My Letter to "Reliable Sources"

Debra Saunders said that Karl Rove's outrageous statements were true on today's show and you left the lie there as if it was true and did not challenge it. Let me remind you:


CBS/New York Times, 9/13-14/2001, n=959 adults (source: National Journal's Hotline).

Should the U.S. take military action against those responsible? Yes: 93% of Republicans, 86% of Democrats, 76% of independents

Should the U.S. take military action against those responsible for attacks, even if it means innocent people are killed? Yes: 74% of Republicans, 64% of Democrats, 67% of independents

What if that meant going to war with a nation harboring those responsible for the attacks, then should the U.S. take military action against those responsible for the attacks? Yes: 74% of Republicans, 61% of Democrats, 65% of independents

What if that meant thousands of innocent civilians may be killed, then should the U.S. take military action against whoever is responsible for the attacks? Yes vs. No: Republicans 66% to 16%, Democrats 55% to 28%, independents 60% to 19%.

And, regarding the question of whether or not the U.S. was in a state of war:

Los Angeles Times, 9/13-14/2001, n=1,561 adults:

In your opinion, is the United States now in a state of war? Yes: 74% of Republicans, 70% of Democrats, 66% of independents (Q11)

If it is also determined that the Taliban ruling party in Afghanistan is harboring Osama bin Laden, would you support the United States and its allies retaliating with military action against Afghanistan, even if it could result in civilian casualties, or would you oppose that? Support: 91% of Republicans, 80% of Democrats, 78% of independents (Q37)

What about Osama bin Laden's organization itself? Do you think the United States should retaliate against Bin Laden's group through military action, or should the United States pursue justice by bringing him to trial in the United States? Retaliate vs. bring to trial: Republicans 80% to 17%, Democrats 66% to 28%, independents 64% to 27% (Q38)

It is bad journalism to let people lie and not challenge them on it. I expect more from CNN.


I have to admit that I was one of the ones Rove was talking about. I would much rather that we showered Afganistan with aid, roads, homes, tractors, airports, etc. than shower poor people with bombs. I'm not big on revenge -- I feel it but I don't act on it. Rove's comments were outrageous not only because they were wrong but because they had NOTHING to do with Iraq and just celebrate man's baser insticts of revenge. If revenge is really the best way, why doesn't Karl sign up with the Marines?