American popular media is rife with irresponsible discourse -- and it certainly is not endemic to one particular ideology. Yellow journalism has been thriving since the turn of the 20th century and I'd argue that it is stronger than ever thanks to the advent of social media and the laziness behind the consumption and subsequent promulgation of what we read/watch. John Oliver had an interesting segment on his last show discussing how often quotes are misused, misattributed, even made up ... and this is from Presidents down to meme generators (*cough*).
I've always contended that the onus is on the reader to determine whether or not what they are taking in is legitimate and/or tainted. This requires taking it in from all sides and sources, with an open mind, and then making your own judgments. It's not difficult.
The Clinton's have bemoaned the Republican elements 'conspiring' against them in the mainstream media for decades, just like conservatives are quick to point out the dominance of a liberal presence in mass media. It's safe to assume both sides have a legitimate grip.
Where there's smoke, there's usually fire. How much smoke does one have to inhale before staking ground? That's up to you.
