MM on Syndicated Columnists

Hey, MM can do an objective study! Who knew?

Their conclusions are misleading, though I have to give them credit for posting the data that shows where they are wrong.

By sheer circulation, conservatives lead progressive columnists and that is the basis for their contention of "conservative dominance". However, the last chart showing commentators by average newspaper circulation clearly shows a majority of large papers lean more liberal.

Furthermore, I would argue that the larger newspapers, ie the NY Times, is far more influential than the 20 small or medium papers carrying conservatives that when combined would equal their circulation.

Also, here's something to consider: Newspapers are subscription based, unlike the airwaves, people have to go out and buy papers. Therefore, isn't it likely that the papers will carry the columnists that they believe will appeal to their subscriber base and locale?

P.S. - I hope Suzie sits down before she reads this as I'm not often praising MM.