So I have a friend who is a Real, Live MSM Journalist. He gets to be part of the White House Gaggle, and is also a long time blog reader. He and I have had many conversations about the press, the era of Bush, and blogs, and one thing we agree upon is that there should be more of a two way conversation between bloggers/citizen journalists and the paid members of the mainstream press. In that spirit, here is the first of what I hope be to be series of conversations between bloggers and journalists. Obviously, he speaks for himself and I don’t agree with everything he says. Some of the questions refer to previous conversations we’ve had privately. Mr. Knox has agreed to come by and answer questions in the comments, give him a little time to respond as he’s a busy guy. The AFP journalists will soon have their own blog, so let’s all give him a chance to practice with the rabid lambs.

Olivier Knox: At the outset, I should emphasize that I only speak for myself, not for my colleagues. Please, if I don’t answer something, don’t assume I’m ducking the question. Just follow up. I will make a good faith effort to answer any serious question sent to Olivier.KNOX@afp.com Just put “Media Question” in the subject line.

Chicago Dyke: You say that I and other bloggers are “dead wrong” in how we critique and understand what MSM access (to politicians and newsmakers) is all about. Tell readers more about this. How does access work? Does the desire for regular or increased access ever compromise the product (that is, what is written about those to whom you’ve acheived access)?

Knox:”Dead wrong” was the frustration talking. I think that you guys sometimes use “access” and “chumminess” and “social contact with sources” interchangeably, indiscriminately.  Read more