• by Wayne Friedman , Staff Writer, October 10, 2016

Donald Trump’s “earned media” assets are well known -- press conferences, interviews, other news appearances. Now it's evident that some networks in particular may have been doing more than others in this regard. 

It’s all about the green -- the good, bad, and plant-based efforts.

Media Matters for America, a liberal media watchdog, released a study showing that in September, Fox News aired 7 hours and 32 minutes (7:32) of live Trump events/rallies compared to 3 hours and 25 minutes (3:25) for Clinton.

By comparison, both CNN and MSNBC were a bit more even -- though giving an edge to Trump: CNN, 5:18 to Trump; 5:04 for Clinton; and MSNBC, 5:48 Trump to 5:14 Clinton.

Looking at a broader period -- June, July, and August -- Trump also had a decided edge: 65 hours and 3 minutes of live events for Trump; 49 hours and 47 minutes of Clinton.

Couple this with other media -- as well as regular TV news stories about the candidates. All has boosted Trump's brand to big results — from the Republican primaries to becoming the party's presidential nominee. 

But the earned media wasn't without collateral damage. It caused lower-than-expected paid-political TV advertising, to the chagrin of TV stations and other outlets.

From a pure entertainment point of view, you can see why it turned out this way. 

On the one hand, Trump supporters say his frankness isn’t usual political speak, that he talks from the heart and speaks the truth -- and voters are interested. Conversely, the anti-Trumps say he makes so many outrageous comments -- and plenty of lies -- that he generates endless news cycles, which have a big viewing effect.

But that’s not why I’m most offended. That comes from plant-based daytime TV advertising on CNN.

“Celebrate your freedom of choice for our 45th president .. Show pride and support with an American icon, with Chia Hillary Clinton and Chia Donald Trump! Just water and watch them both grow.” Chia Obama and Chia Sanders are also available at chia.com and Amazon.” 

Mini-busts of political figures — and all with green hair. Who gets to ring up their scores from this promotional content?