Journalists and the "Scooter" Libby Trial

Former White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan originally told reporters that political mastermind Karl Rove did not leak the identity of CIA agent Valerie Plame. Today, a federal judge allowed videotape of the briefing to be played in the "Scooter" Libby trial, a case the Los Angeles Times says is really about the "ugly mutual exploitation" between government and the news media. Testimony has revealed how the Bush Administration manipulated reporters--and how reporters went along. It's a sordid story that's more about political payback than the public's right to know, but it could have consequences. Reporters have been required to reveal their sources despite promises of anonymity. Will that discourage potential whistleblowers? Are reporters too eager to protect official sources in pursuit of scoops? How does the public know what to believe?