worried watchers. People want facts and they want more than just the basics to help reassure them through difficult times.

There has been a significant trend in reporters turning to the details on many current issues with the economy. The New York Times reports,

“Mr. Cramer found himself having to explain arcane financial concepts like credit-default swaps to an audience that was double its usual size and spooked by the market’s moves.”

Whether we agree with Mr. Cramer or not, its a blessing to hear someone has a plan.