Yesterday, with fanfare including a report on CBS’s “The Early Show,” the White House released its annual Christmas film (streaming Real Video) starring Barney, the president’s Scottish terrier. This year, the plot revolves around a mystery: Barney is supposed to track down Miss Beazley, the new White House puppy.
So what does this have to do with the press? More than you might think.
About three minutes into the film, we get a scene set in the White House briefing room:
McClellan at briefing room podium: And with that, I will be happy to go to your questions.
Barney seated between two reporters: Yip! Yip!
McClellan: Barney? I’m trying to have a press briefing up here, what’s your question?
Barney: Growls.
McClellan: Miss Beazley? I don’t know where Miss Beazley is. Miss Beazley is your responsibility. Next question?
Cut to screen saying “Barney Television: Special Report.”
Announcer: We interrupt our regularly scheduled program for the following special report.
Reporter (Bill Plante of CBS, standing in front of White House): A major development today at the White House. Barney has apparently lost Miss Beazley, the new puppy.
Shot of Barney watching TV.
Announcer: Barney refused to confirm this report, saying only that when he has something to announce, he will announce it.
Barney: Barks. Pulls plug on TV.
A yappy, growling press corps? Scandal-obsessed reporters preening for the cameras? A White House resident resentful of the media? Sounds a bit like what some senior administration staffers seem to think of the press. We don’t need an elf to tell us that someone besides a little Scottish terrier may have had something to do with this Christmas gift.
Bryan Keefer was CJR Daily’s deputy managing editor.