I’m puzzled by some journalists’ failure to pursue provocative comments made by the person they’re interviewing. The classic example is PBS’ Jim Lehrer, who, in 1998, upon hearing then-President Bill Clinton say “there is no improper relationship” with Monica Lewinsky, failed to forcefully follow up even though it was crystal clear the president was awkwardly keeping his statements in the present tense.

Fast forward to this Fayetteville Observer story about comments made Monday by state Sen. Tony Rand about state spending. From the story (emphasis is mine):

State Sen. Tony Rand said Monday that the financial problems gripping the nation could provide one long-term benefit to North Carolina residents: State and local governments will be forced to become more efficient.

Speaking to about 45 people at Fayetteville Technical Community College, Rand predicted that the loss of state revenue will prompt more prudent spending decisions by state leaders.

“We’ve thrown money away in the past,” Rand said. “Now, we’re going to make sure we can justify every penny we spend.”

Thrown money away on what specifically? Isn’t that the obvious follow-up question(s)?

I’ll give the reporter the benefit of the doubt and say space constraints prevented more in-depth reporting. That said, will any reporter press Sen. Rand to provide examples? One look at the state’s spending statistics and it is obvious Sen. Rand is correct. I give him points for acknowledging the facts.

From the Locke Foundation’s Agenda 2008 policy report:

During the last ten years, general fund spending on operations has grown 81 percent, to $20.4 billion in fiscal year (FY) 2007-08 from $11.3 billion in FY 1997-98. This was 22 percent faster than the combined rate of inflation and population growth, which translates to $1,845 more spending in real terms per person, or $7,378 for a family of four. Spending in FY2008-09 will be at least $21 billion.

It’s now time for Sen. Rand to provide the details.