Chuck Todd and punditry makes every story’s outcome their prescribed narrative
This clip from a segment of Meet the Press speaks much to how the media work(s). It is a subliminal attempt to ensure that the narrative remains fixed — Hillary Clinton will win the Democratic nomination and everything else is fodder that can be explained away.
Recently Joe Biden met with Elizabeth Warren. The mainstream media ran with the story. Some attempted to and are attempting to shape a narrative where a Joe Biden bid would make Hillary Clinton a better candidate. Ultimately Hillary will win is generally their conclusion. Her path may be more difficult but she would win.
What if we are missing the forest for the trees? Posit the following little jewel that Daily KOS’ Adam B wrote about the encounter, a dream encounter.
Warren: Thank you for inviting me here, Mr. Vice President. How can I help you?
Biden: As you know, Senator, I’ve been thinking about the Presidency. I love and respect Secretary Clinton, but I think she’s too damaged to win next year. All these attacks … I worry. I think White House should not revert to the Clintons, and that the country would be better off with my values.
Warren: Are you asking me if I think you should run, sir?
Biden: No, I’ve decided. As much as I want to, I’m 72 years old. I’ve had a great life, an amazing life, and as much of it as I’ve got left, I want to spent with my wife and family. I’m not going to run. And if I’m being honest with myself, I’m just not the one they’re clamoring for.
Warren: Who?
Biden: You. It has to be you. You’re the only one who can unite our party, excite people, and become the progressive President our nation so desperately needs.
Warren: But I … it’s not my time, sir. It’s Hillary’s.
Biden: I know you think that, and I know you’ve been clear you’re not looking to run. But notwanting the office so desperately may be the best you’d hold it so honorably. So let me tell you a story from our friend Dick Durbin, because back in late 2006, Barack Obama was having the same doubts about running for the White House, and he, too, looked at Hillary and said, “why me? why now? why not her?”
And Dick told Obama two things: one, sometimes in life and in political life, you can choose the moment. But sometimes, the moment chooses you. This is your moment.
Second, Hillary’s a great person. She really is. She was a great first lady, a great United States senator, and a fantastic Secretary of State. But your voice needs to be heard. It needs to, Liz. The country needs you.
Warren: Thank you, Mr. Vice President.
What is the likelihood of such a meeting? We know Chuck Todd and the media generally spin a narrative that many times forces and creates the reality. Maybe we should encourage the body politic by spinning a narrative we want to become the reality.