Arresting Journalists
Keith’s note: Like everyone else I am acutely aware of the arrest of two journalists – independent journalists – by the Department of Justice today. Details are still lacking. But the White House is applauding it. NASA Public Affairs leadership – all of whom are loyal political appointees – have already essentially blacklisted me. That used to be just an annoyance – one I am used to after 30 years. Well, not any more. So what can I (and others covering NASA) expect from the political appointees at PAO if I post something they do not like? What about people who provide me with information? I do not have an answer. I am not easily spooked. But my bullshit meter is now permanently redlined – and my inclination to set foot on any NASA facility or attend any NASA-sponsored event is now in question.
6 responses to “Arresting Journalists”
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.
The arrest of journalists is deeply disturbing along with so many of the other things that the current administration is doing. I would like to see Administrator Isaacman and the political appointees at NASA dissociate NASA from what many Americans see as this administration’s unprecedented cruelty, corruption and abuse of power. Mr. Isaacman and PAO can do this by emphasizing that the projects and missions that NASA undertakes are made possible by the contributions of hundreds and even thousands of civil servants and contractors over many years and through multiple presidential administrations. NASA’s accomplishments are built on a long legacy and belong to the American people, not to any individual or regime.
Personally I have a lot of faith in how Jared Isaacman is going to readjust things. He has only been there a few weeks. Alas, NASA Public Affairs (PAO) has needed a full house cleaning for a very, very long time – not just at NASA HQ – but at all the field centers.
Overreact much? I don’t think you are infringing on people’s places of worship, even tho there are plenty that worship NASA. From what I recall, you complain about every Administration’s PAO blacklisting you so please don’t insinuate this PAO is more evil. And don’t mind if we all ignore your boy that cried wolf moment. We all enjoy your substantive posts and even your more TMZ-like posts….but leveraging the nut jobs in MN should be beneath our journalists.
Yawn. How’s the weather outside your office window at MSFC in Huntsville?
Thank you for thinking I have an office at your prior agency/client in the Great State of Alabama.