Episode 36: Tapper Goes Too Far

In this extended episode of Polilogue, we dive deep into Jake Tapper’s interview with Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel. According to Twitter and other immediate media hot takes, Tapper was on fire. He demanded that Sheriff Israel explain to him and the audience how the Parkland shooter slipped through the cracks. Much of the praise online noted Tapper’s tough and hostile interview approach. But we found that Tapper’s interview was also extremely unfair and prosecutorial. We explore this disappointment and break down the missteps of Jake Tapper as a journalist and Sheriff Joe Israel as a law enforcement leader.

We also explore the gun control conversation from multiple angles— including NRA lobbyist Dana Loesch and the student activists. We find the dialogue around gun reform may lead to action as young people lead the conversation. 

IntroductionHighlight/lowlightTapper’s big interviewRepublicans explore measuresDemocrats demand actionActivists lead conversation Short note about Mueller RankingsClosing

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The Sunday political shows discussed this week:  

This WeekFace the NationMeet the Press State of the Union