If we were to gain a well-deserved reputation for dishonesty then our cause would be crippled. Profoundly hostile to our cause. This is why it is sometimes better to talk to unknown left-wing journalists because there is so little commonality there that they have no choice other than to quote you accurately. You have hit the key question. It is a matter of usage between journalists and their subjects.
Journalists use their subjects.
Subjects use journalists. Knowing this reality in advance prevents misunderstandings. Some militiamen choose not to play such a game. Others like to gamble and hope to win at the long odds. I look at it as a game, like lawsuits and war, which must be played or else you lose by default.