After writing our paper on the ethics of interviewing, I believe that I am slightly more attuned to the ways in which journalists approach and question people. Jason Mattera, has recently made headlines with his aggressive and upfront methods of interviewing public officials- in one incident he frankly asked a congressman, "why are you such a disgrace?" In the video below, he's seen questioning Vice President Joe Biden about using a "rape reference" to push President Obama's employment initiative. By asking a series of very direct questions, Mattera manages to aggravate Biden into barking, "don't screw with me".
How aggressive is too aggressive when it comes to asking those tough questions? I don't think that Mattera did anything wrong by asking Biden to confirm or deny his statements. Though Mattera was assertive, he was also calm at the same time. I don't believe that he was ill-mannered in his behavior, unless asking a major politician and public leader uncomfortable (but necessary) questions is considered rude.
What do you guys think? Did Jason Mattera cross a line when questioning Joe Biden? Was his behavior inappropriate or unethical?
I like aggressive questioning. Sometimes American reporters are much too deferential in my opinion.
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