NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Ted Hanson, Seattle, WA — Tue, 20 May 2008 14:52:58 GMT

Guess I can scratch another National Network off of my regular viewing. If you can be so deceptive in your reporting and still try to argue your case when caught being deceptive, then one must realize they are not watching true news, but instead personal opinion that is totally biased. Looks like you are following in the Footsteps of Dan Rather... Maybe you will have the same outcome.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

David Lortsher, Concord, CA — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:06:20 GMT

Wow. What possible purpose could this edit have other than changing the message being delivered by the speaker. Shameful manipulation by NBC.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

COL. BEN D. STEEN (ret) — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:07:27 GMT

EDITING PRES. BUSH'S INTERVIEW THE WAY YOU DID...AND WITH COUNTDOWN WITH KEITH OBAMA, WHY NOT CHANGE THE NBC TO ONN (OBAMA NEWS NETWORK) BUT WHO WATCHES NBC EXCEPT FOR JAY LENO ANYWAY...I JUST HAPPEN TO LIKE YOUR MSNBC.COM .THANKS COL. BEN

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

joyce bushorr, columbia, sc — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:07:35 GMT

Why do we need to go on this website to get the whole truth. An interview with the Presindent of the United States should never be edited - there is way too much room for spinning the truth. Shame on you, NBC!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Edward Troy, Huntington, NY — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:08:32 GMT

During my first 46 years of life, I never wrote to a network news service. This is the third time I am writing to NBC in this past year. I do believe it will be my last, for I have no intention of ever watching NBC or MSNBC again. My last two e-mails concerned the disgraceful performances of your MSNBC "stars", Matthews and Olbermann. This correspondence concerns a similar complaint of bias.

I generally watch FOX news with Brit Hume. I also tried watching NBC. But gthe most recent editting of the President's interview prompts me to discontinue my association as one of your viewers.

Congratualations, you have now "lost" another mid-aged white, male viewer.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Rebecca Machoka, Buford, GA — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:11:56 GMT

It is unbelievable how you justify your editing of the Presidents interview. I have noticed more and more the way the media takes things out of context and edits story's it suit their views. It is the same way you report on the Iraq war and the housing market. Those of us that are really informed as to the reallity of most situations just laugh, but the people like my 81 year old mother that believes what she hears on the news, it becomes irresponsibile. What happen to the day when you reported the news instead of making it up as you go along.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Dena, Jacksonville, Florida — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:12:33 GMT

I was trying to figure out from Bush's speech if he was president of Israel or the US. I think he made it pretty clear where his true interests lie - and it ain't with us!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Steve Miller, Charleston, SC — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:14:58 GMT

Your boy Engel comes off as a shoddy news man that resorts to molding the facts to suit his agenda. I'll find another TV station and web site to get the news.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Raymond Voigt, Boston, MA — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:17:48 GMT

The irony is that your edit softened Bush's response. When he says "...we need to take the words of people seriously.", it only reiterates the barely masked charges he makes against Obama.

NBC doesn't need to make any apologies to the Bush White House. Their ongoing record is lies followed by lies followed by irrational attacks against any challenge to their lies.

Keep up the good work.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

A. Heller N.Y.C. N.Y.S. — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:18:31 GMT

Shame on you at NBC for continuously and deliberately distorting the news on a daily basis. You have lately driven so many of us away from your network news as well as away from our Democratic Party. AS a clergyman and psychological counselor we completely agree with the White House position!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Elizabeth Gossett, Pleasanton, TX — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:21:48 GMT

I know it doesn't matter that I am just one teacher down in Texas BUT.... I can't believe that the editing done on the interview furthur alienates those of us that just want the full facts without your spin. I too will now watch somewhere else and hope for the full story.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Teddy Lovejoy, Chapel Hill — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:22:01 GMT

I have listened to the interview in it's entirety. Thank you, Richard Engel, and MSNBC, for addressing the President
with questions which honestly confront the issues of U.S. failures in the MiddleEast. The interview reveals a President who is simply unable to comprehend the complexities and dynamics of Iraq and the MiddleEast, because he stubbornly attaches to a grossly oversimplified view of what he wants to see there.
He also appears to be in denial. Does he actually NOT SEE the failures of US policy in Iraq? Does he actually NOT SEE that Iraqis are still leaving the country to escape the chaos? And the President condescendingly dismisses those who see the situation differently.
What the President says, speaks for itself, and no editing-- or non-editing-- could change, or improve upon his remarks.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

NICK — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:22:05 GMT

OH MY GOD. YOU MEAN THE NEWS ISN'T BEING USED TO PROMOTE BUSH'S AGENDA ANYMORE? IT IS ABOUT TIME. HOW MANY TIMES HAS HE LIED AND THE INTERVIEWER NEVER CALLED HIM ON IT?

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

jason smith, Atlanta GA — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:23:36 GMT

I am a Democrat and can't stand Bush, but the President of the US should not be edited no matter who he/she is. At best it debases the legitimacy of NBC, at worst it proves a bias.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mike Larkin — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:24:56 GMT

It's amazing. Various politicians, including the President, go out in public and make idiotic statements, or inadvertantly blather out their twisted agenda. Then, when those statements are reported by various media, they are summarily lambasted as being biased and untruthful. It is very troubling that this media-bashing is becoming so prevalent. In my estimation, it reflects the desire of an increasing number of our elected representatives to be cloaked in media-resistant Teflon. It also reflects a general downward trend in the quality of the people we elect. Just look at the choices we are being given in most elections. Most people in recent elections have voted for the lesser of two or three evils, but the winner usually ends up doing a lot more harm than good.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

NICK — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:25:32 GMT

HOW DID YOU PEOPLE FEEL WHEN THE NEWS WAS ONLY AIRING THE LIES BUSH PUT OUT THERE? THEY DIDN'T DO THEIR JOB AND QUESTION THE PREIDENT, AND NOW WE KNOW WE WERE LIED INTO IRAQ. SOMETIMES THE NEWS SHOULD POINT OUT THAT THERE MIGHT BE ALTERIOR MOTIVES WITHIN THE WHITE HOUSE. THE AMERICAN PEOPLE CAN DECIDE. BUT BEFORE THEY JUST PLAYED WHATEVER SOUND BITE CHANEY TOLD THEM TO AIR. THAT'S GARBAGE.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Karen Johnson, Danbury, WI — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:27:21 GMT

To remove words that completely change the direction of the comments is absurd. Apparently, you need some new editing personnel at NBC. Although I have stopped watching your national news reports for some time now due to your slanted views and very obvious leanings toward the Obama campaign.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

kris mcclain — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:28:42 GMT

VRRRRRRRrrrrrrrr! the sound my computer makes as i delete msnbc from my favorites.....it`s always quite obvious how your bias tilts but this, to me, is "defining".

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

D Farcus Miami Beach FL — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:28:44 GMT

More gross and deliberate bias. A very sound business model, no doubt. Just ask the New York Times, who lost 2 thousand readers a week last year, or your sister company, MSNBC, the lowest rated cable "news" channel, how well that's working.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Ray Kuklinski, Lake Worth, Fla — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:28:53 GMT

NBC was one of my favorite places to receive the news but lately they are no better then Air America. The news isn't being reported . . . it is being manipulated by jounalists who despise President Bush. I will no longer depend upon NBC or MSNBC for objective news until changes are made at NBC.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Eric Detandt, Taylors, SC — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:29:19 GMT

SHAME ON NBC!!! I am SICK AND TIRED of you editing your "news" to push your agenda. SHAME ON NBC for disrespecting the President of the UNITED STATES like that!

I will no longer watch NBC news again! Not that I ever did anyways.

Just admit you are wrong!
SHAME ON NBC.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Leon Galliano — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:33:23 GMT

This is really disgusting!!!
I will never watch NBC News again...I hope you go out of business

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Amanda, Presque Isle, ME — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:34:06 GMT

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Leon Galliano Santa Ana CA — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:35:32 GMT

This is disgusting...I will never watch NBC news again and I hope you go out of business.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Unhappy w/ the press in VA — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:36:45 GMT

People look down on China and other countries that manipulate the media to send a particular message. The actions of NBC, as well as other news media outlets in the US clearly show they are not any better. Freedom of the press, yeah right. More like freedom to manipulate messages to achieve an agenda.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

L.J. Bird, W. Bridgewater, MA — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:40:47 GMT

I'm at a loss to see how this edit changed the meaning or tone of what Pres. Bush said. It just turned a rambling, evasive non-answer into a slightly shorter rambling, evasive non-answer. How can you blame NBC for wanting to speed things up when the President insisted on making pat, political statements rather than answering the question? If he wants us to pay rapt attention to his every word, then he should make his words say something.

This response had exactly the same content (none) in its edited and unedited forms.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

James F.McNally — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:43:22 GMT

no news story should have answers edited, print or broadcast all of the answer. the answer in full is what you ask for not part of it. do your job. you hired the reporter to do the job be care full how you edit the story .

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mongo Lloyd, Devonia, o-HI-o — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:46:05 GMT

"Don't broadcast what I said... broadcast what I meant to say... that is, as long as it sounds sort of intelligent, at least in Texas... amongst the day labor crowd, if they're drunk (I like to get drunk. Do a little coke too... eh heheheheh). And if the end result doesn't sound right, it is YOUR fault. I'm the decider, after all."

Fascist Bush and his minions won't go into the night quietly. More than likely, you will hear them stumbling over trash cans while singing frat songs. When most lame ducks are happy enough to begin building their legacies, our Fascist-in-Chief realizes his legacy has been left floating in a white porcelain bowl, waiting for the flush. As a result, he will continue to try and appear relevant until they pry his fingers off the White House door frame. What a shame.

At some point, even Mussolini likely realized that he was no longer relevant.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Kevin Burke, Seattle, WA — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:47:20 GMT

I always expected that NBC was a left wing media outlet, but now I know for sure. This interview has influenced me to stop viewing all NBC programing altogether. I don't think I am alone either.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Andre Demeter — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:48:01 GMT

I wonder if the White House sent a letter to Fox News, complaining about their bias?

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

C.Daniels, Lithia Florida — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:49:52 GMT

What a Disgrace NBC! YOU ARE TRULY BECOMING AN OPINION NEWS NETWORK...I will never believe what you report without thinking there is some bias to any republican. Just want fair reporting!!!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

David Gray, Pittsburgh, PA — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:52:07 GMT

President Bush feels like he had a fast one pulled over him? Welcome to the club. It's been happening to the American people for 7.5 years.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Andre Demeter, Charlotte, NC — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:52:58 GMT

Based on the amount of time spent in Iraq by Richard Engels vs. the amount of time spent there by the President, I'm inclined to believe Engels. If the White House has any complaint, it should be how ill prepared the President was with his "facts".

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

JW, Minn, MN — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:57:05 GMT

Posting this interview on the website is not the same as airing it on your National Network in front of millions of viewers. The website does not reach the same viewer who saw the fixed, distorted version on air.
I can only assume Brian Williams now feels he too is among the Keith Olderman's and Chris Obamatthews' of MNBC. No ownder ABC is cathcing up to you in the ratings. What was once a great news reporting network has dropped. Katie may be lower in viewership, but in reality she ahsn't lost the number of viewers as NBC News. Now I know why!
I will no longer watch NBC News. I'm with Gibson now!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mike S, Boulder, CO — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:02:30 GMT

Having George Bush's White House calling NBC to task over editing is INSANELY hypocritical and is just another page in a huge book of Neo-con lies pushed on Americans. The Propaganda machine of the Bush White House and FOX News (Bush O'Reiley) is unequalled on this planet so NBC is a drop in the bucket in the grand picture. Bush is a disgrace to free speech, free press and integrity, how dare he takes NBC to task.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Nil Hruch — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:05:03 GMT

Unfortunately this editing of comments and events is done on a regular basis on all the three major networks. If you checkout BBC or Foxnews or other sources you will get a whole different perspective quite often. It is both the editing of what is presented and the choice of what is presented that is slanted to make the news fit an agenda. We have learned you can not believe politicians or legacy mainstream media. Thank God we have other options.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Susan W. Denver CO — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:06:57 GMT

NBC and MSNBC have clearly lost their journalistic integrity. Whether we agree with the President's view or not, NBC is still WRONG and misleading the public is just disgusting. I watch the Today show and the nightly news on NBC. Last night I decided, this is it and I switched to CBS this morning. My home page is MSBNC and that is changing too. I can't count on NBC to be honest. This network has clearly presented bias information over the last year and as the old saying goes this is the straw that breaks the camel's back. NBC wonders why it is no longer at the top of the ratings, keep it up and NBC will be at the bottom of the barrel. Instead of blogging about the President's speech and its important implications to our country now NBC has shifted the focus because they are liars. The media holds a powerful position in public opinion and these rich executives are playing on the ignorance of unknowing Americans. Let the public decide for themselves what they think of the President's speech and quit treating us like we're your pheasants undeserving of the truth. To defend NBC is just ignorant. NBC's ego is bigger than the Presidents. This isn't about just apologizing to the President, but most importantly apologizing to the public and once again NBC's ego got in the way and obviously still believes the public is too stupid to judge right and wrong for themselves without having to bias their opinions. I'm just grossed out with NBC.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mike K. Syracuse, NY — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:08:35 GMT

I understand that my voice is nill in comparison to a major network, but that being said, NBC is a disgrace to the reporting and news media atmosphere.

I will continue to support the only way I see fit of making my voice heard, which is not to support any of the advertisers on your network.

With all of the choices in the consumer marketplace today, thank you for eliminating one more entity and their supporters from my decision making list.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

R. Lee — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:11:50 GMT

"Shame on you at NBC for continuously and deliberately distorting the news on a daily basis. You have lately driven so many of us away from your network news as well as away from our Democratic Party. AS a clergyman and psychological counselor we completely agree with the White House position!"
A. Heller N.Y.C. N.Y.S.

There is no way a person can call himself/herself a follower of the Judeo-Christian tradition and agree in any way with the current White House position!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Gary Buckles, Beaverto, Or — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:13:45 GMT

I will no longer watch ANYTHING on NBC. You are a disgrace and this action and flat out denial of editing out truth just demonstrates how liberal you have become. NBC-OBAMA should be your new name.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Tom Vincent, Newport, DE — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:17:36 GMT

How sickeningly ironic that the Theocratic Fascist thug idiot clown-prince Bush would whine about anyone else committing fraud (not that you did, mind you).

Bush should be hung as a traitor.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

RW, Schertz TX — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:19:21 GMT

I am tired of news outlets that willfully distort the comments such as those by President Bush in order to alter the intended message and favor a particular political viewpoint. That appears to be the case in this instance and it causes me to narrow my nightly news selection to Fox news. I used to think that I needed another perspective besides Fox to offer some balance and used to watch both CBS and Fox I switched to NBC after the Dan Rather incident and did so because I really thought Brian Williams was a person of character. I still feel that way and do not blame him for this piece but due to the willfully distorted editing as exhibited by NBC, I will rely solely on Fox news as my source of information. They have not given me pause to question their integrity or bias as had CBS and now NBC.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

B.D. WV — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:22:12 GMT

SHAME on the criminals in the White House. Like illegally deleting all those emails wasn't deceitful? When will you red b@st@rds stop appeasing Bush/Cheney? Go back to watching Faux News. You're far too ignorant to understand anything else.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Carmen D Rivera Brooklyn New York — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:23:24 GMT

While most of the time I tend to agree with Mr.Richard Engel and NBC I believe he was a little too hard on President Bush.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Robert Townsend, Charleston, SC — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:27:15 GMT

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Rob, Tampa FL. — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:27:30 GMT

Funny how NBC edited the part that was critical of them on their reporting only to be called out again by the WH a second time. Listen to the President and report what he is actually saying. How do you chop out those two sentences? Doing so distorted the meaning. I had a problem with the news trying to connect his speech to Obama to begin with.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Vicky, Chicago, IL — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:29:17 GMT

The reason why I stopped tuning in to NBC is because news is usually presented not as the event as it happened but how NBC interprets it. This is no longer news. This is editorializing. Not everyone has access to a computer to look up what actually happened. Remember, you have standards to live up to. If you want to be the spokes station of whatever you believe in, be upfront about it. That is being honest. That is how you will get back your viewership. Right now I get my news from Tribune's Channel 38 or Channel 9. I dislike the hidden agenda of some of news people.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Odist Harmon JR, Blythewood, SC — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:30:24 GMT

I feel that the report shows that this administration is only interested in their positio on this and many other issues facing this contry and is not moved by many of the facts that we as citizens have to deal with on a day to day basis. I will continue to be a loyal viewer keep up the good work.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Chris Stewart — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:30:31 GMT

Way to go, NBC. You have successfully ruined the legacy of Tom Brokaw in the same way CBS let Dan Rather ruin the legacy of Cronkite and Murrow. Perhaps their should be a class-action suit against your company for deceptively labeling your product as news. No wonder everyone is flocking to cable. jon Stewart had better journalistic credibility.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Don Gist Cutler Bay Florida — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:31:40 GMT

This is exactly why I do not watch NBC, CBS nor ABC. Paraphrasing, out of context quotes, and questionable sources have contributed to de-legitimizing the news as well as the broadcast networks. They are simply not believable any longer, if they ever were.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Stephen, Clover, SC — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:35:23 GMT

Can you BELIEVE the hubris and fake umbrage the Whitehouse is vomiting out over this?!! Are they SERIOUSLY thinking that everyone is so idiotic that they would buy into their hot steaming pile of...complaint?!!

Let me recount a few "exercises in editing" from this administration. I will just use the buzzwords:

9/11=Saddam Hussein and Iraq
Valerie Plame
Global Warming
The environment
Katrina
US Attorney Appointments
Torture
Rendition

and the granddaddy of all whoppers: WMD
(btw, obviously this list only hit the high points, and not even all of those)

Hey Gillespie. Don't think we don't know that carrying the attack to those who honestly lay out Bush is your strategy to get the American people to focus attention somewhere other than the morons in office. That may have worked a couple of years back, but it looks like the majority of America is not going to be that distracted.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Dave C., Englewood, FL — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:38:02 GMT

This is the first news story I have watched on NBC since the network and Brian Williams declared "civil war" in Iraq. This just reaffirms my decision to no longer watch NBC, now known to me as the Neo-Liberal Broadcasting Corporation.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mongo Lloyd, Devonia, o-HI-o — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:39:39 GMT

You know, it is a sad state of affairs in this country when petulant, faux outrage over a non-issue leads some people to change the channel on their TV sets.

In the good old days, people just changed the channels in order to watch another program. Some folks even turned OFF their TV sets (shock! surprise!) and would actually read books! Maybe those folks could spell "peasant" correctly, and not speak like a Valley Girl from Sherman Oaks (gag me with a spoon). Maybe.

Just think, if a small portion of the faux outrage expressed over this non-issue had been expressed over the: a)stolen election b)WMD lies c)Iraq war d)Rumsfeld lies e)Cheney war profiteering f)on and on, ad nauseum.... maybe we would not be in the mess we are in today, as a country.

How far America has devolved...

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Phil, Washington DC — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:43:27 GMT

I hope you report on your hack commentary shows like Olberman's and Hardball all these comments absolutely ripping you for your editing. And your letter here got even more comments about your spin and being the Obama News Network. You say it has been posted to your web site but only show portions that show the President in the worst light. You all aren't worthy of the name legitimate news network. You will go by the way side like the New York Times.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bill W. — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:45:05 GMT

While I agree that editing is necessary to condense and report the news there are lines that must be drawn. When editing changes the tone, intent or meaning of anyones words, how can that be considered accurate reporting? In an ever increasly confusing world, the media should always take the high ground. Leave the sensationism to the National Enquirer. At least when you read it, you know it's tainted garbage.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bill S., Columbia, SC — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:45:49 GMT

My only problem with either version of the Engels interview is that he failed to factually confront Bush's lies, spin and deceptions.

I can sympathize with Engels, however. When confronted with a President so deep in denial that he can call the disaster at Basra a "success" then you've got to wonder what common ground you have for an interview.

Engels is an excellent reporter and a brave man. He just wasn't ready to be confronted with Bush's stubborn alternative reality.

BTW, Bush continues to push the 9/11-Iraq connection despite having personally admitted several times that there was none.

You folks who think that Fox News offers unbiased news seriously should compare them with the BBC, NBC, CNN and the rest of the major news media-- unless you're just looking to have your rightwing viewpoints supported.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

R. Pulley — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:47:20 GMT

Is it too much to report the truth, the whole truth
and nothing but the truth - so help you GOD. Do you actually believe we don't realize that by showing the unedited version on the web site only that NBC is disinfranchising all those with no internet access. Wouldn't your parents & grandparents be proud. This is definitely not even close to the "Greatess Generation". Good Luck to you in the future you will need it.
and leading them

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jim Burton Jacksonville, FL — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:48:31 GMT

If there was no effort to be deceptive, as Mr. Capus states, then NBC's judgment is fabulously flawed. Furthermore through this failure, NBC has done... and continues to do... irreparable harm to it's credibility in reporting the news. Maybe it's time that NBC moves its broadcast news headquarters to someplace in flyover America, and not treat it as some third world entity.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Dave, Tn — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:52:34 GMT

pssst dirty little secret of the networks. The full interview posted on the web doesn't matter. The fact that it aired on the today show in full doesn't matter. Your target is the "people in the middle" who only catch maybe 30 minutes worth of so called news a day. I've watched enough unedited for time footage on c-span and then watched how it comes out of the filter to know this goes on constantly. I'm so right wing I'd rather sit this election out than vote for McCain, but if I only had time for one news program it would be The News Hour on PBS. Go figure.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

T Vickers, Weatherford, Texas — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:52:48 GMT

You do not deserve the privilege to report on something as important as The President of The United States, no matter who that might be!! You just lost another viewer! SHAME ON YOU NBC!!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Andrew Johnson, Centennial, CO — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:01:24 GMT

Wow. Just... wow. Although NBC is clearly biased, this isn't just about being biased. This is about completely changing what the President said. What was the purpose of removing about 5 seconds worth of words the President said other then to distort the comments? At least announce at the beginning of the segment that NBC has taken the liberty of editing Bush's comments to promote the NBC agenda. Did the Dan Rather incident not open NBC's eyes that the American Public (minus the Ultra Liberals) just want to hear the truth and decide for themselves? In the long run, attempting to control the American public into believing what NBC believes will only result in abandonment.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

RW, Schertz TX — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:01:59 GMT

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

suzie homer — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:06:24 GMT

All of the major network news is a joke. They all want Barack Huessein Obama to win so badly. I am going to start writing the companies that advertise and tell them I am going to boycott them.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Sue, United Kingdom/Ireland — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:13:20 GMT

A Different View Point from Ireland:
The American media (including political attack adds) are doing the American people a great disservice, as an international observer it appears the media is excessively hyped up and chopped up to make ratings/profits. I only have CNN and Fox News to compare but the contrast in quality reporting is vast.
The American people need to demand more accurate reporting from their news sources. Their only motive should be TO TELL THE TRUTH not to get profits for cheap hype.

I would have loved it if the reporter pushed the President to a 'yes or no' answer to his question if he was referring to Obama. Note how the President avoided a direct answer.

As a side note- Don't let the GOP scare you into thinking that the Bush foreign policy it has conducted over the last 8 years is a good approach. It's not, it's playground childish behavour.

If Obama conducts robust principled diplomacy, should any country pose a serious direct threat to any other country, it would have the backing and support of the International community (unlike what it had with it's invasion of Iraq) How come nobody is raising this point?!
Oh if I could vote, it would be for Obama, if you want to raise America's standing in the world, Obama is the only choice.

Also Ted Lovejoy you said it well.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Paul Waters — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:15:25 GMT

Congratulations, NBC News has been awarded the Dan Rather Award for Honesty and Integrity in Television News Reporting.

I will vote with my TV tuner and click away from NBC.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jackie Rawlings 62 Riverside California — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:17:30 GMT

I've read the comments
Mr. Steve Capus
You are a leader in this Media war. For 7 years the White House has been spreading lies and propaganda. Going so far as to develop a Pentagon Propaganda Department. It is very had for Americans to admit to themselves they have been lied to by the President of the United States for 7 years. We see the lies about the invasion of Iraq, torture and rape of innocent men/woman/children, a US recession and lost of our soldiers for Iraq's oil. Some Americans still believe the lie about WMD as only the US weapons given to Saddam were found. It's easier to believe the lie then know you've been lied to by the White House. Of course as Karl Rove has paid bloggers to push the evil side. So like many before you NBC stands alone for standing up for truth. We've had Edward R. Murrow who stood alone and later is a hero for life. Some many Americans listed in History who stood up for the real Values of America like Rosa Parks, Dr. King, JFK and so many others. As Jesus said this to shall pass as evil never wins in the end. The White House is seeing the Evil House they built falling down. As a Military Mom I can tell you first hand the troops knows Bush is a liar. It's not Richard's fault that President Bush made a fool of himself at the Israeli Parliament, as even the Foreign Press said the guest that his remarks were stupid and they paid not attention to him. Richard Engel has lived in Iraq longer then any US soldier and any American. As for Richard he brings out the best in not only Journalism but America. He didn't read the Pentagon Propaganda report he lived in Iraq and go the story from the Iraq people and our troops on the ground. That's why ABC,CBS and Fox News reports conflicted with Richards report. When the American people finally realize the hole truth it will be truly a sad time in America. Our entire US Government and country has been infected with corruption and lies by the Bush Administration. No American wants to believe this could happen. We saw Watergate and said it would never happen again but it has and worse. Cheney has up dated the Nixon crime book and infected every branch of our US system. Our Supreme Court, Judges, DOJ, Congress, Senate, House of Reps. and ever other department has been infected with crime. Yes excuses have been made for everything from lies to crimes over the pass 7 years. It's time to get our country back and stand up for the Values/Morals/Honesty/Equality this country was built on. A President works for the people and we have a Democracy. Bush/Cheney have acted like Dictators and after reading some comments it seems Americans need to read how this country was formed and why. A good place to start is with the US Constitution which starts of with We the people. Thank you NBC for standing up for Truth.

A US Soldiers Mom and an American
Jackie Rawlings

ps: Mr. Capus as a longer time viewer of NBC anyone can tell those who haven't watched or don't really know Richard Engels work. Just read some of the comments it's easy. So don't be fooled by how the White House works and uses bloggers to spread the lies.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

ed horner, scottsdale, az. — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:17:38 GMT

Dear Mr. Williams;
your story about the editing of the interview between President Bush and Richard Engel as reported Monday night was just wrong. You invited viewers to go to the web for the "complete" interview. NBC as a trusted source of information should have aired the complete interview and done away with editing out comments by the President.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jim K, TN — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:19:29 GMT

I find it strange that so many on here defend Bush, One seems to forget he is directly responsible for the deaths of over 4000 americans and 10s of thousands of Iraq civilians based on lies. And the fact that the Bush Administration has continually lied to the American people to justify all the illegal and underhanded things they have done, the ends DO NOT justify the means. If you really watch both videos, the content wasn't changed.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Paul, Reno, NV — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:19:48 GMT

What ever happened to accurate reporting and honest news? It is entirely obvious that editing was used to create a story that didn't exist. Your reporting is entirely biased rather than reporting facts and letting the viewer decide. NBC has little, if any credibility as a serious news outfit. Yellow journalism and NBC seem to be a good fit.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Richard Brinkley — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:20:51 GMT

Yes, NBC is responsible for its editing. However, when the purpose of the editing is to distort what was actually said, when the purpose of the editing is to formulate politically biased propaganda, then the editing is unethical.

The liberal-socialist bias of the main-stream media is evident. This is why television ratings fall and newspaper circulation decreases. NBC news now joins CBS in the Hall of Shame.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Tim Chastain Panama City Florida — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:23:32 GMT

Your network has become so biased and this proves it once again. How does Brian Williams keep a straight face when he knows that he is not reporting the news but some idiots agenda. I am a Democrat but will now switch to Republican seeing how you think that Obama can do no wrong. He did nothing in his elected office but stay away from any vote that he might actually have to make a stand on so he could say when he ran for President that he didn't vote for it. PATHETIC!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Paul Shipton, Maryland — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:26:32 GMT

The uniformed, partisan responses were obvious as were the informed and partisan. Several items of note were; the distrust the respondents felt toward NBC and the self described main stream media; editing an interview with the President; and the bias slant toward making a story from nothing at all on a slow news day. I watched them both and I find it to be crystal clear with the reference to hitler that the appeasement concerned Neville Chamberlain not Hussein B. Obama. This would make perfect sense following the 60th anniversary of the Jewish state and a holocost that might have been prevented. I believe you did edit the interview to make the claim and create a story about political statements. No one seems to speak or write about Pelosi in iraq and how no one wants to meet with her. It is a sad day indeed when journalists and the main stream media cannot be trusted.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

William Tell, Buffalo, New York — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:34:19 GMT

After watching and listening to Mr. Olberman’s Special Comments dated May 19th, 2008 to explain his Special comments. I try for one to be open to the hardcore comments of Mr. Olberman, his continued attack on the current President and his administration for their failures in the past four year go way overboard for any Professional News Services as MSNBC. He try to explain his comments to avoid associating his comments towards our men and women serving our military. His comments were way off base to identify the President Bush and his administration and the Pentagon as “Cold Blooded Killers, which one day will be held accountable for WAR Crimes.” What are you guys thinking over there, we, the United States of America have two wars currently in progress.

No doubt, the President has made some serious mistakes in administrating this World War on International Terrorist and Tyrants (ITT’s). But to subject the American people with these irresponsible comments is wrong. To retake the president’s comments and re-point back to his office and his administration on the fire bent to raise Mr. Olberman’s ratings and declare himself a moralist for the American cause of justice and Freedom is morally wrong. MSNBC is supposed to provide straight forward news to the people without personal attacks or bias. Your news service makes a hard point to identify to the world of FOX news as being the evil empire. Yet you allow your own news service to behave in this shameful way. I once enjoy and respected MSNBC News for their unbiased news reporting. Now, even though I am just one person. What American would want to place their “I am proud of what Mr. Olberman’s comments said as news worthy or morally right. Just forget about the ratings folks and just THINK about what he (Mr. Olberman) is saying.

Oh yeah, I know MNSBC does not take any responsibility for the comments and content of their news personalities. But wait a minute, your air time, your paying his checks plus bonuses. Or better yet, you folks at MSNBC really do believe in what Mr. Olberman says every night. If this is the real truth, than you guys need a new job.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mikal — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:38:56 GMT

wow i shock the interviewer didnt call G. bush on the twisting of lies to justified his point. example about leben, where the government went after the Helliboz T.V. station and the worker who wanted higher wages that spark that conflict, and for barsa and iraq the shia governement went after sadra in a attempt to weaken him in the next elections, and fail where the U.S. had to step in.
These lies are far greater than someone editing 2 sentence out of bush speech

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Linda Winner, Anchorage, Alaska — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:41:10 GMT

I believe your editing of the President's interview is nothing more than an attempt to incite people against the current President. I have watched over the years as you have torn apart one President after another and when you don't like what the Republicans do you go after them. I also remember when President Clinton was in office and how you ripped him to shreds several times - Monica Lewinski ring any bells???? I agree with the President now that this is nothing other than a way to impact the coming elections - why can't you just report the news and not edit it? People turn to you guys for the truth - the real truth and not some fantasy version that you have altered to make the outcome more "appeasing" for yourselves. While I may not agree with everything the President has done he is the elected official and deserves the respect as such. Have you not noticed that there has not been an attack on US soil since 9/11 - we must be doing something right - can't you agree? Don't edit people's comments let the people make up their own minds - this is a basic principle this country was founded on - people came to the New World so they could have freedom - freedom that you are taking away by editing interviews. This truly is a country of the people by the people and for the people and we don't need someone to spin the truth for us - if as you have stated above you believe your editing was accurate then why hide the truth from the people - why not report it on the news not everyone has access to the web (what a concept) - do you not think that we are bright enough to figure things out on our own? This is truly shameful and I will be finding my news elsewhere!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Allie Hathaway — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:41:29 GMT

Another mainstream news media showing bias. Shame on everyone at NBC and MSNBC for distorting the words of the President. Your news program is no longer creditable and I think there must be an apology to the president and to the American people.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

R L Webb, Nashville, TN — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:44:18 GMT

I teach research/public speaking at a University. Thank you, NBC, for giving me an updated example of taking a quotation and manipulating it for the sole purpose of the agenda of the user. Sorry, I won't be watching you for more examples. I have watched the nightly news since Brokaw came on the scene. Off to find a new evening broadcast.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Cindy Roberts, Lee's Summit, MO — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:46:17 GMT

NBC must stand for "Negative Bush Channel". When your news network starts reporting things correctly instead of subjective editing, I might return to your news channel. Until then I will take my television news viewing further up my television remote. Over the last few years the mood of the country reflects exactly what the media feeds them. No wonder the President's approval ratings are so low. It corresponds directly to what you're feeding us threw you're personal views. I hope someone there gets fired!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Josh, New York, NY — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:47:26 GMT

The White House is right. NBC did an awful job of reporting the interviews, as well as many other interviews and news reports. They have repeatedly either smeared, exagerated or heavily biased reports in an effort to smear anything that may be viewed positive to the President.
Can they go one news cast without bashing the president? This is exactly why no one respects NBC news. Even though "more people watch NBC news" not true. Thats just of the 3 network nightly broadcasts. Both CNN and Fox news smash NBC during the same time frame as well as other time frames.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

antiliberalmedia, Boulder, CO — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:02:40 GMT

Yet another instance of the Main stream media influencing the news rather than report it. This is why more and more people prefer blogs to mainstream.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mark, Atlanta, Ga. — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:05:19 GMT

NBC should air the complete interview on the same news programs as aired the edited ones !! This is like we tell our kids, think before you speak because you can't take it back once it leaves your mouth. In this case I believe the effect was as planned, because it is doubtful that those that were watching these lies on TV will ever go read the real story on the web(which was buried quite nicely mind you). I believe NBC knew exactly what they were doing and made a concience decision to twist the story to suit their obvious bias towards Barack Hussein Obama. What is this country coming to? I will say this, I am proud of the smart Americans (blues and reds)who are speaking out against this shameful act by NBC.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

David Applegate, Westmont IL — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:05:32 GMT

It's easy to say that this was part of "normal" editing. I find that answer inadequate. You asked the President a question..we as viewers are entitled to see/hear the answer, the whole answer. Not the first sentence and the last sentence but not the middle sentence. By not showing us the whole answer the meaning is different. I can make an edited video that shows on primetime Bush supporting Nazis from his speech last week. Then I can tell tell everyone i didn't misrepresent anything and that they can go to my website or watch a different show that they never watch to learn the truth. Maybe 20% of the original viewers will see the truth.

What is really insulting is to tell the viewers that they can see the whole interview or answer to the question online or on a different show. We know the difference in the amount of viewers between the shows, clearly the same number of people will not see it. You also ignore the working class that will not see Today, and those without internet access. This was a lame defense and empty gesture at showing the truth.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Julio Rodriguez — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:07:36 GMT

What do you expect from a third-rate news organization like NBC News? Typical lliberal drek. You would think Brian Williams or Richard Engel might wonder about their reputations, but apparently not. I use to have some respect for both of them. The biased editing by NBC News is just another reason why the ONLY news organization worth watching is FOX News.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Chris S, Atlantis FL — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:11:13 GMT

NBC - you should be ashamed of the blurring of lines between commentator (and nasty man) Keith Olberman and your NBC news organization. Please for the sake of all americans find someone new to host your election coverage because Olberman is a cheap hack. (and that's why his ratings stink) The Bush edit was dispicable and cheap.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Larry, Bradenton Fl. — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:11:53 GMT

There the news media goes again,twisting what people say to report what they want us to think was said. Hummmmmmm!!!!!!!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Craig Thomas Prattville, AL — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:16:54 GMT

It appears that NBC would rather make news rather than report the news. Let the viewer receive ALL the information and then let them decide. NBC practice reminds us of how the Soviets and China change the news. Shame on you NBC. Click, that the sound of many viewers turning you off.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Randall O. R. Young — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:17:02 GMT

It is obvious to me that none of those complaining about NBC's editing have ever had to deal with the problem of editing! The Bush camp should be THANKING NBC for cleaning up Bush's discursive and "Fact - Baseless" contentions. The part they left on the cutting room floor, besides making Bush look even dumber, added not one whit to my understanding of the issues at hand. Perhaps the optimal solution would have been to delete the interview in its entirety. Then they could have added something more substantive to their original broadcast.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Russ, Granada, Spain — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:18:29 GMT

I have gotten my news almost exclusively from NBC for a long time, and I don't feel that there was anything wrong with the editing of the interview shown on Sunday's "Nightly". When the whole interview was 15 minutes long, the editors were right to show the important parts. The interview, even when seen in its entirety, shows President Bush tactlessly avoiding Engel's difficult questions. As the leader of the free world, any President should be have to answer difficult questions and explain his decisions and statements. Just as the White House wanted NBC News to clarify the statements within their context, Engel was trying to get Bush to explain his own comments. Seems fair to me.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

D. Elsass, Fitchburg, WI — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:24:44 GMT

I think the important point regarding Bush's "Appeaser (Sic)" charge against Obama is the blatant hypocrisy displayed not this minor editing flap. Here is G.W.who publicly called the North Korean government a member of the "Axis of Evil," with Iran and Iraq in 2002 and then a mere five years later secretly negotiated the shut down of its nuclear weapons plants in exchange for "bribes" consisting of US food aid and low cost electrical power from our allies in South Korea subsidized by we the taxpayers. I assume that isn't "appeasement" particularly after NK shot off test missiles, but instead is "quiet behind the scenes diplomacy" with a non-elected dictatorship. What a hypocrite and he will pass this legacy on to McCain as well!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

EB, TX — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:28:42 GMT

If anyone thinks that the NBC edits materially changed the content of the interview, then they have been watching too much FOX news--whose reporters and editorial staff lost objectivity YEARS AGO, despite their claims that FOX is really "Fair and Balanced." All of you FOX watchers have just been conditioned for the past several years that anything someone says in contradiction with the President is untrue.

If anyone wants to consider manipulation of the truth, look no further than our commander in chief, and his statements on global warming and Iraq.

Get over it people. Start being your own fact checkers, and don't rely on any single news source for your facts.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Keith Brown, Peoria, AZ — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:29:01 GMT

I have lived through civil rights riots, Vietnam, Watergate, Iran-Contra, etc. Through all of those events in which the President was confronted with difficult questioning from sometimes "pushy" journalists (Sam Donaldson, Mike Wallace, Dan Rather, Andrea Simpson, Tom Brokaw, etc.), I have yet to recall a reporter that demonstrated as much outwardly displayed contempt and disrespect for a sitting President as Richard Engle's questioning/interrogation of President Bush. His lack of ethical and professional journalism to the Office of President was unprofessional and blatantly was inter-twined with his obvious disrespect for Mr. Bush. I may not like or even respect all decisions/policies of a President, but I expect the news reporting/media from which I choose to be informed to respect the position of the person to which the reporter is speaking. In this case, Mr. Engle's interruption and statements in error of the Bush record were intended to reveal hypocrisies, lies, or worse in President's comments. Regretfully, Mr. Engle's "performance" for his NBC supervisors/editors reveals not only Mr. Engle's bias but that of the entire NBC news organization. The favorable editing which was intended to bolster NBC's on-going pro-Democrat bias was obvious to the extreme. As an Independent voter, I for one will "tune-out" NBC as one of my media sources.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

JMG — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:31:12 GMT

Congratulations on becoming the new CBS!

Dan would be proud of you all.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

pat o'brien bisbee az. — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:33:40 GMT

I can't believe what I'm reading. Are the American people so guilable that they think George Bush trying to control the press is a good thing. I think NBC does a supberb job of news reporting. Where would this country be without them? We would still believe that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction and "mission accomplished" was fact. This is frightening retoric from the white house. I'm afraid the world of George Orwell is upon us.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

jack o'brien, sierra vista, az. — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:38:22 GMT

I guess this makes Fox News the official white house news channel. God help us all

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

mike r — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:38:23 GMT

Bravo, NBC, to not caving in to these bullying liars. They own FOX news and can't stand the fact other media outlets don't tow the Neo-con line for them.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Erin, New Hampshire — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:39:30 GMT

Count me in as someone who will never watch NBC or MSNBC ever again. But then again no one really watches you anyway, right?

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Monty Moore, Georgetown, Texas — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:39:55 GMT

NBC News has followed in the footsteps of NBC Entertainment in chasing viewers away. Maybe they should consider giving Conan the anchor chair and keeping Leno. As it is, where Leno goes next year, I will watch.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Tom Black Highland,Indiana — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:43:27 GMT

This is just another example of The liberal media's bias and it's attempt to influence the political process by distorting actual facts. especially when it was clear to see that President Bush's original comments were meant to paraphrase the context of Winston Churchill's "Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it."

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Dave, Eaton Rapids, MI — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:45:51 GMT

Dear NBC News,

It is nice to see that CBS is not the only network with a Dan Rather.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mary, Grand Rapids, MI — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:47:02 GMT

Although it is apparent that NBC/MSNBC has no respect for the current office of the presidency or its administration, perhaps you might consider the respect of your viewing audience - those that generate your ratings and ultimately your revenue. Frankly, this is the final push required to send me permanently to FOX news for all relevant and balanced news coverage. You only have to look at your fading ratings to get the picture. Please continue your very slanted, arrogant and now deceitful "news" coverage for those gullible enough to find you credible.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

One_American — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:47:19 GMT

It is plain to see that NBC is going the way of the New York Times - whittling down it's news staff to just a few liberal pundits and activists, who abuse their positions to promote liberal ideology, and who are passing off their biased screed as "news".

Americans are most assuredly witnessing the self-induced death of NBC.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Douglas Hampton, Avon, Indiana — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:50:16 GMT

Broadcasting a version of the President’s interview edited to your pleasing on the public airwaves does not compare to posting the interview on a website. I view the posting as that of an elitist media mindset. If NBC had any integrity they would broadcast the interview in full (multiple times). I change the channel when NBC, CBS, or ABC news comes on because they are so blatantly biased in their reporting. Perhaps I will use more discretion into programs outside of the news as I truly don’t want to support a network such as NBC or their advertisers.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Charles Bourland, Osceola MO — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:51:46 GMT

Well there may not have been intent to slant, but you certainly did. Posting on the web site is not good enough. I used to watch NBC nightly news just to catch up on all the bad news and see how you slanted the real news, but now I am finished watching you.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

S. McDonald — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:53:01 GMT

Spin is wrong.......but you don't hear any complaints when the "shoe is on the other foot". Who would have thought that getining "some on the truth" would make people sooooo angry? Getting a dose of the same medicine, is never easy to swallow! Have we forgotten Weapons of Mass Destruction?

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bob M. Rolesville, NC — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:53:59 GMT

News organizations and most reporters today have displaced journalistic ethics based on personal ideological principles. There is minimal "objective reporting" in tv and print news. Why? People's personal agendas (or in this case) vendettas against the President's administration. NBC staffers are guilty of editing a key quote in hopes that it appeals to who they want to be the next president. The cast of 'characters' NBC employs like Olbermann, Matthews, Williams are reasons why I defected to more respected news outlets. No news organizations will 100% of the time accurately report the news. However they should not be distorting the news close to 100% of the time either.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Brad E — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:54:18 GMT

I just love how all the Right Wingers are complaining about NBC, but are quiet about all the CRIMES Bush and Cheney have committed. Nice to know where your priorities are....... Certainly not with the country, and clearly only on your party.

You sit at your computers and cry and complain about some editing, but support the LIES and CRIMES that Bush has committed against not only this nation but Iraq as well. You people are a total discrase to this country for your SELFISH HYPOCRITICAL blathering.

If you would only spend as much energy protecting the Constitution as you do screaming at NBC, then Bush and Cheney would not have been able to destroy that pressious document and our country. But you COWARDS are not real Americans and put your party over country, which makes you Un-American for that.

There is NO man that is above the law, but you people stand back and let Bush feed you lies and committ crimes in your name with a smile and support.

Faux news deserves you...... One bunch of criminal propaganda spreaders to another. Faux is the largest MANIPULATOR of FACTS there is of ANY news organizations. Bill Oliely is just one fine example of that..... He lies more than just about any other new person on all the networks combined.....

So you people stating that NBC has lost you..... GOOD, they don't need simpletons watching anyway......

Chow..... Don't let the door hit you where the good lord split you.......

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Ric Cross, Marietta, GA — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:01:17 GMT

Oooo an uncivil war in the lamestream media ... NBC honchos gunning for the bottom by manipulating a POTUS interview ... can not get much lower ... strike that ... I am quite certain that Capus's plexidectomy will allow him to perform other partisan feats of stunning ignorance. Just makes me wonder about the NBC reporting on the war in Iraq, did the tell the truth?

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Michael O'Boyle — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:01:21 GMT

When will this horrible nightmare of the Bushes end?
Holy Mary, Mother of God, help us in our hour of need. Amen

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bill Price, Bradenton, FL — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:05:17 GMT

Both my wife and I watched Richard Engel's interview of President Bush on the Today Show and we were appalled. Forget about the inappropriate editing, Mr. Engel's disrespectful treatment of the President was shameful. Mr. Engel's interruption of the President during the beehive analogy reminded me of an adolescent kid interrupting his parents.

I have watched Today for years, and I will have a hard time giving it up. But I think it's time. I expect journalists to respect the person holding the office of President, regardless of their political beliefs. I expected the same when President Clinton held the office. NBC clearly doesn't agree with me.

Shame on you, NBC. From now on, I will see if Good Morning America can do a better job.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bernadette Schoch, Elizabethtown PA — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:06:24 GMT

I have been a loyal viewer of NBC my entire life. I wake up watching the Today show…watch the local news…watch Brian Williams at night, Dateline, etc….but no more….it might be a hard habit to break BUT I WILL NEVER WATCH IT AGAIN…NOT THE NEWS OR NEWS SHOWS….by the way—I also visit your website almost daily…NO MORE!!
How dare you edit the President of the United States in a story….and then admit it and then refuse to show the entire real clip of the interview…..but instead -ask those who have questions to go to your website and view the entire interview for themselves…

Who do you think you are ?? You are supposed to bring us the NEWS…not your version or opinion of the news….
I have heard that you are liberal and stuff like that but never put a lot of thought into it because at the time I thought it was all ratings related and believed it was good to hear all sides of the issues—I still do believe that and that is why you have lost me as a viewer…and therefore your advertisers will be loosing an baby boomer with a large household income, two children with expensive tastes(large budgets) husband with great job and a dog owner….
I do not believe that one person will make a difference to you or your ratings, but this has made me very angry and I will share my thoughts with my friends and family and they will also share their thoughts with others.

Good bye…NBC news…
By the way—Meredith Vieira stinks anyway..you should have hired Campbell Brown for TODAY.

Bernadette Schoch
Elizabethtown PA

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bren FL — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:07:29 GMT

Who are some of these people coming to blog here?? Neocons with an agenda to take out NBC, because they refuse to lie down like dogs for the Bush Thug Bunch?? Hoping that others will come here and bash NBC too or stop watching for the truth or part of the truth?? They only have a certain amount of time to put stuff into shows.. The rest is up to you to search for the rest, Lazy bunch! Give me a break ya plants.. go ahead, many of us here recognize neocons who have been in these blogs for some time and spew crap!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Helaine Kottke,Hinckley,MN — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:07:37 GMT

I don't watch NBC,CBS,or ABC news of any kind because I consider it fictional.If I want facts I watch cable Fox News.I am very surprised you still have anyone watching at all.I did not realise there were still so many gullable people that do not know this network for what it is.Shame on you.I am hoping for your demise soon.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

ross, dallas, tx — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:08:13 GMT

Really not sure what all the uproar is about concerning this interview.

I like so many other American citizens either change the channel or use the restroom whenever gwb begins to speak (sorry Mr. Engel).

Now, you could change my mind as well as millions of others about watching the President speak, but he would have to be under oath in a court of law.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Helaine Kottke,Hinckley,MN — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:10:04 GMT

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Phyllis Kunz Louisville, Ky. — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:12:15 GMT

NBC did a poor job or editing and it was misleading
and there is no excuse for it. To ask us to see
the whole interview of Engal with President Bush
after the story is a cop-out. The damage is already
done. Engal was disrespectful of the President
of the United States and I hope he gets his
comeuppance which would do my heart good.
Phyllis Kunz

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Sharon Barbour, Covington, Georgia — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:13:22 GMT

I'm so pleased that you are addressing what amounts to be biased reporting on the part of NBC. You should be commended for fully investigating the White House complaint even though you have denied any wrongdoing. This incident confirms my belief that NBC is liberally biased. As usual, I'll get the truth from Fox News.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Steve, Baltimore, MD — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:15:28 GMT

After seeing the entire interview and then seeing the edited version, it definately looks like NBC was trying to spin (or twist) the Presient's words.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Roger Davis, Lansing. Mi — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:20:03 GMT

I think NBC and GE should be censured any time they do this type of twisting to their reporting, it isn't just Engel I see it all the time with Holt also. I can only surmise that it must be policy through all their news broadcasts. Guess it's time to watch something else.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Gary Fletcher, Benton, KY, 42025 — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:23:52 GMT

I am also disappointed as it seems many watchers are with NBC newcasters and reporters. It seems as though you are catering to the minority of people with liberal beliefs. I think that Richard Engels was very disrectful of the office of the President of the United States during his interview with President Bush. You could see the contempt on Richard Engels face and with the questions he asked.
Also Brian Williams, Chris Matthews and Tim Russert all slant the news to a liberal viewpoint instead of reporting the real facts of news. Why would you want to do this instead of just tell the truth about Iraq or whatever subject you are reporting on? I agree with many other people that NBC is losing credibility with majority of the people in the United States,whether Republican or Democrat.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Beth, Indianapolis, IN — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:24:37 GMT

Whatever happened to respecting the position of the President of the United States of America. You don't necessarily have to respect the person in that position but respect the office, that is one of the things that has made our country great. NBC and MSNBC lost me quite a while ago and this proves my point even more. Please go back to responsible journalism.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

George, Fairfield, NJ — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:25:28 GMT

NBC Network of Biased Content. Editing is normal but editing the middle of a sentence out is wrong and deceitful.

Have you noticed that Mr. Williams always reads out the Dow Jones Numbers when they are down? But on days that they are up over 50 points those numbers ONLY appear on the sign built into his desk as they go to a commercial.

It is also amazing the during Brian Obama's broadcasts he will call Senator Obama "Senator Obama" yet he calls Senators McCain and Clinton solely by their last names. I have given up counting the amount of times he calls President Bush "Mr. Bush".

You may not respect the man but you should respect the office. Mr. Edward R Murrow is rolling over in his grave.

And lest not forget the horrible job that the Dem-B-C did on the anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King's murder. They never have given Senator McCain a chance to repeat his comments on that day.

NBC has lost another long time viewer. Their biased news has even turned me off from their entertainment programming also.

Don't get me started on 30 Rock and Leno the Dem propaganda mills.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jerry Cody — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:25:32 GMT

Just like Dan Rather and CBS, NBC has now crossed the line. It seems that some in your organization just refuse to accept that we live in a free society and have different views. You instead not just disagree with the President but now believe you can simply decieve the public into believing he said one thing, when it is CLEAR he challenged the question and actually said something different when the FULL tape is heard. A FULL Apology and a showing of the FULL interview is the only way to correct the problem. You can bet that FNC will continue to take viewership away from you with editing and reporting of this nature!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Matt Troedson, San Diego — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:27:28 GMT

Wow! Why are you being so deceptive? That is not what fair reporting is all about. It is very obvious that this is agenda driven.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Rodney Dallas, TX — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:31:16 GMT

Regardless of whether you support Bush or not, the fact is that editing in this manner is not reporting the news as it happend. It's reporting it as you want it to be percieved. Most Americans are capable of making up their own minds. I don't find it shocking that NBC did this, but I'm glad to see so many others bothered by it. Hopefully NBC will think before pulling this kind of stunt. But I doubt it.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Shawn, Seattle, WA — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:33:22 GMT

How high was the President during this interview?

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Rory, Mamaroneck, NY — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:34:57 GMT

Would someone who thinks that this was a "slanted" edit please compare and contrast for me the two versions, and tell us what the nature of the distortion WAS? Having wasting yet another 15 minutes of my life trying to decipher Mr. Bush's ramblings, and trying to "unslant" HIS distortions, I find it difficult to see what was to be gained by witnessing the whole interview.

Somehow, I doubt that those who are complaining about this have done very much editing--although it seems clear that they might do well to consider editing their own output a bit, lest they come off as ignorant and out of it as Mr. Bush wishes they were: After all, he his RELYING on their apparent lack of perspicuity, no? Judging by the some of responses here, he doesn't look to be too far off!

"Never underestimate the power of human stupidity."
-- Robert Heinlein

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

William H. Thompson, Walnut Creek, CA — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:38:27 GMT

Watching Richard Engle recently as he reported on the middle east and Iraq, it crossed my mind that this reporter has his own agenda other than factual reporting. His recent report on Hamas atrocities in Beirut and his emphasis on what that terrorist organization wants (rather than what the people of Lebanon want) was an excellent example of this. The editing of the President's comments has confirmed my suspicions. There could be no other reason for the manipulation.

NBC and MSNBC have blown their credibility and now stand proven to be just another source of political bias. I do hope the advertisers supporting these organizations take notice of the risk they take with their own image of credibility as the American public recognizes NBC and MSNBC can't be trusted.

Dan Rather let personal matters interfere with his mission of reporting the news, and now Richard Engle has done the same. He is worthy of the same fate.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Nick Mann, Miami, FL — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:44:31 GMT

The use of editing to spin the content of an interview by the President of the United States is a very scary abuse of the 1st Amendment. When it occurs on comedy central...its funny. But when a network that considers itself professional, trusted, and a legitimate news source spins content through editing to insert political bias..it is deceitful propaganda that borders on treason.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

R Furlong, Cleveland, OH — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:46:57 GMT

Long live Fox News!!!!!!!!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mongo Lloyd, Devonia, o-HI-o — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:50:20 GMT

In this "wardrobe malfunction"-type hysterical society we currently exist in, the stupidity of it all is BLINDING. I shake my head reading most of these petulant, retarded posts that seek to create and perpetuate yet another idiotic mass hysteria over nothing. NOTHING! Meanwhile, the REAL issues of the day go unnoticed, and largely ignored.

What issues?
- Americans dying and being maimed daily in an unnecessary and trumped up war, created from whole cloth by this President for the purposes of profit and greed;
- The American economy is failing rapidly and placing us all at great peril, largely as a direct result of this President's actions and inactions, not to mention his complete ignorance of all things that require more than a slogan;
- Accountability in the US government no longer exists, which has led to Libby, the lies that continue to be told to the parents of Pat Tillman (who deserve the TRUTH), and thousands of other individual failures just like these examples mentioned;
- The environment is failing, and we still have no viable alternative to the Bush family's vested interest: oil;
- Americans have inadequate healthcare, if any;
- This President's actions and inactions have directly led to an increase of hate towards America, being expressed worldwide. This fact limits our country's ability to execute its foreign policy, placing America at greater risk than ever;

This list could go on and on, easily. Yet, it would be a waste of time to state the obvious. The petulant, hysterical crowd are too blinded by the panic-du-jour of their own creation, to see beyond it. With their hand on the TV dial, they will get their revenge on the dastardly evildoers <roll eyes here>.

We are doomed.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Disgusted in Maryland — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:55:21 GMT

It's a sad day in America when the government takes a political stand against the free press. I wonder what the next step will be...close down the network and force everyone to watch Faux News? Americans are dying in Iraq and Afghanistan "fighting for our freedom" while the Bush administration is fighting to take away those freedoms. What a country.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jenn Chasteen — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:56:23 GMT

I cannot even begin to imagine how to respond to this. I'm terribly disappointed in NBC. The 'news', irregardless of what network is the source, should be to report on the truth, as whole and complete as possible, without any manipulation. Obviously, NBC does not agree. I'll make sure to look elsewhere for current, and accurate information.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bonnie — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:58:06 GMT

I WANT MY NEWS EDITED! Why would any sane person want to wade through that whole morass of speciousness... founded as it was on Bush's "Alternate Reality"?

If I have a problem here, it is that NBC gives Bush ANY FORUM AT ALL to promulgate his propaganda.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Scott , San Francisco, CA — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:02:59 GMT

Great job, NBC!!!!! The current President of this country only likes to answer questions that support his beliefs. He still believes he did a GREAT job by attacking Iraq. I wish we had questioned his actions before going to war. When journalists only ask safe questions and don't ask for accountability - that's what we call living in a fascist, police state.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

John from New Jersey — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:04:15 GMT

It is quite obvious to me that NBC and MSNBC are no longer news networks. The minute a news network can edit a statement so that it fits into it's own politcal agenda, it stops reporting the news and it becomes the news. I believe that the people running NBC/MSNBC know exactly what they are doing and do not care about their editorial misconduct. It is shamefull that a professional news organization which claims to report the " News " would do so in such a clear and biased approach. You are fooling no one with your behavior, I have stopped watching NBC and MSNBC for quite some time and judging by your ratings it would seem so have many others.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

William H. Thompson, Walnut Creek, CA — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:04:50 GMT

Correction: Hezbollah vs Hamas

Watching Richard Engle recently as he reported on the middle east and Iraq, it crossed my mind that this reporter has his own agenda other than factual reporting. His recent report on Hezbollah atrocities in Beirut and his emphasis on what that terrorist organization wants (rather than what the people of Lebanon want) was an excellent example of this. The editing of the President's comments has confirmed my suspicions. There could be no other reason for the manipulation.

NBC and MSNBC have blown their credibility and now stand proven to be just another source of political bias. I do hope the advertisers supporting these organizations take notice of the risk they take with their own image of credibility as the American public recognizes NBC and MSNBC can't be trusted.

Dan Rather let personal matters interfere with his mission of reporting the news, and now Richard Engle has done the same. He is worthy of the same fate.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Airmanc5, Louisville Ky — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:05:00 GMT

BOYCOTT NBC and MSNBC ,and the Olympics, These idiots at this left wing, anti-America, network do not deserve viewership

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

EAQ, Ral NC — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:05:10 GMT

I am confused as to the uproar over this edit. The edited version shows a short rambling non-answer to the question while the unedited version shows a long rambling non-answer to the question.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Damon Lawson, Shoreview, Minnesota — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:05:34 GMT

NBC you should take a careful look at yourself. I watch a lot of network news and a lot of cable news. It is very clear that network news in the PAST had tried to stay objective and report news not make news, however I don't see it that way today. The bias in your intro's alone let the audience know where you stand on issues and what to expect. I wish you, as well as other networks would clean it up and lead by example. I think this may be very hard for NBC to do, because you have polluted your brand with MSNBC which I find hard to watch. I used to respect Chris Matthews, but now he has aligned himself with Oberman who is a news JOKE. I wish you well and do hope you clean up your business.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

WilliamTell, Buffalo, new york — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:05:46 GMT

I posted a comment, yet again censored it. you are truely not the news worthy service you once was.

The truth of the matter is MSNBC is no longer a honest, non-bias, creditable News service.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Tom, Madison, Wisconsin — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:08:32 GMT

I use to take pride in watching NBC News with David Brinkley. The NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams and MSNBC with Keith O. leave something to be desired as far as journalistic integrity.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Terri Chagrin falls, OH — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:10:05 GMT

Editing the news to create your version of the truth is what the USSR did. Does NBC want to act that way; like the goverment state media of the communist party? Why don't you guys report the news and let the American people figure it out? Pretty sleezy. I don't trust most media to get any story right. Media creates their version of the truth, but not the real truth. Your Grade---D- Go back to journalism school, Engle.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Alan Krasnoff, Overland Park, KS — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:11:25 GMT

What I saw on the network broadcast and what I have just seen on the web are two different slants. Shame on NCB for airing a strongly biased and inaccurate version of this interview. And shame on Richard Engel for asking questions of opinion, not fact... and for interrupting the President of the United States on mumerous occassions. A poor excuse for a correspondent and a poor excuse for a broadcast network. You are the Newsweek of television.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Rich Deemer, Upper Marlboro, Maryland — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:16:13 GMT

I saw the interview and it was obviously edited to hurt the Bush administration. I was so irritated by this story I've actually taken the time to post my thoughts here. I have lost all faith in NBC News and I simply vote my feelings by not watching or reading anything to do with NBC. I find it to be frankly shameful the direction the network has decided to go.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

James Blake, Willis, Texas — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:17:40 GMT

The most interesting part in this lack of NBC's judgement is the denial of the hatchet job. Brian Williams had better 'run' away before he starts 'running' errands for Keith Olbermann who seemingly is now running both NBC and MSNBC.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Tom Jones, Washington D.C. — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:19:15 GMT

NBC, you have my full support. /standingovation...I agree with what someone else said and that is the real irony here is that the White House has done nothing but distort the truth, lie to the American people, start wars on false pretenses, directly or indirectly kill, murder, maime, or leave whole nations in rubble, and cover it up ever since the Bush administration has been in power.
To hell with the Bush administration, and to hell with you conservative, bell-clanging patsy's that all feel that poor wittle Bushy needs a pat on the back because the majority of us Americans hate him, and are sick of the BS that comes out of his mouth, and out of the mouths of his useless and inneffective administration.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Lloyd Bales, Knoxville TN — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:21:15 GMT

It has always been obvious to most reasonable viewers that NBC is in the tank for Obama. And before Obama it was Kerry and before him Gore and so on. This is just one of the more obvious examples. It is NOT your job to MAKE the news or to CHANGE the news. It is your job to REPORT the news. I will make sure that all of the TVs at my home have NBC and any associated channels blocked. Maybe that V-chip will come in handy after all.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

just a thinker — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:27:36 GMT

Will NBC edit interviews with Barack Hussien Obama? What if he mis-speaks (as he appears to do quite often) but they can 'fix' his mis-speak with some editing?
just wondering.. hope he's never president so we never find out!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Rob, Tampa FL — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:28:21 GMT

W was pointing out in the two missing sentences how NBC distorts what he is saying only to have what he said distorted. Ironic how this disappears under the guise of "editing".

Also, NBC is implying that the GDP numbers are false. Maybe because they have be banging the Recission drum for soo long.

Capus,
Are you getting the comments you expected? Thought not!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Greg Nichols, Atlanta, GA — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:28:28 GMT

Finally, NBC has stubbed their perverbial toe by pushing their brand of "advocacy news" a tad too far into the limelight, thereby revealing the sham of a news a outlet they have become. Why do I have to stream a video online to get real new footage?

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

J. W. Leftwich, Richmond, VA — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:28:52 GMT

Just who does Richard Engel think that he is? Why NBC would permit such a disrespectful, impertinent person to represent them is beyond belief. I thought that CBS had cornered the nightly news market for such bottom feeders. I was mistaken...shame on you!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Geoffrey - Dallas, TX — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:28:56 GMT

"I feel that the report shows that this administration is only interested in their positio on this and many other issues facing this contry and is not moved by many of the facts that we as citizens have to deal with on a day to day basis."

Response: NBC conducted the interview and decided on the topic, not the President. These are the same bias people who will no doubt be emceeing the debates later this year asking silly questions that only matter to pushing their agenda (and 2 second edited sound bites), and not getting to the issues that really matter to the American people.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mitch Lollis Melbourne Florida — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:29:38 GMT

What's the reasoning behind the editing? Typical network garbage, they tell us what THEY want us to hear. No wonder I never watch network TV. Losers!!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Henry Morris Highland Beach, Fl — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:29:43 GMT

You can do it right NBC! Just think about how you were taught in school (Not left wing college)! Respect the office of the president of the United States (ALL 57 or 58 as Obama believes) and report what is said!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Rob, Tampa FL — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:29:48 GMT

Bush answered the question. Read between the lines. He saying "if the shoe fits".

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Gayle Abbitt Seattle, Washington — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:30:02 GMT

The pot calling the kettle black. This White House, the master of manipulation calls upon a media outlet for doing what any news organization does. There are 22 minutes of programming in a nightly news half-hour program. All of you above who say that no President should ever be edited needs to realize that fact. And since the entire interview was made available for anyone - especially those here making a comment - to review and draw their own conclusion, any claims of media bias or editing are just nonsense. The vitriol at NBC expressed herein is an example of the collective mindset of this country that has become "don't blame the instigator, blame the messenger".
And oh yes, by the way, I am completely unpatriotic and quite proud of it for calling our President to task and not hiding behind some bluster of blame the media.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Dave, Seattle — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:33:54 GMT

Nice edit!
Next time ask him a question, then cut in the completely wrong answer...it'll be great!
Then bury a link to the actual answer 17 layers deep on your website a few days later (No one will ever notice!).
Keep up the great work! :)

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Marc Schulz, Delitzsch, Germany — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:36:34 GMT

The problem here at NBC News is that when they are offering a blog to write in like the "Daily Nightly" they are accustomed to "Yeah"-Sayers like the following contributors: Lisa McNeil, Jackie Rawlings, LNP, Matt, Laurel, Anna and the surrounding frivolous clique of patronizers. So NBC News is accustomed to be cheered and not criticised. When I wrote several medium complaints about the broadcast, they were not published because of that criticism. So NBC News has unlearnt to be unbiased and to be criticized.

NBC News should consider the affiliation those yeah-sayers like the above mentioned.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Ramesh V Dave, Round Rock, Texas — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:37:35 GMT

This is not true reporting. First of all it should be complete. You can add your interpretation later. But to do tricky editing is dishonest. Do not try to make things sensational when they are not. I believe that president Bush should prevent you from broadcasting his press conferences.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Eric V, Milwaukee, WI — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:37:53 GMT

Mr. Capus,

You should be ashamed of your news program. The only thing that was "grossly misrepresnted" was the intent of President Bush's comments due to your stations editing.

Furthermore, you are destroying the legacy of NBC Nightly News which Tom Brokaw worked so diligently to create.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Watching NBC in Texas — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:38:35 GMT

Thank you, Richard Engel for doing your job. Asking the hard questions. Keep your nerve, NBC. Don't let the White House intimidate you into submission.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Brad, Troy, MI — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:39:47 GMT

I doubt this will make a posting, but......

I just wonder if all of you Righties are as volcal about all the crimes comitted by Bush?????

I didn't think so.....

Nice to know that you put your party before your country. Now go back to watching Faux Snooze and your daily dose of what you are to be told by Bush and company news.

The day you stand up for something important, like the Constitution is the day you can consider yourself a REAL American.......

What NBC has done is NOTHING compared to what FOX news has done!!!! Faux is the biggest biased news organization there is, and yet you praise them and slam NBC....... Ever hear of the word "hypocrite"?

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Brian, Lake Forest, CA — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:40:41 GMT

I am a professional journalist and I am embarrased by this reporter's immaturity and lack of doing his homework as well as this ridiculous editing. While I don't think NBC purposely tried to spin this story, they in effect did just that. NBC, you need to do a much better job of being fair and accurate in editing, especially with issues of this caliber. You can be responsible for triggering terrorist acts and the loss of lives by not being diligent in producing fair, accurate reports.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

SHerri, Charleston WV — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:41:33 GMT

All this vitriol over this report......am I missing something? I've read blogs shouting 'slant', 'bias': Are you folks completely snowed in? Our disgrace of an adminstration has been slanting and unabashedly cooking every sentence, every report, every "fact" ut of the Oval Office since September 12, 2001. That "boy" Engel, as you put it?? He has lived there for years and has been embedded in Iraq, speaking fluent Arabic, to all those involved over there, good and bad. Bush isn't fit to hear the things Richard Engle has FORGOTTEN since he's been over there. If you are worried about bias and are nitpicking over two sentences worth of edit, you're about 7 years and trilions of dollars short.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Joshua Owen Indianapolis, IN — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:43:57 GMT

"deceitful editing to further a media-manufactured storyline" This makes me giggle and present a question, why are we in Iraq? Oh yeah, deceitful information gathering to futher a militaristic hardon for someone that the President did not enjoy.

Oh, and the fact that we have to log on to get the full interview as stated by Mr. Gillespie. So you're saying that we don't have to do a full investigation to find out the facts in the administration(s) that has served the last 7-8 years. You're saying that you're going to stop the roadblocks of information the Senate and House are trying to obtain. You're saying that you will submit all requests in a manner that is honest and forthcoming? Really now, at least NBC put an unedited version on it's site for everyone to experience and judge for themselves.

*Still giggling*

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Former NBC news watcher, flyover country. — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:46:55 GMT

I've watched Brinkley, Huntley, Chancellor, Brokaw and now Mr Williams. I would like to believe that some if not all of those gentlemen would agree that this was not proper journalism. Guess I'll have to switch. I think you folks made a significant error here, and are too proud to admit it. Get over yourselves.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jane M, Charlottesville, VA — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:48:01 GMT

The interview was 15 minutes long people! Suddenly so many people hating NBC for not airing the whole thing and/or for their bias? Give me a break!! I just looked at CNN website comments on this story. They are about 50 to one HIGHLY IN FAVOR OF NBC!! Hmm. I smell a Limbaugh or Hannity type rat here.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mark, Denville, NJ — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:48:10 GMT

I love it. All the pro NBC comments (half of which haven't figured out there is a caps-lock key on the keyboard) are all "Bush Sucks, Bush lied...yada" or Why isn't Fox being rediculed....

It's irrelevant drivel. The issue is NBC's editing and none of you on the left claim they didn't unfairly edit his comments which means in "How to Speak to a Liberal, If you must" you agree so you have to change the subject

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Donny George — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:50:18 GMT

THIS IS WHY I ONLY GET MY NEWS FROM THE TALK RADIO OR FOX NEWS CHANEL THEY ARE THE ONLY FAIR AND BALANCED ONES AND NEVER EDIT OR CENSOR ANYTHING ANYONE WHO WATCHES NBC IS A LOSER

THIS PROVES MORE THAT LIBERALS ARE ALL IDIOTS THINKING THEY CAN GET AWAY WITH THIS

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Steve Greenberg, Fiskdale, MA — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:51:53 GMT

Could someone explain to me exactly what NBC did?

I haven't got the time to compare an edited transcript with a complete transcript. Upon listening to the two versions of the interview, I can't see what the problem is.

Please tell me specific words and phrases in the complete interview that were edited out and that change the meaning of what President Bush said.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Sheila, Houston, TX — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:52:43 GMT

So when Brian Williams interviewed Obama the other day, why didn't they edit out all the meaningless talk of bowling, his tie color, etc.? Oh that's right, nothing would be left of the interview. But we are only left to wonder the other important info, like his favorite color, his astrological sign, etc.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Nick S. Denver, CO — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:53:51 GMT

In light of the lies, lies and more lies that Dub has foisted on the American People over the past 7 years (remember, the first 7 months of Dub's administration, Dub was on vacation), I don't think Dick Engle was too HARD on President Bush.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Alan Rove — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:54:26 GMT

The difference between NBC and Fox news is that NBC will admit when they edit or otherwise filter the news before it gets to us. They will admit mistakes, and go as far as letting us post our opinions online for others to read.

When Fox makes a mistake, they print absolutely no retractions, they don't cover the story of their own wrongs on their website. Have you ever tried posting a comment that doesn't say "u dumb liberal pinheds stink"? They'll censor it. Don't believe me? Try posting "I agree with Obama on this issue" and it will never show up.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

RF Brown NY NY — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:59:08 GMT

Whether NBC intended bias or not, that you deliberately and substantively changed the message presented by Mr Bush by your choice of what you presented seems clear.
Mr Capus proves with his own words the truth of what Mr Gillespie asserts. He said: "We take the collective body of information surrounding a story, distill it and produce a report."
Mr Capus probably knows that 'distillation' is a process deliberately intended to divide a complex mixture into its distinct parts for the purpose of using the individual parts for individual purposes. By doing so and using only the parts that support the purpose chosen for the 'report' by NBC personalities, NBC deliberately attempted to mislead the public.
This perpetration is an attempted fraud on the viewing public and no amount of hiding behind the First Amendment will change that.
If NBC wants to present an issue in a certain light it has every right to do so - on the Editorial Page - and not in what is purported to be an objective presentation of the facts. Your interpretation, or worse, your personal agenda, have no place in a presentation of the facts; "the news" - including in your so-called [selective] 'editing.' If you want to continue to use 'editorial license' like an editor of novels, change careers. If you want to be respected as a reporter of the facts from above the fray, then keep your personal agendas out of your reports.
Finally, when you are caught with your hand in the cookie jar at least be man or woman enough to acknowledge the possibility and take another look. Most of us have unrecognized biases and need the help of others to hold up a mirror so we can see ourselves. Your defensive response only adds credibility to the charge of bias.
"God gave me eyes so I could see you and gave you eyes so I could see me."

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Heath VanFleet, Vero Beach, FL — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:00:21 GMT

Well I guess FIXED..I'm sorry FOX news will always be there to give us the truth. Do they even allow comment boards on thier website? I won't know b/c I have better things to do than post messages complaining about a network I don't watch. Its America people, just change the channel and continue your path toward the Third Reich because without dissent that will be the outcome.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

C. Manetto Reston, VA — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:00:56 GMT

Regardless of political feelings, this was a blatant attempt to change the entire context of a response. It would have been wrong if it had been done to anyone. Shame on you NBC. I'm so glad that you and other media are finally getting called out.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

hobbs Richmond VA — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:08:45 GMT

Glad to see NBC called out for a change by the white House. The bias is so bad that something had to be said. I channel surf through all of the news outlets and the bias tone is so obviouse. Steve Capus, get some perspective please... There are alot of bitter liberals posting here...soooo bitter.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Joseph, southeast Kansas — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:09:09 GMT

It is plain to see that the whole of those that are outraged have 1.) no experience in journalism, and 2.) believe that "fair and balanced" news must be balanced between neo-conservatism and right-wing quack.
No one's comments must be played in their entirety ever. If you keep the context and meaning of the phrasing, a snippet can convey the same point as a 2 minute diatribe.
Changing the meaning of what was said is one thing, but condensing it to something to fit spacing and timing is a practice even the kooks a FOX news practice in the no-spin unless it is spiraling towards facism zone.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bill Morrison — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:11:43 GMT

You have got to be kidding me... Look at all these negative comments. NBC owes President Bush and the American people an apology. How can the powers that be be so ignorant. Can't they see that viewing habits are ingrained and if your new organization is corrupt it will affect you regular primetime schedule. Who pays in the end? GE's stockholders.
Glad I don't own any GE stock!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bradley Martin, Centreville, Virginia — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:14:22 GMT

Degradation - A decline to a lower condition, quality, or level.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Kyle from Denver, Colorado — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:15:49 GMT

The Fox News blog-a-ttack system is hard at work sending emails to their loyal wacko minions to come to this site and target their venoms on NBC and MSNBC despite the fact the minions probably never watched the original report. If you read a lot of the negative comments they all have the same recommended format..... "I am disgusted about" [insert topic here] "and will not watch" [insert name of show here] "on the" [NBC or MSNBC] "network again!" I think Fox News is very, very nervous about the NBC networks increasing ratings.... in comparison to their own plumeting ratings (who wants to watch that idiot 'Bill Orally'.
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK NBC. YOU TELL THE TRUTH IN A WORLD WHERE TRUTH IS HARD TO COME BY.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

One_American — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:15:59 GMT

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Paul Delisi Ashburn, Va — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:16:14 GMT

Very few people will even know that NBC is distorting the news once again. Nobody watches. They are predictably deceitful and they are not very good at it. What a ridiculous bunch of clowns.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Kelly, Chicago, IL — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:17:57 GMT

As any media viewer, I know what station skews to which side, but I find it disgraceful and disrespectful to edit an interview with the Commander and Chief. Living in a Democratic Republic, the media should give anyone the opportunity to state their piece without it being manipulated and diverted.

I am disappointed that the media for years has stopped reporting the news, and just like any BIG BUSINESS are looking for the story that sells. Shame on you.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Paul Fiskness, San Diego, C. — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:18:14 GMT

The edit referred to in the headlines was not the only significant edit in my opinion. A number of other edits appear to have changed the tone and message the President was trying to convey. Shame on you MSNBC, no wonder your ratings are sinking. I'll stick to Fox News for an unbaiased report.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Former Long-time NBC Viewer, Miramar, FL — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:18:20 GMT

I completely agree and with the comments made by the last person who posted a comment on this website...I couldn't have put it better myself..."Ted Hanson" from Seattle, WA wrote "Guess I can scratch another National Network off of my regular viewing. If you can be so deceptive in your reporting and still try to argue your case when caught being deceptive, then one must realize they are not watching true news, but instead personal opinion that is totally biased. Looks like you are following in the Footsteps of Dan Rather... Maybe you will have the same outcome." One more thing I want to point out...I was a very loyal NBC news watcher for years. For the past year, I've been giving other national news networks a chance by flipping from one channel to the next, to see what each one considers newsworthy headlines and how they report the stories...I was pleasantly surprised to see that CBS and ABC networks do a better job than NBC of evening/national news. However, FOX News has the best coverage overall. Shame on you NBC!! Not just for this story, but the many, many other poor programming choices...there are so many I simply can't list them all...your network overall needs some major revamping.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jason Tampa — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:20:33 GMT

The FUNNIEST thing of all are those who are denouncing NBC, and are vowing to no longer watch NBC, are taking time to read a story on the website MS-NBC. Hello! How backward are you to do this? Anyway, everyone shoud quit whining and focus on the things that matter, gas prices and alternative energy. That's my $.02.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

rockville,md — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:20:54 GMT

Mr.Bush gave a very good enterview... He in fact rejected the notion of Engel's question about Obama.

Very misleading NBC.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Diana Graham, Chattanooga, TN — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:23:36 GMT

Just another example of the lopsided and tainted reporting we see contantly from MSNBC everyday. I have never witnessed such blatant bias in the media as I do when I watch this news organization. "MSNBC, Americas Aljazeera Network Partner" could be their new slogan! MSNBC is no more than a propaganda medium for extreme left wingers!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

One_American — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:24:14 GMT

Is Steve Capus really so stupid as to defend the indefensible, and lie about it as well?

Alienating half of America is not a sound business decision, and Capus should be fired for it.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Lucy, MO — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:24:29 GMT

To all the NBC bashers out there - you obviously haven't watched the full interview, as I doubt Mr. Gillespie did. If you had seen the interview, you would see that NBC was more than charitable with their editing. Mr. Bush came off as even more of an oaf in the full interview. It is sad that we have a President who is so ill-informed and out of touch with reality, a reality he created. This is not the fault of NBC, Steve Capus or Richard Engel. It IS the fault of the Presidents' handlers/advisors who should have known that Mr. Engel is well versed on US involvement in the Middle East and would probably ask the President questions that far exceed Mr. Bush's comprehension of the current situation. Advisors of Mr. Gillespies' ilk serve their President poorly by keeping him in a bubble.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Richmond, Richmond VA — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:28:34 GMT

Let this be the moment when all of America can see NBC News for what it is: A propoganda arm of the Democratic Party. How can anyone take this network seriously?

It is not delivering news, it is pushing an agenda.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

tom stewart — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:32:03 GMT

Must be another protege of Michael Moore. Someone should be FIRED. No more NBC news for me.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Ronda, Dallas, TX — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:34:50 GMT

Hmmm ... once again, the ultra-liberal network continuing to push its agenda. Whether he was referring to Obama or not, what he DID say was truth .. negotiating with murders and thugs accomplishes nothing. Personally, I liked the beehive analogy much better ... play that one on your Nightly News, and look at your reporter's face when Bush shows HIM to be the fool.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

James Edington, Reno NV — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:35:30 GMT

Mr. Gillespie makes a good point; What is the NBC Nightly News' view on whether or not Iraq is in a civil war? What is the appropriate forum at which Mr. Capus intends to address this question?

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bas Bleu — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:42:54 GMT

Wow, the neocons are certainly out in force! One thing I have to agree with them on: maybe the president and his staff should be quoted in full all the time -- less chance of missing the outright nonsense they spew on a regular basis.

NBC, thank you for employing Mr. Engels, who has risked life and limb to bring us a sense of what is really going on in the Middle East.

Thank you also for employing Mr. Olbermann, for the sheer relief it brings to have the current administration called out on its unending line of bs.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

AC, Sacramento, CA — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:43:30 GMT

This is why I don't watch Fox News. They get away with murder. Literally! And you wonder why people who watch them get very stupid. This is very typical of the Bush Administration. They get a hard question here, but they tell us and the news media don't criticize us. And you wonder why Bush's ratings are in the tank!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

C.B., Fort Lauderdale, FL — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:44:12 GMT

There is no question whatsoever about the edit. It was obviously done to alter the true meaning of the President's response in order to reflect the editorial views of MSNBC. That is the definition of deceitful.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

SK, Santa Monica, CA — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:45:12 GMT

Keep it up NBC. Your the only one left that still reports the news and not the GOP's talking points. McBush has gotten to the other networks, don't let it happen to you.

Keep fighting the good fight!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

SK, Santa Monica, CA — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:46:15 GMT

"This is exactly why I do not watch NBC, CBS nor ABC."

Let me guess. Fox is where you get your fair and balanced news?? LMAO!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jon Doe, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:47:15 GMT

No wonder I've stopped watching the alphabet news channels and the "BS" reporting.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Max Lawson Pahala Hawaii — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:47:18 GMT

Well, the liberal highly opinionated democratic obama bunch is taking a new venue. The democrats couldn't do it with the ballots in Florida or the Supreme Court decision and if the reporting wasn't slanted enough as it is, we now edit. Hum? It's no longer even covert as to the game plan. And we blame it on Conservatives? Oh, contrare! You blew it boys! How much the DNC, Obama and Wright payin' ya` all?

Dirty Dirty tricks when we don't get our way.

Max Lawson
Pahala Hawaii

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Joseph Seely, Provo, Utah — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:48:31 GMT

Way to go NBC!!! You guys are now in competition with CBS to win the truth in broadcasting award as presented by Michael Moore. WHAT A SICK JOKE!! Do you guys really think you can get away with all this nonsense? You must have no shame (and no brain)!!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

L Hicks — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:48:56 GMT

I have a suggestion NBC, you should hire O. J. Simpson as an anchor. He, like your other anchors, had/have 12 people (like your total viewing audience) believes he was innocent of what he was accused of, because an extremely small number of people believed him. He has the gall to believe that he committed no crime because 12 ignorant people didn't believe what 120 million knew for fact. The majority of these blogs indicate people don't believe you and your excuses and the few people that do support your side, do so with disrespectful name calling and hate filled, and might I mention, erroneous diatribe. I guess that is the class of people you have reduced your viewing audience down to. Good luck with your short future in broadcast journalism.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Michael Bucciferro Amsterdam, NY — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:51:15 GMT

Thank you for responding to the letter, I believe it was the right thing to do.

As for the interview, when you edited the interview it actually made the president look better, than with the full mumbling on-and-on in the compleate interview.

It seems you have realized your mistakes and have now fixed it, Great Job NBC... I will keep watching!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Don, USA — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:51:24 GMT

This is a shame. At least Brokaw tried to be fair. NBC has crossed the line on this one. We all know that Richard Engel is a pacifist and NBC has become an advocacy group. Good luck to Mr. Capus and Mr. Zucker, I don't think it is going to work out for any of you. It is sad to see such an organization crash and burn.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

John . Panama City, Florida — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:54:45 GMT

Good Job NBC, you have learned how to edit the truth out of a story. I wish I could remember what Orwell called it in 1984, true-speak? Moreover, you have learned how to turn off viewers. What's next putting Bill Moyers in charge of your news reviews.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jeff Morell, Murrieta, Ca. — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:59:27 GMT

You mean NBC(liars) is actually asserting that they are true journalists? I thought everyone understood that NBC(liars) was a bunch of liars and political panderers... I certainly have NO EXPECTAION for NBC(liars) to report any 'news' without twisting it according to their own political agenda.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Graham - Denver, CO — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:01:49 GMT

Despite your feelings on Bush, the section that was edited from his comments answers one of the key points of the question. This removal make it appear Bush didn't answer the criticisms of whether he was referring to Obama, which isn't the case. I feel this is misleading and somewhat biased.
I'm further troubled that NBC thinks their viewers can 'research' the whole truth on their website. This seems like an admission that if you want the whole story, you better go looking and they can't be trusted to provide it in a TV format.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

James Walker, Washington DC — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:04:21 GMT

Whoever APPROVED the editing job should be dealt with severely. It paints a picture of what NBC wants viewers to see and NOT the real account. I "was" an avid NBC viewer, but I guess I'll move and get to know CNN.

Shame.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Dave W, Arlington, Texas — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:05:51 GMT

NBC now is no better than CBS. Make up or make the news instead of report it.
FOX News is still the only "Fair & Balanced" news reporting agency we have.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Dean J Las Vegas, NV — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:07:26 GMT

Oh puleeeze! The unedited version was no more clear than the edited version.

And since when does the White House get to have their say on the editorial policies of an independent press?

Next time get one of those sorry excuses for a reporter from Fox to do the exclusive .

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Judith Staley, Cleveland, OH — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:07:45 GMT

This is absolutely inexcusable. News editing should NEVER change the facts that are being said. Please fire your editing staff (and you interviewer) while I proceed to fire you.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jed Seneca, Spring Hill TN — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:07:49 GMT

I will not watch NBC News because of the repeated distortion of the truth!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Longtime NBC viewer, Minneapolis, MN — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:07:52 GMT

Come on people! I'm sure your 'outrage' at the challenging of the President would be the same if it was President Obama or Clinton, right? I think that Richard Engel has a lot of credibility when it comes to Iraq, having lived and worked there since the war began. Bush, Rice and Cheney fly in under cover of darkness and stay for a few hours. George W. Bush made the most serious decision any world leader can make --HE STARTED A WAR. THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE HAVE DIED. ENTIRE GENERATIONS HAVE BEEN WIPED OUT. He deserves very tough questions over and over again. The fact that he delivers the same doublespeak each time doesn't change that.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Richard Ryan — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:10:00 GMT

Shame on you NBC. You owe it to the American people a correction on the air not just on the web. I for one will boycott your network for the next 30 day's. I hope others will follow and I for one am a Democrat, but enough is enough! This is blatant misrepresentation by your news team. FIRE THE EDITOR for starters!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Stan Bigda — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:10:25 GMT

Nice job NBC News! You continue to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that you are the left wing liberal news outlet. You are in the tank for Obama as Hilary is finding out and you hate conservatives. It's sad that you feel a need to misrepresent the President's remarks for political purposes. Your network is run by a bunch of liberal assholes and I love that you continue to drop in the ratings. Funny how the real truth comes around to stick it to you. You and the other two networks run by the elite liberals still can't figure out that there are other news outlets that give the country the real story. I will now not listen to not only your news programs (stopped a while ago), but now I will boycott your other shows. I hope your network fails!!!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Frank Gammon — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:13:35 GMT

I invite NBC News, and Mr Williams, into my home each evening -- Why? Compared to the other two major networks I feel I get the least bias news. This is why it troubles me to see the President's, who is the leader of this nation and the tip of the spear for foreign policy , comments edited in a bias manner to support what appears to be the "reporters" opinion. NBC news needs to find a new reporter because I will change the channel everytime I see that "reporter" on the screen.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

BOB CROSBY, OAK LAWN, ILLINOIS — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:18:47 GMT

WHEN TIM RUSSERT CALLS SENATOR JIM WEBB'S(D-VIRGINIA) BOOK "THE BIBLE" ON MEET THE PRESS IT RAISES AN EYEBROW.
WHEN IT HATCHETS AN INTERVIEW WITH OUR PRESIDENT ON THE SAME DAY, IT SEEMS TO BE MORE THAN A COINCIDENCE.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Dave Ellis — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:21:02 GMT

What a bunch of hacks you people are!!
Hundley & Brinkley are rolling over in their graves.
Guess it's time to give ABC a try.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jene Thomas, Ret. USAF, Abilene, Texas — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:21:21 GMT

I have spent 20 years of my life in the military defending this country and it's freedom. For an American news media to distort one of our greatest freedoms is VERY DISAPPOINTING!!! Is this what I served for? Shame on your network. I will never watch NBC again!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

RTK, Los Angeles CA — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:24:37 GMT

Your treatment of the President's work, Your Richard Engel's OBVIOUS BIAS, Your response to Ed Gillespie just proves NBC has come to stand for Nothing But Crap! MSNBC, More Sinister-Nothing But Crap.

I haven't watched an NBC News program in 10 years, no wonder you're losing money. Keith Olberman should return to Sports where at least he didn't offend me.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Matt Chicago, IL — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:27:47 GMT

I go back to Huntley Brinkley and before them John Cameron Swayze, yes I'm old, but they would never have sunk to this level. They never edited to fill their own agendas. They reported the news.

I frankly dislike President Bush but you have no first amendment right to distort and call it reporting.

People used to be able to rely on network news. That is certainly no longer the case on NBC. There is nothing wrong with having shows such as Countdown and Hardball to allow view points. They are not reporting. NBC has blurred the line and has lost a 50+ year viewer. I can't trust you anymore

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Claudia Tobin — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:33:17 GMT

I was impressed with Richard Engle for asking questions of Bush that other reporters don't have the knowledge and guts to do. It is obvious Mr. Engle is 100 X more intellegent then the president. Mr. Bush is a sarcastic bully idiot. Thanks NBC for doing a great job. Keep it up.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

K.B Tillamook, Or. — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:35:51 GMT

For all of you that responded to this in support of what NBC did I am sure that they have a job waiting for you. For those of you that saw it for what it was, all you can say in the future is, what's NBC?

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Fair and balanced.....please — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:37:39 GMT

To those who think NBC is a disgrace, count me with you. To those who think the editing was justified because you think Bush is a lousy, lying president, you are oblivious to the rights of free speech and a news network's obligation to report news - i.e. what actually happened. It does not matter what the context was or what lieas have been told in the past. That is for the viewer to decide, not the reporting news channel. Your willingness to accept lesser standards is equally disgraceful. Shame on you for lowering the value of our freedoms.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

John F. Ross — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:39:00 GMT

I'm 64 years old and have been watching NBC news for 54 of those years. This is even after I've watched them lean more and more to the left while claiming they are "professional journalists". Editing the Presidents interview to suit NBC's own agenda is the last straw. You are now in a class with Dan Rather!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

sylvia badger, centreville, maryland — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:39:56 GMT

NBC should be ashamed for giving journalism an even blacker eye....It was once a most honorable profession...now it has a worse reputation than lawyers...I can assure you that we can no longer watch NBC and I know you don't care...but one day you will...

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mike D — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:43:54 GMT

This story is not news - it is pure bias - Engel's (or his Producer's) edits are an insult to the history of NBC news. It is a sorry state that NBC cannot police itself.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

john sanchez — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:44:38 GMT

dear jay leno..please change stations as i will never watch nbc again. missing you allready john

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Dan McCarrel, Diamond Bar, California — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:48:47 GMT

It appears that Fox or another wing of the Republican noise machine has set up a canned email site to assist the weak-minded complainerds in an effort to turn this nonsense into a real issue. Any fair-minded viewer of the interview can see that Bush did not answer the question directly. If a person elects to be evasive, then the response will be interpreted. The editing NBC performed was a fair "interpretation" of the Bush evasion - particularly when he rambled on for so long, not answering the question. In fairness, I think Bush is a disgrace to the Presidency and this nation. Nervertheless, journalists need to be accurate and fair - there's too much of the opposite approach being passed off as journalism over at Fox - and need to admit their errors. For my part, NBC acted with complete propriety in the way it edited and aired this interview - there's nothing to apologize for!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Nequals1 — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:51:14 GMT

Well, well, well.

And after NBC carried the Bush/Cheney water so faithfully and for so long. NBC used the cherry picked Pentagon propaganda prostitutes, it never checked for conflicts of interest, and it paraded those retired generals as legitimate military analysts when all the time they were doing Rumsfeld, Cheney and Bush's bidding and sell, sell, selling the Iraq War.

NBC steadfastly refuses to address the illegal propaganda scandal of general-gate. So loyal to Bush. I'm sure the NBC brass all wears their lapel flag pins.

But NBC somehow has the gumption to air a decent interview by an investigative reporter who has been on the ground in Iraq and who isn't in the pocket of the Pentagon, and guess what? Bush is confronted with facts, and he is teed off, regardless of what he said about giving up golf.

So now NBC, the loyal water carrier, is being smacked upside the head by the pimp-in-chief, Bush. And for what? Kind editing which actually showed him in a more favorable light than the unedited full version.

That's just desserts for being loyal to a president who has abused that office and has practiced poisoned partisanship to the extent that it has fully tainted the journalism well.

NBC would do well to come over to the bright side and practice fact-based journalism all the time, because that's the only way to keep the public trust and to repair the social contract.

Richard Engel - kudos for speaking truth to power.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Dennis Barry, Orange County, CA — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:00:45 GMT

When the President speaks you should display the whole interview. This is why I don't watch your channel. Further, due to this networks bias and blatant disregard for the truth I recently sold approx. $800K in GE stock. If the President of the United States were willing me to give me 15 minutes I surely wouldn't misrepresent him, nor attempt to spin what he is saying and, lastly, treat him with a little more respect.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Dewey Quong, Reno, NV — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:01:55 GMT

Just because bush is the President of the U.S. doesn't automatically mean the media must be supportive of him and his policies.

Many people are turning off NBC News because Richard disrespected the office of the President. I disagree. Richard has spent more time in the Middle East reporting on stories from both sides of the border than most other reporters. He has a unique perspective that most of us never will.

Respect the office of the president? Yes. Respect the man whose actions created much of Richard's reports, maybe not.

Separate the two. ?

Fair interview? Only Richard and bush can answer it.

I know from reading news reports from other countries the U.S., as a government, is not respected nor is the bush administration to be trusted. Instead of blindly defending bush one should try to understand why this came to be.

I, for one, thought Dan Rather was in the right and railroaded out. From Edward R. Morrow to some news anchors acting as cheerleaders giving their opinions as news. How low can news reporting go?

Brian, NBC News, every other news person and news organization. Keep reporting the news and the truth. Don't take sides. Once you give in like one of your counterpart you become the butt of jokes.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Brendon, Washington DC — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:05:02 GMT

Just in case NBC News thought it was practicing good journalism and serving our country, let me clear that up for you. 1. You gave the Virginia Tech shooter exactly what he wanted by playing his sensational video. 2. You have run the most consistently negative coverage of the war in Iraq of any news outlet. 3. And now, you have edited an interview with the President to manipulate his answer. Wow, there must be a lot of pride for you in that ivory tower. Here is your reality check: next to the brave men and women who serve our country in the military, government, or college environments, you are nobodies. Your alleged mission of nobel journalism is a sham. But I am sure that your hair and makeup look great. Take pride in that.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

william Dupignac orlando FL — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:05:50 GMT

Brian,

shame on you. It was deceptive reporting, so much for balanced... No shame either your lack of integrity didn't seem to even bother you.Please consider me a Former viewer,not as a political issue, I cant trust you to report honestly, then to tell me if i want the truth to log onto the web... what a joke.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Sharon Robins Seattle, Wa — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:09:26 GMT

People in other countries are always commenting about how our news media controls what we know about what is happening here and abroad. After listening to the origional interview and then what was televised, I was very saddened to see how correct they are. You can do better than this.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Carol Faw, Washington State — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:10:29 GMT

You just angered another viewer!! I'm referring to the words; "Mr. Bush," "despite polite applause," "cold reception," etc. Do I need to go on? Disgusting. Someone needs to confront your disceptive motives when reporting. We can see through it.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

John Reece, New Bedford, MA — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:24:50 GMT

What a shame ... as a twenty year employee of GE, I have to feel embarassed in front of my mother because of this embarrassment of a news organization

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Anne Browning, Scottsdale, AZ — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:27:01 GMT

Thanks to Richard Engle for being the first journalist to ask hard questions of President Bush--too bad Bush or the White House can't take the heat and are whining; this is the first time anyone has called his hand. They can whine about edits--but the President's actions (poor judgment,incompetency, cronyism, an ill-thought-out and totally unjustified war) are more important indicators of his lack of integrity than his words alone.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Craig Andrews, Brighton Michigan — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:31:35 GMT

It is indeed curious how one person interprets the complete interview one way and someone else sees it 180 degrees opposite. Anyway you boil it, if a news agency cannot present an interview with the president in a fashion on air to enable the viewer to make a judgement, then they have become no better than that shady organization, "The Party", in Orwell's 1984. So much for a free press.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Alfred Donner, Reno, NV — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:32:36 GMT

I wonder if GE, the parent company of NBC ( and thus the proud parents of MSNBC ) are willing to continue to seek the almighty ratings bump at the expense of a backlash in other segments of their business. Let's go to the numbers. NBC Universal will generate ~$16B in revenue in '08. NBC News (Today Show, CNBC, Evening News, and MSNBC (including MSNBC.com) will generate $1.5B of revenue. The vast majority is derived from the Today Show and CNBC. MSNBC and MSNBC.com are maybe ( and I say maybe!) 20% of this revenue. It is not as profitable as Today or CNBC which are 15% OM (operating margin businesses) .. so let's say 10% OM for MSNBC & MSNBC.com. Do the math, 20% of 1..5B = 300M revnenue. MSNBC & .com are about equal ... so MSNBC television is a $150M annual revenue enterprise at 10% OM ... ie they clear $15M per annum ( and that may be a stretch!). So Bathtub Boy, with his 900K viewers is worth ( let's be generous here ) 20% of that profit pie ...or $3M per year.

Now ... GE just won a chunk of the Defense budget for the aerial refueling tanker contract ... $5B to supply engines for 176 tankers (2 engines per tanker, plus spares) or roughly 400 engines or ~ $12.5M per engine...at operating margins in excess of 40%. In addition they'll get a service annuity to service the engine worth another $8M at 50% OM ... ie each single engine is worth $9M in profit .... ONE engine!!!!

McCain wasn't a big backer of the aerial tanker and put the kabash on the original lease deal with Boeing...given Bathtub Boy's antics ( ie the most recent Depends comment) ...If I was McCain, I'd politely tell GE that "I'm watching they're entertainment on MSNBC or a regualr basis" and the fact that GE continues to do business with Iran as they are killing US Troops warrants a review of this contract. ;)

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Scott Steffan, Jacksonville, Florida — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:35:59 GMT

Dear NBC,
Sound bytes and sensationalism are good for movie leads and trailers, but factual news reporting is a distinguished profession. President Bush's full interview served to enlighten the American people on the context of a difficult subject, showing comparison and contrast. After editing, its value was greatly diminished serving neither the American people or your news agency.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

ge`pa`` — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:36:20 GMT

Will all you nasty republicans please stop filling this Nightly News Space with this senseless complaining. Everyone knows Bush has no room to talk, he is just as bad, maybe worse. Bush is the worse president we ever had. He is a liar and a bully, and a puppet for the Right Wing Agenda.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Christy Larkin, Seattle, WA — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:44:08 GMT

There is 30 minutes to cover the planet! Of course there is editing. The question is whether the edit changed the gist of what Mr. Bush said. IT DIDN'T. Do you people think FOX, ABC, CBS, and every journalistic organization on earth don't edit??? Presidential State of the Union Address's have been edited and recaped by reporters since John Adams. The question is whether the editing is misleading. I've listened to both versions twice--- NBC seemed to capture the "meat" of the President's responses pretty well.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Raul, Miami — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:49:47 GMT

I think that most of the above people had not seen the complete interview and they are purely fanatic payed by the administration or purely fanatics that do not see the reality of America. I congratulate you for your interview which clearly reflect the out of touch of this administration with USA. We just have to congratulate the supreme court to give us this idiot!!!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

john doe, seattle wash — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:55:48 GMT

Only a a dodo bird would watch the TV news for its information content. But let's be candid here. President Bush is barely comprehensible most of the time, so leaving out a sentence here and there is a God sent blessing from the networks.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Raul, Miami, Florida — Wed, 21 May 2008 00:00:32 GMT

NBC watch out for the republican media (small group) compare with America and all the tactics to make an issue that does not make any sense into a history to cover the real issues. We should complaint about the bias of FOX news where clearly reflect the republican party in comparison with the rest of the media that portrait the reality of the American people.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jerriel Rollins Alexandria, Louisiana — Wed, 21 May 2008 00:01:24 GMT

Editing those few words were in error for they mention that even the interviewer was in error.
Getting things right, especially the words of the President, would be wise. Quote him! For wrong editing gives place to speculation. Especially in a short interview. Money and time are not above truth.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

One_American — Wed, 21 May 2008 00:19:15 GMT

The vast majority of Americans in this country are completely FED UP with the liberal media and its attempt to manipulate the public.

If NBC does not come out immediately with answers as to why they are lying to the American public, then the FCC should shut them down for misuse of the airwaves.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mr. & Mrs. William M. Burt — Wed, 21 May 2008 00:29:34 GMT

Your interview with President Bush was the same type of interviews our Texan Dan Rather did with President Bush years ago......not good journalism. We have watched Brian Williams since he came onboard; however, today was the day we switched to ABC nightly news and will continue watching ABC. You have gotten very bias and as one other commented, you are the OBAMA NEWS STATION. By the way, tell Tim Russert that I don't agree with him: a refrigerator that's a Democrat could win this year. Russert looks like a refrigerator and he always has that sly look. I'll think of him this November when McCain takes it. Russert, read Obama's books; he is a racist and does not like white people. Bye, bye forever.......ABC here we come

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

David, Columbia, SC — Wed, 21 May 2008 00:47:56 GMT

This was very biased. If you are going to be a true NEWS station, show both sides of the story or get off the air (and apparently behind Obama's campaign!)

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mary Ann, Tacoma,WA — Wed, 21 May 2008 00:52:08 GMT

Thank God for courageous reporters like Richard Engel. If this press hadn't been such wimps during the 2000 election and the run-up to the Iraq war, we would not have been in the mess Bushco has us in now.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Helen Harris, New Philadelphia, Ohio — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:02:14 GMT

I willno longer watch your news progams because of how you edited the Presidents answers to question to
to further your left wing views on everthing he does. You reached my limit. We have GE stock and am lettting them know of my mounting displeasure. I kept hoping you would return to being a news service
I used to admire. But I give up no more.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Helen Harris, New Philadelphia, Ohio — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:04:34 GMT

It's already been posted

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Chris J. Fernandez Ponchatoula LA — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:04:51 GMT

Like Dan Rather,rather than the report the truth, NBC will make it up as they go.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

pam gibbs — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:10:20 GMT

Faux News and the Whitehouse complaining about perceived "spin/editing?" How hilarious!

If MSNBC/NBC let's these bullies dictate news, then 1984 will truly have arrived. We're barely getting out of the past seven years with our tattered Consitution in hand.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mike Kaiser — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:18:15 GMT

Bring back Tom Brokaw at least he seemed focused on the story and not slanting it.I too have stopped watching NBC news after many years do to my belief of a general dislike by NBC of the current administration.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Timothy Rex, Los Angeles — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:28:55 GMT

Shame on NBC! With the exception of Friday Night Lights, I must now boycott your network. I can no longer rely on NBC to give me the facts so that I, and I alone, can make a sound judgement on the issues that effect me and my family.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

ek, mpls mn — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:29:17 GMT

It is obvious by the quality -- or lack thereof -- that there are several stupid people in this country. Probably explains how the moron-in-chief got elected in the first place.

NBC/MSNBC, don't let these turkeys get you down. Bush and Co. have gotten a free ride for far too long.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Ollie, Bolingbrook, IL — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:31:10 GMT

Oh Please. This was nothing. Consider this middle aged (39) caucasian middle class male who will still watch NBC. I suppose most of the people who are "saying" they are going to stop watching NBC actually spend most of their time watching Fox anyway. If NBC did something as deceitful against Bush or McCain Fox did with the ridiculous madrassa hoax, people would have been fired. The editorial change was trivial.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Ron Fisher Corbin Ky — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:45:41 GMT

why do you not just report on the reaction and comments you have been getting from the public on this hack job,or is that to much editing you folks did it either back it up or say we are sorry.The position of NBC is clear.How many days will you report on America Held Hostage next time. The war is aginst radical Islam Not George Bush.Remember the Towers the planes you fellow Americans dead in the fires????

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mike Sandsmark, Seattle, WA — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:48:13 GMT

The amazing thing is that NBC doesn't even think that it has done anything wrong by editing out words that they don't want conveyed! The only good thing that happens from this situation is that NBC loses market share when it loses it's integrity. The sad point for NBC; they can't even admit the truth to themselves. I wonder if my comments will be edited, too?

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bruce , Maple Glen PA — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:49:59 GMT

Wow- I used to watch NBC fairly regularly, but obviously they have lost all sense of objectivity and have demonstrated that they are willing to edit and distort an interview in order to mold it to their desired agenda. Hiding the real interview on your website speaks volumes. Judging by the letters here,it would appear that your hamfisted editing has backfired and your bias has been thoroughly exposed. Its a funny thing, credibility, once its lost its very difficult to regain. Mr.Capus you're not fooling anyone. Dan Rather denied his biased and manufactured reporting and shamelessly defended himself too- your pathetic denial sounds familiar. As your ratings evaporate, perhaps you'll join Mr. Rather.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bob R, Dublin, OH — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:57:32 GMT

How do you guys expect people to consider you unbiased when you distort interviews and then claim that it is OK? Your reponse is direspectful of the president and the office of the presidency. Of course I shouldn't expect an organization that believes Keith Olbemann's opinions are newsworthy to understand the meaning of respect. Are you all just another form of "shock jocks" now? Shameful!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

bill daly fletcher nc — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:59:35 GMT

you have lost all credibilty.with people like matthews he gets a feeling up his leg tell him to get off the vigra and then theirs Herr obleman who sounds like joseph geobles.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

PS, Providence, RI — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:59:54 GMT

It's fine that MSNBC may have a liberal bias, someone has to take a side opposite to Fox News. If you want real news, look towards the BBC or Reuters who are interested in facts and not spin. Don't forget, the press were negligent in their reporting to the lead up to the Iraq war and are trying to make up for it now. Modern "News" is now more about opinion than facts, but something has to fill the gaps in the 24hr "news" cycle and give the likes of O'Reilly and Olberman work.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

EHJ Winter Park, FL — Wed, 21 May 2008 02:02:27 GMT

I have to wonder what right wing Republican website called out the spin machine dogs to attack NBC on this blog distract from what was actually said by Bush in the interview. Why can't they just OWN what he says instead of trying to make it seem that the network obfuscated his position. Could it be because his position as stated in his own words is so unrealistic? Don't worry. These folks don't watch NBC anyway. More likely Fox "News".

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Steve, Louisvile Ky — Wed, 21 May 2008 02:10:52 GMT

Boycott the olympics!!! make NBC pay for the left wing, anti america propoganda. As an ex military, in touch with many squadrons, we are beginning a mass email campaign to BOYCOTT NBC and the olympics. NBC is a disgrace!!!!! Selective editing is censorship!!!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bob R, Dublin, OH — Wed, 21 May 2008 02:27:31 GMT

The comments on this blog seemed to stop when someone finally supported your position at 9:29PM. More editing by an "unbiased news organization!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

easton knoxville, tn — Wed, 21 May 2008 02:30:33 GMT

what can you say when keith olbermann (rush limbaugh of the left] is allowed to report the results of national elections??? fair and balanced hu???

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

charles schwertner — Wed, 21 May 2008 02:37:22 GMT

NBC? or the new CBS??

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

John Oback, Elk Grove, California — Wed, 21 May 2008 02:42:13 GMT

I had to visit your site to see NBC’s response to this controversy for myself. This is much bigger than the current issue with the President. It seems that everyone at the network has blinders on. NBC is basically saying “We don’t see the problem.” Maybe if you had a few conservatives on staff, both reporters and editors, you’d have more credibility. What the heck is Oberman doing on your political news coverage without a proper counterbalance? For heavens sake, Oberman is a liberal nut who does not belong on NBC News! It’s perfectly clear to me that Oberman is a hate monger (yes, I have actually watched his show to judge for myself). The fact that he hates conservatives seems to make it OK to NBC Management. It’s way past time for someone in upper management to clean house and restore fair and balanced News programming (pardon the borrowed catchphrase).

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Rob Douglas — Wed, 21 May 2008 02:43:48 GMT

Bush, et al, should be tried for war crimes. Engle has earned the right to ask any question he sees fit of the President, in any fashion he sees fit. After all, Engle has covered this criminal war from the get go and spent more time in combat than the twit in chief ever will. Engle deserves a medal. Bush deserves hard time. All NBC news is DVR'D at my house.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Richard Habel, Burley, Idaho — Wed, 21 May 2008 02:55:27 GMT

I have to join the chorus of those who think that the past poor performances of Olbermann and more recently, Richard Engel's interview of Pres. Bush is not at all respectful of the office of the President. There seems to be an outright bias and definitely a "low road" that your network has purposely chosen...and it will not bring you fruits or respect as a news service. You have lost my vote of confidence!!
Thank goodness you have programs like Glenn Beck's, which give me some reason to patronize your network!!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

m thomas — Wed, 21 May 2008 03:04:47 GMT

I have watched Nightly News for years but I'm now changing over to Fox News and talk radio to get the real story. I can't believe that your so called little journalist, Mr. Engles would actually edit the President of the United States just to change the meaning of what he said. How irresponsible is that!!! You media people have gotten way out of line. Also, I am so sick and tired of this global warming or have you now changed it to climate change crap. . . .haven't you heard. . .there's NO such thing. You think that we Americans will just go along with everything you throw at us. Well, I'm here to tell you - we are smarter than all of you. Wake up and tell the truth. But, of course, you wouldn't know the truth if it was staring you in the face. You are so one sided when you report the news. Everyone can see that you salivate everytime you speak the name of Obama. Well, goodbye Nightly News I'm changing my news station and so are a lot of other well informed people in this great nation. We're through with YOU!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Pat Bowen, Des Moines IA — Wed, 21 May 2008 03:12:52 GMT

I read where most are upset with NBC, ABC and CBS yet not a whole lot of mention about FOX who has been found repeatedly purposefully reporting incorrect information on their "news" reports. I have NEVER heard ANYONE from FOX admitting their outright lies,or their misrepresentation whatever you may want to call it... ever. The trouble is, we have too few owners of the media, the major networks, newspapers etc are all controlled by a handful of very rich men. (6 I believe is the number who control the majority of the news you watch)... Watch Democracy Now on Link TV for real news reporting. But probably you won't be able to find it if you have cable. (owned by one of the 6)

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Josh Yarusinsky, Rocky Mount, North Carolina — Wed, 21 May 2008 03:19:16 GMT

I think our president deserves more respect than being asked certain questions to stir controversy for the sake of a good news broadcast. One other thing, if your job deals primarily with conversations, I would think you would have been taught not to interrupt people. At least not to interrupt the President of the United States.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Roger Dingess, Chapmanville, WV — Wed, 21 May 2008 03:22:12 GMT

I would like to think that NBC would think that the people of our great nation can actually think and make decisions for ourselves based upon facts (not facts as you edit them) please just give the news and let the people make up their own opinions, we don't need to be taken down a path of deception and call it news. NBC network has done great harm to all who watch the so-called news as you see it. If we the people cannot depend upon our news organizations just to give us the truth; why should we watch NBC for other stories, are they fact or fiction. For me, I won't give you another chance to fabricate my opinions for me, I will depend on other news agencies for facts. You have lost another viewer due to the unworthiness of the trust I have placed in your station. You have placed a cloud of deception and are not worthy to view your newscast anymore. One more LOST VIEWER!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Doug, Texas — Wed, 21 May 2008 03:39:32 GMT

and you wonder why your ratings for your news and today show keep tumbling. By looking at all the emails this will continue. i don't know how you can look yourself in the mirror or talk to any of your children about truth. you have already tried to make this next election into race and the people out here that vote can already see you using this catch word. grow up, we are smarter than you think!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jeff Pieski Wausau, wi — Wed, 21 May 2008 03:40:29 GMT

All the commentors are correct to be fed up with the lefty network like ABC, CBS and nbc but they should check in on them once in a while and compare them with the better info organization like FOX NEWS, Newsbusters.org and talk radio it's black and white. OOOPS now nbc will claim I'm a bigot.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Marj Whitney, Green Valley, Arizona — Wed, 21 May 2008 03:44:58 GMT

I am so very sorry that this highly interesting news report solicited such angry comments. I have followed Richard Engel's career through his reporting on NBC and his book. I have also read a few books telling how the White House has skewed and spun the truth about many things. I'd like to say to those people who angrily lashed out against NBC for its honest reporting: "Wake up, people. See how it really is!" I will continue to watch Brian Williams and his other colleagues report the truth night after night. And I thank them for it!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Dan. Utah — Wed, 21 May 2008 03:56:10 GMT

Shame on GE for hiding their agendas in a cloak and dagger scheme like NBC.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jason, Grafton, WI — Wed, 21 May 2008 03:57:34 GMT

Shame on you NBC! I don't buy your explanation as your intentions are quite clear. You've just lost another viewer of your station and reader of your news sites. Horrible...mis-leading of the American people!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Kerry Howes, Layton, Utah — Wed, 21 May 2008 04:05:52 GMT

Great interview. Richard is the only reporter that has the guts to ask King George the hard questions.
Since he has been in Iraq and Afganistan more that all of the pesident's cabinet combined he has a real idea of the truth.
Excellent work as always at NBC.
FOX and ABC? I never watch this puppets.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

BillS, Columbia, SC — Wed, 21 May 2008 04:12:26 GMT

You folks who think that Richard Engels was "impertinent" or "disrespectful" really astound me. George W. Bush isn't our king-- as much as he'd like to think he is and as much as you'd like to crown him so you wouldn't have to think.

This attitude is one of the root causes of the problems that we have now. If the media and Americans in general had demanded more than flag waving, fear-mongering and intimidation then maybe we wouldn't be sacrificing our armed forces and billions in a multi-sided civil war in Iraq; maybe we'd have secured Afghanistan and destroyed the terrorist network actually responsibile for 9/11.

Bush was filibustering; yammering irrelevancies. I thought that Engels showed remarkable restraint in not pressing him harder. We need more reporters like Richard Engels on the White House beat except that the Bush spinmeisters would cut access as punishment for actually asking questions based on reality.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

jim weaver vernon tx — Wed, 21 May 2008 04:25:12 GMT

how dare richard engle ask our doofus-in-chief actual, pertinent questions about his failed presidency? and what's up with the network condensing his taradiddle to mercifully shorter and evasive nonsense? I say let the man completely embarrass himself.heh,heh,heh.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

L.A. Evans, Austin, Texas — Wed, 21 May 2008 06:55:28 GMT

Hmmm . . . please don't insult the morons, 'cause they can't help themselves. Just make sure they can't get their mitts on the Constitution, which they believe is toilet paper.

The Bush puppet (animated by Deadeye Dick Cheney) and everyone associated with it are all about helping themselves -- and their buddies.

Perhaps Mr. Engel should have interviewed Bush right after his speech at the World Trade Center after 9/11/01.

He could have asked him why he had absolutely no intention of keeping his promise to catch the terrorists -- maybe this interview happened, but it ended up on the cutting room floor.

Bush didn't need NBC's help to destroy all respect for him, the office of the President of the United States, and the greatest nation on Earth. No amount of editing -- nor Rovean sleight of hand nor White(wash)house public relations campaign -- can change the facts.

In the meantime, American soldiers are following their orders -- and are dying or getting wounded horribly -- because their commander in chief, on behalf of multinational oil companies, wanted a seat on OPEC. Whose flag are our men and women fighting for?

Iran was pinned down on their western front by the Saddam-in-the-Box. Now they aren't, and with $130/barrel oil caused by Bush's wise foreign policy "deciders," Iran is a threat. The Saudis and Kuwaitis snigger behind his back -- they don't respect the nation that saved their collective a--es anymore.

I only wish that NBC had seen through this administration early on, instead of buying the lies.

I had the advantage of seeing through this man while he was damaging the state of Texas while governor (fortunately, the Texas gov. has little power, so the damage wasn't permanent -- I pray that we can crawl out of Bush's wreckage and continue as a constitutional democracy). Texas

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Sam — Wed, 21 May 2008 07:18:51 GMT

So many dummies were told by their master(s) like rush or fox to spam this board with ignorance not seen before in such lemming fashion.

So MSNBC took out a 'duh' or two from the interview to make the pres seem intellegent instead launch baseless attacks. This was done by fox guys..

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Greg Hull, Shelby, NC — Wed, 21 May 2008 08:43:55 GMT

I am sorry but i do not buy your explaination that this story was a Distillation of the interview. Upon viewing both versions it clearly changes the presidents response to the question. Had this not been brought out by Mr. Gillespie, we (the public) would have never known what was actually said. I try to watch several news sources and look at the situation from different points of view. As a frequent viewer of NBC News, this incident affects my ability to trust NBC News. While i used to like Keith Oberman when he was doing sports, I stopped watching his show long ago due to the negative and personal attacks that he unleashed from his bully pulpit. Please, Brian Williams and the Brass at NBC don't let Keith Oberman drag NBC News down with him. Brian Williams is too talented a reporter and newsman to allow this to happen! This makes me feel i have to question the information that NBC News gives me in the future.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

MJ, Seattle, WA — Wed, 21 May 2008 10:34:17 GMT

Steve Capus, free press is not same as free editing to put forth the channel's agenda. William, if people should go to the internet to watch or read the entire interview and blog on it then why do you have the TV show? Shut that down and go home instead of showing parts of the interview to be deceptive. Looks like NBC requires a new chief and a new reporter?

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

DP Meadows Montgomery, AL — Wed, 21 May 2008 11:07:38 GMT

I watched the entire interview and, fortunately, for the president he came off better in the clips than the lenghty interview. It's about time someone stood up to the White House and reminded them that we STILL have freedom of speech here. We do, don't we?
NBC/MSNBC have the perfect right to run their news organization as they see fit. After all, Fox "News" does. The only difference, NBC tells the truth and Fox tells the right wing spin.
The RNC must have sent out orders for it's robots to make comments on this site--too similar for all these people to write on their own.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jim Beam, Atlanta, GA — Wed, 21 May 2008 12:05:10 GMT

You're biased reporting is disgraceful. Your executives should go back to J-School. On second thought, perhaps J-School is the root cause to such reporting.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

John S Grek, Buffalo, New York — Wed, 21 May 2008 12:12:28 GMT

It would really be nice if there was one network we could listen to and receive truth in their reporting. I enjoyed watching NBC News since the Huntley-Brinkley days and figured Brian Williams would carry on this tradition. Since he's also the managing editor as well as the anchor, I guess he's also responsible for what goes on the air.
I didn't realize how much I missed Roger Mudd, perhaps the last truthful newsman on the air.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Dave Hoffer, Baltimore, MD — Wed, 21 May 2008 12:43:46 GMT

Looks like the trolls are out in full force trying to force this "issue" onto the rest of us. It's just like what the right has done for the past eight years. Tell a lie often enough and then enough people will tend to believe it's the truth thus turning any lie they want into the "truth". The White House is only pursuing this because Fox News and Bill O'rly think that NBC/MSNBC are evil and deserve all the bad press this gives the network. When the people take back this country this election, hopefully we'll see the end of this shameful and disgraceful type of manipulation from the White House. Press intimination is a trait of dictators and despots, and does not have any place in American politics.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Feeray, SC — Wed, 21 May 2008 13:04:40 GMT

With all of the blatant lies Mr. Bush has told to the American people, why is he so concerned about the editing of an interview which has no bearing on his political failures as president. I guess when he called his constituents "...the 'haves' and 'have mores'..." it was taken out of context as well.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

CL, Orlando FL — Wed, 21 May 2008 13:04:59 GMT

NBC nightly news has an obligation to report the news and leave out any option. I have watched NBC news a lot and always found that it provided its views instead of a balanced view point. I believe a great deal of our country’s problems and unrest is due to false and manipulated news reports like those provided by NBC. I will never watch the NBC new ever again!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

fr jim t — Wed, 21 May 2008 13:11:09 GMT

Well, at least you beat out MSNBC in manipulating the facts. I watched both interviews. In the first you presented MY president as weak, indecisive and dumb. In the full interview, he came across as clear, decisive and knowledgeable.

Thanks, NBC, no wonder your ratings are in the "tank".
If you want to see my complete interview in the "tank" please go to the the dialykos.com

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Anthony Vaticano, Port St. Lucie, FL — Wed, 21 May 2008 13:13:53 GMT

Anyone who bashes NBC on this post CLEARLY did not bother to watch the unedited interview. NBC did Bush a favor with their editing. Watch the whole interview and then make your comments. People who cannot be bothered to come on the internet (in this information age) and fact check but instead take EVERYTHING they hear on TV as FACT are what is seriously wrong with this country. Just because Bush and his cronies say NBC is being deceptive DOES NOT MAKE IT TRUE! The people who come on and beat the drums repeating everything the White House says are clearly in denial or on Bush's payroll. I am sick of the ignorance and stupidity of the people running this country and the few million that still fall in line like sheep to the slaughter. You got what you deserved in this Iraq debacle and if you can't see the truth, then God help us all!!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bob D — Wed, 21 May 2008 13:22:24 GMT

Still waiting for your response to Gillespie's question about the "civil war" in Iraq, NBC news....

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Anthony Vaticano, Port St. Lucie, FL — Wed, 21 May 2008 13:24:18 GMT

Richard Engle's reporting is always filled with editorial, snide remarks that are always anti-administration, and sometimes, I think anti-American. This has brought NBC down to CBS' level, and that is REALLY low.
Robert Townsend, Charleston, SC (Sent Tuesday, May 20, 2008 12:27 PM)

Really??? You do know Bush has an 18% approval rating right? You do know that everything that comes out of his mouth is a lie, right? You do know Iraq had nothing to do with 9/11 right? You do know that Iraq had NO WMDS right? You do know that Bush has made hundreds of millions of dollars of this war right? You do know that when Bush speaks whis released press reports on that speech are ALWAYS edited to take out his screw ups, right? He manipulates Americans and after 8 years you're to stupid to see it!

WOW the stupidity and gullability of the people in this country. - Go ahead say it, fall in line and be unoriginal - tell me if I don't like it to get out - How about no! I am a college graduate and it's time that the idiots step aside and shut the heck up. You do not know what you are talking about and the more you speak the more you show just how ignorant you are!

Did you even bother to watch the whole interview? Did you even see that MSNBC has been playing it it's entiret for 2 days now and he looks even worse!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Anthony Vaticano, Port St. Lucie, FL — Wed, 21 May 2008 13:28:02 GMT

At what point are people going to stop stomping on others' "constitutional freedoms" in order to further their own agenda?!?! President Bush has the same "freedom of speech" the rest of us have, and "freedom of the press" does not mean we can twist the words of any person to change the message that person was trying to present! Personally, I think it should be illegal to edit the president's words---period. This is a prime example of why. Am I the only one who had to read "1984" in school?? There is an eerie similarity between the press and things which are taught now (i.e. there was no holocost??) and the way governments and press re-wrote history in that book to sway their citizen's opinions. WAKE UP AMERICA!!
Amanda, Presque Isle, ME (Sent Tuesday, May 20, 2008 11:34 AM)

O agree- We shopuld hold the President accountable for those words and question the White House when they release the EDITED transcripts of the President's speeches - you know, the ones that eliminate his screw ups and things they feel maybe he shouldn't have said.

If the president does it, why wouldn't the news organizations do it???? IGNORANCE it's destroying this country.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Betsy — Wed, 21 May 2008 13:46:33 GMT

WOW you all act like MSNBC is the ONLY news Org. that does this. FOX News, CNN, ABC, THEY ALL DO IT! CNN is just as bad, they did the same thing to a WWE Super Star known as John Cena. He did an interview with them about Steroids after the Chris Beniot Murder...CNN did the same sad apologize. This is no surprise or shock.

I will continue to watch MSNBC. I usually watch for Keith Olbermann. His Special Comments are the best and really show what the REAL American people feel... Don't agree? You are on the wrong channel Bill O is on Faux Noise.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Anthony Vaticano, Port St. Lucie, FL — Wed, 21 May 2008 13:51:27 GMT

FYI Dan Rather DID REPORT THE TRUTH - Bush got him fired to cover up his lies. You can look it up (but who has the time for that? American Idol is on and your brain can't comprehend words in a book and that word research is too big to understand - ow stop you're hurting my brain!)

READ A BOKK PEOPLE educate yourselves. ANYONE who thinks FOXNews is not biased is clearly uneducated. If you only finished high school, you are not qualified to speak on any subject matter so shut the hell up!

Research what Rather reported and you will find that
Bush lied, not Dan Rather you ignorant fools!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Capt. Jack Vandenberg (ret) — Wed, 21 May 2008 13:52:39 GMT

Oh my effing god, STOP THE PRESS!!!
I mean, the White House has edited whole books out of THEIR reporting of the reasons of war in Iraq and now they get all huffy over:
"You know, my policies haven't changed, but evidently the political calendar has ... "PEOPLE NEED TO READ THE SPEECH. YOU DIDN'T GET IT EXACTLY RIGHT, EITHER. WHAT I SAID WAS THAT WE NEED TO TAKE THE WORDS OF PEOPLE SERIOUSLY." ... And when, you know, a leader of Iran says that they want to destroy Israel, you've got to take those words seriously."

The piece in caps was edited out.
When they really think that it changes the entire meaning of the statement, it shows that they are really , really stupid.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Chris Zaremba, Rochester, NY — Wed, 21 May 2008 14:02:28 GMT

Fox News Rocks!! And, as a Conservative Republican, I feel that it is my mission in life to blindly follow my fearless leader into the Promised Hell (in the Promised Land, as it were).

There is no greater fear among us Neo-Cons than the truth! How dare you NBC, to cut through our propaganda and rhetoric, to even approach a rough facsimile of our truth. You will never understand us and our diabolical plans to rule the planet!!

It is our desire to distract and deceive. We dare you to grind our tired, soulless, husk-like bodies into the dusts of hell !!

Long Live the Corporation !!!

P.S. We will come back from the grave to haunt you for eternity!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jon Cocoa, Fl — Wed, 21 May 2008 14:07:56 GMT

NBC and MSNBC, why not respond to the full text of the email? What is your position (and why does a news reporting network HAVE a position?) on Iraq being in a civil war? I mean, if you [NBC] declare a war, a war continues until you declare a ceasefire or wave a white flag-which is it?

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Robert Southern — Wed, 21 May 2008 14:19:07 GMT

Keep up the Good work. Bush is so used to only getting softball questions that confirm his agenda. He needs to ask the hard questions and he needs to answer them!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

MikeInMaine, Buxton — Wed, 21 May 2008 14:39:28 GMT

The dnc started assassinating GW's character as soon as they feared that they could NOT get away with their attempt to steal the 2k election(THEY were caught red-handed). The 92% liberal media did their talking-points proud every single day. So GW's ratings are in the toilet w/ 1/2 the population today. The ppl who buy the liberal spun tripe aren't intelligent, but sheep. nbc should be proud of their bashing of the Republican brand at any cost. Does the dnc pay them? Those of you here who are berating our President are seriously dumb ppl simply re-telling total bs propaganda of the likes of michael moore, air america and the disgraceful democrats who don't care what they say about our country as long as it gets them back in power. And to bash Fox News is to be of the most ignorance possible. O'Reilly is unwatchable to me for his pompousness, Geraldo is a complete joke, and Kimberly Guilfoyle is a bufoon, but the rest of the shows are the very best that tv has to offer. olberman is the biggest crud ever to be aired in the history of the planet, and matthews is right behind him.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

jennifer, indianapolis, in — Wed, 21 May 2008 14:44:47 GMT

Mr. Capus, please stop insulting the intelligence of the majority of Americans with your lame attempts to cover yourself under the guise of fair and balanced journalistic standards. We know, and have known for a long, long time that your network has been trying to push a liberal agenda down our throats. Deceptive editing is the least of your shameful attempts to do this. Your ratings on both NBC and MSNBC are in the tank. Are you really so foolish that you can't determine the reason why you're being rejected so? Your actions are truly despicable! We SEE it. You're the only one who doesn't.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Shari, South Carolina — Wed, 21 May 2008 14:51:14 GMT

To those who don't support our government, soldiers, and ELECTED president I would like to say one thing: MOVE! You can move north to Canada and enjoy some chilly weather, or south to Mexico (I hear there is plenty of room!) It is a free country, if you don't like it, take your liberal, left wing, flag-burning, soldier hating selves and MOVE! No one is making you stay!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Roger Smith — Wed, 21 May 2008 15:15:50 GMT

Yes, I am pretty much done with NBC as a reliable news source. They seem to make things up as they go along, distort the facts to ahere to their twisted agenda, and then they try to defend their actions. I'd rate NBC down there with "The View" as a crappy news source. Like another poster said earlier and it holds true with me as well.... you have just lost yet another middle aged white male.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

easton knoxville tn. — Wed, 21 May 2008 15:22:44 GMT

i see you did not publish my comment from last night. it met your editing standards. guess you did not want to print the truth about keith olbermann {your rush limbaugh} being allowed to report the national elections!! let's get rush on fox!!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

richard — Wed, 21 May 2008 15:40:45 GMT

Just the facts, please.

NBC has been challenged to provide credible news reports. We look forward to the GE/NBC response.

A good starter story would be accurate coverage of the occupation of the huge Sadr City neighborhood by Iraqi troops.

The clock is ticking.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

WLS, Columbia, SC — Wed, 21 May 2008 15:56:40 GMT

This administration has gotten the biggest free ride from the press in the last 40 years. Now, when Engels dares to mention that the emperor is naked, his minions attack NBC.

Engels had just a few minutes to include an account of Bush's speech to representatives of Middle Eastern nations plus convey a 15 minute interview.

Bush fanatics (down to less than 1 in 3 Americans and dwindling rapidly) should have no complaints with a media that has acted more as fawning stenographers than critical reporters. This administration is given direct access to the airwaves for their propaganda far more frequently than any past administration. Reporters are afraid to ask tough questions because they'll never get called on again in favor of rightwing ringers like former male-prostitute-turned-"reporter," Jeff Gannon.

Engels characterizes the applause as "polite" and the reception as "frosty" because he witnessed it. He doesn't need the administration's permission to report what he sees-- yet.

Engels brings up opinions and facts directly contrary to Bush's policies because SOMEONE needs to ask why Bush continues a war opposed by the majority of Americans and many experts on foreign affairs.

The editing in no way altered Bush's answers. Engels was extremely respectful of the office while questioning Bush's policies.

You Bush fanatics confuse true reporting with obsequious cheerleading. That's no wonder since most of you seem to prefer your news pre-digested by Fox News.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

One_American — Wed, 21 May 2008 16:19:17 GMT

Notice how all of the supporters of NBC's and Richard Engel's attack on President Bush all say things like "keep up the fight" and "free speech rights" and "Bush lied, so it's OK for NBC to lie".

Just what you would expect from liberal activists and their liberal media helpers.

I have news for those maligned liberals: The News is here to INFORM AND OBJECTIVELY REPORT - IT IS NOT TO PERSUADE, MISINFORM, BULLY, PROPAGHANDIZE, PROMOTE, OR SMEAR!

If you think this is incorrect, you have been brainwashed by liberal nutjobs like Chris Mathews and that brainless hack, Keith Olbermann.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Chris Snyder, Linwood, Michigan — Wed, 21 May 2008 16:19:30 GMT

After watching both the NBC edit and the unedited interview, I believe the NBC edit did our idiot president a favor. Stand firm, NBC, I don't think you'll lose too many viewers with this, at least those who can think well enough to get the big picture of what's going on in this country. Also, stand firm on telling the truth about the war in Iraq. Calling it a civil war was the truth. I'm sorry more networks don't have the courage and integrity to report the truth rather than be just a mouthpiece for the VP, president, and his morally twisted administration. If you must worry about ratings, just look at the percentage of people in this country who can't wait for this horrid administration to be gone so this country can try to right itself, ethically and economically. You'll probably gain viewers by standing up to Bush.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

K. Collier, Jacksonville, Florida — Wed, 21 May 2008 16:52:27 GMT

Bravo, Steve Capus!! By the way, NBC... what exactly does NBC consider an "appropriate" forum? Nice way to dodge the ball.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

ca liberal vet — Wed, 21 May 2008 17:32:36 GMT

NBC, expose the lying chimp for what he is, a war mongering, didn't finish his military duty, chicken-hawk. Keep the good work up.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

E. Patrick Mosman — Wed, 21 May 2008 17:52:04 GMT

Mr.Capus's excuse for editing President Bush's response with "Editing is a part of journalism" is disingenuous and dishonest as he is justifying the media's use of 'skillful editing' as a means to change the meaning a respondent's statement so as to promote its own agenda.
Also NBC and the MSM are guilty of editing Senator McCain's position on the length of time our troops might be in Iraq by lifting the "100 years" time line out of context and deleting the final part of his response.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Mike James, Boston, MA — Wed, 21 May 2008 18:22:02 GMT

Dear NBC - please report the news. Do not distort or edit the news to fit your opinion or agenda. If I want distortions of fact and omission of positive news in favor of negative news from Iraq, I will watch the uninformed talking head Keith whatever-his-name-is on MSNBC. You know, the ESPN guy who is now a supposed NBC expert on politics.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Don, San Antonio, Texas — Wed, 21 May 2008 19:06:46 GMT

What a disgrace your news organization has become. I am joining with what I am sure to be thousands of others in saying, I will never watch your news programming again. Someone should be fired... all of you should be ashamed!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Stephen, St. Louis, Missouri — Wed, 21 May 2008 20:16:45 GMT

Not only was the interview edited, but they "masked" the edit. They made it look like it wasn't edited.

That on top of the fact that when asked whether he was referring to Barack Obama in reference to appeasement President Bush said that "people need to read the speech. you didn't get it quite right either".

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bob Oleson, Portland Or. — Wed, 21 May 2008 21:34:27 GMT

Sounds like sorry Republicans tring to stick up for one of the worst presidents we every had in modern history, this country will be in better shape once Bush is out of the white house and back in Texas (but should be in jail). I feel so sorry for those people that truely think Bush has done a good job!!! They neeed to get a life and get out of the back woods and take a good look around to see just how bad this country is because of Bush and his polices have been.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

D. Reeder, MO — Wed, 21 May 2008 21:39:57 GMT

If the interview wasn't meant to push a biased agenda NBC wouldn't have been underhanded by providing the correction only via internet -- which all do not have. But why is this surprising when NBC is part of the major media outlets which happen to be slanted towards the liberal world-view anyway?

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Ted Bates San Fran, CA — Wed, 21 May 2008 22:11:11 GMT

Years of journalism have never witnessed the level of levels of deception and misdirection we today have in this network. Many challenge Fox for thier "Bias". Honestly as someone who watches all and is an ex democrat (Now independent) I find Fox more neutral and NBC actually garbage! I have stopped supporting anything aglined with NBC including GE and all thier companies! Microsoft shoudl get the MS off the Brand or they are the next step. We need to do this becaues of how media buying works advertisers often get this network in bundles rather than in direct purchases

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Stuart McIntee, San Francisco, Ca. — Thu, 22 May 2008 00:31:36 GMT

I have been a regular viewer of the NBC Nightly News for the past 15+ years and will continue to watch as long as you continue to air great interviews like Richard Engel's. I believe you are fair and balanced but sometimes don't expose the deceipt of the Bush Administration enough. Richard Engel's interview was good, only I wished he had been more forceful in following up when Bush avioded answering most questions. This administration has run rough shod over the media for too long and should be held accountable for all their mistakes in judgement leading this country in the wrong direction.
Thanks you Brian Williams, and all the other fine journalists, for reporting the news accurately and not being intimidated by the Bullies in the White House.
I'm sorry to read the comments from so many ill informed people that don't see the good job you do on a daily basis. I look forward to The Nightly News along with Countdown with Keith Oberman etc.
Good luck and thank you for your oustanding reporting.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

seme, new haven, ct — Thu, 22 May 2008 00:46:48 GMT

Most of the people commenting on here are just spammers from the Bush camp or the Mccain camp.

WAKE UP PEOPLE.

There was no spin here. If you weren't so lazy, you would check the video in full.

bUSH TWISTS EVERY WORD OUT OF HIS MOUTH. IT'S A JOKE

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

JH, Buffalo, NY — Thu, 22 May 2008 01:09:40 GMT

I have viewed both videos and can only come to the painful conclusion that the editing was biased. Sorry, Mr. Capus-I just don't believe that this was unbiased journalism-tsk, tsk!!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

J. Bruce Quick, Simi Valley, Ca — Thu, 22 May 2008 02:17:05 GMT

I e-mailed you yesterday and the message came back as undeliverable....wonder why. Anyway what I said is that NBC is going down the same road as Dan Rather and CBS, rather than reporting the news you are trying to create it. As I said yesterday....Goodbye

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Roy Waldroup, Fletcher, NC — Thu, 22 May 2008 02:40:01 GMT

I haven't watched NBC, CBS or ABC news in years. They are all liberal much like Obama. They hardly ever report anything fairly; it is beyond their ability to do so. Liberals just can't be fair. Truth to them is what they think makes them lood good and the opposing side lood bad. If I were President Bush, I would never have an interview with them again or answer any of their questions. That would be his right to do so just as they have the right to misquote and tell untruths, if they so choose. If they continue doing so the audience will be even smaller, and that would be wonderful.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

C. C., Boston, MA — Thu, 22 May 2008 06:42:29 GMT

Dear Mr. Capus:

I have been a fan of Richard Engel's reporting, and his interview with President Bush has affirmed this and renewed my faith in journalism. He upheld the role and tradition of the Fourth Estate and served your viewers well (whether some know it or not). Having witnessed an alarming number of journalists succumb to the intimidation of this Administration and their media agents, I'm gratified to see that solid journalism still exists in the main stream media.

While the White House may take issue with the editing of this interview, I think Mr. Engel was fair and certainly conducted himself well with an interviewee who was at times evasive, unclear, confusing, and inarticulate. If the White House wishes to be represented as clearly as possible within the constraints imposed by a half-hour news program, they should do better at answering directly the questions asked. Seeing the interview, I understand the challenge it must be to edit the President's responses, which fail to answer the questions posed to him. (How do you determine the “answer,” particularly when the response lacks focus and rambles?) Moreover, one could even argue that the edits were rather kind and did not expose the President's responses to be as poor as they actually were.

Finally, I very much appreciate Mr. Engel's bringing his tremendous talent and experience to the viewers of NBC Nightly News, and undertaking high risks to bring us thoughtful and insightful coverage of the Middle East.

Thanks to you and your team, and keep up the good work. NBC Nightly News will be my choice each evening.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

John, Los Lunas NM — Thu, 22 May 2008 11:30:54 GMT

You can count me gone as well, but this is a token gesture. Don't watch anything on NBC anyways. Maybe you should get cable and learn from the other guys.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jeanne Kangas, Washington, Pennsylvania — Thu, 22 May 2008 13:09:22 GMT

I didn't watch NBC before this incident and I will not watch it after this incident. I tried to watch the online video to get the whole interview and that didn't work. NBC is the lowest rated news network and I can see why. To edit lines out of an interview and distort the meaning or explanation is so very wrong. You're nothing more than a talking rag.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Don Wilkinson, Hendersonville,NC — Thu, 22 May 2008 13:46:43 GMT

I guess this misrepresentation(you call it editing) is why I watch FOX News. Since you liberals do not have an answer to RUSH, you have hijacked a TV news network to promote the left!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Bruce Ames, Boise, ID — Thu, 22 May 2008 13:48:01 GMT

Shame on you NBC! This goes far beyond bias - this is fraudulent. I don't care what your political leanings are, this has to offend you. We do need a free press - but also an honest one!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Sharon Jackson — Thu, 22 May 2008 14:13:00 GMT

Why can't news agencys report the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth so the nation would be better informed of what the government is really up to? Goodbye to old trash, I will never watch NBC and/or it's affiliates again. So ABC, CBS and Fox here I come!!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

C. D., Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 22 May 2008 14:17:32 GMT

This "sound-bite" reporting has been going on for as long as I can remember on all the television networks and the print media. I read the "news" and interpret it as meaning almost exactly the opposite of what is reported. Also, I have come to the conclusion that every single election from the President on down has been skewed by the relentless presentation of OPINIONS as NEWS.

We should boycott all news for a few months and force a change by suing the current news media in the courts for misrepresenting themselves as purveyors of opinion rather than of news. They should be subject to the same labelling laws and regulations as to content.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jeffrey Folks — Thu, 22 May 2008 14:46:05 GMT

I've long since tuned out NBC news and its leftwing, anti-American content, as I see it. Quite by accident--because the Nightly Businewss News was off the air on our local PBS station--I caught NBC's grossly edited "interview" with President Bush. The interview was a disgrace to NBC. It revealed once again how biased the Nightly News has become, driven by a Marxist ideological agenda. I can't imagine how any educated human being would sit there and listen to Brian Williams pontificate from his leftwing podium. Maybe they can't and this is why Fox News has replaced NBC and the other "mainstream" (that is, liberal) networks as the source of news for most Americans.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

al — Thu, 22 May 2008 15:19:41 GMT

I will never again watch your opinion station again. I have not agreed with all of President Bush's policy, but this is over the top. All of you should be embarrased to call yourselfs "news" reporters. Did you take your lessons from Joseph Goebbels? Seems like it. Hittler would be proud of your station!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Frank, Staten Island, NY — Thu, 22 May 2008 16:07:02 GMT

I guess airing the President's explanation to any question wasn't on the agenda. The interview had to continue on to his next "hard-hitting" question. This reported inserted every bias he had into this interview. Report objectively!

I guess 2 minutes is the alloted time for the issues and then cut back to an Obama pep rally in liberal Oregon.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Georgette Bolden — Thu, 22 May 2008 16:40:04 GMT

Thank you NBC for doing a good job. Keep up the good work. Brian Williams is my favorite world news anchor.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

J.Kebbell — Thu, 22 May 2008 17:10:43 GMT

NBC appears to be taking on more of your own agenda now as other cable networks. I have quit watching NBC nightly news. Richard Engle is becoming more of
a Michael Ware from other agenda driven cable news networks for the anti war movement. No longer a news
network but a left driven anti war movement. Anti war is a good cause but you are suppose to reporting the news...not making your own agenda.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Richard Donato, Chicago, Il — Thu, 22 May 2008 17:38:32 GMT

Wow, look at that. The unedited interview made Bush look even worse. MSNBC did him a favor. This is why people keep saying, "What do you expect, it's George Bush". Hopefully we elect a "smart" president. An "elite". I want an "elite" doctor. If I get divorced, I want an "elite" lawyer. We already tried a stupid leader, let's try a smart one. Oops, who said I was referring to Bush?

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

HN, Virginia — Thu, 22 May 2008 18:04:39 GMT

Maybe the reason Bush has a low rating is because of all the times that the biased media have altered the meaning of what he has said just like in this case. The results of elections have often been influenced by the biases of the media. It's about to happen again. Don't refer to any of us as ignorant when you have based your opinions on what you have (or have not) heard from the networks.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Louise, Holyoke, MA — Thu, 22 May 2008 21:03:39 GMT

WOW. reading these "outraged" posts one would get the impression that the hired trolls are on fire. Good for you NBC. Love your work!!!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

TOM APOSTOLICO — Fri, 23 May 2008 00:39:09 GMT

YOU ARE IN THIS FOR THE money. aLL THE TOP BRASS AT NBC ARE NOTHING BUT WHORES. THE STREET WALKERS HAVE A BETTER REPUTATION THAN THE PIGS FROM NBC. i AM OF THE OPINION THAT ALL OF YOU ACT AS LOW AS YOUR MOTHERS DID WHEN THEY WERE STREET WALKERS.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Patty White — Fri, 23 May 2008 02:09:31 GMT

I am 61 years old and have watched the Today Show for more years than I can remember. I love Matt, Meredith (much better than Katie), Al, Ann and others and the Today Show's format and highly informative and entertaining nature of the programs. I also love the way that it cuts back to my local news and weather for 30 minutes in the early segment keeping me informed about local matters. I will not be watching your NBC station or the Today Show anymore which deeply saddens me because of the terrible, disrespectful, prejudiced, and dishonest editing of Engel's interview of President Bush's interview which I have heard was done by Engel himself. I have never seen such an immature,underhanded, and low-classed cutting room floor report before in my years of watching your programs. NBC's excuse of time constraints (which cut Bush's remarks and the truthfulness and flow of his interview out completely) was ridiculous with so much time on the program for trivial matters later that morning. Also the fact that "it was available on your web site" was also ridiculous because I have never in all the years I have watched the Today Show had to go to the website to get the truth of an interview. If this reporter Engel were my son or if I had ever been his journalism teacher, I would be so ashamed of him. Instead, I am ashamed of your biased reporting. You have really disappointed me deeply, and unless I know that someone will apologize about this slanted, disingenuous reporting on the Today Show and other NBC sites, I will not be watching your channel anymore. You have lost a loyal, avid viewer and one who bragged about your program The Today Show. I would even (in the past)record your show if I were not here and play it back later when I was available. I have never before written in to or called or communicated with a broadcasting company before but found that this has bothered me deeply since I saw this on Monday. As an English major and teacher, the content showed on the Today Show of the interview didn't even make sense, and then I found out that was because Engel cut out the complete thoughts and essence of President Bush's meaning. I am very sad about this and feel I am losing my morning friends and great reporters on the Today Show. The regulars on Today are WONDERFUL! Sincerely, Patty White in Raleigh, NC

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Brenda San Jose CA — Fri, 23 May 2008 19:50:01 GMT

It is the norm for the left wing MSNBC channel to join in with changing history to fit the political agenda...... As many of your left wing people, you wave the computer/pen and use the media to affect many who do not know any better. How sad that I have to no longer support your media or TV stations from this day forward. NBC should apologize and aire the correct interview in full. You people make me sick anymore. Heaven help us for now freedom of speech has allowed liars to say and do what they want, without any repercussions. Our President Bush has done what he has to to keep your dumb asses in check. You sleep at night without fear of attack due to Mr. Bush and our Brave men and women serving to protect our country. PEA Brains you all are if you happen to work for NBC and its affiliates. So Sad and your rheteric has tired the US people. I hope the Fleas of a thousan camels infest your jockey shorts...... Brenda

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

amanda, IL — Sun, 25 May 2008 16:55:41 GMT

B.D. you are the ignorant one on this comment list your party is anti american

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Harry Sutphin Munford Tn. — Mon, 26 May 2008 06:47:41 GMT

This is to all of you who can not read. This is the reason you watch Fox Noise and this is to all of you that can read we are in a recession ( this is acorrding to Daddy war Bucks, Uncle Billy's friend). you know what he said on the news to day was that the white house is cooking the books and I'm saying if you could read you would gleen out of this interview with the great decider just what was asked of it. now go back to kissing Bill'o's rearend and the rest of them morons and get an education and learn how to read.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Juanita Oppermann — Mon, 26 May 2008 20:02:32 GMT

I am more and more dismayed that I cannot relie on NBC for reliable news reporting. Whatever the station's view, it is wrong to try to push your views off on the American people as true by distorting the news to fit your own political agenda. As an American, I want the facts. Not facts, with portions missing, to present an incorrect picture. Please start giving the facts without editing portions of the story so I can make an honest decision.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Manuel Guzman, Elk Grove, California — Tue, 27 May 2008 23:30:11 GMT

My goodness. How can you NBC defend this deliberate editing? NBC has become too opinionated journalism which is why I only watch it when I am channel flipping.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Ray Foret — Wed, 28 May 2008 05:40:06 GMT

I cannot believe that after over 4000 American lives, trillions of our hard earned dollars squandered, our position in the world debased to the position that people in other countries look up to China before us, and STUPID people out there STILL believe this lier as our president, well folks you deserve what you are about to get. Enjoy the end of the glorious United States, maybe good old george will let you into his guarded coumpound to get a few grains of rice and some tap water in a pretty plastic bottle. You stupid fools.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jacob, Tarzana, California — Fri, 30 May 2008 01:10:37 GMT

I am still waiting for Mr. Capus to address whether NBC still believes Iraq is in a civil war. Where is his "more appropriate forum" and what is his response

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Jablonski — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 18:22:42 GMT

KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK NBC. IF THERE WAS ANY MANIPULATION, IT WAS ONLY TO SHOW WHAT A CROOK THE PREZ IS. I WILL ALWAYS TRUST YOU AND NOBODY ELSE.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Michelle Pierce, Rochester Hills, Michigan — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 06:32:21 GMT

At the interview's inception Bush said "you need to take those word's seriously" my thoughts were not of the alleged words of the leader of Iran. My thoughts were that I cannot take Bush's words seriously. The discovery that this interview was edited further instilled my belief that journalism, also, cannot be taken seriously. The government distorts the truth, then the news media does the best they can to report it. Well, your best is just not good enough!!! Furthermore, Steve Capus, your response (indeed written with the intent to publicize) was so rherical it made me sick. Words are cheap in this country these days. There are two paths you can take, right or wrong. You are in a position of respect. WE, THE PEOPLE, don't want editing (censorship????). We want to know that you are going to take the right path. If you have lost sight of that path, it is time to give your position of respect to someone more worthy.

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Tom Cottrell San Francisco — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 00:08:14 GMT

Taking a point of view on writing or presenting a story is one thing, but editing the president takes manipulation of the media to a whole new level!

I like Richard Engel a lot -- he has spent 5 years in the war zone so he gets bragging rights to ask the tough questions of the president -- do you really need to edit the president to convince the American people that he is completely screwed up? I don't think so -- you should fire the editor who decided that editing the president was ok -- then you should report the news in context and stop trying to manipulate the facts to support a point -- broadcast the truth for pete sake! In the end the truth will speak volumes to the American People!

NBC News President responds to the White House complaint

Julie Silva, riverside, Rhode Island — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 04:18:51 GMT

I have lost all respect for the media. It's not honest reporting anymore. You try to shove news that you think we should hear down our throats. You are biased and it is very obvious. No wonder people have stopped watching the news. I should start watching soap operas again. Please find the lost art of reporting.