[Cerek]

Originally Posted by SpiritWarrior Maybe I am missing something but, am I the only one who doesn't think he should even have to discolse what he legally donates off the air? He's a talking-head. As mentioned above, he makes no bones about who he supports and what he supports. The same way Hannity or Beck or Bill O don't. It would be different if he was all for the Democratic party yet donated to the McCain campaign. That would be controversial at least, but still...not illegal. I doubt Fox has such a policy in place - that would mean they had standards. But really, what standards does this particular policy enforce or ensure? That you can scream and preach and broadcast all day about your politics on our news station, but cannot legally make a contribution of $2000 to them from your money on your own personal time. I don't get it...

The only reason I can see for such a policy would be to avoid the appearance of any partiality or conflict of interest. However, as you mentioned earlier, this isn't Matt Lauer or Katie Couric. Olbermann has never pretended to be objective, nor was he supposed to be.

Whether we agree with the policy or not, though, is a moot point. The point is that the policy does exist and Keith decided, for whatever reason, to ignore or violate that policy. He didn't do anything illegal and I really don't think even his critics would be surprised or offended by his donations. The most difficult thing for him, I believe, will be showing the proper amount of contrition to his bosses and then delivering the obligatory public apology. Regardless, this will blow over in a day or two and he'll be back on the air within 1-2 weeks most likely.