David,

I have a pretty simple question for the Times. Where was Public Editor Clark Hoyt during the Van Jones scandal?

Here is an excerpt from the article that announced his appointment to the position:

Mr. Hoyt said that he could not predict what subjects he might focus on. ?They are likely to be driven by what readers care about and complain about,? he said.

But over the last year, he has spoken publicly about his concerns about the future of the newspaper industry, arguing that weakening finances, a toxic partisan atmosphere and coziness with government officials threaten to undermine journalistic courage and integrity. He also spoke before a Congressional committee, arguing for a stronger Freedom of Information Act.

Sorry, did someone say something about journalistic courage and integrity? I am sure that the NYT “coverage” of the Van Jones scandal had little to do with a toxic partisan atmosphere and coziness with government officials.