Civics Today Citizenship, Economics, & You

"Influence of Mass Media on Government"

Introduction
In this chapter you have read about the many different people, organizations, and institutions that affect our government. Mass media affect people by what they choose to cover and how they choose to cover it. Mass media also affect government officials. Those running for office want the media to cover their campaigns and portray them in a positive light. Our nation’s highest elected official, the president, has a press secretary to brief reporters on the president’s plans and to respond to the media’s questions. In this activity you will take a closer look at the role of a White House press secretary.

Destination Title: PBS NewsHour Extra

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Directions
Start at the PBS NewsHour Extra page.

• Scroll down to read about the role of a White House press secretary.

1			What skills does a press secretary need?
2			What is a gaggle?
3			Why did Fleischer describe his job as a tightrope?
4			What advice did Fleischer give to teens who might want to be a press secretary?
5			Choose a current event. Imagine that you are the president’s press secretary. Prepare a briefing for reporters on the event.