On-Camera Lessons from Congressman Michael Grimm

So we saw Congressman Michael Grimm threaten a TV reporter that was caught on camera.

It was pretty ugly.

Some background: Congressman Grimm – a Republican from New York State -- was commenting on the state of the union.  The reporter then asked him a question about an investigation into Grimm’s campaign finances.  That’s when Grimm made comments about breaking the reporter in 2 – when he thought they were off air.

Here are the lessons many of us who have been in front of a camera know – and you should too.

First, the camera is always on.  

Second, Grimm could have easily stopped this episode from ever happening.

Third, never piss off a reporter publicly.  

Fourth, apologize gracefully.  

Here’s my take:

Grimm and other lawmakers need to assess who they answer to.  And it is not the media.  It is the voting public.  You are a servant to the people.  When you can speak to the people you do it as if it is an honor – not something you are entitled to.