In a compelling exchange on Steve Bannon’s War Room, Peter Navarro and Ric Grenell tackled the thorny issue of media bias, focusing on Comcast’s role in shaping public discourse. Grenell, who contributed a chapter to Navarro’s book, “The New MAGA Deal,” didn’t mince words as he criticized Comcast for managing NBC and MSNBC, which he argued are platforms for dangerous and one-sided narratives.
Grenell began by acknowledging the critical nature of understanding the media landscape, stating, “We have to know the enemy.” He expressed his concerns about the lack of dissenting voices on MSNBC, remarking, “They like everything to completely go their way. No dissenting views.”
Grenell pointed out the stark contrast between the need for diverse opinions and what he perceives as the current state of mainstream media.
He specifically called out Comcast, the parent company of NBC and MSNBC, suggesting that the corporation has a significant responsibility due to its reach and influence. “Comcast owns NBC and MSNBC, and Comcast is all over the country asking people to give them money for cable access,” Grenell said. He emphasized that Comcast must take accountability for the content aired on its networks, stating, “Comcast has to start getting involved. We have to hold Comcast to account for this. This is not good.”
Grenell argued that the monopolistic control over media narratives by corporations like Comcast contributes to a polarized society where people are only exposed to a single perspective. He highlighted the danger of such a media environment, “I’ve been watching Morning Joe regularly. The last thing I want is a world where we just had the mainstream media without dissenting voices.”
Navarro and Grenell shared a common concern about the broader implications of media bias, noting that it extends beyond just Comcast. Navarro pointed out that other media giants like CNN also contribute to the problem. Grenell agreed, reiterating Comcast’s unique position due to its extensive reach. He insisted that consumers must take a proactive role in seeking out diverse news sources. “I think the consumers of news, all of us, have a responsibility to have multiple sources. You can’t just get it from one,” Grenell emphasized.
The conversation also touched on the impact of media bias on political discourse and public perception. Grenell cited how the media’s treatment of dissenting opinions stifles healthy debate and critical thinking. He pointed out, “You can listen for hours and never hear a dissenting view.” This, according to Grenell, creates an echo chamber that is detrimental to democratic values and informed citizenry.
Navarro added to the discussion by highlighting the role alternative media could play in countering the dominant narratives pushed by mainstream outlets. He expressed optimism about the potential for alternative platforms to thrive, particularly under a Trump presidency, which he believes would support media diversity. “One of the things he’d be able to do is boost up the alternatives to the pablum and pap,” Navarro said.
Grenell’s remarks on Comcast expose a critical concern about the monopolistic control of media narratives and the suppression of dissenting voices. By holding corporations like Comcast accountable and encouraging consumers to seek out diverse news sources, Grenell advocates for a more balanced and informed media landscape.
His call to action is clear: media consumers must demand better and more varied information to foster a healthier public discourse.
For more context, watch the full segment featuring Ric Grenell:
