Senate Republican have changed "rules" of presidential nominations. They're blocking them for any and every reason. The long-held tradition is that nominees don't speak to the media. In light of the unrelenting GOP attacks, Think Progress Editor Faiz Shakir writes in the Washington Post that it's time to adjust the media strategy. And, that should start with Richard Cordray. He should speak out -- before the GOP defines him:
The White House should take the muzzle off its nominees. Let them talk to the press over and over again to tout their accomplishments. Allow them to publicly defend their records, as they are best and uniquely qualified to do.
By silencing a nominee, the administration gives its critics the opportunity to spout unfounded concerns about the nominee’s fitness to serve. The conversation quickly descends from one about the individual’s merit to meritless attacks on his or her character or qualifications.
The White House must be willing to cede a degree of control over its day-to-day messaging in favor of the greater victory of getting its nominees passed and its policies enacted. The administration shouldn’t be turning down all press requests, but should instead be picking and choosing the venues that can give the nominee a fair and reasonable hearing.
After withdrawing his nomination earlier this year, Nobel Laureate Diamond was finally free to speak out. He took to the pages of the New York Times and appeared on MSNBC’s “The Rachel Maddow Show” to bemoan the many misconceptions that had been advanced by Republicans about his record. It was a cogent and powerful response to his detractors. But it came too late.
It’s time for a no-regrets approach. Richard Cordray shouldn’t be quarantined from the media while Republicans go on the attack. This time, let the nominee speak.
