“The most transparent administration in history” rules at a time when press-state relations are changing for the worse. Cue the rise of the press secretaries filtering every message, spreading its intended messages of heartwarming propaganda and breaking announcements directly through social media. While the numbers of scribblers poking around the halls of power have declined, Washington has more leverage over the press’ ability to collect information. Ronald Brownstein, editorial director of National Journal, said, “The way that Washington is dealing with the press is in some ways a rational response to the way the press is dealing with Washington. From a politician’s point of view, they see less of a persuadable audience that’s being reached by the press.” More…