Anderson, did you also “fix” that commercial that has your voice (in the debates) asking a question to John McCain? I haven’t seen it lately but not sure if its still out there.

Although it was your voice and you did ask the question, it has the appearance as if you are taking a side. Although I love hearing your voice, I thought you wouldn’t be happy with that.

Hi Anderson, It’s crazy how incorrect information can get out there so easily. Scary and disheartening for sure. It’s good that you called to correct them. Looking forward to a good show tonight. Regarding McClellan: He cannot be discredited completely, however I’m sure that some of his information has to be embellished. See you later.

That is what I admire about you reporting Anderson, although I was a bit suprised last night when you were talking about Puerto Rico’s primary and added that they don’t get to vote in the election which made me wonder if you were insinuating that they shouldn’t have a primary? It wasn’t followed through.

I think alot of people are confused as to what PR is to the U.S.When I realized that they can serve in your army and if there is a mandatory draft they are included, or they have been included, among other facts I felt that they should at least have a say in who your nominee is.

I think you are so right in keeping yourself neutral in letting people make up thier own minds about matters and politaical views . I look forward to seing your reports tonight keep up thier great work 1
Michelle

Anderson,
I think that McClellan just wanted to take some shots at Bush and make some easy money by writing this book. If he was so against everything that they did then why didn’t he leave and then tell what was going on. Instead he stayed on and kept acting like everything was great! Seems like a smear campaign to me.

I saw the Jindal thing and was for sure that it was not true. I knew you had never endorsed anyone before so why start now. Thanks for clearing that up.

C-Ya tonight!!

Cindy

Anderson, I’m still surprised that Mr. McClellan made those allegations. I’d like to think he’s telling the truth, but with his book coming out, I have to wonder about his real motivations. Why didn’t he say these things before? Why now? I look forward to a more in-depth report tonight.

Regarding your supposed endorsement of Mr. Jindal, I take everything with a grain of salt and I don’t believe in everything I see in the internet or anywhere until confirmed by reliable sources (at least that’s my philosophy), so no need to worry there.

See you tonight.

Lilibeth
Edmonds, Washington

It seems McClellan not only “drank the cool-aid” but he did his share of serving it up. Once removed from the intensity of the White House and the Press he may have had time to reflect and see things in a different light. “Cool aid” may be a very sweet drink, but the side effects can last a long, long time.

Anderson, you are so right, this all can’t be passed off as a disgruntled employee. He had to be in meetings to know what was going on.

I am glad to see that the article that you mentioned was wrong. It didn’t seem like something you would do, give an out right opinion on politics.

Anderson, glad you are digging into this story. Given how big and mean some of these status quo machines are, if anyone should be given the benefit of the doubt, it’s Mr. McClellan. You can’t live in the same house for a number of years and not come out knowing a thing or two.

Never had a doubt you know your job well which is why a lot of people like me ENDORSE YOU as the best.

It must be a junior reporter trying to ride on the 5 minutes of fame today! Glad you call them on it! I couldn’t find anything on Google.

On a brighter note, I did find that you are donating your time and lending your name to Elmo and the Sesame Street gang. From a parent I say THANK YOU for using your time to promote children’s education. I am sure you have folks calling you, emailing you and begging you to help them raise funds for good causes.

THANK YOU for using your voice for education! I hope you will buy into my theory that education is the only way to erradicate poverty in America and around the world!

Hi Anderson,
Facts? Yes, it would be nice to hear just facts. The spinning, that has been whirling like a top in this campaign season, has come from both sides of the fence. Happy trails, it’s not…Hopefully, we all can stay focused on what’s important and not a nightly soap opera of conflict and backstabbing. I actually think it would be good if we ALL just kept our candidate of choice a secret. Only the voting booth would know, and I hear it doesn’t repeat gossip, hearsay or name names…imagine that…

Lorie Ann, Buellton, Calif.

Anderson,

“I don’t endorse candidates ” you don’t need to make any more obvious than it already is to many of your viewers Obama is clearly your’s and CNN’S choice , The airtime he’s given exceeds the other two , the bias reporting , example Roland Martin, he’d marry Obama if he could, the content of the reporting is always in favor of glory boy , regardless of mistakes, fumbles and questionable affiliations this man has , not to mention the gross lack of qualifications , experience, and knowledge needed to be “Commander in Chief” CNN and You turn a blind eye with your blatant and zombie like reporting , the 95% liberal media has passed Obama to the front line , did’nt check his bags, frisk his body, scan him ,run the background, OIG sanction or even an EPLS, how irresponsible of the media to put this candidate in our face and shove him down our throats, future voters do your homework , don’t be an OBAMA ZOMBIE!!

Maritza

Hi Anderson. It should be interesting to see where this McClellan story goes. Out of all the Bush press secretaries I always found him the most interesting to watch. He always looked like he was about two seconds from running away. Does that mean he knew back then that he wasn’t telling the truth? Who knows. But someone was and is lying. That much is clear.

I heard about your alleged Bobby Jindal endorsement and immediately knew it wasn’t true. I’ve been watching 360 for about three years now and have come to the conclusion that you’d rather have a root canal than give us your political views, which is to be expected from an objective reporter. You’ve been pretty clear on the subject. It’s amazing how people can just put words in your mouth.

And it’s good to see you blogging, even if it is just to debunk a rumor.

Pretty simple answer in my mind…. $$$$$

Perfect time to make millions of a book… we’ve seen it before!

Congress would have loved to burn Bush… so I imagine if half of this could be proven they would be in court by now.

I have little faith in statements where profit is involved.

Maybe loyalty to his president stopped him from taking a stand? I don’t know but I’d like to give the man a chance… if what he had to say wasn’t true, would the PR machinery be out to discredit him in full force? Yeah, maybe he wants his pie, but before we throw him to the wolves it may help “to dig a little deeper”…. Thanks A!

What happened to McClellan you ask?
His conscience caught up with him is what happened. I don’t know
why everyone is so shocked by what he had to say . It’s not like
everyone didn’t know it all the time or at least suspect what he has
said to be accurate and true.
Whether he came out because it was the right thing to do or
because he felt used and abused by the Bush administration, it’s
what he has to say or confirm for everyone that is important and
people shouldn’t be distracted from his message because of
the reason for it.

Maritza, Anderson is one of the few anchors on TV who tries to always stay neutral and report the story rather than personal opinions or preferences.

I am sure that is sometimes hard to do, because of course reporters have opinions and preferences just like all other human beings, but I think he does a great job in always letting both sides speak and questioning one-sided contributors.

Keep up the great job, Anderson, it’s a pleasure to watch you work!

Anderson,
Good for you!! Don’t let anybody put words in your mouth.
As far as McClellan goes, he had to know this would be precisely how he would be portrayed by the administration. I will be interested to read his book. He had to have access since he was the “mouthpiece” for the administration. I know, I watched “The West Wing”!

If McClellan was so displeased with everything that went on while he was working at the White House, then why didn’t he resign??? I think he is just trying to make some fast money.

Anderson, I am glad you do not publically support any candidate. It’s good that you remain neutral. When I read about this “supposed endorsement” I didn’t think it was true. It dosen’t sound like something you would do.

I don’t think people should criticize McClellan for not speaking up earlier. The facts had to be gathered before he could make a case. I’m sure a lot of people are guilty of not speaking up about something when they first see it, perhaps doubting their own judgment or weight of influence. The author resigned and wrote a book. What else could he have done? I don’t know all the details in the book, whether they are true or not, but we should not attack the messenger without finding out if the message is true.

You’re doing a good job Anderson. Keep keeping them honest.

He probably needs money. So writing a book full of trash, he thinks will be a good sale.

Hey Anderson,

I think there was a post on Bobby Jindhal on this blog a couple days ago on Mccain’s best choice for VP. It wasn’t written by you, but this is probably where that reporter got his mistaken information from.

From the beginning of Scott McClellan’s job as press secretary to Pres. Bush, I could tell something was terribly wrong. When he stepped before the microphones in the press room, I watched his furtive glances, his hesitant comments (which were always the same), and his frightened manner. Mostly, I observed that he poured big drops of sweat! It was obvious that he was covering for the President and his pals, and McClellan was not comfortable doing it. A grateful nation now thanks him for the courage of his convictions, as he steps forth (somewhat late) to tell us the truth of the matter. We already knew. Now, in typical style, the White House has begun to vilify him, saying he is nothing but a disgruntled former employee. Further indignities now follow, as though lying for them was not enough of a sacrifice. Will this never end?

I’ve read in many blogs and heard the talking heads on TV ask
why didn’t he speak up when he was in the White House.. Why
didn’t he tell the president that he disagreed on several issues?
Well these people must have a very short or very selective
memory. Don’t any of you remember what happened to Joe
Wilson and his wife Valerie Plame when Joe Wilson dared to
disagree with Bush and his administration? Obviously,
McClellan did.

Anderson…
Regarding the comment left by a viewer who thinks you and CNN endorse Obama, those of us who are loyal 360 viewers know you would not endorse any candidate publicly.

As far as the breaking story regarding the former White House Press Secretary goes, I think its all about money. He saw an opportunity to write a tell-all memoir and rake in the money.

Don’t worry about it, Anderson, I think people know better than to think you would endorse anyone.

Is there any chance you can have Elmo be a guest on your program some time to report on this evening’s event? That would be great.

Wow Anderson long time no blog. Nice to see you made an appearance

I heard about the article in which you supposedly endorsed Jindal as the best choice for VP and that it sound off as you never indicate which way you lean. Thanks for clearing it up though.

Anderson,

I am sure McClellan is aware of the power of the Republican Party and he knew that they would come at him with full force. I don’t think he is unprepared for these attacks; it will be interesting to hear how he defends his revelations in the book. I hope that you will interview him on 360.

I think that McClellan is using this book to try to distance himself from the reckless decisions of the Bush administration and to get revenge for being hung out to dry and looking like a fool in the White House Press Room in regards to the Valerie Plame controversy. However, I do believe his claims that during Katrina the White House “spent most of the first week in a state of denial,� and that the Bush administration used propaganda to go into Iraq. He is only reporting what history has already told us.

Although I think people need to read the book before passing judgment, if Karl Rove is attacking McClellan, much of what he is saying must be the truth.

I am sure he timed the release of the book with the ongoing election; I have heard rumors that there may be information in it that might help McCain to distance himself from Bush.

I know that you have said time and time again that you don’t endorse anyone and I believe that you have not endorsed Bobby Jindal, however, I still have suspicions about 360’s gentle treatment of Barack Obama in comparison to its relentless attacks on Hillary Clinton.

I look forward to the program tonight.

Jo Ann
North Royalton, Ohio

As someone who’s been in a situation such as this, although not to this extent, I can somewhat understand where McClellan is coming from. I couldn’t afford to quit my position at the time, although I knew the man (who was my boss) was a horrendous businessman with the ethical values of a sectarian dictator. Only three years after taking the position did I finally leave.

People do things every day to enhance their career or move themselves forward. While they may go in with the right frame of mind, should they discover along the way that those around them are not exactly of that kind, well, should they be required to immediately leave and not continue with their post? I think that’s an unfair expectation and as long as McClellan is telling the truth and NOT just to sell books, then I think his “insight” should be welcomed.

Is he going to really tell us anything we didn’t already know? Not really. We all know this administration is practically as corrupt as the administrations it targets globally. With that said, do I think McClellan probably had the connections to walk away if he wanted? No doubt.

We all knew someone would blow the whistle, but I think most people expected it to be a death-bed confession… that doesn’t sell books!

Anderson,
Hi. It’s great to see your early afternoon blog.
The reaction from the White House to Scott McClellan’s book will most likely cause more people to want to read the book. I would–at this point–though I’ve always thought the war in Iraq resulted mainly from the necessity to take action against terrorism after 9/11. No one then could imagine doing nothing, though Iraq wasn’t directly involved in the attack. I had never been for the war, but thought the push for action was inevitable–and Iraq was the form it took. Since then, the progression of the war has had a life of its own. Whatever Scott McClellan has to say is certainly worthwhile.
I look forward to your program tonight.

I’m glad you re going after this story. The not-so-subtle implication in McClellan’s book is that the Bush administration knew full-well that Iraq was not a threat, had no WMD, was not a terrorist trainig ground, and was not connected to 9-11. So what are the real reasons for giving 4000 American lives? We deserve to know, no matter how uncomfortable the truth might be. Oil leases, privatization of Iraq’s economy, recontruction profiteering. Without an alternative explanation, we are left to assume the worst. We can’t shrug it off. This is possibly the most scandalous episode in our nation’s history. The families of the soldiers who were killed and wounded should know the truth. Simple as that.

I’m glad to see the station corrected their article. I didn’t think you or any reporter would be allowed to endorse a specific candidate.

As for Scott McClellan, I’m not surprised by the book. I bet there will be a few more memoirs from staffers out of this administration in the comming years.

I’m on the fence about the book though. To me, McClellan should have spoken up during his tenure about his feelings. It would have given him a bit more credibility in my eyes. Now it just seems he waited to make some dinero!

Hi Anderson,

I’m writing not so much in regards to the piece above but to make a suggestion.
It’s been clear from my watching the reporting on CNN and other media outlets that something has gone completely haywire in the past few months. The news is no longer news but some distorted spin intermixed with massive propaganda. The reporters seem stressed and from my observations trying to please someone higher-up so they can keep their jobs not to mention protect their lives and well-being.

From some of the activism by people like Amy Goodman and Bill Moyer on the issue of the threatened state of the Free Press, I’m guessing that I’m not the only person who has noticed this. Since there is such a profound lack of trustworthy news sources right now, my recommendation is that you take a few people that you trust and go and open your own news channel. You have enough credibility that I assure you in no time at all you will become the #1 news source in the country. Of course as long as very high standards of journalism and integrity are practiced which I know you are most capable of.

Such a source is badly needed and it needs to be initiated by someone like you. And though I have sensed that you are an Obama supporter, I trust in your ethics enough that I feel you would give Hillary a much more fair representation than she has gotten in the media over the past several months.

Not to mention, all the newsworthy material that nobody is covering. There currently are so many breaches of the law and ethics, as well serious threats to our lives and civil liberties going on in this country that are not being reported. Please help launch this much needed reformation in the media and allow for the creation of a venue where the truth and actual facts can be reported. I could even suggest some journalists you may want to bring on board other than the obvious ones who are speaking up this issue.

I trust in your integrity and hope you will consider this seriously.

Anderson,

As I recall, Congress authorized the war in Iraq, and by a large bipartisan margin. The American public also supported the war by a large margin. At the time, the intelligence reports from the UK and Russia seemed to confirm what we were being told, that Iraq had WMD’s. It was only after we found no WMD’s and casulaties started to mount, that there was any considerable opposition to the war. The press, CNN included, went along with the public. So the old Watergate question applies: What did we (the US) know, and when did we know it? Did Bush have bad intelligence all along? Did he have a mix, and ignore some? Did he know there were no WMD’s and lie? how much of the intelligence was made availble to congress before the vote? I don’t buy the propaganda thing. There is propaganda in every war. FDR used it. Truman used it. LBJ used it. The key question is what did the people in the inner circle (which apparently didn’t include McClellan) really know before the war. Who can answer that?

Anderson, I read about your so called endorsement and knew it could not be true. A journalist of your caliber would never put himself in the political arena.
Also, I can’t wait to get Scott McLellan’s book. He is writing about what most Americans already know. Sometimes I think this administration thinks the American people are so dumb that we cannot see through all the dishonesty of our so called leaders.
I have watched Scott and Tony Snow support lie after lie from the Bush administration when it would have been a better choice to be honest or have no comment.
See ya tonight.

Hi Anderson!
I don’t believe nor do I doubt anything that Scott McClellan says. Most of us don’t trust Bush anyways so it really doesn’t matter, does it?
However, It will be interesting to hear what McClellen has to say.
I fear we will be finding out horrors about this administration for many years to come.
Too bad people have to make stuff up like you endorse candidates.
People will say anything it seems. What a waste of your time to have to defend yourself. We all know you have to remain neutral and you do a great job of that!
Keep up the good work of being the best news program on T.V.!
XXOO

I give McClellan credit. If there one thing you don’t want to mess with its the entire United States government. But with the way the system is today you would have to expect a (somewhat) top dog to come out and finally say wait. And the fact that the White House suddenly discredits the guy almost makes them look worse.

And it’s true let O’Reilly and Olbermann do all the endorsing and the campaigning for the candidates…that just leaves more stories for Anderson to cover.

Anderson it is absolutely an outrage and slap in the face that the White House would issue a statement saying the President has more pressing matters than to explain or defend these accusations on this story. If he doesn’t feel he needs reaffirm the trust of the American people, then we may as well assume it’s true, and proceed to have him impeached and charged with war crimes and allow him to defend himself in a court of law, which is more than the detainees at Gitmo has received. Also don’t let the story President Carter broke concerning Israeli nuclear weapons go. This is of great concern as well. The more the gov wants to avoid it, the more pressure the press should apply. It doesn’t pass the smell test!

Charles

Speaking of the real war motives, Antonia Juhasz would be a great guest on this subject. She wrote “the Bush Agenda” and “the Tyranny of Oil”. She seems to know which closets have skeletons in them.

Anderson Cooper you are very political and you do your own politicking in your newscasts. During the Presidential debates that you moderated you did not give equal time to all the candidates and were very partial. Now look at what happened to the election cycle thanks to you. Anderson’s view today should read, What happened to Cooper?

Just keep up the GREAT WORK you do, Anderson. Most of us who regularly read the 360 blogs DO KNOW the following about you: You DO NOT take sides; you DO keep the newsmakers honest; & you Do dig deeper for the truth behind the story. Again, thanks. Never a doubt in my mind!

Anderson,

You may have not publicly endorsed a candidate but you indirectly have been fighting for Obama for over 7 months now. At times you even argued with the commentators.
The wording you have chosen has always been strategically negative on Hillary and McCain and very positive on Obama.
When Hillary brought up the point about White worker you called “ injecting race� when Obama said “typical white person� you saw nothing wrong with that. This is called double standard. You demonstrate this every day.
You failed to cover the story about Obama and Odinga in Kenya. You called the Wright issue a small issue that you don’t know why it is taking so much coverage.

Last Friday on 360 you actually became a commentator and declared that John McCain has changed positions for political gain.
I questioned you on your live blog and it never got posted!!
Your biased reporting is the reason I decided to speak up and not allow the media choose our next president.

As for Scott McClellan, if he stood behind that podium and lied for three years doesn’t say much about his character.
He gave interviews after he was out of the Whitehouse and never mentioned any of this.

I am sure you and CNN will have a blast with this one but sorry CNN, Scott already discredited himself.

Anderson you have failed to be objective. And this coming from a former fan is something you should really look into.

Anderson, it would mean a lot to me if you, as a respected and unbiased individual in the news media, could explain something to me, a regular person out here. McClellan claims the “media” didn’t do their jobs by not working harder to question the Bush administration’s claims and motives regarding the war in Iraq. Not that he should be throwing stones.

Since Bush came into office, and before 9/11, I learned from SOMEWHERE in the news media about PNAC (Project For A New American Century) — its members, mission statement, and intent. And of course it was not hard to recognize the many members of PNAC who held the most senior roles in national security under Bush. And if one reads PNAC’s white papers (written before 9/11), they espouse, in a nutshell, that America should run the world, and they lay out a plan for doing it. That plan involved invading first Iraq, then Iran, then Syria. As a starting point. And that in order to convince the American public that this would be a good thing, it would require a catastropic event along the lines of Pearl Harbor — unquote.

Since this information was available from many reliable sources to me, on the Internet certainly, for six years I have been so frustrated that PNAC has not been a discussion item on cable news, even given how many damn hours have to be filled!

I remember six/seven years ago how difficult it was to be politically incorrect against Bush. It was almost dangerous. So, is that it? No one wanted to discuss it and question the Administration out of fear?

It’s easy now to be against the war and jump on Bush. But why is everyone I’ve seen on CNN and the other cable news stations questioning what McClellan has declared, and acting SO surprised?? Come on, didn’t we know it all along??

Anderson — you didn’t have A/C 360 then, so I’m not blaming you — I’m ASKING you — did most members of the news media really not see what was happening?? I need to understand so I can get my trust back.

The reason I don’t read these books is because they are opinion hit pieces that rarely prove anything and whose only real purpose is to make money for people who totally agree with their party while they have a good job, then tear them down when they no longer have a good job.

Anderson,
The truth shall set you free. At least you know that! It`s quite obvious you don`t endorse anyone. That information is held close to your heart and so it should be. No reason to sway the masses. Let the people make up their own minds. I`m looking forward to the show tonight! Thanks for keeping them honest.

Whoa two very ballsy incidents creating one heck of a rolling thunder. Number one don’t mess with Anderson Cooper and two isn’t McClellan be in breech of some working for the government confidentiality somewhere?

“I don’t endorse candidates. Never have. Never will. That’s not my job. I called up the station and asked them to remove the incorrect sentence from their website, but just in case anyone thinks I’ve suddenly decided to start taking sides in political races, I haven’t. I leave that to folks on other networks.”

And that above paragraph is why I watch your political coverage, and no one else’s. I don’t need someone telling me how to think, like on other networks. I am an intelligent person,can make up my own mind, and the facts you consistently give help me to do just that.

Thanks, Anderson.

Anderson:

They should know by now that you never voice your opinion on such things as politics. They must have confused you with Bill O’Reilly.

Kim, Bolingbrook, IL

I somehow missed that rumor this morning. I’m a Times-Picayune and New York Times girl, so unless the rumors are written there, I don’t have a clue. Besides that, Governor Jindal just debunked it again in his newsletter to his supporters yesterday (I know because I get it). Until he or Senator McCain say differently, I don’t buy anything about this anyway. And no offense, but who cares who you support? You are one vote and voice just like every other citizen in this nation. If people vote based on any person’s opinion besides their own, they really need to learn to think for themselves and get lives anyway.

Speaking of getting a life, the McClellan issue sounds like sour grapes, a good agent, and a nice book deal in an opportune time to trash the Republican party. Yes, he was there. Yes, more always goes on than what they tell us (history proves it over and over again). But the timing is so lowball it is unreal. The headlines in Louisiana this morning all dealt with Katrina and the Bush blame game as reported in this book. Let us not forget our former Governor Blanco and Mayor Nagin had just a little bit to do with that recovery fiasco, too. I’m sure if the Katrina story is one-sided and not totally factual, the rest of the book is just as screwed up. Honestly, McClellan discredited himself already as far as I’m concerned because it’s apparently such a vicious attack (which leads me to believe vindication is somehow involved), and I’m not buying any of it. All wars are based on politics, have spin, and are made pretty for the public. This is nothing new. Think WWII propaganda. Keep him honest or whatever, but please don’t waste a whole show on this nonsense.

Dear Mr. Cooper,
Your book made a big impact in my life, I had read it three times,
and I cry each time.
I lost my son he was 27 years old, I’ll feel the sadness and guilt for
the rest of my life.
I can see and feel your pain, and I feel for your mom too.

Sincerly,
take care,
O. Munoz
P.S. please excuse my English.

Good for you, AC, for standing firm on your principles. That’s one of the reasons we all love you and watch 360! It is great to watch a show that gives different views and lets us make up our own minds. I can’t wait to hear all of the stories on McClellan’s book tonight.

Anderson Cooper, I feel you are not telling the truth about endorsing a candidate. Three out of four posting left on your blog has been in favor of Senator Obama. Most of mine were erased because I pointed out rational reasons to support Senator Clinton. Even the polls show that Hillary Clinton has been unfairly attacked by CNN. At least tell the truth, be honest.

Anderson,

I just listened to Dan Bartlett being interviewed by Wolf Blitzer, former Communications Director in the current administration. I find his circle the wagons approach to the allegations by Scott McClellan to be more of the same from this administration. As usual, we the people are played for complete fools.

It appears that many people associated with the Bush administration are puzzled by these allegations, so you have to ask the question: Who is the Scott McClellan that the White House knew?

Poor decision-making at the highest level of our government has been the hallmark of this administration, and McClellan quotes from the book support that premise. The sad part is that his comments ring hollow because he did not register his lack of support in a more substantial way. He could have stepped down from his position with a forceful statement that he could not support the White House, but honor cannot co-exist with a tell all book advance.

Clearly, McClellan was a liar while on duty as the White House Press Secretary. Bartlett, as the his boss, compromised his own integrity repeatedly by facilitation of these lies. For Bartlett to express surprise over these current allegations suggests that while McClellan has come clean, Bartlett still lacks the ability to be his own man for fear of irritating the Bush inner circle even now.

The two defining examples of the current administration’s foreign policy and domestic policy are embodied by McClellan’s ruminations over the Iraq War and the disaster in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The remaining stench still lingers, both within the administration and across this country, which is why the book has created an uproar.

Leave it to Baton Rouge televsion stations to make such a bone headed move and publish a lie. Sorry…we’re not all so uniformed down here in the bayou.

Just tried to look up Scott McClellan in the Library database, and am unable to find it. I suspect they haven’t ordered the book….oh well. It’s certainly getting enough press on CNN.

It’s good to see a blog post from you again and I’m glad to hear that 360 will be giving more coverage to McClellan’s revelations tonight–he’s made some pretty scathing but not necessarily surprising remarks about what may have gone on in the White House during his time as press secretary–it only confirms what some of us have suspected about the Bush Administration and its motivations over the years. It’s also been interesting to hear from some in “the media” responding to McClellan’s criticism of their reporting during the run up to the Iraq war–I watched Katie Couric, Charles Gibson and Brian Williams having a discussion about this earlier.

Anderson, I read about your supposed endorsement of Jindal and knew immediately that there was no truth to it–I can’t recall one instance in all the years that I’ve watched 360 where you stated your political views–but you HAVE said numerous times on the live blog that you don’t support any candidate.

Anderson, you are the most neutral reporter out there. You carefully craft every sentence you speak, and watch every action you make for the sake of your impeccable professionalism. I’m glad you cleared the issue up regarding the mistatement.

Regarding the McClellan issue–there are always two sides, and perhaps there is truth in what he writes. With litigation so fierce and rampant, he would have to mind what he writes and what he says.

See you tonight.

Laurie

Did you extend the station an invitation to watch your show? It suits them well not to have watched it before and start rumor.

Anderson,
You’re ability to stay an impartial journalist is very impressive, especially with the rumors about you that have circled the internet. You always do a great job covering stories and questioning all sides of an issue. But just for the record, I think most of us would love to hear your opinion and maybe have you clear up a few rumors about yourself, maybe in a book. Can’t wait for tonight’s show!

After seeing what a lousy job this Bush administration has done since it came to power, can anybody be truly be surprised by what McClellan is saying in his book? The entire bunch has operated as a smug and exclusive group of “elitists” who essentially have two left feet and couldn’t find their own tails with both hands. Its not so much the ideals and goals that Bush and his boys went after. its that they couldn’t produce a decent final product. Its was the consistent POOR quality and ineptness that consistently reined and McClellan was bright enough to see how poorly he, Bush and the boys had actually served our nation. I do find the response of the White House and some folks like Ari Fleischer, somewhat humorous. I suspect others who have served feel the same way as McClellan, but don’t have the moxie to speak up. Good for McClellan….theres always hope for some folks.

Think I’ll just wait for the glut of made for tv movies versions of the book.

Hi Anderson,

Oh brother. Seriously, what is wrong with people? Ugh!

Rest assured, those of us that know you and your work certainly realize that comment was completely bogus. People kill me. Just saying.

We all watch you and rely on you for the unbiased coverage you deliver. You have proven this time after time. Enough said.

As fas as McClellan goes, the jury is still out. Obviously he had the inside edge here. There has to be some gravitas to what he is saying, otherwise why would he go there. Very dangerous territory of you ask me. The question is how much gravitas? And where excatly is he coming from? Everyone slants things, I mean, it comes from HIS perspective and so far we do not have enough info to determine what his perspective is. We may never fully understand it.

Thankfully we have you to help us with that. Don’t get discouraged, Anderson. We trust you and all of the fine people at 360 to get to the bottom of it as only you can. Thank you. for standing up for your beliefs. Sincerely. Just keep doing what you do best. We count on you.

I agree with most of the comments, especially how you stay unbiased. However, I believe that whether his comments are totally correct or not, I think someone should tell Dan Bartlett, he probably didn’t discuss he thoughts for fear of losing his job. It may not be right, but true.

A few additonal thoughts: First, why are so many presuming that they already know the motivations for why Scott McClellan wrote what he did? Especially before he’s said a single word about it himself? Second, those who are ‘outraged’, to whatever degree, haven’t been able to state that there is anything UNTRUE that’s been written. Third, there is no better balance to be found in this morass of political coverage than at AC360, regardless of what others may ‘hint’ at. Please stay on course, as you have been!

Anderson,

How was your memorial day weekend? I was dosed on Anti-histamines and slept a lot.

It seems like everyone is after you to get you. You are underestimating yourself the amount of control you have as a media person. Basically, I think it is a stunt to attract people’s attention. Well, thank god for the 360 Blog that you can neutralize this.

By the way, the McClellan story is still a blur to me: I am unable to comprehend what’s going on. So how come he got that far to publish the book anyway? Can you elaborate more?

Dear Anderson,

Thank you for your view. I did look up that news piece on All Things Anderson with your name quoted for Bobby Jindal (with his face grinning all over the page) and I was quite surprised that you could have such an open endorsement in public, which is so unlike you. Thanks so much for clearing that piece of controversy and I hope in the future people or the media don’t take up your name as a fancy to enhance someone else’s popularity.
The person or persons who do this need to be penalized. Or they would take everyone famous or infamous for granted.
You received e-mails?? If I wanted to reach you what would that e-mail be or is it just a public access e-mail.
Just wondering.
Its such a joy to watch you on your show.

Hello Anderson,
I am not sure why Scott McClellan trying slam President Bush to accusation of CIA leak by Libby Scooter, No, I didn’t read his book this time………. I found that I was watching Campbell Brown when breaking news show up on CNN before I was watching you on AC360 and joined your blog. That is so interesting to me if he would tell his truth about CIA leak. I hope he will do tell you tonight…….
And Anderson..
I will not be join your blog tonight on AC360……. I will be back tomorrow night to join AC360 blog. See you tomorrow night! Take care. xoxo
Megan D.
Shoreline, Wa

Anderson, good to see you posting and reacting to information that was not accurate. I agree. It is your job to remain as objective as possible although there are times when we think well maybe he’s for…. but then again maybe not.

I see that Congressman Waxman (D-FL) wants McClellan to testify under oath before the House Judiciary Committee about the statements in his book. I say don’t just call him, SUBPOENA McClellan with the idea of initiating articles of impeachment against George Bush! 4000+ Americans dead, tens of thousands maimed and psychologically ruined, 3 TRILLION dollars spent, the economy in shambles, gas and food prices off the chart and more, yet Bill Clinton was impeached for sexual behavior with an intern! Have we lost all perspective? This is the “smoking gun” that will seal once and for all that Bush lied. And, Madame Speaker Pelosi, it past time to put impeachment back on the table!!!!!

Anderson, McClellan wants to sell books and is doing a great job. What is the White House supposed to say; yes everything in the book is true, we admit it. Who cares, Bush is almost done with his way too long term anyway. Nothing that comes up about 911 or the war in Iraq concerning this White House will surprise me. Bottom line everyone was swept away including the media by the patriotic band wagon. What is really the point of this book, McClellan needs a source of income, so while most Americans are hurting during this recession he will just open up his wallet and accept a hefty check. Lets move on from Bush and all the crookedness of his administration. As for myself and I’m sure many other Americans need the focus to be on problems occurring today. How do we get out of Iraq now, why in the world is my college tuition going up next year along with the interest rates on loans…I could go on but I know yall like to keep blogs short.

Oh McClellan definitely would’ve lost his job. That is why there are so few in the Bush administration that have the courage to say something while the event is happening. Condi hardly says a word disagreeing with Bush.

They figure “it’s either my job or the American people” (that get screwed) and they eventually choose to screw the American people.

Anderson:

I do not recall any other administration be it R or D where a White House official at Scott McClellan’s level has come out and written a tell all book on his former boss and the inner workings of said administration. Do you?

You seem to be someone who would place a high mark on integrity and loyalty. I do not think Scott McClellan has either.Why did he not leave if his conscious bothered him? Many other’s have left administrations when they felt that they could no longer support their boss.

I hope he makes a lot of money on this book. He will need it, as he has burned his bridge in Washington,DC.

I look forward to your reporting on yet another interesting sub plot of this presidential election season. Just 160 more days to go. Lucky You and Us!!!!

Susan
Phoenixville,PA

This is just another “safe” story for CNN to report upon. Nothing in this book should be consider a “new” revelation. Kucinch and others had pressed for impeachment hearings years ago, but where was the media attention back then? Anyone with a TV saw the government fail the victims of Katrina, but how many times have we heard on CNN about HUD destroying the liveable low-income apartment housing units in New Orleans? We all know about the President’s low approval ratings, and how the majority of Americans want us out of Iraq, but where is the story about Nancy Pelosi pushing forth another $160 billion Emergency Supplement Funding Amendment for Iraq and Afghanistan? I seem to remember the promise that if we voted in more Democrats into Congress in 2006, we could end this war, not continue to fund it.

I respect that you don’t take sides, but these are news stories and you have the medium to bring awareness to these and other important issues that affect more people than a book review analysis.

On taking sides – I think its fun to watch a variety of programs (especially when one doesn’t have a job). 360 (where Anderson doesn’t make his views knows) & also a few that take sides (like Olbermann & Abrams). It just depends on how it’s done.

It’s all good!

Anderson,

This is all about marketing hype and money. Duhh, ya’d think he has a book coming out or something.

The White House does not need to discredit Scott – - – he has done a fine, fine job of that himself. He has no principles to stand upon and by his very own words he is a hypocrite of the first order . . . and of course the media is eating this up.

His accusations may or may not be true – - – but what is true is that he sorely wants to line his pockets with cash while he can. If he said these things in a regular interview he’d still be a hypocrite, but not of the first order.

What ever happened to timeful resignation as a way of standing up for truth and honesty?

Dear Anderson,

I think McClellan was going through a psychological eruption through his book. I never knew he was the Press Sec. for three years till you mentioned it. Thanks!
Three years is a long time, a long term and you might experience compressed intensity given the high strata of life that he was subjected to on a daily basis. There are untruths that you simply do not speak about because his position demanded so. And whatever was revealed was his job to do so. Irrespective of the truths or untruths…
I guess the intensity and the direction in which this war is going finally got to his psychological veins and his book just flowed out. If that is the right terminology that I might use…
I would never be brave enough to write a book as his…and like you, Anderson I do not know what allegations are true or not true.
All I can commend is that McClellan is like a brave soldier, speaking on behalf of all the soldiers fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. Always to speak against the norm requires an unusual amount of bravery because there are always going to be repercussions.
I am a meek, timid, U.S citizen and all I can do is voice a silent opinion on AC360. Bravery takes it voice in different forms.
Would you endorse my view Anderson?

Thank you Anderson, for not taking sides in this political process. We always like watching your show and getting all the different viewpoints. Other networks make it obvious who they like. But, not you guys. Hey, haven’t seen David Gergen in awhile………..where is he?

It’s a case of the chickens coming home to roast. No doubt this is the first ,of what will be a long line of white-house staff, not being able to live with there guilt in supporting G W Bush’s ego and first for war. When people like McClennan sit back and reflect on what they have done, they cant live with the duplicity and deceit. How can they “4000 Americans have died in Iraq” needlessly and for nothing.
The republican media can try to spin this anyway they want, but ordinary Americans can and have seen there fruitless attempts and are now about to change the political landscape, to a country that will be at ease with itself. I feel desperately sorry for genuine politicians like John McCain in the republican party, he as tried to take the moral ground against the far right and G W BUSH.

The Republican far right as destroyed America in 8 years, millions of ordinary people have lost there homes, while the Banks have been given money to cover up there mistakes, 95% of Americans cant afford there health insurance, and 60 million have no insurance. Gas prices at a record high, as the Oil Rich country’s take out there anger on G W BUSH and his invasion of an Arab country “IRAQ” the Arabs can and are breaking America with there refusal to produce more Oil, so Gas prices spiral and Americans suffer pain for G W BUSH and its Government actions in the Middle East.

McClennan is the tip of the iceberg, and there are going to be many more like him, with a conscious for truth and redemption

Hi Anderson! I think Mc Clellan did what he was told not because it was his job but for the fact that he was there as Bush’s puppet. He couldn’t do what he wanted to do. He had to do what he was told. I think Mc Clellan lost himself in what he thought and possible told was the safety of the American people. Sometimes ignorance is not bliss. Sometimes a person needs to stand up for themselves and others and say it as it is and McClellan failed at that. Thank you, Anderson for standing up and calling in to the people at the website and telling them that you do not support anyone for president or v.p. Thank you for sticking to what you believe is you and not just letting it go. We need more people out there like you that are not afraid what the truth is, of course you may not always get it 100 percent right all the time but thanks for trying. Your the best one out there. Im not old enough to remember watching Walter Cronkite but the other day my mother mentioned you and him in the same sentence. Anderson Cooper is this generations Walter Cronkite.

So the Bush people are saying McCellan wasn’t qualified for the job? Doesn’t that make them look even worse – after all Bush and his people were the ones that hired McCellan. I wonder after Bush leaves office how many other books will come out saying about the same thing as this book does.

Glad you got the endorsement rumor squashed. its amazing what gets started on the internet and then is assumed to be true.

Annie Kate
Birmingham AL

Anderson, not knowing what is and is not truth, I wonder if maybe something along these lines might have contributed to the departure of former Sec. of State Colin Powell. He is one who has always been viewed as an honorable man and it seems this could be just cause for him to leave the Bush forces and being an honorable man he would do it and never discuss his reason for leaving.

Amderson,
It has occurred to me that even though I respect your unbiased opinion, you were far from unbiased in Nola back in 2005. Wasn’t it you who showed utter contempt for how the establishment was handling the situation? I f you hadn’t been that “emotive” would you be where your are now??? JMO

It doesn’t matter whose in office, I’m quite sure it’s protocol to NOT give up or out specific information. There are things we the people joe public are not suppose to be privy to when it comes to stratagies and other kinds of information.

I think MCclallan’s book is right on the money. The republicians are embarassed and are dening everything. Everybody knows Bush has misled the people from the very start. The whole Bush administration has been a blunder, from the war to the economy. Thank God he’ll be gone in jan.

Please tell me Anderson, why this administration is still running America? I think that the Mclellan’s statments should be fully investigated and if found true, the current administration should step down and face jail time. The reason is clear, declaring war on a false enemy and the murder of the innocent. The “Iraq war was unnecessary.” I think it goes beyond that and simply to the fact that when War is chosen, all sides lose. Again, if the statments are true, all who were involved should be thrown in prison. One last question….How can the people ever trust their government when it leads them astray?

Anderson yes he was the spokesman for nearly three years for the president, now he is the true spokesman for the American people, they will call him the devil, Scott McClellan is clever and out of the bush spells .

we all should support him . Go Mc Clellan go.

It is possible – and likely – that while Scott was employed as press secretary that he was a “believer”. He was too close, as well as too emotionally involved, to have clarity about what was occurring. It often takes some time and distance to see the picture clearly.

Think about it. It’s happened to all of us at some time. We joined a group or organization – feeling good about it. Later we saw the picture more clearly and changed our perceptions. It actually happens all the time!

Anderson,

It is apparent to me that this man didn’t believe the words that were coming out of his own mouth when he was doing the President’s bidding. Plenty of people have worked somewhere where the leadership claimed to have an open door policy but everyone knew that you could not go to them without reprecussions. Also, we know that this administration has been accused of prosecuting and persecuting idividuals(Valerie Plame) that did not tow the company line. If I was him I would have kept my mouth shut until I found a new job. The entire world knows that this administration picked what they wanted to hear or acknowledge and ignored everyone else. This administration has ignored the American publics wishes and villafied anyone that spoke out against them. How is it in a “free” society you are not allowed to speak out agianst the government without being potrayed as unpatriotic (Bill Mahr).

Anderson,

Watch, all the Bush people are going to come out against him and now he will be exiled. I don’t know if their heads are in the sand or up their *%@.

McClellan is getting exactly what he wanted from the Bush bashing book; attention needed to MAKE MONEY off the book. The media is spending an enormous amount of time coming up with reasons why McClellan wrote the book… call it like it is and drop the attention. Surely, we’re all not this ignorant to not call it what it is… a ploy to make himself rich by using his association to Bush. And if that’s not true, why give a 2-face political leader all this attention.

Anderson,

What about this scenario:

Scott was approached by a publisher to write a book, received a large bonus up front (signing bonus) and spent it right away, only to find that there was a ghost writer taking off with his story and spinning it the way they saw fit. At that point, it may have been too late to reverse a decision to “write” the book, and what you see today may be the result. It’s not inconceiveable that a publisher would look to make a profit off of the most pivotal subject in this election year. If we’re wondering “what happened” to Scott McClellan, it may be a scenario worth looking into.

I am tired of people like McClellan profiting first for telling lies and then later for telling the truth.

If the man understood the nature of what he had done he would go to work helping the families of dead soldiers; or helping rebuild New Orleans; or devoting all the profits of his work to charities. Repentance is not enough. McClellan needs to reform, and to show he is reformed by refusing to profit from his crimes.

In short, he should be ashamed of what he did to mislead Americans, not proud that he finally found enough moral courage to tell the truth.

Anderson – take a pundit leadership role – just state the truth re: McClellan’s “401k funding book “. This is a sell out for 30 pieces of silver. S.McCl was a third string press secretary who communicated very poorly verbally and has written this book – not for true historical record – but for BOOK ROYALTIES and profit.
S.McCl was asked to leave the position due to his poor communication skills and was replaced by Tony Snow – a night and day difference in press secretaries. McClellan became a disgruntled ex white house staffer as a result – and this sour grapes book is a result.

McClellan is getting exactly what he wanted from the Bush bashing book; attention needed to MAKE MONEY off the book. The media is spending an enormous amount of time coming up with reasons why McClellan wrote the book… call it like it is and drop the attention. Surely, we’re all not this ignorant to not call it what it is… a ploy to make himself rich by using his association to Bush. And if that’s not true, why give a 2-face political leader all this attention. If I am going to watch CNN, please make it worth my time, McClellan is not worth anyone’s time.

One thing I love about your reportage(Anderson) is u never take side which is the epitome of how it should be. The problem we have in this country is that we love the truth but the people in the position of authority never want the people they govern to know the truth. It is only in this country that we have truth that are not for public consumption and the other part that people should know. Conspiracy and propaganda has eat deep into the fabric of the nation called USA. So when somebody comes up to say the truth he will be branded. Look at what those close to white house is asking not whether it is true but why is it taken him so long. If there are a lot of Scotts in this country this country will be a better place than it was and has always being.

Anderson, In digging deeper, why not go back several years and look at what General Zinni aid before the war. Here is the guy who has a great deal of experience in the Middle East. He said back then that he saw no reason to go to war.

Bush loyalists are trying to distract the public by whining about how unloyal McClellan is by writing this, trying to make this about McClellan saying why didn’t he resign, why didn’t he say something while he was in his position. The public is not stupid. We see right through all that. This is not about McClellan. It’s about a corrupt administration and corrupt politicians. McClellan said what he said while he was there because he was trying to be loyal, and just as corrupt as the rest of them. He now sees the same thing happening with Iran and he wants to stop it. The American people need to stop being partisan too, republican or democrat, if its wrong, we all should be standing up against it.

Anderson

Where is Tony Snow ? His input would be interesting on this McClellan stuff.

thanks
miriam

LIBBY! LIBBY!!! LIBBY!!!!!
Damnit!
McClellen may not have been in position to have information during the lead up to war… but his defense of the whole Libby debacle gave him a hindsight view of the entire event!!!
It’s that 20/20 vision in hindsight that has enabled him to see how we were deceived!!!!!
Damn I wish you pointed that out to his former boss. You couldv’e backed him into a corner.
Rich H

What’s amazing – is that almost everyone who has come out against Scott McClellan sound the same – like Newt Gingrich and Karl Rove – on the other channels.

But Ari Fleischer is really amazing me – because what he is doing is slowing down his facial movements to almost make himself look slightly dopey – but all to say that there is something wrong with Scott McClellan. I have never seen him speak or look like that.

It’s an election year and these guys are going to surround the President – where they see he has come under attack.

They say confession is good for the soul.

I think Scott McClellan just wants to be able to sleep at night and someday, face his grandchildren’s questions.

He wasn’t the first ambitious young person to be flattered and seduced into selling his soul by older, wealthier, more powerful men. He won’t be the last. But when these young people are no longer subjected to daily manipulation by the powerful, and they have time to reflect, they are often deeply disappointed with their former “mentors”–and with themselves.

I pray that more members of the Bush “inner circle” will tell the truth. It will be healing not only for themselves and their families, but also for the nation.

I never thought you took sides and the fact that you get people telling you that you are both an Obama and a Clinton supporter proves this.

You can tell Mr. Gergen that the press secretaries of the past may not have turned on their former bosses so soon , but we have never had an adminastration this corrupt.

Isn’t it funny how many Bush’s cabnet members keep changing. Even Colen Powel couln’t stomach it any longer. I’m glad McClellen had the nerve to come out and findly tell the truth. Sure he was nervous, don’t you remember Susan Dougal she said she was happy to be in jail, she felt safe. The only weapons of mass distruction Sadam had and chemical he used on his people, were sent to him by the United States.

It has occurred to me that even though I respect your unbiased opinion, you were far from unbiased in Nola back in 2005. Wasn’t it you who showed utter contempt for how the establishment was handling the situation? I f you hadn’t been that “emotive� would you be where your are now??? JMO

Hi Judy – I think that Anderson means he doesn’t take sides in political races and in endorsing candidates.

Hurricane Katrina was life & death.

I personally felt that Anderson was pissed at everyone in charge regardless of what their political leaning was. His stance was anything but political. To see something like the aftermath of Katrina happen in America — it’s unthinkable – it can’t be justified or defended by any politician.

People please… Most of you don’t even research things put out by the media much less research the Presidential candidates. If you did then none of the people that the corporate media has been trying to sell to the American people would be still running for president. I have read many of the comments and it saddens me to see the real ignorance of all of you. 5 corporations own the main stream media. Do you understand this at all. We have 700 bases in 130 countries. Most of you work your A$$ off every day and I understand that you turn on the T.V. expecting to get the news to help get you the stories needed to make informative decisions. Well, wake up America! I’ve been to Iraq and I know how my government treated us. We didn’t have armoured hummers or body armour to wear. Our vehicles were’nt painted desert colors they had woodland camaflouge. I didn’t wear desert camos because they weren’t issued to us. We wore woodland camos. It is not about Democrat or Republican any more because both parties are bought and paid for by lobbyist and special interest. Listen, you want to know more then take the time to research. Read Ron Pauls new book ” The Revolution A manifesto “. McClellan is telling the truth. Yeah he might have wanted to make some money but why would he have to lie to write a book. He could have wrote the book and said only good stuff about the Bush administration.

Anderson is where he is because of a lot of hard work and by doing stories others don’t seem to stick with. It seems like several people are in an attack mode today.

Scott McClellan says that President Bush lied to the country in order to sell the war on Iraq. If President Bush honestly thought that Saddam posed a threat to the United States and then decided to go to war…..how is that a lie? On the other hand, if President Bush did not act on his conviction that Saddam was a threat and then the United States was attacked, the media would be criticizing him for doing nothing. This is all just an attack on the President and the Republican party in an effort to make the Democrats look better for the upcoming election.

would someone explain to ari fleischer that once mcClellan got his job and was in a position to hear things. people tend to discuss things more than once so he could have heard the things about propaganda. i personally would like to believe our gov’t on this one, but c’mon. they outed a cia agent and isntead of being charged with treason and shot if convicted nothing happened except her life was put in danger and at the very least her career was ended.

Anderson, for all the so-called facts we (the American public) were given; Why hasn’t anyone asked: “Did this president go to war to avenge the (alleged) assassination of his father by Saddam? Clearly, this was one of the reasons given that he had to be removed. We, however, are still duped that the intelligence reports were faulty.

Please tag it for what it is in Iraq. It is an invasion, not a war! It is an occupation, not a win or lose proposition! Show the courage and conscience that Scott MacCallum has. In speaking out, he has destroyed his career and his reputation. I would imagine that if I were in a similar position I would have a very difficult time coming to terms with loyalty, culpability versus truth. Is the media going to step up to the plate for once? Do you seriously believe that Bush and his crew will walk on this?

does anyone else sensor their words on here from fear of government action?

Dan Rather and Bill Moyers have had the integrity to point out that the press failed to ask hard questions prior to the start of the Iraq War. Last night CNN ran interviews with reporters who said we did a good job. There were two reporters from Knight Rider who tried to call attention to the lack of weapons of mass distruction. Others including CNN did not emphasize the lack of proof prior to the invasion. Only tonight did you begin to acknowledge the lack of critical coverage of the President prior to the invasion. The coverage was poor and it should be acknowledge now. McCellan is right about the press.

Howell Hopson

The attacks on Scott is typical from our government. I you are brave enough to step out on faith and tell the truth about any thing that shine a light on mistakes made with in our goverment expect to receive retalitation from many different agencies and talking heads.
The media could do our nation a great service if they used some of their time to do real investigative reporting. Keep them honest by going after those agencies who conduct these covert activities. If the media put a question out there to the people experiencing actions taken against them so much could be uncovered. Authentic investigative reporting could really make a difference in our country for many people. Be aware of those who try to point you in a different direction.

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Anderson, understandable that Scott McClellan conscious has taken a toll on him. It was clear to me, and should’ve been clear to others, that Saddam and his family was doomed when Bush, Chaney, Rice, Rumsfeld, Rove, Wolfawich, Libby, Powell, Peerle and many others first came to Washington. Also, when the decision was (is) made; as a former senior military officer, we become cold blooded just like the poeple who is responsible for us to be sent to war!!!

Anderson,

Please, please, please keep covering the McClellan story. We know that the White House will try to discredit him, but most of us know what he is saying has a lot of truth. Not in the loop? Then why was he the press secretary?

This administration has much to answer for, and somehow, had not answered for anything. This may be the moment that we get answers. As a journalist, this may be the story that may give you a chance to chance America. You seem to be in a fairly untouchable position. Go after the truth, not the ratings. I think people are hungry for the truth.

Alot of people who feel the press let US down running up to the War, see the same thing happening this year as most of the MSM is trying to shove Obama down our throats and refuse to vet him, but jump on Hillary for every small thing. We are more than angry that you think you can pull the same thing now as the MSM did not only with the War but the way they treated Bush vs Gore or Kerry and why we will NEVER vote for Obama. Fool me once shame on you fool me twice shame on me. It’s pretty ironic tho that the “low education” voters can see what the “creative class” is to blind to see.Luckily the Republicans will do the job of getting people to know about Obama and his friends and McCain will win.

Hi Andreson,

Good to see you. Keep up the good work. You have been very careful not showing whom you support. At times, I thought you were hard on Obama but some thinks you endorse Obama.
You have always try to be favor and respestful and that is all I care about.

Hi EJ USA,
I used the word”establishment” which meant powers that be, inclusive of both parties. However, Anderson’s rant was opinionated and he has said that he doesn’t like to give opinions like those on “other networks.” We all know he was right but it is a point of fact that it happened.

Thank you, Anderson for being as neutral as you are. The news used to be presentation of the facts and not just a media personality’s opinion. I appreciate your commitment to true journalism. Frankly, I cannot even guess who you would vote for. ( ;

I remember right after 9/11 we had a friend warn us to fly the American flag from our door because they feared some clients might boycott our business if we didn’t. My mother refused to fly the flag, not because she is unpatriotic, but because it felt very undemocratic to be told we must fly the flag or be boycotted. Our friend finally secretly put a flag sticker on our window. Talk about an Orwellian experience.

I also remember a T.V. news person stating in a promotional spot citizens should fly flags or be thought unpatriotic. In other words, even though I felt the war was not right, I was pressured to appear as if I supported the changing rational for the war or be branded unpatriotic. I even felt freedom of speech was under attack. We had whispered conversations with other store owners who also did not support the war but who flew flags outside their business never-the-less.

The Bush propaganda machine put a tremendous pressure on the American public and the press in the year following 9/11 to avoid any investigation or criticism of Bush policies. Perhaps this is why the press seemed to politely hold back or, immediately following 9/11, often just reported the talking points the Bush administration distributed.

The culture of fear that Rove initiated reverberated throughout not only the people and press but Washington in general and Bush’s own staff members specifically. If you didn’t agree with the Bush/Cheny/Rove doctrine you were replaced. I am not surprised McCellan acted as he did in such a repressive and fear-based environment. I am glad he has come forward to share his version of what he experienced. I doubt he is lying. He could make just as much money if he’d written even a mildly critical memoir. He knew what he said would be attacked and the Bush Administration would try to discredit him.

I think Scott McClellan was right on what is going on. I think Ari Fleischer is wrong and is almost too defensive and of course Ari is going to defend Geo Bush. Especially since GW’s rating poles are so low.

This administration is coming out as the bully on the block to everyone that disagrees with them. It is time that the truth be published and out to the public. I will be buying a copy of the book.

The Scooter Libby thing is a huge joke. Let me guess his attorney didn’t put him on the stand? Ted Wells is known for not putting the guilty on the stand. I know this for a fact as I saw court case in 1997 where the person he was defending did not testify at all in the court case. I was in the court room when that happened.

This administration has been a joke and continues to be a joke.

We all who are hardworking citizens should give Mr. McClellan
a standing ovation: 1. He didn’t wait until “slick” I’ll do as I please
George Bush” left office.
2. He had the guts to tell the truth.
I believe every word he says! Period!

The underlying debate about this book is the cold hard truth, and if that ever existed during George Bush’s stay in the Whitehouse.

Ask yourself America… Did the virtue of truth and the last 8 years of George Bush’s reign ever coincide?

This debate is useless and nothing more than media gibberish on a Wednesday evening in May 2008. The truth was never a policy of the Bush administration so it should not be a surprise now…

Wake up America. You used to be smarter than this. You have been fleeced by facists for the last eight years…

B

I’m so glad that someone has the courage to speak out for normal
everyday law-abiding citizens who has to sit for almost eight years
and watch those “crooked, oil-hungry, Washington Repulicans sit
in the White House and feed that bull-crap to us daily!
Does anyone ever notice that Bush does not call a press conference
to speak about anything but the Middle East? Why doesn’t he relocate his
residence from Crawford, Texas, to Baghdad?

P.S. We are sick and tired of the Clintons, the entire family of them!

My sleeping pill is starting to set in but I wanted to follow up with Anderson on the possibiilty of building an Academy in New Orleans – say from 6th grade to 12th grade. The theme of the school could be focused on rebuilding, survival, journalism, or a whole host of other things. The curriculum should be the standard as required by the state – but offer more enrichment type courses where students can grow and express their creativity and opinions.

The idea is like the school Oprah created but the details should fit more with being on American soil and should take into account the hardships of the children in the area. What do you think Anderson?

Lots of work but its not an overnight thing. You could take a few years. I think it would be the ultimate tribute – not simply in symbolism but as an actual way to further develop the area, generate ideas, and be an example for other schools that may be built in the future.

I think those who take Mr. Obama lightly, are very misinformed.
The man is “brilliant.” He has forgotten, more than those other
candidates ever knew! We need a healer, a “real” man, not a
female, who wants to make history for her own personal gain,
and have something to “toot” her horn about! We who watch very
closely knows
history” in the making, when we see it! I can guarantee that Mr.
Obama will not embarass himself or his supporters. The Obama
“haters” must think that he will show up in the White House with
his trousers “below his butt” NOT!

One more time?

Did I hear that right or were the members of the press collectively beating themselves up over the rush to war and the yellow cake that Saddam didn’t bake?

If the bank’s been robbed, blame the robber, not the policeman. The spin doctors have got the media believing the war is their fault. Not so.

The “you didn’t try hard enough to stop us” excuse just isn’t flying.

Which brings us to Ari Fleischer. I actually miss the guy. Watching Ari in action was like studying a psychopath – they’re so interesting to observe because of their absolute conviction in their delusions.

Anderson, I could tell you were trying so hard to find some truth in what the man was saying, and your innocence is disarmingly sweet, but let me save you a little emotional angst next time you have to deal with the guy: It’s easy to tell when Ari is lying – his lips are moving.

The man is a pro at what he does…he could have taught a thing or two to some of the sales guys I used to work with…

Hey Anderson,

I am glad that you cleared that up with the news station about endorsing Bobby Jindal. I knew that article wasn’t true, but it still left me a little curious last night.

I have always wondered if you were a Conservative. I’ve always gotten that vibe from you, so a part of me was still kinda hoping that the article was true. I think that’s mainly because I’m a Conservative Democrat.

I think it is wonderful what Scot McClellan has done and is telling the truth and choosing his country before party. I think people should be thanking him and standing by his side and defense as a true fellow American. He was as much of on insider as you could be and I guess his conscience just forced him to write the book. Good for him! He hasn’t really told us anything we didn’t already know, and it is refreshing to know that there are still decent people out there. he should get a medal for this.

Dear Anderson,

So glad you are not endorsing anyone as most seem to do in the reporting business today. I firmly believe that is a large part of how we find ourselves in such a big mess. Not that any of us are blameless or flawless, the news representatives have a special responsibility in our nation.

I was hopeful that we as a nation and individuals could learn from our mistakes there by not repeating them. That is why I find myself putting my opinion across to you after watching some of CNN today.

I am disheartened to see everyone discounting Mr. McClellan’s opinion and book. I am sure more than most he knew what it would cost him personally. I am sure we will ever know how this will effect his future but rest assured unless he is very strong it will be personally devastating.

As I watched President Bush across town today speaking at the Air Force Academy, I couldn’t help but shed a tear for us all. I could only thank my God for His grace . What in my view, this poor unfortunate man has cost this world through either ignorance or sociopathic behavior he still can not understand. Thankfully these actions have yet to totally cost us our nation and through that same grace the light of the world.

My great fear is it could and will if “we the people” also prove incapable of facing ourselves in the mirror honestly. Then we too can’t correct our horrendous errors. The only way to have democracy is through accountability. Instead, once again it seems we are going to take the easy way out….shoot the messenger.

Truthful facts are our only hope. Thank you for trying to provide that for a nation that is literally dying for it. Please keep up the good work.

I am glad folks like McClellan are finally providing their opinions on what happened at the White House. David Gergen, who is one of my favorite commentators, stated on your show that he was surprised by the deterioration of standards in relation what former White House staffers are saying about their former employer. I believe that this deterioration is likely the byproduct of another deterioration, that of the integrity of the office of the current President, as it is perceived by the majority of Americans. Personally I haven’t heard any compelling argument discrediting McClellan, as the folks presented to argue against his statements seem disingenuous so far.

Isn’t just amazing that the media is suprised what comes out in the books about the present regime in the White House, I knew there were no WMD’s as Bush lied to us, the CIA even said that, if the media would have listened to their own reports, but no they coddled to the White House afraid to be called traitors, this is a war of lies by this regime…the other countries also told us that Iraq had no WMD’s, the U.N told us….yet the media still seems to be suprised, what ever happened to”speak the truth” and to investigative jounalism???

The decision to go to war was already taken and any deviation was either ignored or dismissed.Look at the U.K, Blair was having difficulty making the case.David Kelly, a government weapons expert,says to a reporter the dossier on WMD was “sexed up” to make the case for war.His name was leaked to the press by the government and he was found dead in a wood a little while later.Wilson Plame affair is similar in the fact that if someone speaks out the government machine comes in to action to discredit or ruin lives.Nothing was going to stop this war from happening. Ari Fleischer says with McClellan what propaganda what manipulation,surely it should be about finding out the truth not ignoring a report or statement that doesn’t agree with your point of view, thats the manipulation.I’m sure it will eventually come out that Colin Powell,a man of honour, was duped just like the whole of the U.S & U.K were.Does the truth matter anymore.