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podcast features thinkers and trendsetters in conversation with one of political journalism's leading voices.

Through the show's unique and sometimes surprising perspectives, you'll get up to speed

on the current issues shaping the Beltway and the world.

Find sheer intelligence on KCRW's iTunes page.

From KCRW in Santa Monica and PRI, Public Radio International, this is To the Point.

Is the White House Press Corps really necessary?

Hello again, I'm a Ronald Allie, and this is To the Point from Public Radio International.

The daily look at the issues American scale about most.

Veteran White House reporters say a vague promise in the briefing room has become all too common.

I'm sure the president will be taking questions from you in the relatively near future.

But that moment seldom comes, and social media has made it easier than ever for presidents

to master the art of avoiding reporters and controlling the message.

With the latest White House correspondent's dinner scheduled for this weekend,

what are the consequences for democracy

when spin trumps journalism? Today's talking point, wildlife appears to be thriving near Chernobyl

despite massive contamination from history's worst nuclear accident. First, here's the news. News.

Check out KCRW's All News Channel News 24, programming from KCRW, NPRW, NPR, BBC, and more, 24 hours a day. Go to KCRW.com slash News24 or listen on KCRW's app.

Support for To The Point comes from the members of KCRW and from the Public Radio

International Program Fund. Hello again, Warren. I'll be back with To the Point. Radio and TV gave presidents direct access to the American public.

Now, social media may controlling the message easier than ever.

We'll hear what that means for the White House Press Corps and its role of telling American

...