SCOTT SIMON, HOST:
What do you give enemies of the people? When members of the White House press corps came to work this week, they found a shiny, pricey Italian espresso machine and coffee pods with a typed note. (Reading) To the White House press corps, keep up the good fight for truth, justice and the American way, especially for the truth part, Tom Hanks.
The noted actor and one-time host of Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me has been kindly keeping the White House press corps caffeinated over the past two administrations. White House reporters, including NPR's Tamara Keith, tweeted thanks. Thank you, Tom Hanks, said Tamara. The espresso is delicious and this machine is a little more idiot proof than the last - that's important for reporters.
Traditional news business ethical guidelines usually advise reporters not to accept any gifts that can't be eaten or drunk within 24 hours. So at least the cappuccino itself would seem to apply. But be suspicious if you see a lot of reporters suddenly write that "Turner & Hooch," a 1989 film that starred Tom Hanks and Beasley the dog, deserved an Oscar. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR.
NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.
