The media has an unrivaled impact on public opinion, and eventually public leaders’ careers in today’s fast-paced digital world. Maintaining accountability and transparency requires the media to have a watchdog role, it may also have quick and frequently harsh repercussions. This paradox is glaringly illustrated by the examples of Andrew Cuomo, and Chris Cuomo.
The resignation of New York’s Governor Andrew Cuomo is a shining example of how even very powerful people can be overthrown by continuous media attention. He was forced to resign due to the public uproar caused by the media’s relentless coverage of the sexual harassment allegations brought against him by multiple women. Remarkably, since he left office on August 24, 2021, a lot of these criticisms seem to have vanished from the public eye. Holding politicians accountable for their actions is crucial, but it’s impossible to ignore the question of whether or not due process was able to occur because of the media’s relentless coverage.
The dismissal of Chris Cuomo from CNN serves as another example of the media’s extensive influence. As a journalist, Chris was put under attack when it came out that he had advised his brother Andrew during his scandal. His termination which followed his short suspension in December 2021 was caused by the media’s strong spotlight on this conflict of interest. As important as journalistic ethics is, there are concerns about justice and proportionality given how quickly and violently the media turned on one of its own. Was the public punishment inflicted too severe, or was it a necessary measure to preserve public confidence in journalism?
In conclusion, the media’s power in making people lose their jobs is both a testament to its influence and a cause for introspection. While the media serves an essential function in exposing wrongdoing and maintaining transparency, its capacity to swiftly and dramatically alter the course of careers should give us pause. Public figures must navigate this landscape with caution, understanding that the media’s gaze can be both illuminating and unforgiving. As consumers of media, we too must be mindful of the narratives we endorse and the consequences they entail.
