Analysis:
This story provides very little journalism and is primarily a forum of stenography, where viewers are provided a brief summary of the issue and a sound bite from Pat Robertson calling for the assassination for Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez. The story doesnt explore the implications of this assassination call, both in terms of US relations with Venezuela, nor the legality of such a claim.
There are also no other voices heard in this story other than Pat Robertsons. Particularly relevant would be a Venezuelan perspective, which Fox 17 does not provide. There is also no contextual information, particularly the US relationship with Venezuela since Chavez became President.
Story:
WXMI 17 News reader A prominent Christian broadcaster wants the US to assassinate the President of Venezuela. Pat Robertsons comments are causing a big uproar tonight. The White House says he went way too far, but Robertson is sticking with it. On his show the 700 Club he said Hugo Chavez is going to turn Venezuela into a launching pad for Communist infiltration and Muslim extremism.
Pat Robertson We have the ability to take him out and I think the time has come that we exercise that ability. We dont need another $200 billion war to get rid of one strong arm dictator.
News reader Chavez says he doesnt even know who Robertson is. The televangelist ran for President in 1988. The Christian broadcast network says about a million people watch his show everyday.
Total Time: 48 seconds
MediaMouse 