Missed you Anderson. Hope Columbia provided a good rest for the weary!

The ladies did a great job, but it's even better to have you back.

Let's go. Be nice to each other folks!

Hey Anderson, Erica and Bloggers

Welcome back Anderson.....you look well rested

Happy Monday!!!! Looking forward to a great show

Hello Anderson, Erica and Bloggers!
Welcome back Anderson!

Looking forward to the show, great to see ya back Coop! Were greatly missed

Welcome back, Anderson.
How come you're in Miami?

Great to see you back in the anchor chair Anderson. Looks like a great program tonite.

Yay Anderson is back!!

Why can't the children stay with their mothers. How frightening for the kids.

Welcome back Anderson, I'm glad you were able to have a real vacation last week without some sort of major calamity happening somewhere forcing you to have to come back to work before you had a chance to relax.

Looking forward to the show tonight–your Outside magazine interview was a really great read.

Minou.....Anderson spoke at the University of Miami tonight

Welcome back. You can always tell how much you love someone by how much you miss them when they are away. We missed you a lot

Not to accuse them of lying, but I'm sure they talked about what to say to the press and what not to say...

Minou,
he is one day stay in Miami...... he will come back in NY tomorrow night....

welcome back Anderson!
wow, David's inside the compound?

It's Monday and all is well with the world! Anderson is back! Looking good!

I love the footage, it looks like a period drama.

Maybe they don't want them to tell their children what to say when questioned

Happy Monday, everyone. Hope you all had a good weekend !

I agree with you guys (bloggers)! Anderson,
I missed you last week..... Anderson.....

How can these women their children? Welcome back AC. You look relaxed!

Thanks Megan O. and Megan Dresslar.

It's incredible they allowed David in, isn't it?

I sort of wish Gary got into the compound after all the time he has spent covering Warren Jeffs and all but David is doing a great job

It's so cool that David got into the compound. This is exciting!

BTW, welcome back Anderson.

Hey there everybody, and Erica. Anderson as well.:P How are you doing Erica? Looking forward to tonight's program.: )

The mothers that retuned to the compound without their children should be grateful they are being kept away from pediphiles posing as "prophets". How can any woman who has endured the same torture & abuse as a child want the same for their own children? It is unfathomable that this is allowed to go on in the U.S. when there are 18 & 19 year old boys in prison for having consensual sex with their 16/17 year old girlfriends. The men in this religious cult are nothing more than dirty old men who in any other walk of life would be labled sex offenders.

That is incredible!

Hey Erica

Weekend was lovely.....looks like you went to a "green" baby shower for Kiran Chetry....awesome idea

You're kindly Welcome! Minou
Hi Erica! You were so awesome anchor-fill-in last Friday! I have good weekend!

Erica and Anderson: Can you all get on the ground there? Erica, I would love for you to interview the ladies?

Honestly, that lady freaks me out. Maybe its a good thing her kids get to escape her...

Hello all. Hope you all had a great weekend, Erica, you did a great job last week, tell AC to go back on vacation, to NOLA! lol

WOW! ""Exactly what are you?"'

Maybe the world needs to see more of the people from the FLDS so opinions are not formed based on what the media let's us see.

"my children had never seen a firearm in their lives..." Ya, but they had seen young girls marrying old men who already have 15 wives...I guess that is a great thing for kids to see...

This "Kathleen" sounds like she is repeating what she has been told to said. She definitely sounds coached or has rehearsed what she is saying.

Is this woman crazy? Seriously!

Brian
LOL

Hey Anderson–
Welcome back!
We missed you!

Anderson, great job interviewing Kathleen! She has passion but she's not really telling us much.

"Guardians"...yeh right! Poor kids.

Good Job Anderson! That was nailed right on!!!!! It almost looks like she is reading off a prompter!

Wow it is like Anderson knew what we were all going to say.....that is a great reporter

This lady is way too awkward for me, not looking at the camera, monotone voice. Sounds like she's being told what to say

Wow, this woman sounds like she is reading everything she says from a prepared statement...

Anderson, thanks for always being so respectful with the people you interview and approaching them with an open mind and curiosity, but still asking the pertinent questions.

wow, she 's not one bit intimidated by Anderson... gotta respect that!
I wish she 'd be more open though..

Kathy,
you are funny! you made me laugh! LOL!

Does she even think she is even competent to talk about the US Constitution, after all that was done behind doors?

she does sound rehearsed.... she's not answering the question
poor Anderson...

Why is this woman not looking into the camera?

That woman is creepy!! Her children will be better off away from her!

Anderson, You made it back in time to cover some breaking news! I hope you wore your sunscreen in Columbia. The program is not quite the same without you!

Gary has been doing such a great job reporting about Jeffs and the FLDS over the years. I am looking forward to hearing his update.

At least this woman believes in her convictions.

Welcome back Anderson – You actually look tired tonight!

This woman with FDLS is scaring me. I think Texas has done right. There are children being abused in all communities, the fact that the community members see it and allow it and accept it as normal is the most frightening.

She looks like she has been told exactly what to say. She acts like nothing is wrong, freedom of religion is one thing, but freedom to abuse children who are defenseless is something completely different.

I would much rather these children be exposed to firearms than the educational neglect that they suffer in the compound. What about the lost boys that are taken away from their community because they are seen as competition for the old perverts in the cult? Give these children the freedom to choose this lifestyle instead of forcing them to live as baby makers!

Hi AC glad your back, hope you had some time to yourself to rest up for the next round in the elections. I think Obama is sinking, he should choose his words more carefully. He comes off as upitty and looking down on people with these comments. Maybe he is the one that is
"bitter" because he didn't get grand slam win in the primaries. People are now just starting to question his judgement and his words!

Its the land of the free, and not land of child prostitution!

uh... they shouldn't bring up the nazis

no way
just no

I have no idea how Anderson keeps his composure. If I was interviewing her, I could not remain that neutral.

Hahahaha....Anderson is awesome! Great questions! She sounds like a robot...and not a very "studied" one...

She's good. I agree with FLDS: This is religious persecution. Texas needs to find the 16 Y.O. that made the call or back off. Lawyers are smelling blood. These people are going to be rich. They're being persecuted because they're different. Find the 16 Y.O. or prove that rape has occurred or back off.

Mothers are mothers. They love their kids. I hope the courts can sort out all of this soon. I have the feeling the FLDS will just go underground and be even harder to get to.

Are you serious...this interview is pathetic. where are the cue cards?

Renee, I'd love to interview them... I wonder, though, if the answers would be any different from "Kathleen's". I also wonder who decided this is comparable to the Holocaust

The woman who is being interviewed about the polygamy in Texas...she says she has a child 18, who has a 10 month old granchild. How old was he child when she became pregnant...aren't they now saying that no minors had sex or were married?

Oh, dear...now we're as bad as the Nazis? This lady scares me. Why can't she look at the camera? People who avoid eye contact creep me out.

Sounds like Kathleen is programmed.

This speech does seem scripted. Her oldest daughter must have been 16 or 17 when her child was born.

Anderson, that was a great interview that you did with the FLDS member. Your questions were right on target.

Welcome back.

OMG. Are u serious? she looks medicated to the max.

Anderson–

Do you think that this lady was just reading a response that someone else was telling her? Why didn't she ever look at the camera?

Thank you Anderson for putting Kathleen on the spot about concentration camps. I cannot believe she would even compare her situation with the Nazi's treatment of Jews during WWII.

Anderson – you are very insenstive in your questioning and sometimes disrespectful....you didn't really answer her question about if your children were taken away...

She is comparing herself to concentration camp inmates?

Note how Kathleen doesn't refer to her kids by name – just as "her children" – she refers to them as she would refer to property that has been taken from her.

That says it all. Those kids are better off in the real world, even if it's away from their biological mother.

"in the land of the free"? we aint free to abuse children. Sex with children is against the law.

I gotta admit.... the whole thing is kinda messy.

Props Anderson for calling them out on the rehearsed feel of her answers.

This Cathleen, does she truly understand her situation?

Kathy> Cause if she makes eye contact it'll steal her soul! No no..I'm joking Levity!

Wow that interview was intense! Hard to hear but you can hear how brainwashed they are?

Hi EJ
How are you doing?

Kathleen was Carolyn snitch......whoa this just got interesting

This may be the land of the free, but there has to be restrictions on some things. I mean really! Ridiculous.

I'm wondering if this woman has been brainwashed. She seems so akward and stiff.

U go Anderson Great job interviewing the FLDS member.

Glad you're back.

I'm sorry, I know that everyone has their own right to practice their own religion in this country, but as soon as you throw in sexual abuse to underage children is not only crossing the line but jumping over it and spitting on it. I dont understand how anyone can defend themselves on the side of the polygamists.

This is real creepy! Yikes!!!!!

The lawyers probably told her to add in the Holocaust comment

I wonder what are they going to do if they don;t get there kids back?

Was that woman reading from cards? Her vocals appeared to be very monotone and she was avoiding eye contact with the camera as well...something doesn't bode well there...

If someone is forced to escape from a religion it is a cult.

I am good – I think – How are you Megan? Thanks for asking.

Hey Anderson! welcome back it is really nice to see you!

Singhb, are you serious?

That woman looks like an apple doll. Too much inbreeding going on in that compound, IMO. And just where did she get that college degree? AC, you crack me up, I could not have kept a straight face asking her some of those questions.

They feel like they're being treated like the Jews in the Nazi concentration camps..... PLEEEEASE!!! She's appearing on live TV! She's able to voice her opinions....to compare her situation to that of the thousands upon thousands of people who were savagely abused and murdered completely speaks of her level of intelligence and the brainwashing that goes on behind those walls!!!

When I was in college I had an internship and worked with a women whose son was in a cult. It was hard breaking. Kathleen sounds very programmed tonight. She is scared too. No one wants to be separated by her children.

Women get the story from women. David and Anderson is great but if CNN is in then the ladies need to talk with you Erica one-on-one, mom-to-mom.

Mr. Cooper,

I just wanted to say that I agreed with your reaction when the mother from the YFZ ranch compared the YFZ ranch situation to that of the Jews during the Holocaust.

Yes, I agree with bloggers, I am not involved talk FLDS........ I don't like FLDS at all.

So very sad. Kathleen appears to have been taught to hide behind freedom of religion and religious persecution. She almost seems brainwashed.

Comparing to Jews and the Nazi – I didn't realize we were sending the children to working camps or death camps. Gee Anderson when you have children and if they get taken from you I'm sure you would have a little more passion and anger in you than she did.

Anderson,

You did a great job keeping your composure. And I agree, this reminds me of Waco and David Koresh, obviously these children or women are not free to go as they please.

If more were interviewed, they would probably say the exact same things.

Her kids haven't seen a firearm? Aren't there pictures of men on the compound with guns? FLDS men?

Erica, if she would have compared it to the Japanese Internment Camps I would have understood her feelings, but not the Holocaust.

If the men of this community are suspect of perpertrating these atrocities and abuses against young women, why haven't the men been taken in, removed from the complex, for questioning and the women and children left to remain in their homes, and questioned for testimony in a more sensitive way. If the women or children are the victims, why are they being victimized further by being taken from their homes and separated. These children need their mothers during such a sensitive time, the way they are being treated in an outside world in which they have no experience only confirms their fears.... instead .they all need to be protected from the men who are suspect; the men should have been removed.

Carolyn Jessop needs to get on CNN! why does she have to be on the phone? I think we should be able to see a converation in person by Carolyn and Kathleen Jessop.. now THAT would be interesting! I wonder if Kathleen would still say the same things!

Hi Anderson, welcome back, we miss you. Just a quick question, were you shocked when the woman you were jus speaking to said she was 42. Wow, only 2 yrs older than you and she looked 60!

Anderson, please get over this ridiculous story and move on to the presidential race.....

we can't wait to hear your love for Obama

Computer problems? I'm sad Anderson, I'm sad.

Hi Anderson, want to thank CNN for getting the show back live for the international viewers.

There's no comparision to how the jews were treated.

EJ,
I am doing great! thanks!

Get another laptop Anderson, I'm pretty sure CNN has plenty.

she has a college degree?? I wonder if she's also the compound hair stylist??

Welcome back Anderson, the polygamist are some serious weirdos...

Will everyone please drop the whole "bitter" comment?! It was one word! Give the man a break! Those canidates are so busy with everything right now, I'm surprised they havn't made more slip-up's by now.

She said she is college educated. Wonder what she really learnt, looks like she just attended classes but probably never learnt anything.

Derrick–

They will probably start repopulating pretty quick Notice how the lady didn't even seem to know how old her kids were?!?!

That was an awkward interview AC had with that lady. Kind of like he was talking to a robot.

I just noticed: all those women have the EXACT SAME HAIRSTYLE. No variation at all, no matter the age. How bizarre.

Anna> I think Carolyn was on last week, maybe she'll be back.

When Kathleen was being interviewed by Anderson – she referred to her child more as "the children' than "my children." Why would a loving, caring Mother call her children "the children"? that seems odd to me.

computer problems = no laptop connection to the live blog from Miami

I can't believe Hillary already has an ad out about this. If her campaign were smart they would be careful trying to overplay this 'bitter' thing.

It was good hearing Caroline Jessups side of this, since Kathleen was married to her husband as well.

Anna – i think a conversation between Kathleen and Carolyn might be a bit much...
maybe it's hard enough for Carolyn to talk about her memories and how Kathleen told on her....

I think Annette has a really good point. Taking these women and children out of their comfort zone and expecting them to talk, probably not the best idea.

As a parent I could imagine being separated from my children. I'd like to know if the mothers were forced to leave their children.

Did they have a choice to leave or were they forced to leave their children?

Could they be charged with a crime for marrying their young daughters off? Where they offered immunity from prosecution?

Were they forced to go back – and talk like robots – like this women to lie because they are afraid of their husbands, or did they go back willingly?

This is such a mess and my heart goes out to these children. I can't immagine their pain and feeling of loss and displacement.

Huh? that wasn't the same woman? they clone too?

I got give it to Anderson for calling that woman out on the Holocaust comment. I mean come on having to be sent to a center, and having to be sent to a gas chamber is a little different.

Welcome back, Anderson, we really missed you! Am I the only one who thinks that kathleen Jessup sounded exactly like a robot? It's pretty clear that she has been brainwashed and is merely regurgitating what she has been told to say.
Little Rock, AR

welcome back
.Missed you as in broadcasting
Are you taking the anchor chair from K Couric. Tell me !!!!!

thanks

I think the courts should handle the FLDS. If they can't find the girl will they have to drop the case? I hope not.

The new background is unpleasant and distracting.

I dont think that they need to be with their mothers. Not when their mothers are obviously ok with the practices that were taking place on that compound. I don't think that they have their children's best interests in mind.

I must admit, this shows me what a sheltered life I lead. I figure everyone has one person for them, and there are just many little families, I never expected to hear about SO MANY polygamists...it's shocking. Blows my mind.
I didn't think that her saying they were going through what the Jews went through was anywhere near accurate. Sure she may feel persecuted, but this isn't in anyway close to the persecution and suffering that went on.

Great interview Anderson!

I heard that she mentioned she has a college degree? In what because if she really went to college she should know that in the Holocaust people were treated horribly, and I doubt this is like that.

Also, how did she get a degree? Are polygamists able to venture out of their area??

They're being treated like they are in Nazi Germany? Oh, no, she did NOT say that. How dare she belittle what happened to 6 million Jews and countless other oppressed people. It sounds like the women who escaped and told their story were treated more like that by the people behind the walls. And, thank you, Anderson, for calling her on it.

Erica – this is the most amazing story ever – that this is allowed to go on in this country is just insane....

Anderson you are a very objective journalist. I worked as a journalist in Africa and i love 360.

I am appalled that America the greatest country in the world could have polygamy sects where girl children's rights are being violated.

This should have been stopped a long time ago...SHAME on the USA.

ok, can I say...stepford wives. thats it, that is what comes to mind!

I think the saddest part of this is how difficult it is going to be for these children to adjust to normal life if they end up leaving the compund and living with foster families. Some people just shouldn't be allowed to infect kids' minds with terrible ideas like that.

Honestly, I think they would have looked better in the public eye if they would have kept their mouths shut. This Kathleen lady is making them look ignorant and guilty.

Cheryl K.
Welcome to AC360 show International Live! Nice see you there tonight!

Maybe I'm out of the know with this sort of stuff, but how do these people get money?? Also why do they want the help of the nation now when for however long they have wanted nothing to do with the outside world?

Hi Erica,

Anderson is asking what crimes have been commited on the compound. Does he know they found beds in the sanc,tuary? I don't know about you, but the last wedding I attended did not include church elders watching the bride & groom consumate the marriage immediately after being pronounced husband & wife, ()let alone in front of an audience!!! Maybe those purple spandex cut off oxygen & blood flow to his brain. You're a great addition to the show. Keep Coop on his toes. (or thighs).

I have enthusiastically glued to my television following the information on the Polygamous family church from the moment it opened. When the news broke on CNN, with the caption, I had, in my inside mind eyes, began picturing the magnitude of ignominies that would snow-ball when the authorities get to conduct a search on the buildings on that property.
And eventually, when they suddenly began to evacuate women and children in preparation to a down-to-earth search on the property, I had expected, within minutes, discoveries of underground horror chambers; torture chambers; human skulls; human being in chains, held in captivity; women under lock and key, compelled to remain in a station producing babies that would be used for rituals; gun cache; fierce armed resistance etc. But to my surprise, there was no such thing. Rather, what we can now see are people who have voluntarily, painstakingly and admirably decided to stay away from “Our world” of dishabille, pornography, hypocrisy and infidelity. Our world where off springs can speak a profusion of curses and abuse unto their parents who nurtured them. Our world of might made right; our world of gangsters and guns; hard drugs and chemical abortions; greed and non-satiety; our world of greed induced divorces that have produced monstrous single parenthood – a torn in our flesh.
I chose to make this comment very brief; therefore, I won’t talk about polygamy, the law is clear on that, as we have heard from experts that spoke on your station. But I have some questions ask:
1. Did anybody report she was kidnapped or dragged to the ranch and conscripted against his or her wish?
2. If the ranch is such there is no communication with outside, how come somebody had access to phone and did actually know a number to call?
3. If they were no guns or gangs torture indication in the property, what and who are the people removed from the property afraid off, since news claim they are afraid to speak?
16 years old female? Let anyone who has never seen a 16 year old give birth in “our world” be the first to cast a stone.
Thank you CNN
Evarest

We missed you Anderson. I'm wondering what you did on your week off?

This Mormon sect is just something else. I feel so sorry for all those women and children.

She was ridiculous, her opinion and "message". I bet they all had a meeting, discussing about what they were allowed to say on live TV. Every word that came out of her mouth just screamed RIDICULOUS to me. It is mind blowing she compared how she was treated to the Jews during the Holocaust. She definitely didn't know what she was talking about.

Really Kristin good point. It's is not like they are allowed on-line to get there degree or to watch TV or go to college.

Anderson, I wish you would have pressed her on what went on in the concentration camps ...... i.e., "Is anyone dying as a result of this action?"

They need to keep those parents away from those kids. A cult is no place for children to grow up. Especially not a cult that condones child abuse such as the LDS, Children of God (The Family International)or others. Give the kids a chance in the real world without those surroundings. Give them to relatives that care.

In all the footage to date of these folks, I haven't seen any boys over the age of about 10. Haven't seen one teen boy....just lots of little girls. Either they have mostly girl-children....or there is some truth to the "Lost Boys" reports.

If the authorities had the name of the girl and have the necessary evidence to go in, then why not go to the individual household. Instead they took the children of an entire community. Here in CA if a guy down the street commits child abuse, the LASD does not take every child in the community. How are they any different.

If they so believe what they do is right, why run away from the cameras? Face it right? I think this whole cult is just a way of getting their sexual frustations/desperations out! Unfortunately little children are victims of excess of libido!

Gary you need to stay safe.

polygamy is not the problem, pedophilia is. l

Can you imagined being followed like Gary and the rest of our 360 crew in Colorado City?

They probably thought that bringing up the Holocaust would shock viewers and get them to sympathize, but it obviously didn't go over very well.

Why do those roads need to be so wide?

Hi Erica,
Just wanted to know if anyone is watching over the activities of the other proerties to see if anything is happening? Would they attempt to hide women and children while we are all watching the Texas one? What about in Canada and in Utah as well as the other states?

I had no idea that the authorities were part of the church, no wonder this has been under wraps for so long.

Regarding this FLDS story, it was so obvious to me that Kathleen was reading her responses. You could tell she was educated and I'm sure that's why she was chosen as the spokesperson. If these mothers are so upset about losing their children, then why did they leave the children and come back to the compound? Perhaps their husbands wanted them there to deal with the press?

Polygamy is against the law. Why haven't the men at this compound been arrested for having multiple wives? I just can't believe that this type of lifestyle is allowed to continue in our country. Forget "freedom of religion" as Kathleen quoted. In my opinion, this is about sex with multiple women and young girls in order for these elder men to reproduce, not to mention the mind control that these men have over the girls and women in the compound. It's a very sad situation that should not be allowed to continue.

Anderson I missed you so much!! Glad you are back:)

I think that those women are brain washed, why would you allow old men to have sex with you teenage daughters. I think the men are taking advantage of the women and the children, the state of Texas need to really investigate this situation. The women that stayed had a choice to leave too if they wanted to be with their children. Then men need to got to prison if they are having sex with minors.

I think its terrible to have children or any human person in a situation like this.The authorities should put the men under the jail. I know the women are scarred so I am praying for them.

Welcome back Anderson hello Erica

OMG...when did the US cease to exist out west? This is getting more and more bizarre. Who is this girl? Is she real? Are there tapes of this girl's calls? Don't abuse centers record calls like 911 centers do?

Cut Kathleen some slack bloggers. She's just protecting her beliefs and lifestyle the best she knows how (or was told). It was apparent that she was angry! She most likely has been exploited by the men in that compound.

I find it interesting that the men are allowing one of the women to be spokesperson....or maybe that's not the case.

Keep on this story...it's fascinating.

I agree Anderson – its unbelievable that these types of situations exist in the US where these religious leaders have the local law enforcement folks under their control. These types of tactics are nothing short of the control the Mob had (and probably still does) in communities.....

Oh no, I'm glad the Kathleen lady came out and spoke. I wish they'd all have a dialog with "outsiders". Maybe such a dialog would cause more of them to come out of the cult.

I am surprised that women in the FLDS are allowed to go to college or any school.

Creepy to imagine that, being constantly shadowed and always being tense, waiting for something to happen....

Erica- Hiding behind religion is a pathetic was to justify planned marriages...I wonder what the "dowery" is....this is so 18th century....

Karoline....you should check out Anderson's blog post from earlier today....he talks about what he did last week

I'm glad I'm not the only one who thought that Kathleen was reading. She wasn't looking at the camera, she was very monotone, and she did seem very rehearsed. She even corrected herself a few times, as if she misread the words that she was trying to say.

I don't know if I agree with the kids being taken away without some kind of proof, but when speaking to media, at least speak from the heart and not from a cue card. She doesn't speak that way, as they also showed a clip from earlier and she was not speaking in the monotone way she was in that interview.

Does CNN know where this group receives its finances from? In other words, how can they keep all of their operations running? Do they work in the real world and come home, or do they create products within their compounds? I think CNN should start following the money...

Anderson told Gary to be careful - so I was wondering – Is he & the crew there in any trouble? Is there any fear that they may be hurt?

June...it was probably an "inside" college. She has a "college degree" in the ways of their world.

Erica,
I missed the start of the interview with the women will it be availible to be viewed online sometime soon?

That was great when Carolyn knew just who Kathleen was–and how she tried to keep Carolyn from leaving the compound. Wonder what Kathleen would have said if confronted about that??

Hello, Anderson.

Welcome back. We've missed you.

It's about 25 minutes into tonight's episode and katheleen jessop was just on. I have to gravely disagree with her. While I am not Mormon (though a friend of mine is), I do not believe that what she and many of the other women and children are going through is anywhere near the gruesome and horrendous Holocaust. It is a completely different scenario.

I also believe she was rehearsed. She did not make eye contact with the camera, staring in one direction during the entirity of the interview. Was she reading something?

Other than that, I hope this story comes to a close soon and the girl that did or did not make that call is found.

Why is the girl who has made these phone calls that led to the raid in hiding? Wouldn't she want to get out of the area and be able to give a face to her story? Will there still be a case against the religious sect if no one can find this girl?

glad to see you back Anderson. Colunbia is so cool! Unless there is a coup! Otherwise, paradise!

if they really think they should bring up the Holocaust
they should compare themselves to the nazis
to a much lesser extent of course, but you could say some of these people didn't realize they were wrong.
like the milgram experiments situation?

nah, never mind
it's completely absurd

Talk about the fox watching the hen house! I hope Gary and his crew stay safe. I hope CNN is providing them with good security.

Why are the men allowed to wear contemporary clothing, but the women are dressed like "Little House on the Prairie?"

Jeanine: To answer your question about how they get money.

ONE of the ways they get money is WELFARE. Yes...WELFARE. Guess what? Because we don't honor polygamy, every wife with children AFTER the first wife is considered to be a single mother and collects WELFARE benefits. Don't you just love your tax dollars supporting THIS looniness?!

Amazing how they hide behind the religious prosecution line. Hopefully the kids can be safe now. As stated by the caller, it isn't about rligion or polygama – it's about abuse. How could those mothers live with themselves and say those crazy things – - it's like being sent to a gas chamber?? !! Holy cow!
i wonder if any of them are in the military doing their service for the ountry that they are so rudely criticizing???

Hold up the authorities in Arizona are part of the sect????? ohk that can;t be all too good, God knows what they are sitting on.

Sue Polinick> "this is so 18th century…." Hahaha! That made me laugh...too funny!

The Polygamist story is a nightmare and a trainwreck. There are no heroes in this story. The Constitution has been shattered, but the law has also been broken. Which one is worse? The Constitution trumps child abuse, but a pregnant 16 year old can't be ignored or condoned. These people are going to make a bundle off this blunder. We may prosecute the Father of the 16 year old.

Evarest- it's one thing to have a baby and a relationship at 16 because you chose to (good or bad choice) but it's another when you are forced to marry older men and have sexual relations with them. Caroline Jessop and others have talked about how they have no choice in how many kids they have. They are forced to have child after child. There is a huge difference between choosing something and being forced to, no matter what age you are.

Can I download Warren Jeff's songs on itune? no? oh darrrrrn...

This Warren Jeffs song totally creeps me out.....kind of wish you all would stop playing it

That Warren Jeffs song is so eerie!

I have been following the story from Texas about the polygamist and find it amazing that these people say they are having their religious rights violated. The only thing that is being violated is the human rights of the kids in the compound and not by your government. These people should be ashamed of themselves.

"polygamy is not the problem, pedophilia is"

Yes – They FLDS "spokespeople" are trying very hard to avoid this.

I don't care if these men marry 50 women – as long as those women are 1) over 18 2) not being coerced and 3) not using their situation to get welfare for the government

but obviously this is not what is going on – they are doing these things

Just because you get a college education doesn't mean you left home. I really didn't buy that she went to college though. Perhaps she took a correspondence course, as I can't see them being able to leave with all of the responsibilities.
This may sound so mean...but it's not meant that way, but did Kathleen seem a little mentally challenged to anyone else? Again, dont mean that in a bad way, she just didn't communicate well to me.

no more singing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
please?

Why do we continue to allow these"pervert" polygamists practice in our country?? Isn't THAT against the law also? We truly need to pray for ALL of them.

I can't imagine living a life of seclusion. These women have no idea what life is like for most americans, and they have been taught to fear and distrust us. So have these children. I am a mother and can't imagine having my children taken away from me. I believe for the most part the love and bond between mother and child is universal.

In no way am I condoning this seemingly cult lifestlye, but I hope the authorities are handeling this women and children with exteme care and expert guidence. The worst thing that could happen would be these children are released back to this isolated world with the fears and distrust instilled in them reinforced by the state officials. They really don't know any beter about our society than what their being shown right now.

This may be a silly question, but why are the children getting individual lawyers instead of 1 lawyer per family (or mother)?

Erica, tonight one of the network broadcasts did a story about how our own government actually gave contracts to some of the FLDS companies. Any plans to look into that?

Erica,
Don't you think it's a bit ridiculous someone is comparing this to the holocaust?

Even if it were the same amount of deaths, which it's obviously not case, I would hate to compare two tragedies.

Ariston Neto
Miami Beach, FL

Yes, Erica.
I am agree with you I am scared of Gary Tuchman in Colorado, I am imaged that too.

Response to Evarest

I don't think that their abuse is as out in the open as you believe. I think the women are kept in their place by intimidation.

I think that perhaps except for this marriage bed abomination, the sexual abuse also takes part in the confines of the marriage and family.

You are right – these things – abuse as well as teen pregnancy take place in the "outside world as well." The difference is that people in the "outside world" have more access directly to police and have a better chance of getting the attention of people in the outside world who can help. This contrived world does not allow women or children any rights. That's what this is about.

"This Warren Jeffs song totally creeps me out…..kind of wish you all would stop playing it"

Ditto! lol

hey come on guys, she's 42 yrs old & college educated, she must know what she's talking about. lol

Why do they all look like Whistler's Mother??

Please CNN, CNN audio people, Moderator, Erica and anyone out there in CNN Land. Would you please stop with the creepy Jeffs music? It is so creepy and sad. You all played it all last week. Please, thank you and all the best!

Not taking the FLDS's side here, but, I gave tours of Fort Concho while I was stationed out in San Angelo. For the record, those buildings they housed these women and children in are not suitable living quarters for that many people. These building are reconstructed examples of the "Buffalo Soldier" barracks that were there in the 1800s.

Riki – That lady wont look at the camera becuase the eyes are the windows to the soul – and she can't tell such lies looking straight at you!! Not making direct eye contact is a tell-tell sign of the mistruths – and outright lies – being conveyed

That's quite the claim made by the polygamist woman just interviewed. She believes that their treatment is comparable to the Jews in Nazi Germany? That's an extremem allegation!

Now this is what I am curious about. Where does this polygamist sect get all of their money to build these compounds and massive sized places of worship? What or who financially is backing all of this? Maybe this is a question that has already been answered. If that is the case, I would like to know. Erica, Anderson, can you provide us with an answer?

Warren Jeffs creeps me out with his singing! SCARY!

that big building in the compound seems to me to have had to cost alot of money to build, where are thay getting the cash if they are sucluded from society

plus they send young boys /men out to construction work..what they earn goes right into the compound/compounds round the USA

Haha Erica,
I kind of feel bad for Gary you always see him getting kicked out and chased around, but he's got conviction and he always gets the story, thats why Gary rocks.

see Monica comes across as more sincere

I agree with Megan in Toronto.

Please stop playing that creepy song!

Megan O I agree with you. This song gets on my nerves, and I really hope CNN would stop playing it. Its too weird. Makes my skin crawl!

These women seem like they are only giving interviews for propaganda. Be it bad propaganda.

Yes, please stop playing that weird song! it scare me!!

As hard as the questions must be, don't you think it's more difficult to live with the guilt of knowing they are party to child molestation and abuse?

that's some real emotion

nothing like that Kathleen..

see Monica seems more sincere

Jarrett, I'm not sure if the interview will be posted on the site, but I'll pass the request along to the web team.

I've been looking fwd to Jeff Toobin's segment tonight - and I know many of you have posed some of these same legal questions on the blog. Legally, this must be a nightmare for the courts. Emotionally, it's a wreck for everyone involved. And for all of looking in from the outside, it boggles the mind.

ok, hard on them? and being forced to get married at such a young age and consummate that marriage before even leaving the chapel isnt hard on young girls? they dont even see what they are doing to their children! Im absolutely infuriated right now.

Always good to hear Jeff Toobin! He brings up good points.

Example: The Vatican is very private; it has it's own army – you can't just walk in. Catholics have very strict rules about how their members are suppose to behave. Most religions are not open to gawkers. Just because you don't like the religion is no reason to disallow it. Everyone is free to worship as they see fit. If rape is occurring, Texas is within it's right to prosecute the rapist(s). Prove rape and Texas is on the right side. If Texas' case is only because the people act differently than everyone else, they're open to litigation. From earlier reports they've been monitoring the compound for four years. If the law was being broken, why wait so long. They need to find that 16 Y.O. or prove rape.

JoAnn that was so funny. A lighter moment on a serious issue!

Wow... 300 lawyers for this case. That is pretty intense.

Are all the lawyers from Texas?

Oh so thats why. Thanks!

It will be even more sad if after all of this nothing can be done.

I hope that there will be at least

thanks Brian

It's the 21st Century. Why haven't the investigators matched voice patterns to find the girl who made the phone call?

Dan in Bama
No she won't look at the cameras because she was reading

Oh, great job moderators!! lots of posts going through tonight! Hi crew! hope yall are enjoying yourselves this evening, give us a dance for a commercial!! I love you guys! <3

Kayle, Gary is not only an incredible journalist, he is truly one of the kindest, most genuine people you will ever meet. We are all lucky to work with him.

How silly was Carolyn's whining about Katleen's telling her husband she was planning the great escape? She must be yet another feminist yahoo who thinks her husband has absoulutely no say when the wife wants to kidnap the children.

Oh yeah...the government invading your home, abducting your children, then lieing to you....is the exact same thing as someone telling the husband that his wife is about to run away with his kids. Anyone who thinks what the government did here is just.. is obviously sympathetic with jack booted thugs who think the state knows how to raise kids better than their parents do. Oh yeah, their called liberals.

if all is well and legal in that compound, why are they so secretive? Something is wrong there.

i hope that these children dont get lost in this process, i believe her when she said that they only had two bathrooms for all those people

Martak:

Now that's another thing to be bitter about. Polygamists living off our tax dollars!!

Erica, you hit the nail on the head!

That woman they just interviewed also referred to her children as "the children." She talked about "the children" sobbing, not "her children."

I know this is random but who watches American Idol??

Erica Hill if you watch it, who is your favorite?

Plus Anderson Cooper should be on the show "Dancing with the Stars" dontcha think???

I wish Anderson see his blog, Poor Anderson, he don't have his computer in Miami.............

Anderson,
I dont think Ive ever seen that look of "WHAT?" on your face. That lady is a nut job and exactly the reason those kids need help. Wow!

Hmmm.. aren't there strange men "protecting" that ranch in Crawford, TX too? Wonder what kind of skullduggery is going on in there. LOL

I think the call was a hoax and I think that the state of Texas will end with mud on their faces. The problem I have with this is that the media will spin it every which way they can. The woman Kathleeen was obviously the worst possible choice of persons to interview and you can bet Cooper was well aware of this before putting her on the air. The truth is we have no idea what goes on in that place, and a big newsflash for most of you it is legal for 16 year olds to marry in the majority of states. 16 year olds have been getting married for a very long time, it is not a new phenomenon nor are the men all pedophiles, if you think it is unusual you have been living under a rock.

the one good thing is that i think Texas has mandatory life sentences for sex with a minor under 16.

i have to defend the polygamists in one sense – we should still have the right to marry whoever we want and call a family whatever we like. weather it's two men, a man and a woman, two men and a women or 3 women. Your family is your own prerogative.

It's the poison of controlled information and pedophilia that make these communities revolting

I think they have the girl who made the call but if I were her and saw all the stuff that happened after I came out I would be a little reluctant to release any information about myself too.

Anderson

You missed all the action last week between Senators Clinton and Obama. Wish you were hear. Would have like to hear how you handled the issue.

I don't understand why the calls from the young girl cannot be traced to their location I'm pretty sure the wireline and wireless companies have this capability.

Hey Anderson, Welcome back! where were you anyway

What I want to know is why the media on the TV (as far as I've seen) has only referred to the cult as a "polygamist sect" instead of a Mormon sect, which is what it is. If this had been a case involving a fundamentalist Catholic of Muslim group, it would have been smeared all over the news, so what makes the Mormons exempt? I say don't beat around the bush. Call it how it is, because ignorance is what spreads cults like this in the first place.

Anderson,

Thought you did very well on your speech tonight at U of M. Also, you handled the questions with great ease.

Best wishes,

Ariston Neto

Our local news has said that some of the kids are going to Boys Ranch. I will tell you all that this an excellent place for these kiddos to go and be safe. Do not worry that this will be over too soon in Texas. Our courts will not back down to anyone that is hurting a kid. Lots of lawyers will not bull our judges. I am outraged that Colorado City, AZ law is part of this group. YES there will be enough lawyers for these kids!! Lawyers will drive, fly, or bus from all parts of TEXAS to help out these kids. Maybe our strong stance will give the other states some courage to help out the other kids. This is child abuse hiding behind the First Amendment.

I think the powers that be had a idea of who was buying that land and could have prevented this tourture to children before it started, but greed got the best of them. They chose money over the safety of those children. Shame on them all.

Thank You Miss Hill, I love the show. Please Tell everyone GOD BLESS.

Yes, we have freedom of religion Derrick but the law oversees religion. For example, if a religion calls for human sacrifice they can't do it legally in this country. It's murder even if some religious leader calls for it.

If these girls are being forced to marry against their will and under the legal age, then these men can go to jail for that.

As for the polygamy, that is also against the law. The whole sect is in a lot of trouble.

Hi, Erica, how are you doing? Is it possible to find out what the link to that interview is? Or is the interview with Jeff Toobin not gonna be posted on the site?

Hillary doesn't get it. The people are looking for a president who doesn't lie to them!

I think, Hillary Clinton sounds really desperate running with this one word, like it's her last chance to get what she clearly thinks America owes her, the presidency.

Nice stuff tonight, The woman Kathleen needs help. She looks like she is coached.

Anderson,
Nice to see you back. The girls did a good job in your absence.
However, I must ask, how much more of this polygamous compound story do you want to get out?
We know that it is bad to live this lifestyle, and that Warren Jeffs is not the only one out there. Yet I must ask: How much longer is CNN going to be on this story and leave other stories behind which affect more people. Not only politics, but avenues to improve communications.
At any rate, I will be listening to the rest of the show.
Phil

Thanks Erica

Brent- If you knew the whole story of Carlyn Jessop or read her book you'd know she left because her children were being abused mentally, physically and sexually by their family members and father. I think her whining is justifiable. Was she supposed to stay there and allow that to happen?? She was brave and I respect her a lot of for having the courage to help her children when a lot of other mothers couldn't or wouldn't.

Obama is saying that these "politicians" have beer and shots with cameras around... didn't he go to a bar and drank a beer and then he "bowled?".... am I getting it wrong here or did he not do the same???

These groups of women collect millions of $ in welfare. In order to collect welfare, birth certificates and names must be provided. Why can't the govt. match the names of the women and their children.

If not, stop the checks.

That woman was so brainwashed! What she kept saying was so absurd that I couldn't help from laughing a little. I feel horrible.

Derrick,

"Example: The Vatican is very private; it has it’s own army – you can’t just walk in. Catholics have very strict rules about how their members are suppose to behave. Most religions are not open to gawkers. Just because you don’t like the religion is no reason to disallow it. "

This is not what is going on!! Shame on you.

It's not simply people "not liking" the religion.

Justifying forcing 13 and 14 year old girls to marry and have sex with these men is equivalent to saying that what many Catholic priests did with young boys over the years is ok because it's a private religion.

Many people across religions think they can use their religion to cover up or justify abusive actions.

Don't get me started on Obama's "photo ops." As far as Washington insiders owning Hillary, I wonder what Obama is promising to all these billionaires in California he keeps visiting?

Gets what? Small town people in Pennsylvania ARE BITTER. I should know...I lived there for 30 years...it's true.

Hillary is the most ARROGANT candidate I've seen in years.

Anderson, are you going to mention the ARG poll that today showed Hillary up 20 points????? OF COURSE NOT.....

And calling Obama's comments a possible "pundit created" blowup???? What a one-sided, partisan comment for Obama!

Is it just me, or does anyone else out there tired of the democrats divisionary war?
Let's start attacking the republicans. I wish the democrats would get their act together. Don;t you? Geez~

Why didn't the men turn themselves in for questioning and ask that their women and children be left in the safety of their home. Why didn't these FDL men open up a portion of their compound to allow authorities to talk to the women and children. What a bunch of cowards these men are to allow their women and children be taken away and separated from each other; why didn't they say "take us instead and let our women and children stay".......It seems that these men are only protecting themselves and have no regard for the women and children.

Obama gets it....I am sorry, but Hillary is really being pathetic since Friday....It will change some votes...but not enough to get her a slam dunk.
Also, does she really believes that the superdelegates will overturn the will of the people

Is anyone going to talk about Obama's "punished with a baby" comments? I think this is worse than his "clinging to religion" statements... anyone else agree?

I met Chelsea Clinton last week. I think she should run for president instead of her mom. She is a thoroughly impressive speaker and VERY well informed. She was a better speaker than Michelle Obama, and I'm an Obama supporter, so that says a lot.

Cults! Argg, they all claim that their religious freedom is being persecuted. Shut up already, it's not your religion we have a problem with it's the fact that you shove it down your childrens throats and make them do what you want them to do. You MAKE them believe it.

I grew up in a cult (the Children of God) and I know that what a cult tells the public and what they practice are two different things. Those children need a fair shot. Of course it's difficult for them to be seperated from the only lives they have ever known. Hopefully they can be given extrordinary lives through what is happening now. Texas, you have a huge responsibility on your shoulders now. Do what is right by those kids.

Mothers are supposed to protect their children from harm. How can that woman stand there and say that nothing bad is going on? Daughters being forced to marry way to young and sons being forced to leave their homes and fend for themselves!! Not my idea of a good mother!

Erica, aren;t you getting tired of Hillary espescially and Barak almost as often talking about each other and not the issues? Hillary is in full attack mode forcing Obama to look the same by defending himself. The Clinton machine is finally showing just how ruthless and power hungry they are.

Anderson: Your interview with the former FLDS member who had escaped with her children was truly an exercise in mediocrity. There was such a great opportunity to ask her questions about her relationships within her former polygamist family. However, you were completely thrown off your pre-prepared line of questioning as you didn't realize she knew your first interviewee and that the two were in fact married to the same man.
I hope you bring that woman back on your show and, this time, are prepared with questions about her former life in the FLDS community. She clearly wants to share these stories.

your show stated that it would be hard to match kids to parents with possibly no birth certificates but it was also revealed that these people apply for and receive medicaid and welfare benefits – I know that you need to provide a birth certificate and proof of identity for each child who you apply for – could that not be cross referenced to identify children

His Grandmother was the Vice President of a bank in Honolulu, HI. He lived in downtown Honolulu, which I know from experience, isn't cheap. He attended the very elitist Punahau School.

So Obama thinks Hillary is Annie Oakley and she thinks he's a tad high and mighty..I don't think any of the candidates including McCain are exactly like the middle class. But what Senator is?

Chuck..all the candidates go to Calif. not just Obama

Don't you think HIllary taking a shot of whiskey was just to show she can drink like one of the boys too? However, all those pics of HIllary taking that shot was a bit shocking! Don't really expect to see a presidential candidate doing shots...

Betty Ann> I hear ya! I mean, if you look at the issues they are basically the same, I don't see the need for such polarity.

Bitter Gate is a joke. Hope we get some real news tommorow. Not bashing AC love the show, but its been three days now.

Obama keeps talking about how he "identifies" with the working poor in America – give me a break....wonder where he went on his recent vacation??? How many folks do you know went to an ivy league school... I certainly applaud those who rise above their circumstances.....but to try and ride on the coattails of your grandparents simple living – just another prime example of his twisted political tactics....

Anyone know if the First Lady on Hillary's new add is her friend from Fla??

Of course the child abuse is a far more disturbing issue, but it would be informative to hear more about the total scam these people are running. For each 16 year they get pregnant they are guaranteed more welfare payments.Have I missed it or is anyone in the media mentioning that the many wives of these polygamists are receiving welfare? Since the man is married legally to only one woman the next zillion wives he takes are, according to the goverment unmarried women with children and qualify for welfare. It's a booming business - just look at the shiny new SUVs, vans etc. How many millions of dollars are going to these groups?

I think we need to be I little more sympathetic to the women... This is most likely how they themselves were raised, and it is probably all they know in life. This has to be such a terrifying time for them.

As a parent, it's hard to watch the story on the polygamy in Texas, but at the same time, it's better to err on the side of safety for the children. At the same time though, seeing the story on the sects, it seems as though these parents weren't acting in the best interest of their children. That's a responsibility we, as parents, all have. If we negate that responsibility, then, unfortunately someone else needs to step in. This is no different than child abuse. The only difference is that these parents are hiding behind religion to commit the abuse and then cry foul when the authorities step in to protect the children they have failed to.

I don't believe that saying people are disgruntled in small towns is wrong. I happen to think there are dissatisfied people all around the US. I think the problem with what Obama says is that they cling to religion and guns.

Oh – don't get me wrong – I admit that I cling to religion. But what he said was derogatory to me. He says he's a Christian, but he scorns people who cling to religion. I think that is a problem. All Christians should "Cling" to their religions and are more so inclinded to "cling" when times are tough. This is why God gives us these troubles – so we cling closer to Him.

Derrick- sometimes people abuse and twist religion to fit their own needs, wants and perceptions

it ends up benifiting very few
and being called a cult

if a religion causes harm,
it's not really a religion is it?

Anderson, your pro-Obama comments are becoming a noticeable pattern....

Where's Campbell Brown?

Betty Ann: Amen!!! LOL. John McCain won't have to do any campaigning...the Democrats are doing it for him. I'm for Obama, but I thinkt that both have given the Republicans plenty of ammo to go after either one during the general election.

Obama did a photo op at a bar too and had a beer. Why is he throwing dirt at Hillary for the same thing?

I live in San Angelo, I'm not a Mormon, and I don't agree with their particular religious views. But some facts need to be set straight.

1. There are way more than 2 bathrooms at Ft. Concho. Port-a-potties are everywhere. I live just a few blocks from it. The whole area has been blocked off from traffic and prying eyes to PROTECT the people staying there.
2. There are more than 300 lawyers in this county and the surrounding counties. They may not all have time or expertise for this particular event, but there are plenty of lawyers here. It annoys me that the media keeps describing this area like it is a desolate wasteland of few inhabitants.
3. These allegations of child abuse have not yet been established as fact. It is mostly hearsay and assumption. I'm not defending the Mormons, and I'm open to whatever the evidence proves, but let's not jump to conclusions.

Rose,
He was in Colubima last week his vacation, Right now he is in at University of Miami in Miami Florida.

Yes Marie-excellent point! Where were these brave, strong leader-men who are going to lead their families to heaven when the police came?

Oh, and did you also hear in the news how they support all these kids? They collect Welfare.

So after the child abuse hearings perhaps the Welfare fraud hearings will happen next?

Hi, Annie

The FLDS and the Mormon Church (LDS – no F) are separate entities. The LDS outlawed polygamy for its members in 1890.

Anderson is in Miami? WHat for? One of his Producers in FL is my neighbor! Maybe I'll look him up while he's here and tell him about my meeting with Michelle Obama last week when she came here!

it's been a year?
really?
it doesn't seem like it's been that long...

Hi Erica/Anderson,

Would love it if you guyz could do a segment on the below:

BILL CLINTON AGREES WITH OBAMA ON “BITTER” COMMENTS:

“If [Republicans] could cut funding for Medicare, Medicaid, education, and the environment, middle-class Americans would see fewer benefits from their tax dollars, feel more resentful paying taxes, and become even more receptive to their appeals for tax cuts and their strategy of waging campaigns on divisive social and cultural issues like abortion, gay rights, and guns.”
– Bill Clinton, in his 2004 memoirs, My Life, making the same argument as Sen. Barack Obama.

Have a good night!

MARRISA YOU ARE RIGHT good comment!!

How hard must it be to find out that your own son is planning a massacre and then be courageous enough to have him committed? But she did the right thing, no matter how hard it was.

Honestly, McCain doesn't have a chance. I'm not worried. Whether my girl Hillary wins or Obama, I think I'll be happy come election day.

Whether or not you like him or disagree with him is irrelevant. Think about it! How can a bi-racial child raised by a single mother who just paid off his student loans (I'm still paying on mine) be elitist? C'mon people! Next topic!

he looks like such a sweet kid though!

I find it hard to believe that a 6 yr old child wants to kill his parents? I don't get it maybe.
What did she do to stop him?

where you hiding on the webcam Erica?!?!?

Has anyone noticed that the webcam seems dark. Please turn up the lights a bit, thank you

Campbell Brown is Republican..isnt she Anderson....I could almost swear she said the other night on her show, that her hubby was interested in becoming McCains running mate.

Thats one brave mom! and I think they all ought to be like that – Kudos to you!

That poor family. I think genetics plaay a strong role in a child's behavior. There are GOOD parents who have kids who turn out bad.
So sad for the parents.

Erica, Thanks for the clarification on FLDS vs LDS. Wow - the interview tonight was RIVETING! As was the follow-up call with the sister wife. We had to rewind it and watch it again.

Agelique,

I agree, I dont recall ever seeing that look and AC's face either, I think he was probably quite appalled at what the lady was saying and her behavior. I know I was.

thanks webcam operator

Dawn T.-Pittsburgh> Well none of them are middle-class American either. Wealth has nothing to do with being an "elitist", its about attitude and the way you see yourself and those around you. You can have nothing, and still be an elitist.

It is sad. I don't know if I would have had the same tolerance. How far does your love go for someone that is irrational?

i agree with obama on being bitter about the economy but i dont clinge to my gun LOL

Cowboy Jack,
Campbell Brown went home after work, I saw her 2 hour ago in Election Center.

Erica Hill,

The Utah Mormons did outlaw literal polygamy, in order to achieve statehood. But they still practice spiritual polygamy even today. The men are not supposed to consummate with their spiritual wives. But spiritual polygamy is still going on amongst all Mormons.

I think Barack Obama's becoming a community organizer and leaving a high paying job to work for 10.000$ a year with the poor proves that he is more in tune with average Americans than 99.9% of the politicians in this country....

Steve, there are other differences between the two religions, but the question of polygamy is probably the one that comes up most often.

Hey Erica,
The show is kind of depressing tonight.

"Obama keeps talking about how he “identifies” with the working poor in America – give me a break….wonder where he went on his recent vacation??? How many folks do you know went to an ivy league school… I certainly applaud those who rise above their circumstances…..but to try and ride on the coattails of your grandparents simple living – just another prime example of his twisted political tactics…."

I went to a "very nice school" in the east that is up there in the rankings but did not come from a rich or upper middle class family. Perhaps that is why I can't afford to buy anything now. I identify with Obama because of this.

I just hope I can finally find a job one day! Most who go to those schools definitely don't come back to Ohio.

This is scary. I am sure kids do think violence these days, and they are all exposed to various mediums right from an early age. But so much violence at such a young age? Its Scary and horrific. Why do we have so many such cases here?

Scary how matter of fact that guy is about his hit list.... does he know and accept that he needs help?

i hear you Koroline and Marie – but havn't we clearly seen how much regard these men have for their families?

do you really want a president who won't drink a beer? i'm not looking for a whisky drunk but anyone who can't crack one at a BBQ or the beach clearly doesn't love freedom.

i can see the facination
and the yearning for acceptance
but not the killing
i guess it's just not something i can comprehend

A glimpse into the mind of the criminally insane makes me sick to my stomach. I don't need to hear about that. It's too scary.

Sorry, but the Catholic church is nothing like this polygamist camp!!
I agree with the person who said we should be praying for these people-especially the kids! They all have been seriously brainwashed and abused! What a messed up world we live in that these people make it off our tax money and we allow it- What can be done??

Yes, I agree. The show is depressing tonight. But I've noticed most all of the news is bad nowadays. Times are hard.

Melinda, I guess poor Carolyn was yet another mindless female with no control over the situation she found herself in...huh? Having numerous children within the confines of a polygamous group does not qualify her in my mind as "sympathetic". It qualifies her as a willing accomplice. I have no doubt, given the rather "flimsy" grasp of reality that the female mind posses naturally...that she exaggerated and lied (in her book) in order to cover for her own inadequacies as a mother.

Did Anderson come under sniper fire in Colombia?

Sue, I would love to read the transcript where Campbell says she is a Republican. Do you have the day and show?

I agree with Cal. The show today has been very emotionally draining. Its been one serious and disturbing story after the other.

Anderson, very interesting show tonight. Good night everyone

have good flight home, Anderson.

Anderson, you always ask the questions that come to my mind at the exact moment I am thinking them

I am off to sleep! I am really drained now. One long day to be followed by another in less than 8 hours! See you all tomorrow! G'nite!

Erica is the next section just a recap of the first interview or is a new one?

I agree, can't always blame the parents.

Good show tonight. Nite everyone!

no news and business bulletin???

Nice to have Anderson back!! Great show tonight.

Great program tonight! Good night Anderson, Gary and all!

The problem with the three candidates is that none of them fit what the perfect profile of the ideal Democrat (FDR, JFK, or even Bill Clinton) or the ideal Republican (Ronald Reagan, or Calvin Coolidge).
The fact is candidates grow into becoming Presidents. How good or not, that is to be determined by history.

Thanks Andy! Great show tonight! See you in New York tomorrow!

Goodnight all. Democrat or Republican we are Americans first..not enemies. I hope we can all remember that in the coming months.

Good night Anderson, Erica and bloggers,
See you tomorrow night!

Anderson, Erica, great to have you both back..... Can't wait to have you at the same studio again to add a bit of easy banter and fun to the serious news and putting a smile on our faces. Thanks for a great job!

Have a great night, everyone - see you tomorrow!

@ EJ: You are too funny. Of course Anderson met up with rebels and had sniper fire. It was when he was rock and mountain climbing in the jungle. It makes for a great story now doesn't it? (Scarcasm intended.)

Goodnight all! I think this is the best! Live blogging and getting in on the action. You guys rock (Gals too Erica)!!!

There are probably many kids out there who are being bullied but don't have a support system which will help them deal with it effectively–some of these kids might end up committing the same type of act that the Columbine and Virginia Tech killers did. Bullying should always be taken seriously.

Great show tonight guys! Thanks for blogging Erica. Hopefully Coop makes up for lost time tomorrow night and posts more than the usual ! Night bloggers.

It is not the polygamy thing that bothers me as much as the closet society. These kids don't have a chance, no freedom of choice. As a Canadian I am really upset because of the branch community in Bountiful, BC. Our government seems to be doing everything it can to put the issue on the backburner and not have to face the problem head on.

This is getting more and more complex by the minute. Kind of reminds me of how scientologists follow people that challenge the legitamacy of their religion.