Saturday, September 16, 2006
tough?
The President held a press conference yesterday morning in the Rose Garden. (Is there any location quite as pretty for people to just stand around and talk? It must be extraordinary to conduct business there.) Tthis morning I read several reports on what GWB and the newspeople said. And I saw a replay on C-Span (thank heavens for C-Span) and read the transcript. It's hardly new news that stories about things are rarely totally accurate, but this was particularly egregious. Not only was there no rancor between Mr Bush and the press, but the mood was relaxed and there was even friendly teasing on both sides. A reporter from the NY Times stood and said "Hi, Mr President"; Mr Bush asked if she had actually said "Hi Mr President" and she answered "We're a friendly newspaper", earning laughter from everyone, including the President. I especially liked his comment toward the end about not being "a very good focus group.... I'm encapsulated here. But I'm able to see a lot of people..." My point is this: when you actually hear him speak, assuming you listen without filters, it's clear he's a serious person who's as aware and caring as many Americans have believed him to be. Anyway, the substance of the discussions was much more interesting and nuanced than what was reported - read it or watch it if you can.
Labels: gwb, reflections
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