Almost everyone would agree that Arizona Speaker of the House David Gowan’s decision to force the press to reapply for credentials only after an invasive background check was strictly retaliatory and anti-democratic. As indefensible as Gowan’s edict is, it did shed light on the fear felt by elected officials since the shooting of former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords and the tragic murders of innocents.
Nowhere was that fear more evident than on the floor of the House on Thursday. Representatives came to the debate with genuine fears based on real-life experiences. While they offer decidedly different solutions, they arrived at them with good intentions.
Gowan’s intentions were anything but good. An entire week lapsed after the House gallery was closed due to protestors on March 28. When he finally did act, he came up with a policy that seemed to target – no pun intended – specific reporters. Some of whom have worked at the Capitol for eons. The only threat they pose is uncovering the truth of Gowan’s misuse of taxpayer dollars.
Had Gowan shown concern for member’s safety prior to now, he wouldn’t have made himself and his Caucus’ members targets for the press and pro-gun control Democrats. But he didn’t. Instead, he was able to penalize the press and appease a handful of reactionary and paranoid rent-a-cop type members who see a Jihadist behind every palm tree.
The truth is that Gowan is a failed leader who ignored their safety all session long. Because some lawmakers have felt vulnerable all session long, due to menacing and seemingly obsessed constituents Gowan’s sudden interest in their safety is even more suspect. If Gowan was really concerned about safety, guards would be in the gallery – not reporters.
While the press was wronged by Gowan, their hypocrisy knows no bounds. The reporters from the Arizona Republic, Capitol Times, and other mainstream media outlets complained about lawmakers wanting protection, but they certainly balked this year when an effort was made to remove their protectionist laws.
Unfortunately because the issue of Gowan’s gaffe involves politicians and the press it can’t be anything but overblown and unproductive. That is too bad; a serious conversation about real fears is needed – and now.