ABC News blows it

By Michelle Malkin  •  September 11, 2008 06:46 PM

Scroll for updates…Is ABC doing some West Coast whitewashing?…Wow, Even the LA Times sees Gibson’s distortion

Charlie Gibson had a chance to show that he could be fair, balanced, and P.D.S.-free with Sarah Palin’s first major MSM interview.

Looks like he blew it.

Taking quotes out of context.

Getting basic facts wrong.

Engaging in distortionary hype.

And the reason we should watch the rest of this hatchet job is…what exactly?

Also: Guess this is good preparation for the kind of neutral, objective questions we’ll get during the debates.

***

Interview excerpts here.

This is how Yahoo! News is promoting the interview:

GIBSON: You said recently, in your old church, “Our national leaders are sending U.S. soldiers on a task that is from God.” Are we fighting a holy war?

PALIN: You know, I don’t know if that was my exact quote.

GIBSON: Exact words.

PALIN: But the reference there is a repeat of Abraham Lincoln’s words when he said — first, he suggested never presume to know what God’s will is, and I would never presume to know God’s will or to speak God’s words.

But what Abraham Lincoln had said, and that’s a repeat in my comments, was let us not pray that God is on our side in a war or any other time, but let us pray that we are on God’s side.

That’s what that comment was all about, Charlie.

GIBSON: I take your point about Lincoln’s words, but you went on and said, “There is a plan and it is God’s plan.”

What she actually said:

Pray for our military men and women who are striving to do what is right. Also, for this country, that our leaders, our national leaders, are sending [U.S. soldiers] out on a task that is from God,” she exhorted the congregants. “That’s what we have to make sure that we’re praying for, that there is a plan and that that plan is God’s plan.”

Allahpundit rips Gibson:

Totally untrue, but that’s what he gets for relying on the Associated Press, which took the liberty of bowdlerizing her quote mid-sentence in order to make it fit the narrative they were trying to build of her as some fundie who thinks she can read God’s mind. Here’s my post on the subject from last Thursday. Read it and see just how egregious the distortion here is.

More:

What’s missing from the AP’s version? Right — the beginning of what she said, the part that makes clear she’s not asserting that we’re doing God’s will but simply praying that we are. It’s the difference between me saying “McCain will win” and “I pray McCain will win.” The first is an assertion of fact/secret knowledge, the second is an expression of desire/hope. The AP actually stoops to picking up the quote mid-sentence to make it better fit the stereotype of the holy-roller yokel claiming divine inspiration for Bush’s Crusade.

Will Gibson acknowledge this egregious distortion?

***
More reax…

Kathryn Lopez: “Or was Charlie Gibson just condescendingly explaining the world to Sarah Palin?”

Commenter MNgirl: “I just finished watching both ABC News and I was okay with it for the first 5 minutes but when Gibson looked down his little nose at her disapprovingly and said ‘Why don’t you tell me what you think the Bush doctrine is……’he lost me. This one is going to backfire on the media once again. He blew it, women hate being patronized and women watching that are only going to see him trying play “gotcha” with Palin and her fan club is going to grow. What a jerk. He gets a gift handed to him and the most he can do is patronize her and try to trick her. Idiot.”

Commenter jencab: “This is a lame interview. Charlie belittled her, chopped up her answers, seems repulsed, and sighed. What the hell is that? I never seen him like this with any other politician. Unbelievable.”

Patterico: “Holey Moley — L.A. Times Criticizes Gibson for Mischaracterizing Palin’s Prayer”

~ For the latest breaking news, be sure to join Michelle's e-mail list ~
Posted in: Sarah Palin

See what others have said

Note from Michelle: This section is for comments from michellemalkin.com's community of registered readers. Please don't assume that I agree with or endorse any particular comment just because I let it stand. A reminder: Anyone who fails to comply with my terms of use may lose his or her posting privilege.

Comments


  1. #101
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:23 pm, Marshall Russ said:

    I hope this keeps up. Obambi/Biden will be down at least 5 more point in the polls by this time next week.

  2. #102
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:23 pm, SirKnob said:

    Hello all. I have to agree, Charlie was downright tastless. He seemed agitated that she was actually challenging his attitude. Earlier posts said he was smug, smirked, and condensending, I agree with that.

    This was not his best interview. He broke several rules. The first rule of a televised political interview is ‘never ask a question you do not already know the answer to’. He asked the same question three times expecting a different answer. He became noticably more irritated each time he asked the same question. He actually attempted to bully her into some type of submission on TV. What an IDIOT.

    For her part. Governor Palin did an excellent job keeping her composure. Though we were never afforded the opportunity to hear complete answers, I have the feeling they were hack edited to take away the meat and belittle her response. Not a good move on the part of ABC.

    This was not Governor Palin’s first test, nor will it be her last. She will be afforded opportunities to participate in real interviews as time goes on. Any negative impression created by this ABC hack job will fade. However, ABC’s first impression on fair and balanced treatment of female VP candidates will become a shining example of ‘exactly what not to do’.

    I have witnessed some bad interviews in my time, but this was treating a sitting Governor and VP Candidate with trailer trash TV mentality. It will not play in Peoria.

    Have a great day everyone :-)

  3. #103
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:27 pm, rsb1 said:

    “Bush Doctrine” has been debunked for some time – it doesn’t exist. And yes, Russia invaded Georgia without provocation, confirmed by various international observers on the ground.

    Thank goodness Gov. Palin has more tolerance for this stuff than I do. I won’t watch any more of his junk, it’s not good for me.

  4. #104
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:28 pm, rightisright said:

    Was that Charlie Tuna…sure smelt like it to me…

    he’s like the rest of libs…Palin Power has ‘em runnin’ scared and I love every step.

  5. #105
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:31 pm, greenfairie said:

    It figures. This is par for the course when it comes to the MSM and conservatives.

  6. #106
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:31 pm, Lucifer Jones said:

    So will there ever be a backlash? Someday McCain will reintroduce the bill allowing cable TV customers to pay a la carte for only the channels they want.
    Fome me, that’ll leave 10 channels, of which half are sports channels, watched only in the fall. The rest will all be left out in the cold.

  7. #107
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:32 pm, KCK said:

    Gibson is such a little man.

    The distance between what Gv Palin said and what Gibson quotes about God and war is quite far.

    The backlash will come.

    War with Russia? Looks like Russia already started it. Invest every border country with Russia with de facto NATO type support. Zero tolerance of Russian aggression and forward deploy.

    The Georgia war may not be Poland, 1939, but it is at least the Sudetenland, 1938.

    Obama? More like Chamberlain. McCain is more like Churchill. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, I urge you NOT to vote in November.

  8. #108
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:32 pm, pubscout said:

    Charlie Gibson proved tonight he’s just another leftie hatchet man, and the south end of a horse headed north.

  9. #109
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:33 pm, MNUSMCDavid said:

    Sarah Palin, I have your back…. she was superb……

  10. #110
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:34 pm, travlinman said:

    To those who would make idiotic remarks about ‘seperation of church and state’ in regard to Palin’s “task from God” comments, you need to remember that she was in church and was there as a mother and a citizen, not the VP candidate. No seperation junk could even be applied there, even if it was in the constitution, which it is not.

    Why is this an issue? I would rather have a VP that asks for guidance and wisdom from the Almighty, than to have a President sit in a church where America is urged to be “damned” by God! As would the majority of our citizens.

  11. #111
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:35 pm, Misscheryl said:

    MJ is right – this is getting good. It gets betta and betta all the time.

    Go McCain/Palin

  12. #112
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:35 pm, rightisright said:

    and what did Bill do? oh yeah, an intern.

  13. #113
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:35 pm, Socky said:

    BTW, CBS News calls John McCain “embarrassingly incoherent, because he said energy was a national security issue.

    The reporter/commentator than cites Matt Yglesias as an expert on energy policy.

  14. #114
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:36 pm, T-Bone said:

    Charlie had an agenda which is to elect his political candidate at all costs. Journalism in America has been dying over the past decade and now has died in 2008. R.I.P.

    Why can’t they at least try to be objective and let the people decide. Are they that afraid that the public will not see things their way? If that is their concern, might it also be a concern that their way is wrong?

    I know it must be hard to admit they are wrong and that maybe they are not that smart but the American people can respect someone who admits their mistakes. At least thats what they said about President Bush.

  15. #115
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:36 pm, Misscheryl said:

    Ditto that #109

  16. #116
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:37 pm, emjem24 said:

    Well, I was worried that this would happen and it would. The MSM doesn’t give a crap about a fair election except to see their guy win.

    Lgm: You’re an insulting fruitball. You’ve insulted the victims of 9/11 and now this. When has Obummer been taken out of context or had a hatchet job done on him? Oh, and no O’Reilly doesn’t count.

  17. #117
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:38 pm, travlinman said:

    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:32 pm, pubscout said:
    Charlie Gibson proved tonight he’s just another leftie hatchet man, and the south end of a horse headed north.

    I know a horse’s arse, when I see one… Charlie Gibson is no horse’s arse… he is what the horse’s arse leaves behind as evidence of its passage.

  18. #118
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:42 pm, mockingbyrd said:

    I just watched the interview…..Charlie Gibson is a pompous arse. Seriously, he sighed during her answers, made unpleasant faces, kept fidgeting with his foot, obviously impatient. Complained that he got lost in a “blizzard of words”. What a putz…..she sat close to him, obviously not intimidated and held her own. Gibson came across as a male chauvanist pig.

  19. #119
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:43 pm, Socky said:

    Gibson came across as a male chauvanist pig.

    How about patronizing jackass.

  20. #120
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:45 pm, mockingbyrd said:

    How about patronizing jackass.

    That works too.

  21. #121
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:48 pm, L.N. Smithee said:

    ABC News summarized:

    Palin’s military experience is limited to her gubernatorial role as commander in chief of the Alaska National Guard, an organization with fewer members than there are citizens in the town she was mayor.

    That number wavers between 5000 and 9000 according to the MSM. What’s the point? Should Palin have recruited some Yukon or British Columbians?

    Meanwhile, Obama’s military experience is limited to deciding not to join any military organization because the Vietnam War had ended six years previously. Oh, yeah — and his successful 3-point jump shot in a gym in Kuwait.

  22. #122
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:50 pm, Elizabetty said:

    ABC News Blows

  23. #123
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:52 pm, NJ-Aviator said:

    Oh and the interview was edited to cut off some of her answers.

    And he cut her off. I was asking aloud, “Will he actually let her answer the question?”

    Gibson tried as many Gotcha questions as he could get in… which was pretty much all of them. He seemed determined to get her to say something that would make her “Same as Bush!!!” or make her look like their view of a “whacked out zealot”…which is what the teasers apparently attempt to do as well.

    Folks… expect more of the same. The Lib media is aghast at the possibility that the republicans may put a woman in the White House before “their” party does. And they’re going to do their damndest to punish Gov. Palin for that.

    Pretty disgusting behavior wouldn’t you say?

  24. #124
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:53 pm, WrathOfKhan said:

    Did anyone actually expect any less?

  25. #125
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:53 pm, Rob said:

    ABC News Blows

    I am putting my eggs in Palin’s basket.. that being said… she did the interview and said what she said.

    Blaming the interview for how it came out is really rather pointless.

    It is and was what it is.

  26. #126
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:54 pm, Jim M. said:

    There is an expression about “looking down your nose” at someone to connote a condescending and superior attitude toward another. In most cases, it is a metaphor, but in the Gibson interview, he actually WAS looking down his nose at Palin.

    If ABC was going for impartial, they really blew it. Gibson’s demeanor plus taking statements way out of context or running with a debukned version of the facts.

    Asking Palin about whether she thought this was a “Holy War” was ridiculous. I don’t recall him asking Obama anything about whether Obama’s Islamic beliefs affected his views on jihad, which would be along the same scale of credibility.

  27. #127
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:54 pm, chapoutier said:

    How about patronizing jackass.

    A patronizing jackass that actually knows what the term “Bush Doctrine” means without having it spoon fed to them.

    Actually, some here may feel that describes me as well.

  28. #128
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:55 pm, NJ-Aviator said:

    I’d like to see Gibson interview Biden and see if he is as condescending and disrespectful to him as he was to Gov. Sarah Palin.

    Elizabetty… I whole-heartedly agree… lol.

  29. #129
    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:56 pm, travlinman said:

    Bush Doctrine (Legacy?) = Solid leadership following the dark days of 9/11/2001, followed by Keeping America safe from attack for 7 years, tax cuts and rebates for all citizens, solid GNP, farly low rate of unemployment, massive increase in government revenues, wealthy paying larger share of taxes while being taxed at a lower rate, huge investments in humanitarian aid worldwide including for AIDs fight in Africa, No Child Left Behind program in place to help overcome ineffective leadership of NEA, freeing millions in Iraq & Afghanistan from tyranny, standing firm against despots like Kim Il Jong and Castro, dealing with nincompoops like Reid & Pelosi while being perceived as unpopular and yet scoring higher ratings than Congress, and unfortunately there is also the massive overspending by Congress and his unpopular and incorrect stance on a remedy for illegal immigration which would include any ‘amnesty’ provisions.

    I’d give his doctrine a B minus.

  30. #130
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:00 pm, chapoutier said:

    On September 11th, 2008 at 8:56 pm, travlinman said:

    something not the Bush Doctrine

    Try again. And I am not even saying the Bush Doctrine is bad policy. But I would expect the potential VP to have a vague concept of what this very very common term means.

    “His worldview?” Yeesh.

  31. #131
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:00 pm, NJ-Aviator said:

    chapoutier said:

    How about patronizing jackass.

    A patronizing jackass that actually knows what the term “Bush Doctrine” means without having it spoon fed to them.

    Actually, some here may feel that describes me as well.

    Wow… is it possible you don’t understand what was going on with that question? It was a gotcha question. The Bush Doctrine and the concept of pre-emption is not a simple Yes/No subject. It depends on the circumstances.

    Like this question…

    Is it ok to punch a woman?

    Well… maybe it is.. maybe it isn’t. If she happens to be a female body builder and she’s coming at me with a large kitchen knife… the answer could be yes.

  32. #132
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:01 pm, backwoods conservative said:

    I watched the interview, but until I watched a replay of part of it, I didn’t realize just how badly butchered it was. Asking somebody a question and then deciding what part of their answer to broadcast is downright shameful.

  33. #133
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:01 pm, sandyb said:

    Unless you’re the loony left, voters know the MSM is out to get her. I think they’ll look at this as what it was — a trap and hatchet job. I wouldn’t be surprised to see her poll numbers rise higher because of Twitchy Charlie’s bullying attitude.

    On “Grapevine,” Britt Hume couldn’t keep from smiling tonight when he was reporting on the angst in The Agitator’s HQ on his falling poll numbers. He quoted one staffer, who asked to remain anonymous, who said, “It always happens like this, every time. This is so depressing.”

    Don’t worry, Sarah. We’re all rooting (and praying) for you and your family.

  34. #134
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:03 pm, Joy said:

    I didn’t see it, but her response sounded rational and calm in the face of someone having a meltdown.

    And claiming she said something she didn’t. Which is different than misunderstanding what she actually said.

    Keep it up lefties… you’ll go down in flames……..

  35. #135
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:04 pm, navywife91 said:

    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:01 pm, sandyb said:

    I particularly like the part where Brit quoted Matt Damon’s idiotic statements, all the while, trying not to laugh.

  36. #136
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:05 pm, chapoutier said:

    Wow… is it possible you don’t understand what was going on with that question? It was a gotcha question. The Bush Doctrine and the concept of pre-emption is not a simple Yes/No subject. It depends on the circumstances.

    Like this question…

    Is it ok to punch a woman?

    Well… maybe it is.. maybe it isn’t. If she happens to be a female body builder and she’s coming at me with a large kitchen knife… the answer could be yes.

    Dude,

    SHE. DID. NOT. KNOW. WHAT. IT. MEANT.

    I am not talking about whether or not it is an easy question or the validity of it.

    She did not have the first clue as to what the Bush Doctrine was until Gibson spelled it out for her. Even i knew what the Bush Doctrine was. And, according to many of you here, my intelligence is barely that of an knuckle-dragging ape. What does that say about Palin?

  37. #137
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:05 pm, reshas1 said:

    What a condescending prick.. Hope I can say that. I thought the editing sucked, like he cut off most of what she said. Did you see at the end, they just cut if off when she was still talking. Must not have wanted us to hear it.

  38. #138
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:06 pm, Joy said:

    It always happens Sandyb because they’re such moronic hateful twits.

    They love to accuse conservatives of being hateful, and yes, some are, but the real vitriol is on the left… unbridled hateful rage. Scary.

  39. #139
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:07 pm, Mojave Mark said:

    2008 is the year that the main stream media, long on life support, finally died.

  40. #140
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:09 pm, Misscheryl said:

    “Bush Doctrine” I just want to know who made that ridiculous term up. We are so all about trendy terms and dribble.

    Regardless, Bush will have a very favorable legacy – he’ll be remembered as one of the greats, whether some like it or not. Clinton…not so much…

    I’m not saying this because I necessarily believe Bush was a great president, but he had 9/11, Katrina, and history has a way of remembering only who had to deal with these almost insurmountable situations and not so much the details.

  41. #141
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:09 pm, imjustsaying said:

    Maybe she should just stick to giving interviews on Fox News.

  42. #142
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:10 pm, NJ-Aviator said:

    chapoutier said:

    Dude,

    SHE. DID. NOT. KNOW. WHAT. IT. MEANT.

    Dude… she does know what it means. Most non-comatose Americans know what it means. She read his intent with the question, which was to put words in her mouth, and she handled it in the most appropriate way possible. Forcing him to be more specific.

    So Dude. Be real.

    Even i knew what the Bush Doctrine was. And, according to many of you here, my intelligence is barely that of an knuckle-dragging ape.

    Ummm… if you say so, but the apes would like an apology now.

    (yes… I’m kidding.. hey.. you set yourself up)

  43. #143
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:11 pm, thelcabroadside said:

    I think Gibson did more than blow the interview but he put another nail in the MSM coffin. Have they not been watching the reaction the attacks on Palin? I’m fine with tough questions but he was just a snob the entire time talking down to her. If you watch the clip of him with Obama back in July it’s nowhere near as tough, in fact looks pretty easy compared to this garbage.

  44. #144
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:11 pm, chapoutier said:

    “Bush Doctrine” I just want to know who made that ridiculous term up.

    Ridiculous? Maybe. But I’ll bet dollars to donuts (See! I’m folksy!) that you knew what the term meant, ridiculous or not.

  45. #145
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:12 pm, AlohaGuy said:

    Meanwhile, Obama’s military experience is limited to deciding not to join any military organization because the Vietnam War had ended six years previously. Oh, yeah — and his successful 3-point jump shot in a gym in Kuwait.

    Don’t forget deciding not to see wounded soldiers in Germany, I think that’s a relevant part of his military experience.

  46. #146
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:13 pm, NJ-Aviator said:

    Misscheryl said:

    “Bush Doctrine” I just want to know who made that ridiculous term up. We are so all about trendy terms and dribble.

    Good point. Probably some pundit made it up. But I really don’t know the answer. Will have to research that one. I wouldn’t be surprised if its not what the Bush Administration uses to refer to any of their policies.

  47. #147
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:13 pm, 4mrnykr said:

    The more they attack…the more her numbers go up. Moderate women can see the distaseful manner she has been mistreated. Nobody has brought up anything on Biden….yet. His foreign policy “experience” is a joke plus he, you know, plagerizes. This is a smart, self-made woman, who believes in God as do most people and the left media is revealing their ugly face out of panic. Americans aren’t stupid. They will see through this and it will backfire in the liberals faces…I hope it does cuz I read Kos daily (puke) and a lot of them are moving out of the USA if McCain/Palin win. Even more reason to get behind this ticket. They can take the illegal aliens with them!!!! How much better off would we be then?

  48. #148
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:14 pm, 4USA said:

    So Charlie laid an egg. Big deal. Did anyone actually expect ABC to be fair?

    Personally, I’d have to be physically present and witness Governor Palin, dressed in a klan outfit, with a swastika patch on one shoulder, and a pentagram medallion around her neck while committing a blood sacrifice on a live human being, before I’d NOT vote for her.

    There’s really nothing the MSM can tell me about her that I would believe. Even if she shows a lack of this or that or has a skeleton of the other, I trust her values. She more closely resembles my beliefs than anyone in the demon-crat party and 2/3′s of the republicant’s.

    GO SARAH! We’ve got your back.

  49. #149
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:14 pm, NJ-Aviator said:

    chapoutier said:

    “Bush Doctrine” I just want to know who made that ridiculous term up.

    Ridiculous? Maybe. But I’ll bet dollars to donuts (See! I’m folksy!) that you knew what the term meant, ridiculous or not.

    Ok… you get some points for that Chap.

  50. #150
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:15 pm, travlinman said:

    Bush’s worldview?
    Do you mean the one that recognizes that there are those who would destroy us if given any opportunity?
    That we are the most giving and generous nation in the entire world? Donating untold dollar amounts to combat disease, poverty, hunger, political strife and in times of natural or man-made disaster?
    A nation that has stood up for its “allies” even when it was not the popular thing to do and while having its young people pay the price in blood, time and time again?
    A nation that has created astounding technology which is shared and has given more economic opportunities to more people than all of the other nations combined?

    That world view is the one you have questions about, for either Bush or Palin? I think they get it.

  51. #151
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:16 pm, AlohaGuy said:

    I think the term Bush Doctrine only resonates with Dems, and is important to them because they think McCain and Palin are Bush and Cheney. Most voters will just not care.

  52. #152
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:17 pm, KaosKlerik said:

    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:05 pm, chapoutier said:
    Dude,

    SHE. DID. NOT. KNOW. WHAT. IT. MEANT.

    SHE WANTED TO KNOW WHAT HE THOUGHT IT MEANT

    That’s the nature of gotcha questions. They are ambiguous so the questioner can twist any less-than-exact answer.

    She recognized it and didn’t step in the trap; that rankled Gibson.

  53. #153
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:18 pm, chapoutier said:

    Dude… she does know what it means. Most non-comatose Americans know what it means. She read his intent with the question, which was to put words in her mouth, and she handled it in the most appropriate way possible. Forcing him to be more specific.

    GIBSON: The Bush — well, what do you — what do you interpret it to be?

    PALIN: His world view.

    How exactly was that trying to put words in her mouth? His world view? Come on. That is the type of answer all of us gave in English class when we hadn’t read the required reading and were called on in class.

    He gave her another chance and this was her answer:

    PALIN: I believe that what President Bush has attempted to do is rid this world of Islamic extremism, terrorists who are hell bent on destroying our nation. There have been blunders along the way, though. There have been mistakes made. And with new leadership, and that’s the beauty of American elections, of course, and democracy, is with new leadership comes opportunity to do things better.

    Thta says NOTHING to the notion of preventative and/or preemptive war. Again, trying to string a few things together to look smart when you hadn’t done the class assignment.

    t is evident she had not the first clue what it meant until Gibson saved her. She was flailing.

  54. #154
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:18 pm, DisciplinedInvesting said:

    The McCain camp should do no more interviews with the liberal media crowd. Gibson’s tone of questioning indicated he simply wanted to score a “gotcha” response. The out of context AP quote..terrible. ABC is the next NBC.

  55. #155
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:20 pm, chapoutier said:

    I think the term Bush Doctrine only resonates with Dems, and is important to them because they think McCain and Palin are Bush and Cheney. Most voters will just not care.

    Again, it has nothing to do with what one thinks about the term “Bush Doctrine” or the merits of the doctrine itself. It is the fact she did not know what it meant.

  56. #156
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:21 pm, BemusedLib said:

    The McCain campaign — still hiding behind Sarah’s skirts.

    “You’re so mean to Sarah.”

    Yeah, she can gun down a wolf from a helicopter, but she doesn’t do so well face to face.

    Grow up.

    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:05 pm, reshas1 said:

    What a condescending prick.. Hope I can say that. I thought the editing sucked, like he cut off most of what she said. Did you see at the end, they just cut if off when she was still talking. Must not have wanted us to hear it

    .

    Blame the refs. Sure sign of a LOSER.

  57. #157
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:21 pm, chapoutier said:

    Ridiculous? Maybe. But I’ll bet dollars to donuts (See! I’m folksy!) that you knew what the term meant, ridiculous or not.

    Ok… you get some points for that Chap.

    Actually, now that donuts cost more than a dollar, that phrase is probably a bit dated.

  58. #158
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:22 pm, WarEagle82 said:

    That they cannot see how badly their bias has backfired is truly incredible. Talk about “OUT OF TOUCH!”

    I suppose all the “media elite” are hanging around the produce department of Whole Foods discussing the price of arugula.

    The more they keep this up the more people who are going to just get fed up with them. I mean, even NBC management realize they can’t keep up this tripe! What was Gibson thinking?

  59. #159
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:24 pm, atheling said:

    Sarah knew what the Bush Doctrine meant. Gibson was asking her about it because he was trying to associate with George Bush and his alleged failed policies. That’s the Obama campaign tactic.

    She refused to fall into the trap.

  60. #160
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:24 pm, Misscheryl said:

    Chap!!! Someone made it up…It’s not like you can’t be one of the popular kids if you don’t get it…jeeze, it’s not middle school. It’s a vague term at best. A smoke screen – I doubt very few people know what the “author” meant when they coined the term at this point.

  61. #161
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:24 pm, atheling said:

    meant, “associate HER with George Bush…”

  62. #162
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:25 pm, cblesz said:

    Wow. Has the press ever “pressed” bama like that? That was simply disgusting. Chapoutier…you are an f’ing asshole. Get lost. I have NEVER seen Obama asked questions remotely like that or with that condescending attitude. Freaking sickening and he is running for PRESIDENT, jackoff.

  63. #163
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:26 pm, NJ-Aviator said:

    The Bush Doctrine seems to also refers to Unilateralism according to pundits, not just pre-emption. They are two separate issues.

    https://www.aei.org/publications/filter.all,pubID.12943/pub_detail.asp

    And you’re still not getting it. He was trying to get her to align herself with Bush. Which she knows is poison at the moment. She wanted to speak to our policy on her own terms. Not Black or White… So-called Bush Doctrine Is.. or Is Not.. my policy. She explained that in her response…”There have been mistakes made.”

    So.. could she have formulated a better answer? Sure. Did she need to answer yes or no? Absolutely not.

    And as for putting words in her mouth. Clearly, she agrees with some elements of what people call the Bush Doctrine, but not others. How do you answer that question with a yes or a no?

  64. #164
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:27 pm, travlinman said:

    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:14 pm, 4USA said:

    Personally, I’d have to be physically present and witness Governor Palin, dressed in a klan outfit, with a swastika patch on one shoulder, and a pentagram medallion around her neck while committing a blood sacrifice on a live human being, before I’d NOT vote for her.

    Why did you use an analogy of Palin as a liberal Democrat? :)

  65. #165
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:28 pm, KaosKlerik said:

    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:18 pm, chapoutier said:

    PALIN: I believe that what President Bush has attempted to do is rid this world of Islamic extremism, terrorists who are hell bent on destroying our nation. There have been blunders along the way, though. There have been mistakes made. And with new leadership, and that’s the beauty of American elections, of course, and democracy, is with new leadership comes opportunity to do things better.

    Thta says NOTHING to the notion of preventative and/or preemptive war. Again, trying to string a few things together to look smart when you hadn’t done the class assignment.

    t is evident she had not the first clue what it meant until Gibson saved her. She was flailing.

    GIBSON: Do we have a right to anticipatory self-defense? Do we have a right to make a preemptive strike again another country if we feel that country might strike us?

    PALIN: Charlie, if there is legitimate and enough intelligence that tells us that a strike is imminent against American people, we have every right to defend our country. In fact, the president has the obligation, the duty to defend.

    He asks an ambiguous question, she gives an overview. Then he gets specific and she gives a specific answer.

  66. #166
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:29 pm, Disciplined said:

    McCain-Palin should grant no more interviews with the liberal media. Gibson’s condescending tone suggested he simply want to elicit a Palin “gotcha” moment. The out of context quote from Gibson was disgusting. ABC will is the next NBC.

  67. #167
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:29 pm, chapoutier said:

    Sarah knew what the Bush Doctrine meant. Gibson was asking her about it because he was trying to associate with George Bush and his alleged failed policies. That’s the Obama campaign tactic.

    No…he was asking what she thought of Bush’s alleged failed policies and she had no clue what she meant. Seems a legitimate question of any politician to ask if you think the doctrine that lead us to war with Iraq is a wise one.

    And Misscheryl, try googling “Bush Doctrine” You will get over 21 million hits. Anyone that is running for her position should know what that meant even if they felt the term was unfair or derogatory.

  68. #168
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:31 pm, NJ-Aviator said:

    That link actually points to another article that precedes 9/11 which ascribes the Bush Doctrine to Missile Defense and rejection of the Kyoto treaty. Point being, it’s not a good idea to assume you know someone’s intent.

  69. #169
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:31 pm, changer1701 said:

    Sarah knew what the Bush Doctrine meant.

    I don’t know. It seemed like she was caught off-guard by it, perhaps because she didn’t recall what it was. Gibson was definitely a jerk about it and came across as lecturing her, but I thought that part was very iffy, honestly. It improved towards the end though.

    I’m not too worried about this one interview, though, regardless. I want McCain/Palin to win and hope they do…I don;t see this as making a difference either way. Some will use it against her, but to most I would imagine she came across just fine, which is what she had to do.

  70. #170
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:31 pm, Rob said:

    I just watched Katie Couric in High Definition for the first time… man that broad is getting old and wrinkled.. it is time to get a younger chick with bigger boobs.

    Just my humble opinion. I mean, if they are just gonna spew the liberal agenda, I might as well be able to turn down the sound and enjoy…

  71. #171
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:31 pm, mistressjustice said:

    I would LOVE to see Gibson give 90% of these exact questions to Obama with the same condescension, hostility and disrespect.

    Did you see the Obama v. Hillary debate he co-moderated? Seriously. The leftwing bloggers/commenters were crying as much as the rightwingers are here. I’m loving this. I can’t wait till the Biden/Palin debate.

  72. #172
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:32 pm, chapoutier said:

    He asks an ambiguous question, she gives an overview.

    An overview?

    Teacher: What did you think of Catcher in the Rye?

    Unprepared Student: It was a very interesting book with many interesting characters.

    That was her answer.

  73. #173
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:35 pm, travlinman said:

    Yep, Palin as a VP choice is killing McCain’s chances to win the White House. /sarc off
    Actually, it may be Obama’s choice of Biden…

    http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/6c2f69ce-8031-11dd-99a9-000077b07658.html

  74. #174
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:35 pm, meatpieandtatters said:

    I really dislike this guy now. He’s just another snotty media talking head looking to besmirch someone, especially about their religious beliefs so they can marginalize them.

    Gibson is a mole! :evil:

  75. #175
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:35 pm, changer1701 said:

    KaosKlerik, you make a good point. It looks better on paper than it did on TV. And the Bush Doctrine from what I understand involves multiple things, not just preemptive strikes (exporting democracy, with us or with terrorists, etc). I wish she had answered a little better, but it was alright…

  76. #176
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:36 pm, rightisright said:

    Sarah more than passed any test…she stood strong, didn’t studder and spurt like the loons wanted(that pissed em off), didn’t hear any ummm’s, mmm’s. uhhh’s like that guy running for the top spot on the democrapic(liberal, socialist, hate America) side.
    Looks like she got the old dick head flustered when she wouldn’t cave to his insulting, ignorant, biased questions and mannerisms. Like I said before Charlie not only smells like tuna he acts just as slippery.

    Palin Power!

  77. #177
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:36 pm, chapoutier said:

    And as for putting words in her mouth. Clearly, she agrees with some elements of what people call the Bush Doctrine, but not others. How do you answer that question with a yes or a no?

    Actually, once Charlie saved her and explained what it meant, I thought she gave a fine answer. But that is not the point. And as for differing meanings of the term “Bush Doctrine” pre or post 9/11, I would have been fine if she would have said “Do you mean the pre or post 9/11 definition of the Bush Doctrine, Charlie?” and would have made her look smart and Charlie look foolish. So I wonder why she didn’t…..

  78. #178
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:37 pm, KaosKlerik said:

    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:20 pm, chapoutier said:

    I think the term Bush Doctrine only resonates with Dems, and is important to them because they think McCain and Palin are Bush and Cheney. Most voters will just not care.

    Again, it has nothing to do with what one thinks about the term “Bush Doctrine” or the merits of the doctrine itself. It is the fact she did not know what it meant.

    His question was too vague (on purpose) and she didn’t fall for the trap. She’s been to Afghanistan, her son is going over there. I think she’s heard of the Bush Doctrine and knows what it means. She recognized he was trying to set her up and let him get specific first.

  79. #179
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:38 pm, Misscheryl said:

    NJ-Aviator said:
    That link actually points to another article that precedes 9/11 which ascribes the Bush Doctrine to Missile Defense and rejection of the Kyoto treaty. Point being, it’s not a good idea to assume you know someone’s intent.

    Your post proves my point. This is getting silly, but what the heck…my point is the term encompasses so much…it’s a stupid term and ambiguous at best. I don’t care if she knew what Charlie meant specifically or not. If he thinks he succeeded in making her look stupid by asking this question, he did not.

  80. #180
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:39 pm, Blueline2 said:

    O.K. All together now: Gov. Palin began the answer about “have(ing) to go to war with Russia” with “Perhaps so…”
    The campaign needs to tell the libs to look up the definition of “perhaps”.
    (it’s just a little beyond “is”: they can find it).

  81. #181
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:39 pm, NJ-Aviator said:

    chapoutier said:

    No…he was asking what she thought of Bush’s alleged failed policies and she had no clue what [he] meant.

    More accurately, she wanted a specific question stating what he meant.

    And if you walked up to Sarah Palin and asked her to define the Bush Doctrine, she would give you a pretty good answer.

    I can say this, because I am as justified in knowing whats in her head as you are.

    And yes… “His world view” is a pretty good answer given his asinine gotcha question. The Bush Doctrine could in fact be described as… his world view.

    oh… and the policy seems to have ultimately succeeded in Iraq. Just FYI for ya there.

  82. #182
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:39 pm, changer1701 said:

    Chapoutier,

    That’s not an accurate analogy at all. She knew the Bush Doctrine dealt with Islamic extremism, did she not?

    Also, I didn’t mind any of the questions. Gibson’s tone in asking some of them, the combative style and condescension, wore on me, but its what I expected.

  83. #183
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:40 pm, atheling said:

    chapoutier:

    You are an a**hole. That has been established. And it’s been fairly established that you’re a deceptive one as well.

    But I find it galling that you come here and claim that Sarah Palin is unqualified to be Vice President when you’re backing a horse that has fewer qualifications as she does, and he is running for freaking POTUS!!!

    Furthermore, she is smarter, sharper, more accomplished, and demonstrates greater natural leadership abilities than Obama the Indecisive Metrosexual.

    Are you that obtuse? I know that you fell in love with Obama and he “inspired” you to get involved in the political process, but really, do you have to be his toady as well? And don’t you find it the least bit sad that you can’t get excited about politics unless you’ve got a dog in the race named “Demagogue”?

    It’s pathetic that we have pseudo college educated people who do not comprehend the necessary elements for a free Republic, and it is because of those people, we will lose said Republic.

  84. #184
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:40 pm, navywife91 said:

    Oh, this is a sign of things to come. When Palin is asked, “who is the president of BFE?” and she doesn’t know, there will be an outbreak of PDS, the likes of which we haven’t seen yet.

  85. #185
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:41 pm, vickisoup said:

    If she doesn’t know what is meant by the “Bush Doctrine”, she sure as he** ain’t trying to BE like Bush, which blows the libs argument out of the water on that, too.
    Ijits.

  86. #186
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:41 pm, NJ-Aviator said:

    Yes.. it is getting silly mischeryl. And Thank you.

    BTW: Chap… did you apologize to those apes. They’re here with me know and they’re getting a little agitated. Could you maybe tell them something so they’ll leave my office?

  87. #187
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:41 pm, emjem24 said:

    Chaps:

    Because you think she didn’t answer the Bush Doctrine the way she ought to have so it was an Epic Fail on her part?

    Why did Gibson phrase the question the way he did? Would you like to answer that? Since you’re so good at answering all my questions.

    For you not to see Gibson’s behavior and the kinda partisan hit job questions he was lobbing at her is just, well, disingenuous on your part.

    Oh, and MJ? It’s hysterical about you claiming “right wingers” are crying “victim” when “left wingers” cry foul when Obummer gets a tough question, criticism, or taken to task.

    What does that say about Obummer’s ability to be president? He still hasn’t really defined what the hell he’s gonna do. He’s doesn’t even know where he’ll cap taxes. From what I’ve heard from him tonight on the Civic Duty Forum at Columbia University is that he’ll expand government and make the criteria of being American volunteership.

  88. #188
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:42 pm, vickisoup said:

    C’mon, navywife91, we all know that William Jefferson Clinton is the president of BFE (you mean, “Bill Fooled ‘Em”, right?)
    ;-)

  89. #189
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:43 pm, right_on said:

    … it is time to get a younger chick with bigger boobs.

    Are Oberthruster and Mathclueless still available?

  90. #190
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:43 pm, Rob said:

    An overview?

    Teacher: What did you think of Catcher in the Rye?

    Unprepared Student: It was a very interesting book with many interesting characters.

    That was her answer.

    From the movie, Back to School, with Rodney Dangerfield.. FUNNY!

    Mr. Melon, how would you
    characterize “The Great Gatsby?”

    Me?

    Yes, you.

    Well, “The Great Gatsby,” he was… GREAT!

  91. #191
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:44 pm, Joy said:

    “Bush Doctrine” is a term made up by the left. Why on earth would Palin dignify it with an answer. Her clarifying what he meant was a GOOD THING…

  92. #192
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:46 pm, tyrfing said:

    The ‘blizzard of words’ comment was ridiculous. Obviously Palin was saying she would do whatever it took to go after the terrorists. I think Gibson wanted her to give a simple ‘yes’ answer just to nullify the Obama gaffe about invading Pakistan.

    That being said I don’t think she knew what the ‘Bush Doctrine’ was and that is a little surprising to me.

  93. #193
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:46 pm, Goldwater Knight said:

    Look who’s ahead in electoral votes.

    Maybe Obama should run an ad with little girl picking flowers in the meadow then a nuclear detonation occurs in the sky behind her. Hahahahahaha.

  94. #194
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:46 pm, Socky said:

    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:21 pm, BemusedLib said:

    Blame the refs. Sure sign of a LOSER.

    Funny, I thought spending all your time and energy trolling on other people’s blogs was the sure sign of a LOSER.

  95. #195
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:47 pm, navywife91 said:

    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:42 pm, vickisoup said:
    C’mon, navywife91, we all know that William Jefferson Clinton is the president of BFE (you mean, “Bill Fooled ‘Em”, right?)

    I wish I could tell you yes, but the actual answer would be a little too bad to post. :smile:

    Trying to have a sense of humor here. I guess if I need a laugh, I gotta check out the Chuck Norris facts website.

  96. #196
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:47 pm, vickisoup said:

    chapoutier said:

    No…he was asking what she thought of Bush’s alleged failed policies and she had no clue what [he] meant.

    That question is like asking someone, “When did you stop masturb8ing in the closet?”
    Answer: “I never did masturb8 in the closet”.
    Question: “OK, where DID you?”
    There’s no way to answer it without being drawn into more stupid questions.

  97. #197
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:48 pm, right_on said:

    How many here know what the Clinton Doctrine was? Seriously.

  98. #198
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:49 pm, vickisoup said:

    I wish I could tell you yes, but the actual answer would be a little too bad to post.

    ;-)

  99. #199
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:49 pm, navywife91 said:

    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:47 pm, vickisoup said:

    shame on you, vickisoup! :twisted:

  100. #200
    On September 11th, 2008 at 9:49 pm, tyrfing said:

    Clinton Doctrine: admit nothing and destroy all opponents.

You must be logged in to post a comment.


More CPAC speeches in 20 words

February 11, 2012 06:53 PM by Michelle Malkin

72 Comments

Palin: If I Lived in South Carolina, I’d Vote for Newt

January 17, 2012 10:28 PM by Doug Powers

127 Comments

Endorsement?

‘Game Change’ Trailer

December 22, 2011 04:38 PM by Doug Powers

77 Comments

Brace for “from my house” reference

New Ad Airing in Iowa: Run, Sarah, Run

November 29, 2011 09:47 AM by Doug Powers

94 Comments

Too late?

Sarah Palin is out of 2012 race

October 5, 2011 06:26 PM by Michelle Malkin

107 Comments

Poll: Palin Picks Up Steam Against Obama

September 20, 2011 10:48 PM by Doug Powers

154 Comments

Sarah Palin’s Bus Tour Re-Launching in Iowa Thursday

August 11, 2011 12:01 AM by Doug Powers

342 Comments

Next stop, an announcement?


Categories: Sarah Palin

Babalu Blog

» Greece is Burning
Follow me on Twitter Follow me on Facebook