Hostile Interview Tactics
When questioning powerful figures, expect evasion, filibustering, and counter-attacks. An interview is not a conversation; it is an extraction of facts on behalf of the public.
1. The Premise Rejection
Subjects will often try to answer a question you didn't ask, pivoting to a rehearsed talking point. Do not let the pivot stand.
Example:
Reporter: "Why did you authorize the transfer of $5M to the holding company?"
Subject: "Our administration has created more jobs than..."
Reporter (Interrupting): "That is not what I asked. My question was specific to the $5M transfer on October 12th. Why did you authorize it?"
Repeat the question verbatim until they answer it or their refusal to answer becomes the story.
2. The Document Trap
Never ask a question you don't already know the answer to, unless you have the documentation to trap them in a lie.
- Establish their stated position on the record.
- Present the conflicting document.
- Force them to reconcile the discrepancy.
Common Evasion Techniques
- The Filibuster: Running down the clock with long, irrelevant answers. Counter: Interrupt politely but firmly.
- The Ad Hominem: Attacking your credibility or your publication. Counter: Ignore it completely. Return to the question.
- The False Premise: Claiming your question is flawed without explaining why. Counter: Ask them to specify exactly which fact in your premise is incorrect.