Channel Crossing

Bill Carter on the battle between Time-Warner and CBS…

Several media analysts suggested the standoff might be protracted, with predictions ranging from about 10 days to as long as six weeks.

Translation: Nobody has a clue how long this thing might last because there are no precedents and no real insights into the financial stubbornness of both sides. Make a guess. Yours will be no worse than any of the experts or "several media analysts." Yes, the fight might be protracted. It might also be settled this evening. As Jack Germond used to say, "The trouble with the news business is we aren't paid to say 'I don't know.' So we have to say something even when we don't know."