Gore counters right with Al TV

Former US Vice President Al Gore plans to start a liberal TV network to challenge the rise of conservative media in America, it was reported today.

Mr Gore, who has ruled out another run for the White House next year, is courting Hollywood stars and wealthy Democrat supporters to help finance the project, according to Time magazine.

It is not clear what the format of “Gore TV” would be or what role he would have at the station.

But Time said the network would feature “progressive” viewpoints to counter conservative voices on American cable television and talk radio.

Democrats believe a recent surge in popularity for talk radio shows gives the Republicans an advantage, and want to build a stronger media presence as the 2004 Presidential election approaches.

The right-leaning Fox News has also become America’s most watched cable news channel after taking over from CNN in the ratings.

Mr Gore has blamed his failure to secure the Presidency in 2000 on the conservative media, which he described as a “fifth column” that injects “daily Republican talking points into the definition of what’s objective“.