Christie Blatchford is unimpressed with the media’s reaction to Layton’s death; frankly, we’re rather unimpressed with her reaction

Apparently, National Post columnist Christie Blatchford is ticked that Jack Layton’s death has become a “thoroughly public spectacle” (which we find a little rich considering she’s something of a thoroughly public spectacle herself). In an article that went online roughly 10 hours after Layton’s death was announced, Blatchford blasted television anchors for appearing sombre and reminded readers that the reaction to Layton’s death was anything but unique: remember, people mourned Princess Diana’s death with spontaneous memorials, too (thanks for the timely and sensitive remarks, Christie). Mostly, though, Blatchford was shocked that a dying politician might use his final farewell to rally the troops. Of course, we can’t say that we’re surprised: not only because Blatchford wasn’t exactly Layton’s biggest fan, but also because pissing people off is what Blatchford is paid to do. She’s certainly succeeded here. Many observers on Twitter are refusing to link to her piece, but it’s online at the Post’s website. Read the entire story [The National Post] »