Whacking the media: Trump, Vance, Biden, MSNBC host hit press from all sides
While Republicans have felt for decades they cannot get fair media coverage, many Democrats now similarly feel increasingly dissatisfied with the press.
As if there was any last lingering doubt, everyone now hates the media.
I know that may sound like familiar news. And that we are largely to blame for our plunging credibility, especially in the supercharged atmosphere surrounding Donald Trump and the campaign, and even more so after the assassination attempt.
For decades, of course, Republicans and conservatives have felt they can’t get a fair shake from the press, who many now see as an arm of the other party, but now it’s Democrats and liberals who hold the White House and are increasingly disgusted with the coverage.
New technology enables both sides to circumvent the dreaded MSM and get their message directly to voters through social media and by their own video. That may get amplified by the tube and the web, without the annoyance of reporters asking questions.
Take JD Vance, Trump’s new running mate, who was chosen in part because of his smooth television performances. Asked by Sean Hannity about the terrible things he said about the former president in 2016, including “cynical A-hole” and “America’s Hitler,” Vance owned it and then declared:
“I bought into the media’s lies and distortions. I bought into this idea that somehow he was going to be so different, a terrible threat to democracy. It was a joke.”
The Ohio senator then seamlessly pivoted to: “Joe Biden is the one who’s trying to throw his political opposition in jail. Joe Biden is the one who’s trying to undermine American law and order.”
Also taking shots at Vice President Harris, Vance said leading Democrats “all have gone on TV, on radio and newspapers and said for years that Joe Biden can do the job and he’s doing just fine. Well, now we know they were lying, and we should punish them for lying to our faces about it.”
This reminds me of the time that Trump said that NBC and CNN should have their licenses pulled or other action taken for blowing off his Iowa caucus victory speech. I asked him about this in our Mar-a-Lago interview, but he just dwelled on the unfairness of being denied the spotlight he was owed.
Trump is in a special category because he constantly assailed the national media as the “enemy of the people” and attacked journalists by name, instantly downgrading them to “third-rate reporter” and their organizations to “failing.” On the other hand, the former president views himself as counterpunching against nine years of endless media attacks portraying him as a dictator and authoritarian, Hitler and Mussolini, and a man who would undo the fabric of democracy.
Now let’s switch to the other side.
In an often testy interview with NBC’s Lester Holt in which he defended his mental acuity, the president asked about what Trump said during Biden’s own very bad night:
“Why doesn’t the press talk about all the lies he told? I didn’t hear anything about that.”
“We have,” said Holt. “We have. We reported many of the issues that you had in that debate.”
“No you haven’t.”
“We will provide you with them,” Holt said.
“Oh, God love you,” the president said, sounding exasperated.
Biden naturally likes that story line, which suggests the press is falling down on the job because of a lesser standard applied to Trump.
Some of the president’s allies on the left are also expressing disgust with the fourth estate.
MSNBC host Joy Reid said there is “really a deep concern and lack of confidence in, not us at this table or us at MSNBC, but us as the media writ large.”
Not us at MSNBC! I love that part.
Her beef is that “the media will acquiesce to trying to convince people that the things they’ve been experiencing for the last five, six years didn’t happen.”
She continued: “And people are concerned and expressing concern that we won’t be the guardians of memory and that we will allow Donald Trump, as he is, you know, bathed in the glory and grandeur of his party, to rewrite himself, as both a hero and a victim…And that that will then happen without a guardian saying: ‘Wait, stop!’ and then the media will acquiesce to this rewrite.”
On what planet are the media rolling over for the notion that the last half-dozen years “didn’t happen?”
And in what galaxy are the media quietly going along with the idea that Trump is able to “rewrite” history?
Reid uttered these words on Monday, her first show after the former president came within an inch of being murdered on live television.
No sign of compassion there, just the righteous anger of whacking the media.
<img src="https://www.mtlblog.com/media-library/a-man-poses-with-his-back-to-the-camera-in-tokyo-japan-right-aerial-view-over-the-columbus-monument-at-night-in-barcelona-sp.jpg?id=55347610&width=1245&height=700&coordinates=2%2C0%2C3%2C0"/><br/><br/><p>If you're already dreaming of your next vacation and planning travel for 2025, listen up! A new <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/canada-travel-advisory-december-2024">list of at-risk destinations</a> is highlighting places that are being harmed by over-tourism, and some of these tourist hotspots might already be on your bucket list. </p><p>Every year, the travel experts at Fodor's release <a href="https://www.fodors.com/news/news/fodors-no-list-2025" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">a "No List,"</a> which shines a light on destinations suffering from untenable popularity. These spots are breathtakingly beautiful and culturally significant—but the very things that make them so appealing are also putting them at risk. </p><p>According to Fodor's No List, a big part of the problem is that governments often focus on making these places more appealing to tourists, sometimes at the expense of local communities. This can lead to skyrocketing costs of living for residents, environmental damage, and even the destruction of the culture and landscapes that made the destination unique in the first place. </p><p>It's worth noting that Fodor's doesn't advocate for boycotting these destinations altogether, as this can hurt local economies and often doesn't actually address the root issues. Instead, the No List is meant to encourage travellers to think twice about their choices and consider the impact of their trips before taking them. </p><p>With that in mind, here's a closer look at the 15 destinations that made <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/places-you-should-not-visit-2024" target="_self">Fodor's No List</a> for 2025, why they're so popular, and why you should consider skipping them.</p><h3>Bali, Indonesia</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DBu9eYySBlW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DBu9eYySBlW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Why it's popular: Bali is a tropical paradise known for its lush rice paddies, golden beaches, and vibrant cultural traditions, making it a dream destination for millions of travellers every year.<br/></p><p>Why you should pass: Rapid development and skyrocketing tourism have overwhelmed Bali's natural and cultural heritage, according to the experts who spoke to Fodor's. Beaches are buried in trash, water systems are strained, and waste management is struggling to keep up. Experts warn that without major changes, the island's fragile ecosystems and traditions could disappear entirely.</p><h3>Lisbon, Portugal</h3><br><p>Why it's popular: With its charming cobblestone streets, incredible food, and historic landmarks, it's hardly surprising that Lisbon attracts millions of tourists every year.</p><p>Why you should pass: The housing crisis has hit locals hard—60% of homes are now vacation rentals, and the cost of living has skyrocketed as a result of over-tourism. The city has lost nearly a third of its population in the last decade due to the impact.</p><h3>Mallorca, Spain</h3><br/><p>Why it's popular: This Balearic Island is an affordable Mediterranean paradise known for its sandy beaches, warm weather, and lively party scene.<br/></p><p>Why you should pass: Local people have been protesting against the significant amount of tourists allowed to visit every year, citing overcrowded beaches and rising living costs. The situation has become so tense locals have been seen protesting with signs aimed at tourists reading "your luxury, our misery."</p><h3>Venice, Italy</h3><br><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DDkFyW1i4Nv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DDkFyW1i4Nv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Why it's popular: Known as the city of romance, Venice's canals, gondolas, and historic beauty make it one of Europe's most famous (and popular) destinations.<br/></p><p>Why you should pass: Despite a new entry fee for day-trippers, locals are still protesting the overwhelming crowds and environmental strain caused by over-tourism, particularly from cruises.</p><h3>The Canary Islands, Spain</h3><br><p>Why it's popular: These volcanic islands boast year-round sunshine, unique landscapes, and an escape from mainland hustle.</p><p>Why you should pass: Tourism accounts for 35% of the local GDP, but residents feel the pressure of overcrowded beaches and unaffordable living costs. Protests reflect growing frustration with unsustainable tourism practices.</p><h3>Barcelona, Spain</h3><br/><p>Why it's popular: Barcelona is an undeniably popular tourist hotspot, famous—particularly across Europe— for its stunning Gaudí architecture, city beaches, and vibrant nightlife.</p><p>Why you should pass: With over 10,000 vacation rentals exponentially driving up housing costs, locals have had enough. Protests against overtourism have become common, and the city's infrastructure is buckling under the pressure. Officials plan to revoke short-term rental licenses, but for some it's too little, too late.</p><h3>Koh Samui, Thailand</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C4IqO-EMfxD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C4IqO-EMfxD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Why it's popular: This lush island in the Gulf of Thailand is famous for its luxury resorts, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. It's also where numerous famous movies and TV shows have been filmed, including the new season of <em>The White Lotus</em>, set to air in 2025.</p><p>Why you should pass: Koh Samui is struggling with waste management issues, unregulated development, and environmental degradation. With 200,000 tons of trash piling up and fragile ecosystems at risk, experts worry that a surge in <em>The White Lotus</em>-inspired visitors could push the island's resources past their breaking point.</p><h3>Mount Everest, Nepal</h3><br/><p>Why it's popular: Mount Everest, the world's tallest peak, is unsurprisngly a bucket-list destination for millions of travellers across the globe. </p><p>Why you should pass: Overcrowding and waste are taking a serious toll on Everest, according to the experts who spoke to Fodor's. With record numbers of climbers and trekkers, the mountain is buried under trash and human waste. The safety of local guides is also a growing concern, as inexperienced tourists push limits without proper skills.</p><h3>Agrigento, Sicily, Italy</h3><br/><p>Why it's popular: Agrigento is home to the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient Greek ruins surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. As Italy's 2025 Capital of Culture, it's set to draw even more visitors next year.</p><p>Why you should pass: The city is grappling with a severe water crisis worsened by climate change and aging infrastructure. Residents face water rationing, and hotels are struggling to meet basic needs like running water. Fodor's No List warns that increased tourism could further strain the fragile system and threaten what makes it so special to begin with.</p><h3>British Virgin Islands</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCzGjFLxFGX/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCzGjFLxFGX/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Why it's popular: With stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class sailing, the British Virgin Islands are a dream destination for luxury travellers all over the world.</p><p>Why you should pass: The heavy focus on cruise tourism is straining local resources but leaving little economic benefit for residents as cruise passengers are reluctant to spend off-board. Meanwhile, inadequate infrastructure and environmental issues, including coral reef damage and slow recovery from past hurricanes, highlight the islands' struggle to balance tourism with sustainability.</p><h3>Kerala, India</h3><br/><p>Why it's popular: Known as "God's Own Country," it's not hard to see why Kerala's palm-lined beaches, serene backwaters, and lush greenery attract so many tourists.</p><p>Why you should pass: Unregulated tourism and overdevelopment have led to landslides, pollution, and shrinking natural landmarks. Houseboat tourism, once eco-friendly, now contributes to severe environmental damage, threatening aquatic life and local livelihoods. The region's increasing disaster risks continue to cause concern among experts and locals alike.</p><h3>Oaxaca, Mexico</h3><br/><p>Why it's popular: Oaxaca is well known for its vibrant Indigenous culture, mezcal distilleries, and world-famous festivals like Día de Muertos and Guelaguetza, set against a backdrop of colonial architecture and natural beauty.</p><p>Why you should pass: Over-tourism is displacing residents and commercializing Oaxaca's cultural heritage. Skyrocketing rents and overrun public services, like water access, are straining local communities. Tourists also often unknowingly disrupt sacred traditions, creating further tension among locals.</p><h3>Kyoto and Tokyo, Japan</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C5-pAQMIA-h/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C5-pAQMIA-h/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Why it's popular: Tokyo has been dazzling visitors for decades with its futuristic skyline, rich culture, and world-class cuisine, while Kyoto offers serene temples, historic streets, and traditional geisha districts. Together, they're iconic destinations for any tourists visiting Japan.</p><p>Why you should pass: Overcrowding has led to "tourism pollution," disrupting local life and inflating costs for residents. Kyoto's landmarks, like Fushimi Inari and Nishiki Market, are so packed experts say it's becoming harder to appreciate their charm. Meanwhile, Tokyo faces surging hotel prices and a loss of authentic local experiences due to tourism-focused businesses.</p><p>Over-tourism in these cities has become so extreme that the Japanese tourism board has worked with Japan Airlines to <a href="https://www.narcity.com/canadians-travelling-to-japan-free-flights" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">offer free internal flights to travellers</a> (including those from Canada) to encourage them to explore regions outside of hotspots like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.</p><h3>Scotland North Coast 500</h3><br/><p>Why it's popular: This stunning 500-mile loop through Scotland's North Highlands features rugged coastlines, ancient castles, tranquil lochs, and charming villages.</p><p>Why you should pass: The NC500's popularity has led to congested roads, inadequate camping facilities, and environmental damage, with trash and human waste now littering the route. Rising living costs are also displacing locals, and small communities along the route are struggling to handle the influx of visitors.</p></br></br></br><p><em>Before you get going, check out our <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/responsible-travel-guidelines" target="_blank">Responsible Travel Guide</a> so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.</em></p>
<p><img width="1000" height="600" src="https://www.naijanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image-46-1000x600.webp" class="attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image" alt="South Africa's Kaizer Chiefs Footballer, Luke Fleurs Shot Dead In Johannesburg" decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" srcset="https://www.naijanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image-46-1000x600.webp 1000w, https://www.naijanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image-46-590x354.webp 590w, https://www.naijanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image-46-400x240.webp 400w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></p>
<h2>A South African <a href="https://www.naijanews.com/topic/footballer">footballer</a>, Luke Fleurs, was tragically shot dead by robbers in Johannesburg.</h2>
<p>According to police, Luke Fleurs, a 24-year-old defender for the popular Kaizer Chiefs team in Johannesburg, was shot and killed Wednesday night while refuelling his car at a gas station in a northwestern suburb of the city.</p>
<p>Fleurs was reportedly waiting to refuel his Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI at a petrol station when two armed men driving a white BMW approached him, according to police statements.</p>
<p>"<em>The suspects pointed him with a firearm and took him out of his vehicle, then shot him once on the upper body. One suspect drove off with the victim's car, followed by his accomplice</em>," said police spokesman Masondo Mavela.</p>
<p>He was rushed to a hospital, but unfortunately, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.</p>
<p>The authorities have launched an investigation into the murder and car hijacking, and a search for the suspects is underway, with no arrests reported yet.</p>
<p>Kaizer Chiefs is among South Africa's leading teams, boasting a remarkable 53 domestic trophies won, a record in the country's football history.</p>
<p>His team posted on social media, "<em>It is with a great deal of sadness that we announce that Kaizer Chiefs player Luke Fleurs tragically lost his life last night during a hijacking incident in Johannesburg.</em></p>
<p><em>"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time</em>."</p>
<p>Sports Minister Zizi Kodwa expressed his condolences for Luke Fleurs on social media, lamenting another life lost to violent crime and extending sympathies to Fleurs' family, the Kaizer Chiefs team, and the broader South African football community.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.naijanews.com/2024/04/04/south-africas-kaizer-chiefs-footballer-luke-fleurs-shot-dead-in-johannesburg/">South Africa’s Kaizer Chiefs Footballer, Luke Fleurs Shot Dead In Johannesburg</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.naijanews.com">Naija News</a>.</p>
