Hardball vs. softball journalism

Glossary of difficult words

hardball - uncompromising and ruthless methods or dealings (esp. as compared to "softball");

black eye - a mark or source of dishonor or shame (specifically in the choice of guests, in this case);

to give something the ax/axe - to eliminate something;

borderline - verging on a given quality or condition;

to play favorites - to show partiality toward certain individuals or groups.