WaPo = liberal but fair, NYT = Partisan distortion

Today's WaPo has a lead editorial discussing the politicization of the flu vaccine shortage. Although they are a liberal paper who is virtually to endorse John Kerry for President, they are also fair and reasoned in their editorial positions. Something that the NYT, regrettably, has not been for many years. Here is the WaPo's take on the vaccine shortage debate:

FOR THE SUDDEN shortage of flu vaccine, there are many villains. Poor policies extend back over several administrations, and Republicans, Democrats, tort lawyers, drug manufacturers and regulators all bear some responsibility. You wouldn't know that, though, from listening to Sen. John F. Kerry and President Bush. Having missed an early opportunity to politicize the flu vaccine shortage in the third presidential debate, both nominees have now taken up the issue with a vengeance. In neither case does the rhetoric tell the whole story.

. . . The exodus of companies from vaccine manufacturing has long been predicted, for many reasons. Heavy regulation of the industry, the gathering threat of lawsuits -- the president is right; this is not a minor factor -- and uncertain, fluctuating markets that led to big annual losses pushed several companies out of the business and led others to look for short cuts.

Contrast this, balanced approach with the NYT's editorial on this subject last Sunday:

Experts are pondering ways to induce more companies to make flu vaccine for the American market. The issue is not that manufacturers are worried about lawsuits over liability, as President Bush has suggested. Litigation is seldom, if ever, cited in authoritative analyses of vaccine shortages. [Emphasis added.]

Sad, really.