Same Problem Same People

            Once again the national news media have whipped us into a frenzy with half-truths and innuendo—sensationalism that used to be called ‘yellow journalism.’  Now it’s just…what they do.

            Amid cries of IRS misdeeds, the background story got lost.  Starting with the underfunding of the agency by congress, leaving the IRS understaffed.  Without enough people to properly pursue its mandate, the IRS resorted to shortcuts.  They have always had some signals they watch in order to curtail tax evasion.  Reportedly, they ‘targeted’ (an emotionally loaded word) conservative groups in the 501c(4) category.  Perhaps because the number of 501c(4) tax exempt applications exploded after the Supreme Court defecated on us with its Citizens United ruling.  The IRS was trying to uncover Super Pacs seeking to criminally evade taxes, and disclosure of donors, by posing as Social Welfare groups under 501c(4).

            None of this excuses any prejudicial or discriminatory IRS activity that may have occurred.  Around here, we think anyone convicted of participating in illegal activity should be fired, and banned from future federal employment.  And we’ll say the same thing if it happens during a Republican administration.  (Well actually it IS a Republican administration if you’re talking about getting the money to operate properly.)

            Meanwhile, the national news media whip us around, stirring up hate and discontent.  They might as well—they are good at yellow journalism.  They don’t do the other kind much any more.  So, hate not, pay attention, and doubt mightily the national news pundits.