In 1980, I held a paid staff position in Congressman John Anderson's independent presidential run. Eager for a fresh face and new policies, the press bought into our fledgling campaign. Our poll numbers crept north of 20%, and had us in the lead, or within the margin of error, in a few states.
Newness only lasts so long. Soon the press was in the Costco return line. We finished with 6.1% of the vote. The only magic left was that 6.1% qualified for federal campaign funds under public financing. We staffers got long delayed pay.
Trump received the most pre and primary coverage according to Harvard studies. His coverage was far more favorable than that of Hillary. As with Anderson, buyer's remorse has set in. Trump's desperate need for attention, while at the same time vilifying the press, has exacerbated his media meltdown. Reporters are not waiting in the return line. They are dumping Trump in the nearest editorial receptacle.
Live by the pen, die by the pen. All that twitters is not gold.
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