For a while there, we thought D.C. Mayor Anthony Williams was regretting having started a blog — two of his first three posts involved apologizing for his slow pace of posting, a huge no-no in a fast-paced information society that demands at least one new post a day. Since then, though, Williams has picked up the pace, offering unfiltered opinions on everything from public schools to the benefits of the power of eminent domain. In fact, he has had a particularly good run over the last six days, having posted on September 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and today. Not bad, Tony!

Today’s post is, as far as mayoral rants go, a think piece on journalism and the media. He writes:

It’s a dirty business, full of all kinds of excessive flourishes and editorial license, but its important work that someone’s got to do. But here’s the question. Before I unload with a lot of opinions here on some of our favorite personalities, let me ask you bloggers this question. The press – notwithstanding Judy Miller – enjoys great freedom in our country, both constitutionally and traditionally in its role as the “fourth estate”. What responsibilities come with this? Has anyone seen any checks and balances around here? Or am I missing something?

Good questions, no doubt, but what provoked them so suddenly? Has the mayor recently been subject of some irresponsible journalistic attack? Pray tell, Tony, pray tell!