Sometimes, in a media interview, it doesn't matter what you say because the story is already written.   And sometimes what you say just isn't as interesting as exaggeration. Loyal readers, this is sad but true.  And it gives the journalism field a bad name.  It also dupes you, the reader.

Take for example my latest interview with the Chicago Tribune's Steve Franklin on commercial driver's license fraud issues.

It was clear to me from the beginning of my interview with Steve, that the purpose of this story was to ignore the facts and pit U.S. DOT, FMCSA and the state DMVs against one another in a finger-pointing match.  AAMVA and the state DMVs do not play that game. 

But what is more disturbing is the author decided to sensationalize the story, paraphrasing my comments in the interview and ignoring the clarification of my statements.

As a public relations professional, it is my job is to help the reporter "get it right."  By immediately following up with the reporter after our interview I believe I did just that.  But based upon the quotes the reporter attributed to me, he was clearly uninterested in "getting it right."

Take a look at my clarification below emailed to the reporter on December 28: four days before the story ran and just after our phone interview.

Steve,

This is the best data we have.
Also, just to clarify what I said to you earlier,

 "State motor vehicle agencies have a good working relationship with the FMCSA.  And even with the host of other federal initiatives resting on the shoulders of the states, like hazmat implementation per the patriot act, MCSIA, and CDLIS modernization per the highway reauthorization act, states take the issue of fraud quite seriously."

"Since states have been entrusted with a number of federal highway safety and homeland security initiatives,  including investigating 'suspect' cases of fraud, they have the daily challenge of prioritizing all facets of DMV business in a coordinated manner that saves the most lives."

Jason King

--------------------------
Sent from my BlackBerry Wireless Handheld

Now, take a look at what actually ran in the Chicago Tribune.


A matter of priority

Jason King, a spokesman for the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, which represents state authorities across the U.S., said states do work with the federal agency to root out unqualified drivers.

But "among the many things on a state's list of priorities, going after suspect fraudulent licenses may not be No. 1," King said.

Now, did I utter the words above attributed to me?  Not exactly.  But I probably said some variation.  And to make things clear for the story, and ultimately, for you, the reader, I followed up with the clarification.  The reporter just chose to ignore my clarification.

So, to you my fair readers, I wish you the best as you read news and seek the truth.  Just remember, when you want to get the facts, go straight to the source.

I thought the job of the reporter was to "report" news, not "make" news?

Until next time, stay safe behind the wheel.

Jason D. King
VP, Public Relations & Info. Serv.
AAMVA
jking@aamva.org

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