The most used words on TV are "that's a good question".  This is so frequently used that it is very much like using "uh" in ordinary conversation or speech.  Can commentators and interviewed guest not be more ingenious in their responses?  This may demonstrate a lack of knowledge or understanding of the importance of the interview.

English and speech teachers are possibly doing flips and rolling over in their graves as their "learned students" make elementary and thoughtless comments.  Perhaps the media should coach guest on how to respond.  If they did, the first lesson should be not to respond with "that's a good question". 

When a subject of interest to viewers is discussed it deserves a concise and qualified answer because the amount of time allocated for a response is minimal.  Commercials take precedence and TV hosts will cut an intelligent response short because of station policy.  Host often interrupt their guest beyond reason without any hesitation.  This leaves the viewer vivid and infuriated.  We want to hear what guests have to say. 

Newspapers have reduced the amount of reporting they print and local papers are hurting for subscribers to re-up their subscriptions.  Local papers are offering interesting discounts or incentives to capture and hold on to their readership.  Internet news options of the printed page and television talk shows are their competition.  News is available 24/7 to anyone that wants it.

Perhaps the reason for the great success of social media is the failure of news media to discuss truthfully and intelligently the issues that are of interest to people.  Conversation is a foundation of a polite society.  The media continuously ignores this elementary fact.  Many programs are built around the idea of discussion and play up the idea that if you have something important to say, “you will talk above everyone else”.  That only leads to all participants battling for the microphone. 

The most used words on TV will remain “that’s a good question”.  Participants will continue to battle for the microphone unless program policy recognizes that issues are too important to continue following the easier style of news presentation.