Last night's press oonference was better than that on June 23rd. I was concerned we'd have to put up with another performance out of Major Garrett.
During the press conference of June 23rd, President Obama called on a Major Garrett (Fox news) to ask his question.
Garrett brought up an "issue" he apparently felt important enough to ask the President about. The issue? Why President Obama didn't talk more aggressively to Iran right away after their election and the demonstrations protesting the official results. Mr. Garrett felt President Obama should have said something "tougher" sooner than at the opening of this press conference about 10 days after the first protests occurred in Iran.
from the
transcript:
Garrett: "Right here, sir. In your opening remarks, sir, you were -- you said about Iran that you were appalled and outraged. WHAT TOOK YOU SO LONG to say those words? "
I used capitals because Garrett practically screamed the words "WHAT TOOK YOU SO LONG?" at the President.
President Obama, answered by explaining that he didn't want to say anything that would give Achmadinejhad (SP?) an opening to accuse the U.S. of somehow fomenting the protests in Iraq. This was, of course, the smart way to handle it as Achmadinazhad's standard procedure is to blame us for everything he can and Obama didn't want to give the goof-ball any opportunities to do it again. Saying too much would only make matters worse for the protesters so Obama was careful in his statements about the situation in Iran.
NOw, I don't know about other people, but I feel the President of the United States should at least be accorded the same courtesies and respect any other person should expect. And I don't think shouting at the President meets this most basic standard of courtesy. Actually, many would make the argument that out of respect for the office of the Presidency the sitting president should be accorded a certain amount of RESPECT! This would NOT include shouting at the man.
When I watch a press conference by the head of our government I don't want to be treated to some PUNK yelling at the President. I watch a press conference to be informed not to be offended.
Frankly, I wonder how does this jerk Garrett deserve a White House press pass. I'm sure there are thousands of actual journalists who would love to have a chance to ask a meaningful question of our president.
I thought reporters who got White House press passes were supposed to be professionals? This garrett is a punk and should be thrown out on his ass. Replace this jerk with a real journalist. Somebody who will ask some meaningful questions. I don't need to see some ass showing off in public.
If you feel the same way why not let the President know:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact