Here we go again. A hot mic embarrasses another public figure. It’s astounding how often people who should know better get careless around microphones and cameras.
The latest incident involves Texas Congressman Dan Crenshaw. After just completing a taped television interview, Crenshaw gets himself into trouble by casually suggesting he would end the life of political commentator Tucker Carlson. Of course, Crenshaw did not realize that the camera and microphone were still on.
Here’s a clip broadcast by a Houston television station that lays out the incident and Crenshaw’s reaction to it. The audio is difficult to hear but you’ll see the transcript of the remark on the screen.
We applaud Crenshaw’s decision to address the controversy. Sure, it was hyperbole. Crenshaw has no plans to kill Carlson. But Crenshaw is “dead” wrong when he claims the remark was “said in private.” When there are cameras and microphones around, there is no privacy! Anything you say is subject to be recorded and broadcast. When cameras and mics are nearby, always assume they are hot.
Of course, this is not a major incident that will end Crenshaw’s career. But for at least 24 hours, he was forced to spend time explaining himself to the media. It was a distraction the congressman didn’t need.
We hope you can learn from Crenshaw. When cameras and mics are around, don’t assume they are off. Don’t say anything that you wouldn’t want the public to hear. Learn this lesson and it will save you from embarrassment and perhaps much worse.