Rand Paul wants out of his previously scheduled appearance on NBC's Meet The Press tomorrow, claiming that he's had a rough week. The Kentucky GOP is urging RP to keep a low profile. I say to the media: it is your responsibility not to let him get away with it.
The Free Press has always been seen as performing a vital public service: informing the electorate on issues of public importance. The role of the press is particularly important when the powers-that-be, or the powers-that-would be, would prefer that the press not cover certain issues or certain happenings. Famous historical examples include the Trial of John Peter Zenger, the Pentagon Papers case, Watergate, and the Teapot Dome Scandal.
Sadly, in recent years, the press has generally become much more docile, even to the point of serving as an organ for government propaganda.
I say: Enough! It's time for a resurgent Free Press. Rand Paul presents just such an opportunity. NBC should go ahead with its previous schedule. It should have the moderator of the program read a list of questions to an empty chair if Rand Paul elects not to show up. Space each question with 30 or 60 seconds of silence. Ask the hard questions about Rand Paul's previous statements and his opinions about such things as repeal of Medicare, privatization of National Parks and federal lands, the public school system, the Food and Drug Administration, etc., etc. Read the empty chair quotes of Rand Paul and of his father and ask the chair for comment.
NBC holds valuable licenses to use the public airwaves. In return, it is supposed to act as a public trustee. Perform the fiduciary role, and ask the tough questions. Show the public what this fellow is really about, and provide him with the opportunity to answer the questions.
I think that it could be done in such a way as to be both educational and dramatic.