In an exclusive interview with MSN, George Stephanopoulos, a veteran journalist and political commentator, shares his insights on a range of topics, including the current state of American politics, the evolving role of the media, and the challenges facing journalism in the digital age. As a former White House Communications Director and host of ABC’s This Week and Good Morning America, Stephanopoulos brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table.
A Career in Politics and Media
MSN: George, you’ve had a remarkable career in both politics and journalism. How did your journey begin, and what inspired you to transition from politics to media?
George Stephanopoulos: My journey began in politics, actually. I was always fascinated by public service and the impact that good policy could have on people’s lives. I studied political science at Columbia and later became involved in various campaigns, including working for Michael Dukakis and eventually Bill Clinton. My role as the White House Communications Director during the Clinton administration was incredibly intense but also very rewarding.
The transition to media came somewhat naturally. After leaving the White House, I wanted to continue engaging with the public on important issues. I had the opportunity to contribute to ABC News, and it felt like a perfect fit. Journalism allows me to explore the same passions—public policy, governance, and social issues—while also providing a platform to hold power accountable and inform the public.
The Current Political Landscape in America
MSN: What is your take on the current political landscape in America? Are we more polarized than ever, or is this just a phase in our political evolution?
Stephanopoulos: There’s no doubt that we are in a highly polarized era. Some might say this is the most divided we’ve been since the Civil War, and they wouldn’t be entirely wrong. The rise of social media, partisan news outlets, and echo chambers has exacerbated divisions. However, I also believe that there have always been periods of intense political polarization in American history. What’s different now is the speed and volume of information—and misinformation—people are exposed to.
While I hope it’s just a phase, I think it requires deliberate action to bridge these divides. We need to focus on constructive dialogue, bipartisanship, and creating spaces where people can engage with different perspectives without immediately becoming adversarial.
Media’s Role in Shaping Public Opinion
MSN: The media is often accused of contributing to polarization. As someone who has been on both sides of the aisle—as a political operative and a journalist—what is your take on this accusation?
Stephanopoulos: It’s a fair criticism, to some extent. Media outlets have become more segmented, catering to specific audiences and, at times, reinforcing their biases. This is largely driven by the business model that relies on ratings, clicks, and advertising revenue. Sensationalism, unfortunately, sells better than nuanced, balanced reporting. That said, I believe most journalists are committed to finding the truth and informing the public, even if their platforms sometimes nudge them toward more sensational stories.
We need to find a balance. Responsible journalism requires a commitment to fairness and accuracy, but it also means understanding the audience’s expectations. It’s a fine line, and we must tread it carefully.
The Impact of Digital Media and Social Networks
MSN: Digital media and social networks have transformed journalism. How do you see this evolution affecting the future of journalism?
Stephanopoulos: The digital revolution has been both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, it has democratized information, giving a voice to those who previously couldn’t reach a wide audience. On the other, it has made it easier to spread misinformation and fake news. The speed of news dissemination today is staggering, but that speed can sometimes come at the cost of accuracy.
The future of journalism will likely involve finding a way to balance the immediacy that digital platforms offer with the integrity and thoroughness that traditional journalism requires. Fact-checking, transparency, and accountability will be more important than ever. Journalists will need to adapt to new technologies while holding fast to the core principles of the profession.
Navigating Challenges and Ethical Dilemmas in Journalism
MSN: Journalists often face ethical dilemmas. What has been the most challenging ethical decision you’ve faced, and how did you handle it?
Stephanopoulos: One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced was during the Clinton administration when we had to navigate the fine line between protecting the President and being transparent with the public. In journalism, a similar line exists between reporting the news and respecting the privacy and dignity of individuals. For instance, when covering sensitive topics like personal scandals or national security, there’s always a dilemma about how much to report and what to hold back.
The key is always to ask, “What serves the public interest?” If a story is crucial for the public to understand the functioning of their government or institutions, then it needs to be reported. But if it’s merely for sensationalism without substantial public value, then restraint is often the better course.
The Rise of Opinion Journalism
MSN: We’re seeing a rise in opinion journalism. What are your thoughts on this trend, and how does it impact traditional reporting?
Stephanopoulos: Opinion journalism is definitely on the rise, and it has its place. Opinions can provide valuable context, analysis, and perspective that straight reporting might lack. However, it becomes problematic when opinion is mistaken for fact. A news consumer must understand the difference between a news report and an editorial or opinion piece.
There’s also the risk that opinion journalism might overshadow hard news, making it difficult for the audience to differentiate between fact-based reporting and commentary. That’s why it’s essential for news organizations to clearly label and separate news from opinion. Both have their roles, but clarity is crucial.
Lessons from the White House Years
MSN: Reflecting on your time in the White House, what key lessons did you learn that have stayed with you throughout your career?
Stephanopoulos: One of the most valuable lessons I learned in the White House is the importance of clear and honest communication. When you’re in a position where your words have the power to shape policy and influence public opinion, you must be precise and transparent. Any ambiguity can lead to misinterpretation, and misinterpretation can have real-world consequences.
Another lesson is resilience. In politics, as in journalism, there will always be setbacks, criticism, and moments when things don’t go as planned. The key is to stay focused on the bigger picture, adapt to new realities, and keep moving forward.
The Importance of Media Literacy
MSN: Given the current media landscape, what advice would you give to the public regarding media consumption?
Stephanopoulos: Media literacy is more important than ever. People need to be critical consumers of news. This means cross-referencing information from multiple reputable sources, understanding the difference between news and opinion, and being aware of potential biases. The sheer volume of information available today can be overwhelming, but we must take the time to verify and question what we read or hear.
I’d also encourage people to consume a diverse range of news sources. If you only read or watch outlets that confirm your existing beliefs, you’re missing out on a fuller understanding of the issues. Exposing yourself to different perspectives is essential for a healthy democracy.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Journalism
MSN: What does the future hold for journalism? Are you optimistic about the path ahead?
Stephanopoulos: I am cautiously optimistic. Journalism is facing tremendous challenges—economic pressures, competition from non-traditional sources, and declining public trust. But there is also a hunger for credible, fact-based news. We’re seeing a renewed interest in investigative journalism and long-form storytelling, which is encouraging.
I believe the future of journalism will hinge on our ability to adapt to new technologies while remaining steadfast in our commitment to the core principles of truth, fairness, and accountability. It’s not going to be easy, but I’m confident that journalists will rise to the challenge.
Conclusion: A Call for Responsible Journalism
As our conversation with George Stephanopoulos draws to a close, it is clear that the future of journalism, much like the future of democracy, depends on the willingness of individuals—both journalists and citizens—to engage critically, seek the truth, and uphold the values that sustain a free and open society. In a world of rapid change and deepening divisions, his insights serve as a reminder of the crucial role that responsible journalism plays in bridging gaps and fostering informed dialogue.