Paul Krugman, the Nobel Prize-winning economist and long-time columnist for The New York Times, has accused his former employer of “sanewashing” their coverage of Donald Trump. This accusation comes in the wake of Krugman’s recent departure from the Times after a 25-year tenure.
What is “sanewashing”?
Krugman uses the term “sanewashing” to describe what he perceives as the Times’ attempt to normalize Trump’s behavior and policies by presenting them in a more moderate light than they deserve. This approach, according to Krugman, involves downplaying or ignoring Trump’s more extreme actions and statements in favor of a more balanced portrayal.
The Context
This criticism is part of a broader debate about media coverage of Trump and his administration. Some argue that mainstream media outlets have struggled to find the right balance in covering a president who frequently breaks with traditional norms and makes controversial statements.
The Impact
Krugman’s accusation raises important questions about the role of journalism in today’s polarized political climate:
1. Media Responsibility: How should news organizations cover political figures who consistently challenge democratic norms?
2. Public Perception: Does “sanewashing” potentially mislead readers about the true nature of political events and decisions?
3. Journalistic Integrity: Is there a conflict between maintaining objectivity and accurately representing controversial political figures?
Different Perspectives
While Krugman’s criticism targets The New York Times specifically, it reflects a wider concern among some journalists and media critics about the coverage of Trump across various news outlets. However, it’s important to note that The New York Times and other mainstream media organizations have also faced accusations of bias against Trump from conservative critics. This highlights the challenging position news organizations find themselves in when covering highly divisive political figures.
Background
This is not the first time Krugman has been critical of media coverage of Trump. In 2016, he wrote a column titled “The Making of an Ignoramus,” criticizing what he saw as inadequate scrutiny of Trump’s statements and policies during the presidential campaign.
Conclusion
Krugman’s accusation of “sanewashing” adds to the ongoing debate about media responsibility in covering controversial political figures. As the 2024 presidential election approaches, this discussion is likely to intensify, challenging news organizations to find ways to provide accurate, comprehensive coverage while maintaining journalistic integrity.
