Duncan Black: "Well, since this confidential but persusasive source fed you a bunch of horseshit in order to let the administration control the nomination spin don't you feel an obligation to inform your listeners who this liar was?
Haha, just kidding, I'd know you'd never burn a source, even one which used you to deceive the public. That would be a betrayal of those in power, and we can't have that."

Safire used to brag that he turned down goverment positions because he liked power and didn't want to lose it. The press has power but they're content to serve. It makes no sense. You want glory? Burn someone big who lies to you; the people will love you. That's power.