The Gray Lady Eats Crow

One of the most frustrating aspects of the run-up to war for those of us opposing the attack was the complicity of the mainstream press. It seemed as though the press had blinders on, going happily along with whatever misinformation the Bush administration was putting forward. Finally, the New York Times has apologized: Over the last year this newspaper has shone the bright light of hindsight on decisions that led the United States into Iraq. We have examined the failings of American and allied intelligence, especially on the issue of Iraq's weapons and possible Iraqi connections to international terrorists. We have studied the allegations of official gullibility and hype. It is past time we turned the same light on ourselves.

Yes, indeed.

I hope this article becomes required reading in journalism schools. By not doing their duty as journalists, the Times reporters became part of the drum beat that allowed this country to enter this war. By not questioning the WMD claims more closely, they participated in the deception of the Bush administration. Ultimately, the press bears some of the responsibility for our misguided policies, and a few contrite column inches will not bring anybody back to life, or restore our nation's credibility.