CBS’ “60 Minutes” caused some controversy on Capitol Hill this week after cameras for the weekly program were allowed to film House Majority Leader Eric Cantor’s “pen and pad” session with reporters Tuesday. The “pen and pad” sessions are usually camera free, but Cantor’s staff allowed the cameras to film him for a piece “60 Minutes” is doing on the Virginia Republican.
“Due to a multitude of recent complaints about the pen and pad, our office is evaluating the usefulness of this venue to members of the press heading into the new year,” Cantor spokesman Laena Fallon said Thursday. POLITICO reports that Cantor and his staff were reportedly upset with a New York Times article that referenced the Virginia Republican as holding “lengthy press conferences.” The article was critical of Cantor’s method of frequently expressing his view via YouTube and talk shows.
“It is not productive for journalists of different media outlets to argue with each other over such mundane issues, and several objections we received this week made it clear that many in the press corps have concerns with our pen and pad. Going forward, we will continue to explore options that foster a productive and equitable environment for press engagement with Leader Cantor,” added Fallon.
Washington based press outlets were reportedly upset that they were not allowed to bring cameras in when “60 Minutes” filmed the House Majority Leader Tuesday.
Cantor has not commented on the situation, but his staff has expressed their frustration with the media’s criticism of his press access.
