Bangladesh, Oct. 9 -- The relationship between conservative politicians and the mainstream media has long been marked by a familiar contradiction. While many conservatives accuse major news organizations of political bias, they continue to grant them exclusive interviews, provide background briefings, and compete for favorable coverage. This raises a fundamental question: Why do politicians who distrust certain media outlets continue to help them maintain their influence and credibility?

A recent controversy involving Politico, one of Washingtons prominent political news organizations, and a forthcoming book about abortion has brought that question into sharper focus. The debate extends beyond one reporter or one publisher. It touches on...