About this episode
James Osborne writes about energy and politics for the Houston Chronicle. He's covered Rex Tillerson for years, yet they've never spoken directly. During his time as CEO of ExxonMobil, Tillerson has rarely granted interviews and only gives one press conference a year. For 15 minutes. Osborne says Tillerson has never really had to face the press—a luxury he'll be forfeiting if he's confirmed as secretary of state next year. In The Spiel, the media still doesn't know how to cover blue collar workers. Today's sponsors: 1-800-Flowers. To get beautiful bouquets starting at just $29.99, go to 1800Flowers.com on your desktop or mobile device, click the radio icon, and enter code gist. And by Stamps.com. With Stamps.com, you can buy and print official U.S. postage for any letter or package using your own computer and printer. For a four-week trial and a $110 bonus offer, go to Stamps.com , click on the microphone, and enter GIST. Join Slate Plus! Members get bonus segments, exclusive member-only podcasts, and more. Sign up for a free trial today at slate.com/gistplus . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices