The Press

"Race for the Wires," Harper's Weekly, March 21, 1868

The actions of the president are closely scrutinized by an enormous press corps. The reporters are always on the lookout for a good story, and no story is better than an overreaching president or a juicy scandal. Keeping a watchful eye on the chief executive, the press helps to curb presidential power that threatens to exceed its legal limits or the wishes of the public.

President Jimmy Carter being questioned by Helen Thomas at his first press conference in the White House press room, February 8, 1977.
Courtesy of Jimmy Carter Library
White House press passes issued to United Press International reporter Helen Thomas