Sinclair Layoffs: Outsourcing News Division?

I'm betting it will be run by the RNC now. They have cut one of their biggest political jobs, today, firing their Washington Bureau Chief. The man has the guts to criticize the blatant politicking on the part of the company.

The Washington bureau chief for Sinclair Broadcast Group said he was fired Monday after he criticized the company's plans to produce a news program based on a documentary critical of John Kerry (news - web sites)'s Vietnam-era anti-war activities.

Jon Leiberman said he was fired by Joseph DeFeo, Sinclair's vice president for news, and "escorted out of the building."

Sinclair will be enforcing their noncompete agreement with Mr. Leiberman. Somebody in Washington should give this guy a job. Press Secretary in the Kerry Administration would be a good job, you think? We certainly need folks who can stand for what is right in this country.

Richard's Update, 12:50PM EDT:

Telephone News Conference at 1 p.m. EDT Today

SINCLAIR BROADCASTING SHAREHOLDERS DEMAND OFFICERS RETURN PROFITS FROM INSIDER TRADING

Officers Who Ordered Stations to Show Anti-Kerry Film Also Sold Stocks at High Mark, then Drove Values Down

I am amazed at the shitstorm that this stupid move by Sinclair Broadcasting has caused. Amazed, and gratified. If you've participated, thank you -- and KEEP UP THE PRESSURE.

I'm on hold right now waiting for the conference call, and will report anything interesting as a result of the call.

Update - 1:10PM: Rats. Got booted. Didn't do my "reporter" impersonation, and they were booting all non-reporters. Will try to get back in.