Consider the source?

Let's face it, when most of you first heard the John Edwards scandal was being reported by the National Enquirer, you probably dismissed it as a sensational tabloid rumor.

Then it turned out to be true.

So what can you learn from this about political reporting? Probably what many veteran reporters already know. In any campaign, there's always someone who feels wronged, has an axe to grind, or simply works for another candidate and wants to take down the competition. The trick is to find those people...

Or, let them find you.

Several years ago I got an anonymous tip on the phone that sounded so bizarre it couldn't possibly be true. But the person calling was very articulate, and I just had a hunch there might be something to it. So I brought it up in the morning meeting, and of course everyone had a good laugh. The reporter who had that beat said he'd check it out, but I could tell by the look on his face that he wouldn't. A few days later it ended up on the front page of the local newspaper. The tip turned out to be true.

Do you think that "source" ever called me again? Of course not. He probably assumed I'd simply blown him off, and after not seeing the story on our station for a few days, moved on to the next media outlet.

So, two little lessons here. First, check out everything, no matter how ridiculous it may sound. You might just end up with something really good. Second, when it comes to politics, there are always skeletons in closets, and always someone who knows where those closets are. So when a campaign worker that you've dealt with suddenly leaves a campaign, you owe it to yourself to keep in touch.

Be open to any tips that come your way. Many will be bogus, but some will lead you to good stories. When sources know you are seriously interested and will follow up, they will continue to call you with good stuff. And if you don't check out a lead, trust me, there's always someone else who will.

Don't let your exclusive end up as the lead story on another station. And just because a news organization doesn't have a great journalistic reputation, don't discount any stories it does.