Inside the mind of the politician

There are those who listen and those who wait to speak.

The latter describes politicians perfectly.

In light of the seemingly endless health care debate, it's time we talked about politics. Because Americans have a big problem these days; they're watching a group they don't trust (Congress) being interviewed by another group they don't trust (the media.)

Part of the reason is the lack of straight answers by members of both parties, and part of that problem can be traced to the lack of tough, persistent questions by reporters.

Back to our original statement. If you've even interviewed a politician, especially one on the campaign trial, you'll note something interesting while you're asking a question.

The politician isn't listening.

You can see it in the eyes. You may be asking the question the viewers want you to ask, but the eyes are far away, rehearsing a stock answer designed to avoid the question.

Trust me, you could ask something that doesn't even make sense, and you're going to get the stock answer. Because they aren't listening.

Reporter: "So, what's your take on the fact that male members of Congress are going to vote on health care while wearing capri pants?"

Politician: "What the people need to know about health care is...blah, blah, blah..."

Most politicians, and both parties are guilty of this, have mastered this art. Especially when your interview is live. They can basically kill all of your air time without giving you what you really need.

That's why political interviews are best done on tape. You've got all the time and tape in the world.

That's why I've always liked starting an interview with something totally off topic and light. It breaks their train of thought. "So, who's in your bracket for March Madness?" They've got stuff ready to go, and you've derailed them with something they don't expect. Then, when they're relaxed, go for the tough stuff.

So when a politician tap dances around your question, ask it again. A good reporter will say, "Let's get back to our original question..." and ask the question again. And if you get the run around, ask it again. And again. And again. "Yes or no? Do you support this statement?"

The only way the media is going to get off the hook with the public is by not letting politicians get off that same hook.