Your opinion?

So true. I covered politics for many years and somehow kept my sources guessing until the day I left. I really think if I had told them my opinions, I wouldn't have gotten some of my stories. If you just flat out tell them "I appreciate you asking, but I'm a reporter and to report objectively I cannot voice my opinions on this matter."

 

The line I use is "They pay me not to have an opinion." Usually the source then remembers how important it is for journalists to maintain at least the appearance of being unbiased.

 

Wow that's a good one! I'll have to remember that.

 

strong opinions and a sophisticated working knowledge of a topic are often crucial in developing trusting relationships with sources

the more your source feels a kinship to you -- based on your deep understanding of the topic you're discussing with him -- the more open he'll be on the record and off

 

Expecially if it is Bowden's daughter. As smooth as a baby's bottom.
That picture is so NOT SAFE FOR WORK I won't even post the link.

 

I have two usual responses:

1. I don't care.

2. No, really, I don't care. This is just a job, you know?