Russ Feingold: “The Rasmussen Research survey found that 68% of Americans believe newspaper editorials are more important than a $1,000…”

“The Rasmussen Research survey found that 68% of Americans believe newspaper editorials are more important than a $1,000 contribution. Only 17% think such contributions have a bigger impact. Americans may also support restrictions on reporters because more than seven-out-of-ten believe personal preferences of reporters influence their coverage of politics. In fact, Americans overwhelmingly believe (by a 61% to 19% margin) that a candidate preferred by reporters will beat a candidate who raises more money. Let me repeat that, Mr. President. This comprehensive poll of American citizens on the influence of newspapers, in late 1997, found that Americans, by a margin of 61 percent to 19 percent, believe that a candidate preferred by reporters will beat a candidate who raises more money. Mr. President, I am making these points somewhat tongue in cheek because, obviously, I am not advocating restrictions on newspapers. But what I find particularly outrageous is newspapers advocating restrictions on everyone else. Who are they to think that they are the only ones who are to have influence in the American political process?”