"I respect very much the role of the media in our society; I think they can be very, very helpful. They serve as a very useful check, sort of a watchdog over the actions of the government, and I respect that"

In this quote, Alberto Gonzales, who functioned as the Attorney General of the United States, articulates a gratitude for the significance of the media within a democratic society. His acknowledgment highlights the essential function that the media plays in ensuring governmental openness and responsibility. By describing the media as a "guard dog," Gonzales highlights its function as a guardian of public interest, entrusted with monitoring and inspecting the actions of government officials and institutions. This perspective aligns with the democratic concept that an informed public is vital for the efficient performance of a democracy.

Gonzales' statement acknowledges the media not simply as a passive observer but as an active participant in governance, one that assists keep a balance of power. By acting as a "useful check," the media contributes to a system of checks and balances where power is not concentrated in the hands of the government alone but is held responsible to the public it serves. This belief resonates with the viewpoints underpinning the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees flexibility of the press, recognizing its importance in helping with totally free speech and notified citizenry.

Furthermore, the repeating of "very" in explaining the media as "really, extremely useful" highlights Gonzales' strong recommendation of this function. It suggests a belief in the efficacy of the media's functions and their potential favorable impact on society. This expression of regard reinforces the notion that the media's participation transcends simple reporting; it embodies a much deeper, trust-based relationship between journalists and the general public.

However, although the quote agrees with towards the media, it implicitly acknowledges that this relationship can be complex. The expectation is that the media acts properly and ethically, maintaining stability as it browses its guard dog function. In general, Gonzales' words function as a reminder of the indispensability of a totally free and active press in promoting governmental accountability and nurturing democratic suitables.