They liked him, Gordon says, because he came across as someone who stood up for his beliefs and didn't waffle on any subject. And that people would trust you if you are strong and believable, almost regardless of the specific views you held. I found that very interesting. What she finds equally interesting, and depressing, is how the media and role of citizens has changed. The media has to make money to survive and is convinced people aren't interested in serious information.
People turn off.
It is a sad situation. And the lack of trust in government seems to infiltrate reporters' work as well. For instance, she points out in a recent study of newspaper stories about urban affairs, mayors were cited as authorities only two percent of the time. She also cites other examples where newspapers have pulled reporters out of city hall, in essence sacrificing coverage that explains what goes on in city government. Instead these reporters only cover scandals and problems.