How in the world is the arrest of OJ Simpson breaking news? This story deserves nothing more than a mention at the top or bottom of the hour. I have become thoroughly disgusted with the cable TV news media. I feel like I am watching Entertainment Tonight or Access Hollywood with some news thrown in. How come the national debt passing the 9 trillion dollar mark wasn't breaking news? Some on these news channels say they are looking out for us, but it seems they are looking out for their ratings. This has become a problem with all news media; it has become all about viewers, listeners, and readers. It is no longer about reporting the news, but presenting it in a way that keeps people tuned in.

The news media defends their celebrity coverage by saying we want to watch it. This only proves the fact that ratings are more important than covering actual news. I don't have a problem with them reporting it, but virtually all of these celebrity stories are unworthy of the endless coverage, the expert opinion, and the in-depth analysis. Our country is full of stories that need this type of coverage, stories that will impact the future of our nation. These are the stories that the news media claims people won't watch. Well you know what, get some guts and find a way to present it so we will tune in. This trend has become so etched in stone they are all afraid to try.

Even more disturbing is that when we are not being bombarded with celebrity garbage, we are being torn apart through polarization. The celebrity coverage does nothing to help our nation, but the polarization tactics do plenty to harm it. I have never seen any news media present coverage in a way that helps bring our nation together. Oh, they pretend by interviewing two people on opposite sides of an issue, but the few minutes of time they are given leaves no time for finding common ground. Many times it turns into an argument, complete with shouting, which is probably what the news media hopes for anyway. Most of what I see the news media do, especially the cable TV news media, is add to the anger and hatred that leaves our society further divided.

Many talk of the danger of so much of our news media being owned by large corporations. I agree there is a danger, which is now coming into clear view. But there is also an upside. The fact that these large corporations own so much media in general allows them to maybe consider putting America before profits. If your making plenty on all your other channels, I can't see why one channel couldn't be run with no profit. I know these large corporations will never put America first. Until they do I don't want to hear about the most trusted name in news, fair and balanced, or any catchy slogan they might come up with. Just tell us what you are, a ratings based news channel.