Michigan senator Debbie Stabenow apparently has decided to be the flag-bearer of the "Fairness Doctrine" debate. Speaking to Bill Press (who lost his gig on Obama 1260 in Washington when the station switched from liberal talk to financial news), Stabenow couched her argument with the term "accountability":

BILL PRESS: Yeah, I mean, look: They have a right to say that. They've got a right to express that. But, they should not be the only voices heard. So, is it time to bring back the Fairness Doctrine?

SENATOR DEBBIE STABENOW (D-MI): I think it's absolutely time to pass a standard. Now, whether it's called the Fairness Standard, whether it's called something else -- I absolutely think it's time to be bringing accountability to the airwaves. I mean, our new president has talked rightly about accountability and transparency. You know, that we all have to step up and be responsible. And, I think in this case, there needs to be some accountability and standards put in place.

BILL PRESS: Can we count on you to push for some hearings in the United States Senate this year, to bring these owners in and hold them accountable?

SENATOR DEBBIE STABENOW (D-MI): I have already had some discussions with colleagues and, you know, I feel like that's gonna happen. Yep.

Audio from Politico

Stabenow has a vested interest in this issue. Her husband Tom Athans is currently the executive VP of Air America. The liberal radio network has never gained much of a foothold on the radio landscape that's dominated by conservatives. Air America, launched in 2004, has a scant 66 affiliates - compared with nearly 600 carrying the Rush Limbaugh Show.

Stabenow has an ally in House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. President Obama, while he was a candidate, opposed the reimposition of the Fairness Doctrine, which was abolished by the FCC in 1987.