ABSTRACT
This chapter explores generally negative tone of print reporting and analysis of the Jimmy Carter presidency. It analyzes the differing values and criteria journalists relied upon in their judgments of the Carter presidency. Journalists relished the image of the activist-Democrat president who loves the game-playing aspects of politics. Journalists placed considerable emphasis on the conclusion of Republican-control of the executive branch, the end of the Richard Nixon-Ford era, and the emergence of one-party controlled government. Journalists interpreted the Carter presidency on the basis of their understanding of historic lessons and the particular context in which Carter served. These influences on journalistic conceptions of leadership help explain the negative press perception of Carter's leadership. An important journalistic ingredient for effective leadership is the president's ability to project an aura of being in command of the government and current events.
