U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk’s campaign has launched an unusual public attack on reporting by the Chicago Tribune about the senator’s behavior toward his staff, prior to any story being published.
Kevin Artl, who is Kirk’s re-election campaign manager, released a memo this week in which he said Tribune reporter Todd Lighty had contacted more than 15 people connected with Kirk, including current and former staffers and the senator’s sister and mother.
The campaign characterized the calls as harassing and asserted Lighty was biased.
The campaign denies that Kirk has been abusive toward any staff members.
The criticism is especially unusual because it preceded the publication of any story. The Tribune said it does not comment on unpublished reporting. But it issued a statement defending the conduct of Lighty, saying “good reporters ask tough questions.”
“The Kirk campaign has wholly mischaracterized Lighty’s diligence and thoroughness,” Tribune Editor Gerould Kern said in the statement. “Lighty has been direct, open and honest at all times with the Kirk staff in his reporting. He is a meticulous and professional journalist.”
The Associated Press contributed reporting
