Real press: Helen Thomas let no office stop her questioning

You probably have heard about her, but might not really understand just what Helen Thomas represented to those who chose the job of "reporter" for their life's work.

Mrs. Thomas was feisty, direct and deliberate. She did not always speak without controversy, but she made sure that when she was asking the questions, they got asked.

And it did not matter who was at the podium.

One of the reasons so many of us want to see a strong journalism profession is because of people like Helen Thomas and others who were not and are not afraid to ask the tough questions.

The free press is a rein on governments and keeps those in power honest. And that is critical -- especially now when there is so much to wonder if they are being honest about.

There has been some question about whether the press is unbiased -- and in some cases there is reason for that doubt.

But Mrs. Thomas was an example of what an asset a reporter can be when he or she does his or her job properly.

Published in Editorials on July 22, 2013 10:59 AM