…and the corporate media is only too happy to help you.

In reporting Rep. Joe Wilson’s (R-SC) “you lie!” outburst during Obama’s speech, scandalously few media outlets are taking the extra step (you know, journalism?) to report the non-partisan FACT that what Obama said, and what Wilson objected to, was verifiably true.

Rep. Wilson objected to Obama’s assertion that the health care reform bill will not provide free health insurance to illegal immigrants. Thing is, Obama’s assertion is true. In fact, there is language in the bill which specifically prohibits illegal immigrants from receiving free coverage. So, in reality it was Rep. Joe Wilson who was lying.

It’s just more he-said/she-said laziness, done in the interest of ersatz “balance,” that passes for actual fact-based reporting these days. Instead of just reporting “well, Democrats say such n’ such but Republicans say such n’ such,” real journalist know it’s OK to report which side’s claims are factually correct.

My favorite part of the whole incident (besides the look on Pelosi’s face) was Rep. Wilson’s apology to Obama after the fact, part of which reads:

“While I disagree with the President’s statement, my comments were inappropriate and regrettable.”

Um…Joe? Facts are not subject to opinion. Your “disagreement” is irrelevant.

Bonus: Go here to check out Obama’s reaction and acceptance of Wilson’s apology: “I’m a big believer that we all make mistakes. He apologized quickly and without equivocation, and I’m appreciative of that.” Awesome. Obama easily outclasses his opponents at every turn.