Meaning: This quote by Gwen Ifill encapsulates the complex and often contradictory expectations placed on journalists in their pursuit of truth and accountability. Ifill, a highly respected journalist and author, highlights the delicate balance journalists must strike between asking tough questions and navigating the potential criticism that may follow.

In the first part of the quote, Ifill points out that journalists are often criticized for not asking the hard questions. This criticism stems from the expectation that journalists should act as watchdogs, holding those in power accountable and seeking out the truth, even when it may be uncomfortable or contentious. By failing to ask these hard questions, journalists risk being seen as complacent or complicit in perpetuating the status quo. The term "lapdogs" here conveys the image of journalists who are passive and subservient, failing to challenge authority and dig beneath the surface of issues.

However, Ifill goes on to highlight the flip side of this criticism. When journalists do muster the courage to ask the hard questions and hold individuals or institutions accountable, they often face backlash for being perceived as rude or aggressive. This reflects the tension between the public's desire for tough, uncompromising journalism and the discomfort that arises when journalists challenge the status quo or confront powerful figures. The term "tough hides" suggests that journalists must develop resilience and thick skin to withstand the criticism and pushback that may come their way when they fulfill their role as tenacious truth-seekers.

The quote underscores the challenging and often thankless nature of journalism. Journalists are tasked with the responsibility of speaking truth to power, uncovering inconvenient truths, and holding those in positions of authority accountable. However, in doing so, they often find themselves walking a tightrope between being perceived as too passive or too aggressive. This duality reflects the inherent tension between the public's demand for transparency and accountability and the discomfort that arises when journalists challenge the status quo or confront powerful figures.

In today's media landscape, where trust in journalism is constantly scrutinized, Ifill's words serve as a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by those in the profession. The quote captures the dilemma journalists often encounter when seeking to fulfill their role as truth-seekers and watchdogs of democracy. It also sheds light on the resilience and fortitude required to navigate the expectations and criticisms that come with the pursuit of rigorous, uncompromising journalism.

Gwen Ifill's own career exemplified the qualities she speaks to in this quote. As a pioneering African American journalist, she tackled tough issues and asked hard questions while maintaining a reputation for fairness and integrity. Ifill's words serve as an inspiration for journalists to remain steadfast in their commitment to holding power to account and seeking the truth, despite the challenges and contradictions they may face.

In conclusion, Gwen Ifill's quote encapsulates the challenging and often paradoxical nature of journalism. It serves as a reminder of the difficult balance journalists must strike between asking tough questions and weathering the criticism that may follow. Ultimately, it highlights the essential role that journalism plays in holding power accountable and seeking the truth, even in the face of conflicting expectations and pressures.