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The Media Never Falls Too Far From The White House

By Josh VanQuaethem

Media coverage of Major Malik Nidal Hasan’s recent murderous rampage at Fort Hood, in which he killed 13 people and wounded 29 others, has been cautious in placing blame on his Muslim faith. Though this happened on American soil, coverage of this event will, no doubt, have international implications. For months now the president has tried to send diplomatic signals to the Muslim world that we're not an enemy to their faith. And, so far, the media have played their role in helping to send this message.

The president has stated that we’re not a nation of a particular faith, just a nation guided by "ideals” and “values.” He has also stated “We're a nation that guarantees the freedom to worship as one chooses. And instead of claiming God for our side... [we] always pray to be on the side of God.” Thus signaling we are not a threat to the Muslim faith.

Therefore, if coverage of this atrocity places blame on Maj. Hasan's faith, Obama’s message would quickly be lost. So, it should be no surprise when the media implies that Hasan snapped because of post traumatic stress disorder rather than because of his faith — even though there is growing evidence suggesting the latter.