Has it always been like this? Is it just since the start of the 24 hour news channels?

It seems like all of the US cable news channels (CNN, Fox, MSNBC) are politics almost 24/7 (the morning shows are probably a little less politics heavy).

Their format is straightforward. Introduce some political topic (either through video or short intro by the host).
The talking head talks it to death then solicits comments from others who are unqualified to give real comments.

I hate that shit.
Broadcast tv channels are a little better, but not much. It seems like BBC and Al Jazeera do less of it.