What Times is it?

Amanda (Ridgewood, NJ) — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 21:03:17 GMT

Brian
If this sparkling writing is what happens when you have some home and hearth time then I personally vote you work from home every day! This was laugh out loud funny and was promptly shared with others. If I may offer a few thoughts:

"Was I On A Date Or Baby-Sitting?," if you have to ask you probably shouldn't be doing it people.

"Let's Say You Want To Date A Hog Farmer" - I admit I did read this article after seeing the headline and thought careful what you wish for.

And vacation resorts that cater to nudists, methinks there could be a follow up story for resorts that cater to nudists where a sex chair becomes a battlefield. Here again careful what you wish for, not that I have anything against people who chose to be nudists, but it does not mean I want to go on vacation with them. As an aside my senior year of high school part of our honors english class was devoted to public speaking to prep us primarily for the upcoming Honor Society Induction where many of us were to speak. Some of the advice we were given to calm our nerves was to focus on one person in the back of the auditorium and speak to them or if all else fails to pretend everyone is in their pajamas or naked. Needless to say it was quite obvious which advice was taken that night by the speakers when giggles and peals of laughter were peppered throughout the speeches.

Thank you, thank you for bringing some laughter into a dreary NY Monday.

What Times is it?

Ashley — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 21:04:44 GMT

Hi Brian,

Thanks for pointing us to the Peggy Noonan piece. Your recommendations are always top notch, so keep them coming!

Also, you didn't miss anything at the White House Correspondent's Dinner except more Hollywood people sucking up to George Bush because he's the President. The only good year to be there was 2006 with Stephen Colbert. It was the only time anyone had stood up and told it like it is to his face and that was priceless.

What Times is it?

Carmine, Missouri City — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 21:06:07 GMT

Brian,
Thanks for the heads up on the Noonan piece, you don't see writing like that much any more. Crafting a scene in such a way that it ties a whole story, or in this case, an opinion together. Great stuff!

Also, I see from Kevin Tibbles' post that you're planning a story on infrastructure and its depilated state. Looking forward to it. Wouldn't it be something if the government put people to work the same way they did in the late-30's when our current highway system was first laid. Admittedly, it wouldn't have to be on such a grand scale, but it would put people to work. They could keep my $1,200 “rebate” to help pay for it and actually help the economy.

What Times is it?

Dave, Tn — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 21:10:39 GMT

Read that peace by Peggy Noonan last week. We're protecting ourselves from Lawyers more than terrorist. Glad I don't fly.

What Times is it?

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 21:13:37 GMT

Good Evening Mr.Williams, I must say Mr.Williams your summary of types of articles in the Sunday New York Times is certainly interesting in a funny way. The style section you described is really humorous with the people buying things at flea markets and the title "A Sex Chair Becomes A Battlefield" not something I have seen recently in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Never met a hog farmer either. I think it would be great for you to check out the vacation spots catering to nudists Mr.Williams. That would be something to talk about on a Monday evening Daily Nightly. The description of the bride and groom was funny too. Aren't all brides and grooms free-spirited with strong opinions? And Mr.Williams I did notice the penguins in the North Pole piece, but I forgot to say anything about seeing them. Glad to know you enjoyed time at home this weekend and watched the first 50 laps of Talladega from your kitchen. Looking forward to the broadcast. This was funny Daily Nightly post! Peace to you and to all!

Lots of Love to Laurel, Jackie and Stephanie!
Be Well Always!

What Times is it?

Joan Chapman, Cheshire, CT. — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 21:16:45 GMT

Hi Brian -

I think you made the right choice - it was a good weekend to stay home - after all, what is the TV for?

The lasting memory of this Correspondent's Dinner for me will be the President of the USA conducting the Marine Band! He also seemed to be much more relaxed than usual - perhaps because the clock is running down.

I wouldn't miss Thursdays with Peggy. She is doing fine work these days and her use of our language is A-plus.

I agree with you about the focus of the New York Times - have they lost their way - or just some readers? I'll hang on to the 6AM doorstep delivery - I have to have the crossword in my hands every day.

It's Derby Week, Brian - if you've never been to a Kentucky Derby, you should go at least once. It's Americana.

Thanks for the mention....

What Times is it?

Celine, JC-NJ — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 21:28:10 GMT

Brian-

I wondered if you would mention Elizabeth Edwards' Op-ed piece. I thought it was excellent. The last paragraph explains why I bug you all the time, but she puts it better than I!!

I have found myself reading the Washington Post more thoroughly than the Times of late. Right now I think the WP is the better paper. Certainly more readable and I really like the columnists.

If all you watched was the first 50 laps of Talladega, you missed the best part, as I'm sure you've heard. What an exciting race!! What I want to know, and I think you DO know having driven professionally yourself, is when 2 drivers hook up as they did on several occasions (did you see any of that?), increase their speed by 10 mph, and go flying out in front of the rest of the field as they did--what is going on throttle and brake-wise in each of those cars? Does anyone lift? If both stay fully in the throttle, how can one push the other since all the cars seem to be so close in speed? And what must that feel like??!! I'll bet it is a ton of fun!! It was different from the usual "freight trains". But it was awesome to see--even DW was speechless watching it!! DW speechless???!! Is a lesson from you in NASCAR drafting appropriate for this blog?? Hope so--we've had both baseball and football!!

A curious.....

What Times is it?

Daniel, Denver, Co — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 22:14:04 GMT

Amen, Brian. Why does news have to shock or tittilate us all the time? Why can't it just inform?

What Times is it?

Anna — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 22:34:26 GMT

Thanks for the recommendation on Peggy's article.
The most bizarre airport situation was last month. I was standing in line with the bin in tow with socks covering the feet. Yikes! Who could handle all of those germs?

I was waiting patiently in-line. I was just watching all the grandmothers getting out of their wheel chairs and grandfathers putting their canes on the belt.

Then to my dismay I turned to my left and saw a leg in the bin next to mine. I looked and saw a beautiful 5" 10" woman in black pants and one leg.

Curious, I said, "how did this happen?" She replied a skiing accident. I said, why do you take the leg off? She indicated that if she didn't take her leg off, she would be at the station for an extra 30 minutes. Puffs of smoke and all. Since she travels about 6 flights a week, she just pops it off and goes! She figured out taking the leg off and hopping saves her 3 hours a week.

She said look I was in a hospital and rehab for a year. I can whine and cry about my lost leg or I can live life to the fullest. Needless to say, I learned a good lesson that day! I will never forget her beauty and her airport attitude!

What Times is it?

Dewey Quong, Reno, NV — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 22:38:45 GMT

I was wondering about the tax checks. I sent my in, by snail mail, on the 14th. Past experience says they won't get anything back to me for 6 weeks from the time I sent it in. Since they are processing now when will they get to mine?

I know they are sending out checks depending on the last digits of your SS number but if they haven't processed your tax form when will they go back if they passed your numbers?

What Times is it?

Jackie Rawlings 62 Riverside California — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 22:58:10 GMT

Brian you really didn't miss much this year with the dinner. At lease those who went paid over 4 dollars per gallon for gas. Bush is just having fun until his term is over as no World Leader believes a word he says. At lease he can have fun while Americans are living in a recession.

Brian while reading your comments today it's time to start drinking deaf coffee, your way out there again.

I saw Rev. Wright on PBS. The GOP might want a do over with the mistake of attacking Rev. Wright. Who knew he served as a Marine and was impressed by the famous JFK. That was a time in American History where young Blacks like myself were told this was our country too and we had a responsibility just like every other American. I lost 2/3's of my male senior class mates in Vietnam. I was young enough to believe that John F. Kennedy the youngest President wanted me to do my part even with the horror I had seen and heard. My parents and grandparents spoke of how difficult it was but I was told by our President that I was an American too and had to protect, honor and serve my country. Rev. Wright could have used his college deferment but he didn't he served our country. I guess Obama learned the real lesson from Rev. Wright as those were the days that changed America forever.

To my friends Lisa, Laural and Stephanie I'm back and I had a great two days with my best friend of 50 years. JoAnn and I met in Junior High and have stayed friends all these years, boy time flies when your having fun. We defied the race problem for 50 years and didn't realize there was a problem until the Media/TV Host made it a topic. Yes we're products of the Long Branch High School, New Jersey.
Go Green Wave!!!

Have a great day!

What Times is it?

Chuck and Linda Hightower, Linwood, Michigan — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 22:58:58 GMT

Brian: my husband and I enjoy your nightly news presentation. I must say that Rev. Wright's comments have been a side-show rather than an expression of his commission as a minister/preacher/evangelist,etc. What a clown he has become.

What Times is it?

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 23:11:59 GMT

Hi Brian,
Just a little fun remark here. I'm a neck tie person
since I've made plenty in my lifetime (80 yrs. old now)....for kicks, did you ever wear the same tie on
your newscasts....I never miss your program and always
check your ties.....

What Times is it?

Stephen J. Goldberg — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 23:17:14 GMT

Gee it's nice to know Brian reads the Sunday NYT. So I'm sure he saw the story on the front page a week ago in which it was revealed that his pals such as Gen. Wayne Downie were given organized marching orders by the Pentagon including what to say in favor of Iraq War policy and that many of these same generals had ties to Iraqi war profiteers. But Brian said nothing about this vital story on the air because NBC has a vested interest in keeping hush about it and, oh yeah, we must not forget that parent company GE is a military contractor. So Brian, you can appear coy about the boy marries boy story in the NYT, but you sure as heck understood the implications of the military experts story in which you gushingly went kissy face with the generals. The whole world is watching Brian. SAY SOMETHING!

What Times is it?

Stephanie-Umbro, 33 Maine — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 23:18:04 GMT

Thank you for sharing a fantastic article from Peggy Noonan, which I would have missed but for your mention, Brian. Amen and Amen, I say!

I got my economic stimulus money today. The president says I can make the economy better by spending it - but how? Shall I fix my car so I don't fry the engine? Give the money to the vet for future cat care for my older cats who have chronic issues? Stock up on groceries? Pay for medications & doctor visits because I'm diabetic and can't afford medical insurance and don't qualify for welfare? Apply for a passport just so I can visit family in Quebec or get on an airplane because Maine won't support Real ID? Unfortunately, these concerns are more important on my mind than my need for an iPod, or a new digital TV. It's so overwhelming on what to do with money that needs to go everywhere. For now, it will sit in my savings account and, I suppose, it will go to the need that becomes most immediate. At least, in this situation, I am an average American. Sounds like the premise of a new reality or game show: how far can you stretch $300?

I do know one thing: with such broad topics that mean absolutely nothing to me in the New York Times, I can rest assured that my stimulus money will NOT be paying for a subscription! I'm sure the topics are important to someone, but why does the Times have to cover it? Isn't there enough news for them to cover? Other media to cover such material?

Sad commentary on Miley Cyrus. I suppose I shouldn't be shocked, giving today's societal climate, but I am displeased. I had hoped she would be different - that her parents would be different. She is, after all, just 15. What did I know at 15? Certainly not anything of such far-reaching consequences. This should have been a situation where she had parents who would help shape her value as a brand and a person, instead of apparently selling out to be the next sex symbol. America's got enough of them; we don't need more!

I suppose as gas becomes impossible to afford, I should consider public transportation, its not in my vocabulary here in rural Maine. There's no such thing in my town, and I have to drive at least 13 miles to reach a bus. There is one taxi in town, but is that any more efficient? After our rough winter, our roads are worse than they've ever been!

Hi Laurel, and Lisa, and Jackie, and Celine, and Anna, and Matt! Have a great week!

What Times is it?

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 23:22:49 GMT

Good Evening Mr.Williams, Great broadcast as always! The report concerning the mailing of the rebate checks shows how troubled the economy. With the rise of gas prices,food prices,college tuition etc... I think people wanting to save the money is a great thing to do. The retailers certainly want to take advantage of the extra money to their consumers though with all the specials running in their advertisements. I agree wholeheartedly with the two people in the piece, one stating their saving for a house and the other for college tuition. One is tempted to spend all of the money at once, but one has to be smart and use it wisely either to pay down debt or for necessities. I hope things turn around soon. Thank you for mentioning when the new price for stamps comes out Mr.Williams. It seems everytime the price of stamps changes I hear it from you first! Thank you! I will definitely stock up! The report by Mr.Tibbles concerning the crumbling infrastructure and the traffic headaches was extremely disturbing. I know here in Atlanta they are always doing road work on highways and streets. I know there is alot of traffic problems and delays because the same areas seem to be mentioned all the time as being congested. Hearing about the crumbling bridges is scary and they should be fixed ASAP. I did like the woman's comment about nearing the city of Chicage and referring to it as the "emerald city" then Mr. Tibbles saying it isn't the "yellow brick road" and she said, "no it ain't" I can understand the frustration. Yet,it was a funny way of putting it. Thank you for the broadcast Mr.Williams. Always informative! Peace to you and to all!

Lots of Love to Laurel, Jackie and Stephanie!
I was glad to see your post Jackie! I hope everything is okay out in California!
Be well Ladies!

What Times is it?

Tom Pittsburgh,Pa. — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 23:23:37 GMT

Brian:So you love Limbaugh and Noonan,two people who lie full time for the Republic Party.Glad your ratings are down.

What Times is it?

Stephanie-Umbro, Maine — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 23:25:35 GMT

I post my response and look at the ones who are already here! Anna, I am actually bemused, saddened, and stunned by your story about the woman who put her leg in the bin. What a sad commentary that this is what we have become as a nation! Since 9/11 and all this business about "safety", I have made this my motto: I'd rather have my liberty than be safe.

I also forgot to add: apparently you miss something when you LISTEN to the broadcast instead of WATCHING the broadcast, as I always have it on in the living room while making supper in the kitchen. Therefore, I missed the penguins in last night's broadcast. I am now sorry that I did - even the best of pros can goof. By the way, Brian, why was stock footage used in a story done on location? Is this standard practice? Maybe there was a reason the camera crew didn't see penguins while on site? :)

What Times is it?

Connor T. McDonald, Berkeley, California — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 23:30:57 GMT

Brian,

I am wondering if you read this front page piece in The New York Times the previous Sunday, "Behind TV Analysts, Pentagon’s Hidden Hand"? You can find the link below. Did you report on it? You seem to have plenty say on the Daily Nightly blog about numerous other articles in the NYT but not this one (which actually DIRECTLY concerns your network). What do you have to say about this one? Either your comments about The New York Times are a cheap shot or you are clueless, which one is it?

Best,

Connor T. McDonald

What Times is it?

Matt, 20, San Diego — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 23:32:26 GMT

Mr. Williams,

I remember you saying last week about wishing you could answer/respond to more blog comments. Dare I suggest more video segments by you? I imagine this, as well as newsvine, and even this blog, likely fall out of your job description. I think Mr. Tibbles' post on here today about the traffic and road construction would make a good "segment" of the week" for the broadcast. Its funny because the other day I had a conversation with my dad about why its a good idea to invest in infrastructure during an economic downturn like we are having right now. I saw that it was raining in New York earlier today, as I caught a few minutes of the Today show. I can safely say that rain has not hit the south west yet, as it was steady 90's throughout the day here.

Thanks to those birthday well wishers

What Times is it?

Matt, 20, San Diego — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 23:35:56 GMT

I just saw the newly embedded video on Mr. Tibbles' post of what appears to be tonights broadcast, and the current "segment of the week" "falling apart", about infrastructure, and I retract my suggestion of having nightly news do just that, sometime in the near future. Thank you.

What Times is it?

Hugh, New York, NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:01:34 GMT

Peggy Noonan needs to be called out for mentioning Henry Ford who was a Nazi sympathizer. Also, Barack Obama's last book, Audacity of Hope: Reclaiming the American Dream, was all about what he thinks about America. Ms. Noonan could've at least looked at it before acting like it's a big mystery what he thinks of our great country.

What Times is it?

Tom, Mountain View, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:17:41 GMT

Hi Brian,

Read Noonan's piece you recommended. I'm a little confused that somehow being raised by your white grandparents, one a WWII vet and the other a "Rosie the Riveter"-type somehow doesn't qualify as a quintessential American upbringing.

Didn't Old Peg see any of those wartime posters as a child?

A little more research on the probably Democratic candidate would be nice. While she is at it, she could also edit Henry Ford from her story: His medal from the Third Reich clouds up her message.

What Times is it?

Keemia, Beverly Hills, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:19:45 GMT

Peggy Noonan? This is the woman who vehemently defended Bush and is finally starting to criticize him when his numbers are down in the gutter. Can't you pick another commentator to nominate for the Pulitzer?

What Times is it?

Aliscon Emory, Indianapolis — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:22:37 GMT

I stopped reading the New York Times in 2005. Too elitist... I couldn't relate to anything in it.

And since they endorsed Clinton, I've been really happy I no longer read it.

What Times is it?

just john, Poughkeepsie, NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:35:27 GMT

Hey Brian,

Okay, what about the PREVIOUS sunday's Times story?

You know, the one about the Pentagon and you guys in the news networks? The one your network has so far refused to answer any questions about, even for PBS?

What Times is it?

Al Lang, Vienna, Austria — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:39:40 GMT

Oh, peggy, peggy, our peggy. Thou went off the deep end during Those Days In Dec98 (resp. those frenzied months leading to THE Day)... and never has't thou looked back, o Ophelia, have ye? nope

The WSJ of yesterye' is gone - just like the now much-bemoaned GOP of back_when; and some of the most elegiac moaners now are the most walloping culprits of thus development... right, o Wailing One?

What Times is it?

Linda Martin, Gales Creek, OR — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:46:39 GMT

Brian Williams questioning the NY Times journalism is like Faux News questioning Glenn Beck's journalism. Brian Williams is way too full of himself. He's not smart, funny, or credible. He's just another MSM anchor. After ABC's debates, and Katie Couric's big success, we all know that being anchor for any of the three networks is not a prestigious position.

What Times is it?

Joe Tysl — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:47:16 GMT

What an odd column by Ms. Noonan. After she so rightly provides us with a vision of the empty suit talking into empty space, she then turns around and emulates him. Why doesn't the media know about what makes Mr. Obama misty? It hasn't asked him. Or when he talks about it, as he has many times, the media ignores his answers to look for more gotcha questions of no substance whatsoever.

The "snooty lefty" is a construct of those same empty suits who only talk to hear their own voice. Ms. Noonan is a journalist... she should ask him. And then print his response.

As for McCain, yes, he may have had all those qualities on his grandpa's knee, including integrity. Unfortunately, he's sold is soul for the imprimatur of the lunatic right-wing, the same right wing that Ms. Noonan so eloquently descries in her depiction of where little George has taken the country. How are McCain's policies now different from Bush's? Each day they grow undeniably closer together.

Remember that Obama just recently paid off his student loans, while McCain is politicking from the carpeted steps of his wife's private jet. Who's more out of touch with working America? And where are Cindy's tax returns, anyway?

What Times is it?

Brad Jacobson, Brooklyn, NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:55:13 GMT

Brian, on tonight's program, you allotted approximately one minute to the Supreme Court ruling today to uphold an Indiana law requiring a government ID to vote. This ruling will have serious repercussions on who can and cannot vote in the coming Indiana primary and nationwide in November. Somehow, you and your justice correspondent, Pete Williams, failed to point this out. (According to the AP, "more than 20 percent of black voters do not have access to a valid photo ID [in Indiana].") You both also failed to present even one dissenting viewpoint, whether from a Supreme Court Justice, a legal scholar, a civil rights lawyer or a voter in Indiana who will be directly affected by this decision.

Yet, incredibly, you managed to dedicate over two minutes to a report on teen star Miley Cyrus' photo shoot for Vanity Fair.

Now, you won't get any argument from me on the New York Times' penchant for publishing fluffy stories in between substantive ones (I've covered that for a long time on my own site). But let's be honest, Brian. With your own newscast's track record, I'd advise a long hard look in the mirror before throwing stones on this issue.

What Times is it?

Joe, Louisville, Ky. — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:06:12 GMT

Noonan's column was the pure ignorant dribble one expects of upper-class middle-age women. Decrying the fact that middle aged women - middle aged women, of all people! - are treated the same as others, because middle-age women are of course incapable of violence and malice. Noting that Obama might not be as patriotic as McCain because he wasn't the son and grandson of wealthy, well-connected admirals. (And besides, that Obama character isn't quite like the rest of us ... now what is it that makes him not conform to Noonan's definition of a patriot?)

Peggy Noonan is about as clueless about America as The New York Times. What's the word. Ah, elitist. And so to is Brian Williams for espousing her.

What Times is it?

Tom, New York, NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:08:11 GMT

Brian Williams never worked for a newspaper. How exactly is he qualified to criticize the New York Times?

What Times is it?

sally Seattle WA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:09:51 GMT

Way to go Brian. Just keep up the ajectives around Jeremiah Wright and you talking heads will manipulate the election right into November. I am so tired of this whining over a pastor who has the right to say and preach his story. I love what he does. So keep on connecting him to Obama as if JW pulls all of Obama's strings. Get a grip Brian..you are doing a very great disservice. Or is it that Clinton is your choice. This is disgusting..all of you media types and your righteous indignation is nauseating. Yup..I turned you off.

What Times is it?

Mark Condon, New York, NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:13:32 GMT

Brian,
When I read your piece, I laughed so hard. Who knew you were really Paul Harvey trying to disguise himself as Peter Jennings?

What Times is it?

K.Behnke — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:15:45 GMT

All three major networks focus on trivia rather than serious reporting. They haven't learned anything in the last seven years. The War in Iraq, the economy, to name two, all take a back seat to Rev. Wright and Miley Cyrus. And you are part of the problem.

What Times is it?

t kearns — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:18:21 GMT

Brian, you are commenting on the Times political coverage by reciting articles in the Style and Travel section. Do you read newspapers? Are you a moron?

What Times is it?

Isabel, San Francisco, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:19:59 GMT

Brian, why haven't you addressed the explosive NYT investigative piece about the so-called "independent" military analysts who were told what to say by the White House. Many of these guys are making money off of the occupation of Iraq, yet that is never disclosed on the networks when you turn to them for the 'expert analysis.' Many of these guys said they knew the intelligence was cooked, but they lied about it anyway. Why haven't you reported on this very important story?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/04/28/pentagon-suspends-militar_n_98985.html

What Times is it?

Greg in LA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:29:43 GMT

Wow, who knew Brian Williams was a right wing tool that was thinned skinned about criticism? Oh, wait, everyone knows that.

What Times is it?

Joe Wilson, Atlanta, Georgia — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:37:34 GMT

Usually only the pundits on Fox Noise take the most bizarre stories from a news outlet and then say this represents their entire body of work. I always enjoy reading the NY Times, even this past Sunday. As a journalism graduate and now teacher, I relish this investigate source. A recent investigative piece on the broadcast networks use of military analysts was ignored by everyone except Howard Kurtz on CNN. Truth speaks to power is best exemplified by their coverage of this administration abuse of wiretapping laws to do domestic spying in the name of fear.

Peggy Noonan??? Why was this Republican mouthpiece behind the rest of us on realizing that Bush is incapable of handling the job of President.

Elizabeth Edwards speaks to all of us who want the boring details of what the next President's policies will mean. She definitely is my hero!

What Times is it?

Ralph Johnson — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:44:44 GMT

Why is it that every time Peggy Noonan has a rough time at the airport she feels the need to whine about in a column pretending to be profound? She should have used her 'brilliance' when millions of us were predicting how things would turn out under the Bush administration and she was writing about how great it was going to be.

What Times is it?

Mark Campbell, Garden Grove, Ca — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:50:33 GMT

Dear Brian,
Did you read Frank Rich on Sunday ? 27% of the GOP voters in Pen. did not vote for Mr. McCain. That is something for him to worry about. Did you read the NY Times story about how all the retired generals that were used as tools of the Bush Adminstration to put false views on the war on our TV. These men painted flase pictures, so our troops could die.The NY Times spent two years on that story. What has NBC done ?

What Times is it?

kate oliver — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:52:59 GMT

Brian, I can no longer watch your broadcast of the nightly 'news.' Be careful of throwing stones at the NYT when your own news coverage is already so thin on substance.

What Times is it?

Ann Kennedy — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 02:00:08 GMT

Mr. Williams: Singing the praises of the certified nut-case Peggy Noonan has me gagging.
What?...next you'll be telling us all what a gent Rush Limbaugh is.

Egad.

What Times is it?

sam, toronto — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 02:00:30 GMT

I used to watch you because I liked what you did on CNBC and that appreciation made me watch you on NBC, put I don't know what happened to you in the last few years but you have become much more liberal in your news cast and commentary, I don't know, is it because when you become surrounded by the very liberal views which dominate American national news rooms ( and please don't tell me their not liberal a study a couple years ago found that 80% of the news rooms personnel would consider then selves liberals). You've changed and it sad to see that sometimes I can't tell the difference from NBC News and MCNBC.

What Times is it?

Polly Tics, San Mateo, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 02:09:40 GMT

And here is yet another so called "journalist" who believes that if he "appears" to be neutral at times, that it will somehow cover up his extreme bias to the Right.

Please, Brian, you gave yourself away years ago when you began to rave about DRUDGE.

This piece just puts the nail in the coffin for this home. Ba Bye Brian, have fun in your crazy right tilted world.

What Times is it?

J Young, Sydney, Australia — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 02:17:54 GMT

OK here we have Brian - the corporate owned right wing media mouthpiece - recommending more conservative blather from Noonan. What I don't get conservatives is this: what is it that you want to 'conserve' besides your own personal wealth and power and that of your friends? Things clearly aren't working over there. If the ship of state is to be saved from sinking huge changes are needed and they won't be coming from a McCain administration.

Here's another thing I don't get: how come psychological testing is required for State Department employees and intelligence officers but not for the President of the United States?

What Times is it?

Linda Tilsen, Jackson, MO — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 02:26:58 GMT

Your view of Peggy Noonan's "journalistic" contributions makes me wonder if you, too, are a Republican hack/shill/mouthpiece.

I have to admit it's not the first time I've wondered about your political proclivities. That, for me, occurred the night that John McCain met the delegate threshhold to claim the Republican nomination and you gushed along with Chris Matthews about what a maverick, hero, and great Smerican he is.

With cheerleaders such as you and Noonan, McCain needn't worry about his polling and fundraising problems.

What Times is it?

Al Wilson — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 02:30:05 GMT

Noonan's piece is tripe and thanks so much, Brian, for wasting my time.

What Times is it?

Ethan Hallbeyer, Columbus, OH — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 02:30:45 GMT

Brian Williams' political leanings are clear... FOX NEWS would be smart to make him an offer to leave NBC that he can't refuse...

What Times is it?

Ellen S., Annapolis, MD — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 02:52:56 GMT

Brian, are you joking about the Peggy Noonan article? Did you miss something here? Have you researched the candidates yourself?

Ms. Noonan asserts that John McCain carries America in his bones, and learned about it literally at his grandpa's knee.

Well, in case you didn't know, Barack Obama's grandpa had knees, too. And young Barack literally learned about America at the knee of his grandfather who signed up for World War II and marched across Europe in Patton's army. And what's more, young Barack learned about America from his grandmother who helped in the war effort by working on a bomber assembly line.

And after that, Obama's grandparents got their educations through the G.I. Bill -- the same way my father, also a WW II veteran, was able to get his college degree.

Maybe you don't know this, but John McCain just voted against a new version of the G.I. Bill which would provide the same benefits for our brave troops coming home from war in Iraq and Afghanistan -- the same G.I. Bill that Barack Obama supports.

Now you tell me -- which one of those Senators supports the troops? Based on their votes, I'd say that Obama is the one who truly carries America in his bones.

What Times is it?

thom, greenville, nc — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 02:54:39 GMT

I simply love to read Peggy Noonan writings with a true depth in thoughts and wisdom. Though English was never my firt language, I have have learnt a lot to express myself admiring her high and powerful might pen.

God Bless Peggy who inspires me and you go girl, keep writing the truth and I there is a lot of courage to spell out the political correctness in today's world!

What Times is it?

Ann Dickerson — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 02:56:16 GMT

Brian Williams needs to quit sniffing his hair care products. The hair jonez is ruining his writing. The perpetual smirk may also be related to the sniffing.

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Rufus T. Firefly, Keokuk, Iowa — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 02:59:06 GMT

The Peggy Noonan piece praised by Williams is yet another in a long of her cloying, all-knowing, condescending, hypocritical writings. Her rhetorical style is by now tiresomely familiar: she sets down a passing impression about some trivial detail of her own life or a public event, then extrapolates this into a portentous statement about America. Along the way to her predictable conclusion, she blames the usual suspects ("snooty lefties", the Clintons, Democrats, all those Liberals who refuse to see the world the way she does) for messing up what would otherwise be a good and virtuous country.

Peggy gives the distinct impression that she absolutely knows what Americans think and want better than they do themselves. She is truly holier than thou. Her belated disillusionment with Bush, after years of advocating for him and his failed policies, only reveals her own hypocricy and shallow understanding.

Far from being a perceptive observer of the American polity, Peggy has done as much as anyone to degrade and poison public discourse. For as long I can remember, she has been preaching Christ-like public virtue even as she backhandedly sneers at her opponents and misstates their positions. She no more deserves a Pulitzer than my Coulter or Limbaugh do.

What Times is it?

Janet Pittsburgh, Pa — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 03:03:03 GMT

Brian, you are NOT covering the news. There is very little real news about what the Bush administration is doing to this country. And while I'm at it, do you HAVE to introduce the next topic coming up and then ask a leading question about it? What kind of journalism is that?

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Greg, Los Angeles, California — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 03:04:59 GMT

Brian,

Peggy Noonan is a career GOP shill - plain and simple. As for Bush looking good, it's sad that this you bother to make this observation of a man who has run this country into the ground with his arrogance and incompetence. You might as well have told us you enjoyed him on Deal or No Deal.

As pointed out by others in this thread, you refused to report the on the state of the United States Military Industrial Complex your news organization is part and parcel of. You know what they say about people who live in glass houses, right?

So try reading Frank Rich in the NY Times. I'll take Rich and the flawed Times over the Fox/ Murdoch Wall Street Journal any day, everyday.

What Times is it?

James Pilant — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 03:08:52 GMT

Maybe you should stay home all the time.

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Sam — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 03:10:58 GMT

The NYT undoutedly has its faults. In 2003 it was instrumental in turning many a trusting reader into an Iraq invasion supporter. However, despite these failings, the paper proclaiming to print "all the news that's fit" consistently attempts to broaden horizons, tell interesting stories, and provide enough breadth and depth of political history (see recent ed criticizing Clinton) that the reader can stay informed with news couched in the proper context.

Ms. Noonan's editorials consistently lack this very depth and explanation. She trots out tired, established talking points fed to her by higher ups about various Republican heros. She has called Bush "trusting" and "responsible" (see op-eds from 2004) and yet now is critical of him. Yet she has never taken the opportunity to own up for her own laudings of the man. She hasn't taken responsibility for the powerful words that once came through her very prominent microphone, thus, how are we supposed to trust HER?
And by the way, if Obama should live up to the ideal that is Henry Ford-the same Henry Ford that was instrumental in publishing the widely discredited, anti-semetic, dishonest, fear-mongering Lost Protocols of the Elders of Zion-then I fear for the state of our union and the safety of our grandchildren.

Yes, the NYT talks about strange, unusual topics sometimes. But they ground their politics and their discussion of such in historical fact. Noonan does so otherwise at her own peril.

"To the future or to the past, to a time when thought is free, when men are different from one another and do not live alone— to a time when truth exists and what is done cannot be undone: From the age of uniformity, from the age of solitude, from the age of Big Brother, from the age of doublethink — greetings!"

What Times is it?

ladytechie, 59 Farmington NM — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 03:34:10 GMT

Brian, speaking of elitists, was that a bit of East Coast sarcasm I noticed? New Mexico is indeed not only west of New Jersey, it's even west of the Mississippi!
An amazing state by the way, pine forests and skiing to desert and frankly hotter than h--l in the summer. Churches tucked away in small pueblos that contain works of art deemed National Treasures. Vistas with light best captured by Georgia O'Keeffe. History that goes back to before the Mayflower, No, I am not a native, but I am in love with this state.

I was entranced by the Noonan piece, even as I didn't agree with it. Her ablity to set the scene had the touch of a great novelist about it.

My favorite story tonight was the story of the crumbing infrastructure. That problem exists even here west of New Jersey. Am I correct in thinking that there is a connection between this segment and a rant you posted about a week ago that we all agreed with?

What Times is it?

Brad — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 03:36:33 GMT

Brian,

Peggy is doing the work of her career? I hate to say this, but isn't she, umm, late to the party? She is finally criticizing Bush and his follies, only after it has become okay in the press to do so. Perhaps you should be praising Frank Rich or Paul Krugman, two columnists who have been warning about Bush and his follies about, oh 6 years sooner than Noonan. But why let something like that get in the way.

And no offense, but you are critiquing the STYLES section of the NY Times. Seriously. It is the one component of the paper which is for all intents and purposes put in their to try to attract wives, single women and gays to buy the paper.

I mean - honestly. It would be akin to me picking on the NBC Nightly News and focusing purely on the fluff pieces in the end put in their so you can send us off with a smile.

Brian - I can only hope that all of this has been you attempt at reaching Red State America. Your pandering is really, truly entertaining, Mr. NASCAR.

What Times is it?

ladytechie, 59 Farmington NM — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 03:40:05 GMT

Sorry for the double post tonight, but I did want to point out to Tom from Pittsburg that the ratings for Nightly News are up.
http://www.mediabistro.com/tvnewser/evening_news_ratings/default.asp

Just couldn't resist

What Times is it?

nina, LA, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 03:44:25 GMT

Patriotism is genetic in white people but somehow have to educated into black people, and tested for to make sure that they somehow learned it properly. OMG I needed to read a white elitist woman to find that out. Guess calling your wife a c*nt as John Mccain did is also part of that all american breeding.

Thank you Brian what was i thinking. You people really are sheltered and think that you are the authority reinforcing your biases and predjudices in the cocoon of the media.
Always love eugenics with my coffee in the evening.

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BobN, SF, CA. — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 03:48:25 GMT

A network news anchor complaining about fluff and drivel. We live in remarkable times!

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Maria, Los Angeles, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 03:54:21 GMT

Brian, you are a man of many talents and it's fun to enjoy them all. Please keep up the dialogue. (Loved you on SNL, by the way.)

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Bruce who tries to pay attention in Oregon — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 04:04:06 GMT

Commentary on commentary on commentary. Whatever happened to factual reporting aka journalism? It's lovely to have opinion pieces, especially by personalities/anchors/pulitzer wannabes, but whatever happened to "the news"?

What Times is it?

Melrose, MA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 04:21:38 GMT

Mr. Williams:

Further to Connor T. McDonald's and Just John's posts, I am bemused by your shot at the NY Times yet have ducked its 7,000 word report the previous Sunday on how your network and a host of others were used and abused by the Pentagon's PR department (see
Behind TV Analysts, Pentagon’s Hidden Hand at http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/20/washington/20generals.html?hp=&adxnnl=1&adxnnlx=1209442147-/jjC/MwnxAWBPrM/taF0NQ).

Howard Kurtz at the Washington Post called you and the other networks and cable news channels out today for having pathetically ducked the story:

"I don't agree that the MSM cover war and economics poorly ****but I do think their coverage of this important issue has been pathetic***. I covered the controversy stemming from the NYT story on "Reliable Sources" the last two weeks; yesterday I had Don Rumsfeld's former Pentagon spokesman and a retired colonel who was a military analyst for NBC. If there has been any coverage of this on CBS, NBC, ABC, MSNBC or Fox, I've missed it. ***The story makes the networks look bad, and their response, by and large, has been to ignore it***."

I look forward to some mention of the Times report on your network, but I'm certainly not holding my breath.

Regretfully,

Sean Heneghan

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Andrea, Redlands, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 04:25:19 GMT

Brian, you are a great writer and I applaud the craft you brought to this. I also applaud Noonan's craft, to a certain point: but! You've got to be kidding me about the propaganda of her piece... how is it worthwhile at this point in our history, with all the grave problems facing us, to say that McCain "gets it" about love of country and George Washington and Obama doesn't? What exactly is her evidence to support that theory: because Obama spent a l lot time in his youth in other countries and/or Hawaii? McCain was BORN in Panama! Pulitzer? We might as well give Limbaugh a Pulitzer and get it over with... the official death of journalistic integrity in the USA.

What Times is it?

Silent Sam, Silicon Valley — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 04:27:29 GMT

Brian, tell you what, you can belittle the NY Times Sunday headlines and stories (hey, it's a big paper with a much larger news hole than a month of NBC news) as long as you respond to their piece "Behind TV Analysts, Pentagon’s Hidden Hand." I KNOW FOR A FACT that those military analysts are not only getting board assignments and nice consulting gigs, as long as they keep their mouths shut and toe the line so they can help friends and family stay on the gravy train. It doesn't take a journalism degree to discover this corruption of our system.

What Times is it?

Thomas, NY, NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 04:48:44 GMT

Excellent piece. Keep up the blogging, Brian.

What Times is it?

Sam Jackson, Walnut Creek, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 05:04:49 GMT

Brian:
Good call on the Noonan article. Starting off with a long (if cliche-ridden and overwrought) tirade about airport security lines that is hard to disagree with and then quickly slip in an innuendo laden attack on Obama that has absolutely no factual basis. If this is what passes for good writing in your circles, you can hardly blame the NY Times for mailing it in sometimes.

What Times is it?

Erich Scaliger — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 05:13:16 GMT

Henry Ford was pro-Nazi! Does Noonan seriously want Obama or Clinton or anyone else to be shedding tears for a Nazi sympathizer? Brian Williams, what on earth were you thinking promoting this claptrap from a right-wing zombiebot?

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Johnna Shapiro, Bloomington, IL — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 05:16:49 GMT

I dutifully followed your link to Noonan's article and was amazed at the weakness of her arguments as well as her general ignorance about Senator Obama. She writes:
" But what about Obama and America? Who would have taught him to love it, and what did he learn was loveable..."

Does she believe he was cloned in a lab, without a family or schooling or a community? As for what makes him "misty," it's Ms. Noonan's job, as a journalist, to find out and tell us about it.

If this ridiculous, self-righteous opinion piece is something you admire so greatly, then all I have to say Mr. Williams, is that you need a refresher course in rhetorical logic. Your bullsh*t detector is in sad disrepair.

What Times is it?

two7five7one — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 05:18:15 GMT

Brian Williams raved about Peggy Noonan's superficial WSJ article.

She can't stand that Obama is talking about the issues facing us instead of the Flag Pins. She should write an article about how Bush has defaced our constitution. The Founding Fathers would be shaking their heads about this issue, while we are all oblivious to the damage the neocons have done to the country.

What garbage. No wonder people are leaving the networks in droves. If that's the best Williams can find to inspire him, he should go report high school sports.

Christ, these pundits are depressing.

What Times is it?

Glenn, Seattle Wash. — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 05:23:56 GMT

Brian,

You absolutely must be kidding. As for the NYT, you failed to note that next to the article about the gay married couples there was a long article about the responsibility of the credit agencies for the mortgage and stock market melt down. Have you done a story anything like that?

And as for Noonan, her article was purest tripe. She accuses Obama of lacking patriotism mostly, so far as I can tell, because his parents weren't in the military and he did not live in Arkansas or some other rural strong hold of Real Americanism. (Apparently Hawaii doesn't count as American. Too ethnic or too Democratic?). And he apparently doesn't get misty eyed over Sutter's Mill or Henry Ford.

Brian, if you really believe Noonan's article was so great I am starting to get an ever better sense of why the mainstream media can get things so consistently wrong. You people really aren't that bright.

What Times is it?

Jay, New York, NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 06:00:25 GMT

Well, Brian - I guess it was a slow news day for you to expound so thoroughly on the NYT. I happen to think they know who their readers are - and do a pretty good job of catering to them. The old grey lady can be very serious and can get into trouble sometimes with their astute investigations, but they also indulge in a bit of lightness now and again. But I have to confess that I haven't been watching you or your cohorts on the tube lately. Ever since the start of the primaries, I've been off you guys. You and Tim, Chris, Keith and others all sound alike - no distictions at all. Maybe NBC should check the water cooler and freshen it up a bit - Should make for more interesting viewing.

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tom — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 06:09:21 GMT

Brian Williams don't mind all the liberal crap that has been posted, this site has been linked to Huffungton Post, so all those loonies are commenting on you site.

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Jesse Corum — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 06:13:39 GMT

When NBC gets around to breaking stories about the Pentagon inserting mouthpieces into the media as independent "military analysts," then you can complain about what's an inch deep into the Sunday NYT.

And Noonan's piece wasn't journalism. There was no investigation, no facts, just her vague feelings combined with inane implications that somehow Obama isn't a true American, as evidenced by the fact that right-wingers have tagged him as "elitist."

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Michael Markman, Kirkland, WA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 06:23:26 GMT

Noonan wonders why Obama isn't patriotic enough to love anti-union goon-hiring, anti-semitic, Hitler-loving. Henry Ford. I wonder why Noonan isn't patriotic enough to keep her distance. You need to love a car guy? Love Durant or Sloan who built General Motors.

What Times is it?

Charlie Trainer, Los Angeles, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 06:31:10 GMT

I agree Brian. I frequently disagree with Peggy Noonan, but there is no one like her. I think Obama would be very wise to heed any advice she gives. Noonan frequently has her "finger on the pulse" and she learned form the master; Ronald Reagan. Regardless of her topic; in every Noonan column there is always one sentence that I have to say out loud, it's that good. She's a poet.

What Times is it?

Michael Young — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 07:05:14 GMT

Posters here have asked some legitimate questions. Please answer this particular one: Where is the coverage of the Pentagon shills on your network or in your blog?

What Times is it?

trespassinthru — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 07:11:37 GMT

Oh ha ha and la tee da, you thought the president was so good on C-Span--you and the rest of the MSM are a cowardly lot who have ruined journalism and this country. Get outta my face with 'the president was good" he's a lying, criminal traitor and until you treat him as one and he's indicted, so are you! (and so many of the press). Understand that I represent millions of young, educated PATRIOTIC Americans who see through you and Bush!

What Times is it?

Andrew Williams — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 07:36:01 GMT

So let me get this straight...You got your left foot out of your mouth, only to stick your RIGHT one in??

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Murton — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 07:36:14 GMT

I also decry the lack of coverage regarding NBC's participation in hiring hacks who have connections with military contractors...BTW...can we hear a little more about Zimbabwe? Gaza? Two stories the world media have covered continuously, without resorting to coverage of Miley Cyrus, thank God...I too hate some of the dumb stories in The Times (I never read the Sunday Times anymore), but network news hasn't exactly been a beacon of brilliant journalism.

All that aside, I think your broadcast does the best job now of bringing the news in a half an hour. My Dad worked for the AP for 40 years, and his first choice for nightly news was always NBC--namely Huntley/Brinkley...first class all the way, and a legacy NBC always can be proud of.

What Times is it?

Dan B, New York, NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 08:17:24 GMT

You are an embarassment, Mr. Williams. Your corporate/conservative bias never ceases to amaze me. Wipe that smug smile off your face and start covering actual news, like I don't know, the war crimes going on as we speak in the name of the USA.

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Rich P. From Princeton — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 09:31:45 GMT

That Peggy Noonan piece had the distinct odor of filler copy, an incoherent, silly mush whose argument was basically that we're going to hell because we have to go through silly airport security measures when presidents don't have to. She phoned that one in. If that's what Brian Williams thinks is sparkling, Pulitzer-worthy copy, it goes a long way to explaining the death of network journalism, where the anchors can't recognize good writing, which Peggy Noonan, notwithstanding her reactionary ideology, usually produces.

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Thomas — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 10:16:24 GMT

Give me a break. Peggy Noonan is a Right Wing hack who toadies the Party line. When, when has she ever written anything that stimulates the mind? More and more Mr. Williams' slip is showing. What next from him, a fair and balanced look at Brit Hume. A agree with Tom: Brian Williams is as disposed to commenting on good journalism as Pee Wee Herman is to imploding novas.

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Donald Smith — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 10:43:41 GMT

All three broadcast networks, including Mr. Williams' NBC have chosen to ignore our military and their plight. No a peep about the one hundred billion dollars found to have been squandered on construction projects in Irag, nor, and more importantly, that this is the deadliest month for Americans in Irag since the invasion started.

Let's be honest, Williams, Couric, and Charlie are all news readers. The people who chose what you will hear are the neocons who control the nightly news. One person has opted to be an American and report, at least a portion of what this administration has done, that person is Keith Olbermann. If you are not watching him nightly, you're not hearing about the atrocities that occur daily in Iraq. You sure won't hear it from Nascar Williams.

Shame on you Brian Williams for the abandonment of our troops and their families.

What Times is it?

Mikey, Neamt, Romania — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 10:53:09 GMT

Peggy Noonan "sparkling journalism"? Pffffffft!

What was once a reliable source for information and a valuable educational resource has degenerated into a puerile display of "psychopants" on parade parroting the approved message and party line, so as not to offend their sources of dis-information or - heaven forbid - be denied access to them and lose profit margin and future business.

We have only ourselves to blame for this. As consumers of the crap that passes for news these days we are willing accomplices, because if the truth really mattered - rather than haircuts, bowling scores or who is wearing underwear this week - we would be voting with our feet and pocketbooks to demand quality and accountability. Instead we have trivia bread and media circus to fill up our empty heads and distracted lives.

Pogo was prescient - and right."We have met the enemy and he is us."

What Times is it?

James M New York — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:02:04 GMT

someone send this to Bill OReilly, who swears NBC is liberal!

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Christopher Cruise, Silver Spring, MD — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:11:27 GMT

Hey Brian, I keep waiting for a newscast where you don't use the term "remarkable" or "extraordinary." Last night you used "extraordinary" at least three times in the cast. In the first place, by using those terms you are characterizing the news - injecting opinion - and how is that proper? In the second place, can't you come up with different adjectives? Those two are hackneyed, cliched, lazy, and unoriginal. I challenge you to air just ONE newscast without using either of those words. Bet you can't do it.

What Times is it?

Jeanne Walls, Little River, SC — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:42:58 GMT

Brian, you are one of the journalists to whom Elizabeth Edwards is referring. And she is correct!

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Ed, Warren, New Jersey — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:59:08 GMT

Maybe I should go back to reading the New York Times. I was boycotting it along with all things FOX and ABC/Disney and CNN because of their nonreporting and misreporting of important news and sponsoring of right wing propaganda. But if Brian - I love the war and the wealthy and John McCain - Williams doesn't like it and cites Noonan as a rare high point then maybe I should look again. I may appreciate the stuff Brian doesn't like.

What Times is it?

Sharon Rice, Cary, IL — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:02:01 GMT

Good lord, Peggy Noonan's "sparkling" column? Barack Obama isn't qualified to be president unless he gets misty eyed over Sutter's Mill and famous anti-Semite Henry Ford? Hillary Clinton learned about America in Arkansas because those of us in her home state, Illinois, clearly couldn't be "real" Americans? Mr. Williams did you actually read that atrocious column? Ms. Noonan's column was another right-wing trivia attack on both Mr. Obama and the half of the country that didn't vote for G.W.Bush. Her column was partisan, insipid and insulting. I'm amazed and disappointed that you would single out that column for praise.

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Bh In phoenix — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:12:32 GMT

Brian, very informative. And thank you for being believable and mature. Charles Gibson might learn a thing or 2 two from you.

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Stanley Krute, Camp Creek, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:24:24 GMT

Mr. Williams

Thanks for taking time to write these nice posts.

I would like to hear about: the Pentagon and its military experts and how the media has been played.

RE Miley Cyrus: sad sad sad. Annie Liebovitz is an important and great photographer, but she should not have done this shoot in this manner. And Miley's parents are equally culpable. Sad sad sad.

-- stan

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Janet, Pennington, NJ — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:39:21 GMT

If one knows where to look, one can find that NBC-TV broadcasters tend to be Republicans. Going back to David Brinkley and before. So it is not unusual that Brian Williams is espousing that most Republican of writers, Peggy Noonan, or dissing the NYT, a Democratic leaning newspaper.

However, the bias the network is showing in constantly showing Rev. Wright with all his bombast and NOT showing John Hagee, John McCain's minister is just wrong. Hagee's remarks are downright scary. Calling for the end of the Catholic Church? And John McCain was recently asked to refute Hagee and he refused.

No offense - but Jon Stewart is doing a much better job of "balancing" the news than you are.

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Ed, New York, NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:41:08 GMT

Dear Brian,

Write More!

Be well.

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Heather Campbell, Pittsburhg PA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:42:49 GMT

are you kidding me? what a joke. look mr. williams - all media is in the tank right now. you didn't do your job with Iraq, you are not doing you job in relation to Iran, i have seen no investigative reporting on TV about the abuse of power this president has employed, nor anything about torture nor anything about the pentagon story about the talking heads feeding us all the bush propaganda. and yet here you are criticizing the NY times. why don't you fix your news before you start complaining about others? shame on all of you in the "journalism" field for cowering to this administration in the wake of 9/11 and not doing your jobs. shame shame shame.

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frederick boyd, west hartford ,ct — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:53:15 GMT

Peggy noonan's piece in the wsj was the most sophisticated bit of racist >> I read in years. It's implications were she and millions like herdo not fit the "profile" of terrorists do why put us through this inconvenience. And the part about Obama being "different" in his journey to adulthood required that we seriously question his patriotic and "is he a true American" bona fides was ridiculous. He must wear a flag lapel pin to convince us.

I would love to have Brian Williams explain what he saw in that column to many of us who read and said to ourselves "are you kidding me!".

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Jake — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:18:07 GMT

Points well taken, except for those on Noonan. Solipsisms shouldn't be the work of anyone's career.

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Joan Baldwin Chapman, Cheshire, CT — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:20:32 GMT

Brian - Just forwarding a message to you from my brother, John Baldwin (we read a lot of books):

JC,

I saw the First 50 laps of Talladega AND the last 30.

If Brian is a fan of NASCAR ask him if he has read Liz Clarke’s (Washington Post reporter) new book “One Helluva Ride:How NASCAR Swept the Nation” It is getting great reviews.

JB

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Joe, New York, NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:21:06 GMT

I'm a big fan, Brian, but I think you'd better read Peggy Noonan's column a little more closely. The gaps in logic, ridiculous bias and outright incoherence (do you honestly think there's any narrative flow to that piece?) represent three of the biggest problems with today's newspaper writing. (And I speak from experience, having been a print journalist/writer/editor for years.) Pulitzer? C'mon, man -- that piece should be used as the "what not to do" example in a writing class.

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Jo-Ann Lynch, Mankato, MN — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:39:32 GMT

I was wondering when you would get around to trashing the New York Times. It’s really all about that pesky, well-written story about the generals and their propaganda, isn’t it? Instead of manning up and addressing the issue, you ridicule the NYT. Then you send us scurrying off to read a piece by rightwing Peggy Noonan. How Republican of you.
And I’m sorry, Brian, but the only thing that Bush is “very good” at is reducing this country to rubble.
My husband and I have watched Nightly News faithfully for a long time even though we’ve had our suspicions about you. Thank you for coming out of the Republican closet and clarifying things for us. Your ratings are about to go down again.

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Todd Elder, New York City — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:41:40 GMT

What an entry! A real crowd pleaser. Cheap shots at New York? Check! Bashing liberals? Check! Confirming exalted status to the conservative media elite? Check! Got it all covered, didn't you? You're good for steady invitations on the D.C. cocktail circuit for another four years, if you get your man McCain in.

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bamage, Dallas, TX — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:43:20 GMT

"Peggy" [NOONAN] and "Pulitzer" in the same sentence!? BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

Good one!

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Tim, Chicago, IL — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:43:49 GMT

Noonan, as always, writes beatifully, but did you read the substance of her column? She's calling Obama elitist while bemoaning the indignities of flying commercially. Has she not been to an airport in the last seven years? This "who loves America the mostest" conversation is demeaning to everyone who participates in it. All of these people, who have devoted their lives to public service (not to mention enduring the last 15 months of nonstop campaigning), love their country. The fact that this is a topic of conversation in the mainstream media is an embarrassment on par with anything in the Sunday New York Times, and is hardly Pulitzer-worthy.

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cynicalgirl, Piscataway, NJ — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:50:29 GMT

Hey, Brian, is this a joke or something? Peggy Noonan telling us what patriotism is deserves a Pulitzer? How can you compare that insipid drivel with what Elizabeth Edwards so eloquently conveyed?

Do you have any concept of what's going on in America right now? Do you know matters to us, the little people? We have a terrible economy, out of control inflation, rising gas price, rising health care costs, stagnant wages, perpetual war and our country is torturing people. And you think we should worry about which candidate is more patriotic? Unbelievable!

What Times is it?

N0-doz, Portland, OR — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:53:07 GMT

What a surprise. Williams sucks up to his tax-hating, Bush-loving incontinence-product-buying, dwindling number of viewers by bashing the NYT and giving a shout-out to shrill conservative apologist Noonan. At least he's open with his bias.

What Times is it?

Fred Brooks — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:02:22 GMT

Peggy Noonan deserves a Pulitzer? That syrupy, far right-wing, Reagan-fawning hack? What have you been smoking?

What Times is it?

Scott O, Madison, WI — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:02:36 GMT

Williams... seriously, are you touting Noonan's hack job? Wow, I thought you really did "get it." You and Noonan wouldn't recognize "gate 14" people if they clunked you on the head with them... completely out of touch with voters like me. Bowling, flag pins, reverends... puh-lease. How vapid do you think we are?

What Times is it?

Thomas Cassidy, Stamford, CT — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:02:51 GMT

Brian, this is some world class snark. Hilarious! I really have to hand it to you - you really had me going there for a moment. But the "curl up with this one" line really gives it away.

Your sarcastic riposte to Noonan's pernicious and vaguely racist column was spot-on. There is not better antidote for the kind of filth in Ms. Noonan's column than the kind of satire you so perfectly crafted with this blogpost.

I mean, you were being satiric, weren't you Brian?

Brian?

What Times is it?

John Doe, Seattle — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:04:43 GMT

Why don't you stay home every day, you hack.

By the way, adverbs ending in "ly" don't take a hyphen, Mr. Smarty Pants.

What Times is it?

R. Hatcher, Chicago — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:09:10 GMT

By knocking Elizabeth Edwards and heaping inexplicable praise on Peggy Noonan's latest right-wing screed, you've made your political leanings pretty clear. I don't think I'll be watching your broadcast again anytime soon.

What Times is it?

Robin, Peoria, IL — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:10:06 GMT

Brian, I suppose from a pure literary writing style, perhaps Peggy Noonan is fine. Unfortunately, once getting past style and on to content, it is the usual right wing character assassination. The script was written many years ago - snooty lefty Democrat vs. strong patriotic Republican. Just change the names every election, but the storyline remains constant. Can't believe you think that is worthy of anything other than the garbage, let alone a Pulitzer.

What Times is it?

M Sheppard, Los Angeles, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:11:09 GMT

Brian, are you auditioning for The Onion? If so, you need to sharpen up your satire a little bit. Peggy Noonan for the Pulitzer is knee slappingly funny, but why not make it the Nobel? Real exaggeration is one of the lifebloods of comedy. By just nominating her for a Pulitzer some of your readers may take you seriously. That would be a tragic mistake.

On the other hand, with posts like this, you are becoming the joke. And, considering your influence, it's not funny.

What Times is it?

Mike Zimbouski, Queens, NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:16:07 GMT

Another viewer who would like Mr. Williams to address the question of presenting retired generals and military experts as unbiased commentators on his program when it has been revealed that they were bring coached by the White House to deliver the Bush administration party line. Mr. Williams, I admired your fortitude in continuing to address the Katrina disaster long after the rest of the major news outlets lost interest in the story, and despite viewer complaints. I hope that you can summon some of the same determination to address this matter, however difficult it may be.

What Times is it?

Richard Hein — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:20:55 GMT

Peggy Noonan--elitist extraordinaire. . .
What annoyed me the most about the MSM-manufactured "Bittergate" affair was that right-wing elites, who haven't been near any working class enclaves in their lives, and who have purposely played on cultural hot buttons such as race, religion, and guns to win elections, have had the nerve to heap it on Obama for a few ill-considered remarks that were basically true.

Noonan's column is a prime example of this phenomenon. She studies the so-called normal folk from afar, miming faux outrage on their behalf at Obama, yet would be the first to attack him as less-than-masculine if he got misty-eyed about anything.

I guess nobody bothered to tell her, while she was getting all weepy about Henry Ford, that he was a vicious anti-Semite whose screeds about the Jews inspired some of Hitler's minions. But, then again, those kind of sentiments probably wouldn't bother her if Ford were alive today as long as he wore a flag pin on his lapel.

What Times is it?

David Lieberman, Salem, MA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:21:06 GMT

So you respond to valid complaints about the eager descent to utter triviality that you and your peers have indulged while we live through the wake of the single most destructive presidency in the last hundred and fifty years by -- chortling about the NYTimes Sunday style section? And touting the work of a columnist who can't figure out why some Americans might be a bit ambivalent about the legacy of Jew-baiting Henry Ford? Or why some other Americans might be ambivalent about the legacy of slave-holding George Washington?

Dumb as a post, Brian.

If you're prepared to offer a mea culpa about penguins (PENGUINS?!) how about some time spent on a reply to Stephen Goldberg's question, above? How could you not be utterly ashamed to have been made such a fool of by the Pentagon propaganda machine? And while you're busy laughing at the NYTimes, how about noticing that it was the Times that caught you and yours with your pants down? Or is that why you're so eager to run the paper down? Very grown-up of you. That story is the kind of reporting I expect from the Times, and I'm disappointed when I don't get it. From you and Russert and the rest of you overpaid intellectual and ethical lightweights, I expect nothing at all, and am therefore never disappointed.

Thanks for validating my decision never to take you seriously or lose thirty minutes of my life on your "news" broadcast.

What Times is it?

Dave, Tn — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:21:06 GMT

You could always balance things out with a story about how many paid shills for Soros have appeared on the networks in the last 7 years. A simple cure for the American left would be to have them all live in one area without armed guards and gated communities. What a Comedy Reality Show that would make.

What Times is it?

Erik Krauss, South Williamsport, PA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:22:37 GMT

Brian:
You have been reading the wrong parts of the New York Times. You evidently forgot to read the expose on how TV networks like yours have been hoodwinked by the Pentagon and how all these so-called analysts were just part of a disinformation scheme to sell the Iraq war. Yet all you can do is praise Peggy Noonan and criticize a few of the Times more silly stories. You are the person who deserves condemnation. You are the one who failed to do his job in getting at the truth in the Iraq story. You are the one who did not do the digging to find the truth of the matter. You are the one who will go down in history as being complicit in the failure of modern journalism to do its job in challenging what government tells us. You are the one who should be mocked, criticized, and ridiculed. And you have the nerve to criticize someone else's journalism. Instead of worrying about the speck in someone else's eye you should be working on dislodging the twig in yours.

What Times is it?

Leigh, Brentwood, Tennessee — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:23:35 GMT

I think Brian is Peggy Noonan's child. The way they speak has always reminded me of one another. Regarding the Times, I cannot imagine what our country would be without the newspaper. Rupert Murdoch (and, I guess Brian, too) would be a very happy man.

What Times is it?

Tom Ritchford — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:27:55 GMT

Glenn Greenwald's latest column attacks the vapidity of your "writing" here. I agree with every word of his; your comments, please?

The New York Times recently revealed that your network was using generals and ex-military men who were government shills to push the war; your comments, please?

If you really believe that Noonan's vapid writing has any value at all aside from the very Conservative stance, I feel deeply sorry for you. To continue to attack one candidate for not wearing a flag pin when NONE of the candidates do, just to pick one paragraph, is deeply biased.

What Times is it?

Dave, Davis CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:32:36 GMT

John McCain has patriotism in his bones, we're told, but not Obama. Does anyone else see a subtext that we can trust the red blooded (white) american, but not that foreign seeming guy whose bones are half kenyan? Is there any other point to this?

What Times is it?

Prescott Bush, New Haven, CT — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:35:23 GMT

peggy noonan is right -- we don't have enough respect for the likes of henry ford. sure he was an anti-semite who supported the nazis, but gol durn it he was an AMERICAN fascist! good going brian, you know who the real ptriots are.

What Times is it?

Chris Hoponick, Reston VA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:38:00 GMT

Peggy Noonan's article you reference is filled with the usual liberal-bashing tripe that she's good at except that this time it's focused on Obama rather than Obama and Clinton. If this is what you consider "good journalism," then I shudder to think of the meager pickings that are considered good journalism by the MSM...

What Times is it?

Pat Egan, Sault Ste Marie, MI — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:40:12 GMT

My mother was named Peggy Noonan before Peggy was.
I find this whole lighthearted jabbing a little disengenuous. Are you, Brian, hitting back at the people who uncovered the pentagon Pipeline stoirym, which would have deeply challeneged your journaistic credentials? Or do you feel a need to challenege an institution that itself has challeneged the truthiness of such efforts as the Patriot Act, the NSA surveillance and other NBC-missed stories?
Which news organization has created more credible, more significant breaks, NBC or the NYTs? Or Peggy Noonan?

What Times is it?

B Belltower — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:40:16 GMT

Are you kidding me? Peggy Noonan is your choice for a Pulitzer? with such insights as, "they're not questioning your patriotism, they're questioning its content, its fullness"? That's about a dishonest a statement as i've seen in print in, oh, about a week.
Brian, you betray your own political leanings with this nonsense...do you really believe that Peggy Noonan speaks for the "common people"? Or do you believe that you do, for that matter? You media people are so incredibly out-of-touch that I bet you do...
And how is it that Barack Obama, by Noonan's lights, does not appreciate American history while John McCain carries it "in his bones." This is utterly offensive drivel, but then you know from drivel...where were the stories on the Pentagon's propaganda push (aided and abetted by your network), or the meeting of WH principals on the torture of detainees (you know, real news)?
You are symptomatic of what's wrong witht the American media these days: privileged, powerful, obsessed with ratings, trivialities and often flat-out dishonest (by omission if nothing else); else how to explain the lack of reporting on the retired generals story? Was it not as "important" as Obama's pastor, Brian?
I am done with NBC News-- you've done your part in lowering the standards of a once-respected organization.

What Times is it?

Frank Schmitz — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:41:04 GMT

Did Brian Williams write this drivel or was it Barbara Raab?

Brian (if you did write that blog posting): it is elitists such as you (with gold-plated health care) who wax and muse forever (and to the benefit of the GOP) about a candidate's "feelings" about intangibles rather than their concrete (or lack thereof) proposals on health care, free trade, Iraq, etc.

You and the entire professinal, millionaire press corps have failed over the past couple of decades at the to perform the very basic need of journalism in a democracy: clear-eyed, factual reporting.

I've recently noted another (al la 2001) uptick in shark-attack reporting.

Frank: I'm Barbara Raab, I'm a member of the Nightly News staff, and I can assure you that Brian writes everything that says "By Brian Williams," including this and every other blog entry under his byline.

What Times is it?

Kathy, Denver, Colorado (Another of those states west of New Jersey) — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:41:49 GMT

Brian:

WHY ARE YOU HATING ON NEW MEXICO?!?

Sorry to shout, but seriously. I used to think you were cool.

What Times is it?

Bill, Detroit, MI — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:43:39 GMT

Brian,
Whats the matter? Are you just upset at the New York Times for outing you and other networks as mouthpieces for the government's military propaganda? Interesting how you have failed to mention this scandal on your cloying nightly newscasts.
Noonan is a gasbag who was inevitably going to question Obama's patriotism b/c that's what Republican shills do. You think that someone who suggests that Obama ought to get misty eyed at the thought of Henry Ford is deserving of a Pulitzer? That's a laugh. Ford was one of the great racists of that century. Does Noon, or do you for that matter, really think that ANYONE ought to get misty over the thought of a man who admired Hitler and loathed Jews?

What Times is it?

Paul Carson, Birmingham, Ala. — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:45:58 GMT

Well, Brian, I have to say that you've showed the level of your thinking. If you can't find something in The New York Times that will hold your attention, perhaps you should ask the other news readers on your show -- for the most part, all they do is parrot what is in the Times, though they may wait a few days to try to mask it as original reporting. The Times and other print media so obviously set the agenda for TV, it's just disingenuous for you to claim anything else.

What Times is it?

Tom Ritchford — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:52:30 GMT

And a few notes on Ms. Noonan's writing.

It takes no "courage" to side with the conservatives these days; in fact, it's hard to identify even one national columnist who isn't a shill for the Republicans.

Peggy Noonan writes at an eighth grade level; her English is riddled with mistakes; she eschews logic in favor of sentiment; and all of this always in the service of permanent war, forever. You're not doing yourself a favor by studying her work.

If you want to learn about writing, why not read Winston Churchill's historicals? He's a "great conservative thinker" so you won't have to sully your mind with anyone who isn't on the far Right, and he's a real writer with a command of the English language.

Once you've had Churchill's meat, you won't want Noonan's grade D ground round.

What Times is it?

Glenn — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:54:07 GMT

Hey, Brian, before snidely remarking on the NYT decline in subscriptions, have you paid any attention to the decline in the number of Americans who watch network "news"?

Here it is:

"The combined average audience for the big-three evening newscasts in 1980 was about 53 million viewers. By the fall of 2006, when Couric was getting ready to make the jump from NBC's "Today" show, the three national evening newscasts had a combined audience of about 27 million viewers.

How's that for a trend line? The evening newscasts lost about half of their audience over 26 years. They lost viewers at a rate of 1 million a year, and they're still losing them. Last week, according to numbers Nielsen released Tuesday, the combined audience was 21.5 million."

http://www.cleveland.com/tv/index.ssf/2008/04/cbs_news_ratings_woes_arent_al.html

So, you and your pals have seen your viewership decline from 53 million to 27 million. Not much to brag about there.

What Times is it?

Hi — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:54:09 GMT

Noonan a great writer?

Yes, Brian, like Bush is a great president.

You've proven to me, yet again, of the shallow, sloppy thinking that dominates the MSM. (and maybe explains the fall off in network news viewers. Perhaps you should be less concerned with the NYT's readership and fix your own problems.)

What Times is it?

KMF,Hastings on Hudson,NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:54:13 GMT

Brian Williams nominates Peggy Noonan for a Pulitzer Prize
The WSJ column hailed by the NBC anchor as "a splendid piece of journalism" has to be read to be believed.

Glenn Greenwald

Apr. 29, 2008 | (updated below - Update II)

One of the greatest benefits of the proliferation of blogging is that its unedited, less restrained format tends to unmask people. Unbenownst to most of the world, NBC News anchor Brian Williams maintains a blog, and his one entry from yesterday reveals more about him than all of the profiles and cover stories combined.

Williams -- in a rant that would make Rush Limbaugh proud -- devotes his first six paragraphs to bashing the New York Times (h/t ck). He begins by taking note of the superb Op-Ed by Elizabeth Edwards in this Sunday's NYT "bemoaning the lack of serious, in-depth coverage of the political race" (headline: "Bowling 1, Health Care 0") -- in which Edwards, to the apparent chagrin of Brian Williams, highlights how our establishment media's election coverage is obsessed with empty trivialities at the expense of substantive coverage. Williams snidely noted that "the New York Times Sunday (and weekday) circulation is down" and then spent multiple paragraphs mocking the Sunday edition's articles ("it's tough to figure out exactly what readers the paper is speaking to, or seeking").

But after that, the NBC anchor pronounced:

On the other hand, one sparkling piece of journalism (which touched on a lot of themes frequent readers of this space will recognize) was by Peggy Noonan in this weekend's Wall Street Journal. Curl up with this one and give it the quality time it deserves. I'll say it again: Peggy is doing the work of her career and must be considered an early favorite for next cycle's Pulitzer for commentary.

Let's take a look at the specific Noonan WSJ column that Williams -- a leading figure in America's Liberal Media -- singled out as an example of brilliant and inspiring commentary. Written before the latest media outbreak of Jeremiah-Wright-Fever, it features such insightful, innovative gems as this:

Main thought. Hillary Clinton is not Barack Obama's problem. America is Mr. Obama's problem. He has been tagged as a snooty lefty, as the glamorous, ambivalent candidate from Men's Vogue, the candidate who loves America because of the great progress it has made in terms of racial fairness. Fine, good. But has he ever gotten misty-eyed over . . . the Wright Brothers and what kind of country allowed them to go off on their own and change everything? How about D-Day, or George Washington, or Henry Ford, or the losers and brigands who flocked to Sutter's Mill, who pushed their way west because there was gold in them thar hills? There's gold in that history.

John McCain carries it in his bones. Mr. McCain learned it in school, in the Naval Academy, and, literally, at grandpa's knee. Mrs. Clinton learned at least its importance in her long slog through Arkansas, circa 1977-92.

Mr. Obama? What does he think about all that history? Which is another way of saying: What does he think of America? That's why people talk about the flag pin absent from the lapel. They wonder if it means something. Not that the presence of the pin proves love of country -- any cynic can wear a pin, and many cynics do. But what about Obama and America? Who would have taught him to love it, and what did he learn was loveable, and what does he think about it all?

Another challenge. Snooty lefties get angry when you ask them to talk about these things. They get resentful. Who are you to question my patriotism? But no one is questioning his patriotism, they're questioning its content, its fullness. Gate 14 has a right to hear this. They'd lean forward to hear.

"Gate 14" refers to The People -- the Regular Folk -- Noonan studied like zoo animals the last time she was in an airport ("Gate 14 is small-town America, a mix, a group of people of all classes and races brought together and living in close proximity until the plane is called"). Now she knows what they think. She speaks for them, of course. And what they want to know is whether Barack Obama loves America.

How trite, inane, and McCarthyite is this dreary right-wing pablum -- even for Peggy Noonan? One can barely begin to count the ways (to note just one, FDL's Blue Texan observed the oddity, to put it generously, of Noonan demanding to know whether Obama cries Patriotism Tears when he thinks of Henry Ford, of all people). But Brian Williams, leading news anchor in The Liberal Media, found that specific commentary and the insipid right-wing polemicist who spawned it to be "sparkling," worthy of a Pulitzer, something you should "curl up with" and "give it the quality time it deserves."

Elizabeth Edwards' Op-Ed critiquing our media's vapidity prompts multiple paragraphs of trite NYT bashing. Peggy Noonan's insistence that Barack Obama's love of America is in question among the Gate 14 crowd (in contrast to the Ultimate Patriot John McCain) -- a column that is dumb and disgusting in exactly equal measure -- prompts a Pulitzer nomination from our leading News Anchor and deep praise. That's because we have a Liberal Media.

UPDATE: As several commenters both here and at Williams' own blog have pointed out, it's hardly surprising that Williams would be bashing the Sunday NYT given that, just two weeks ago, it was that paper's edition which revealed that Williams' network continuously fed government propaganda to its viewers by repeatedly featuring the Pentagon's and defense industry's pre-programmed, controlled retired Generals and presenting them as "independent" military analysts.

Williams has been a central part of the media blackout of that story. Not only did NBC News refuses to comment on the story, but Williams himself has not even mentioned it once, nor has anyone on his entire network (including, with the exception of a brief reference from Keith Olbermann, MSNBC). So his viewers have absolutely no idea that a major expose revealed that the sources used by NBC News were anything other than what they were presented to be -- omissions so glaring that it even prompted angry condemnation yesterday from Howard Kurtz.

Yet Williams, while failing even to acknowledge that story which implicates the core integrity of his network, instead bashes the Sunday NYT which exposed it and touts Peggy Noonan for a Pulitzer for her banal, malicious meanderings over Barack Obama's lapel pin. It's ironic how Williams began by subtly dismissing Elizabeth Edwards' critique of our sorry political media only to then proceed to exemplify her core critique perfectly.

UPDATE II: It's particularly odd that Williams would snidely employ the right-wing weapon of "circulation decline" to bash the NYT in light of this:

Network evening newscasts collectively lose about a million viewers a year. (This year they've lost 1.2 million, helped along by the writers strike.) Revenue is going down in lockstep: the three network evening newscasts reap about $100 million in ad revenue apiece, but are declining at about 2% a year.

And this:

The combined average audience for the big-three evening newscasts in 1980 was about 53 million viewers. By the fall of 2006, when Couric was getting ready to make the jump from NBC's "Today" show, the three national evening newscasts had a combined audience of about 27 million viewers.

How's that for a trend line? The evening newscasts lost about half of their audience over 26 years. They lost viewers at a rate of 1 million a year, and they're still losing them. Last week, according to numbers Nielsen released Tuesday, the combined audience was 21.5 million.

Few institutions have lost as much popularity and credibility over the years as network news programs. Those don't really seem to be metrics that Brian Williams ought to be touting to bash media outlets which expose the corruption of his network.

What Times is it?

Charles Keating — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:55:05 GMT

who has more military service under his belt, jeremiah wright or bush, cheney, nooner, reagan and brian williams combined? come on, this is an easy one.

What Times is it?

ted disante — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:00:08 GMT

Mr Williams criticizes a great newspaper because they have some fluff stories on weekends. He lazily ignores the actual news stories, and simply ignores Eliz. Edwards' artful & correct criticisms. Here's why: Mr Williams is simply mad at the NYT because it had a recent expose proving that networks like his (NBC) were complicit with a Pentagon Psych-Ops campaign to slant war coverage with ethically compromised ex-generals. In effect, NBC is in the DISINFORMATION BUSINESS. Further proof is that he extolls Peggy Noonan as some sort of Great Writer, when in actuality she is the Leni Reifenstahl of the Republican Right -- a stylistic wordsmith in the service of very bad ideas.

What Times is it?

Jim, Peoria — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:03:05 GMT

The only brilliant feature of Noonan's piece is her ablity to disguise her warmed-over McCarthyism in elegant prose. I have to admit, duping a network news anchor into lauding it as Pulitzer-worthy is quite impressive.

What Times is it?

Luke, Philadelphia, PA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:03:19 GMT

Peggy Noonan should be read for ironic value only. Her misty-eyed pro-Bush pro-war treacle that we've had to put up with for seven years has zero journalistic value, and so your Pulitzer mention simply must be a joke.

As for the merits of her piece, I sure hope Barack Obama doesn't tear up when he thinks about Henry Ford, the Nazi-sympathizing union-busting automaker.

Noonan's continued hyping of the flag pin story is cynical character assassination and projection. Who is she to question *Obama's* patriotism when she had her own part in advocating getting our military stuck in Iraq, with thousands killed, thousands wounded, an overstretched and breaking military, corruption rampant, and no viable exit strategy??? The people cynically displaying their flag pins who put us in that situation are the real traitors, squandering our blood and treasure in pursuit of their political fortune and theirs and their friends' monetary interests. They ignore our returning soldiers, ignore the harm they have done, and dare to point the finger at the person who (like so many of us but who did not have a voice in 2002-2003) was actually right about Iraq and demonstrated sound strategic thinking.

People like you should not be voicing your support for this nonsense.

And where is your coverage of the propoganda via retired generals and officers, which the NYTimes reported your network and others were taken in by? (and honestly, wasn't it obvious to you in 2003-04 that most of these guys were spinning?) ABC embeds reporters with the troops; the US govt embeds its agents with ABC and the rest of the mainstream press.

What Times is it?

benjoya, brooklyn, NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:03:32 GMT

the other commenters make a good point. where is NBC's coverage of the pentagon plants in the media? i guess that's a stupid question when the network (and its anchor) are owned by a defense contractor.

What Times is it?

Mike Brady, Cedar Falls, Iowa — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:11:02 GMT

Brian,
I am astonished that you cite that Noonan piece with approval. The idea that Barak Obama needs to show that he loves Sutter's Mill and Henry Ford is derranged.
As an initial matter if Obama, like Noonan, called the 49ers "losers and brigands," the folks on the right would have a field day calling him unpatriotic.
With respect to Henry Ford, The inventor of the Model-T, mass production, and the weekend was an unabashed anti-Semite. He is infamous for his essays on what he called "The Jewish Problem in America." These essays were published in book form and were an influence on Baldur von Shirach, leader of the Hitler Youth, according to von Shirach's testimony at the Nuremberg Trials. The idea that Obama, or for that matter Noonan, should hold Henry Ford up as an example of love for America is flat out crazy. Also, Noonan's screed clearly implies that it is impossible for someone from Illinois, the Land of Lincoln, to love America. Noon writes that "Mr. McCain learned it in school, in the Naval Academy, and, literally, at grandpa's knee. Mrs. Clinton learned at least its importance in her long slog through Arkansas, circa 1977-92." the insinuation here is that it is impossible to acquire affection for the history of the United States in the states of Illinois, Massachusetts, or Connecticut, where Senator Clinton lived before she lived in Arkansas.
Noonan continues in this vein with "Mr. Obama? What does he think about all that history? Which is another way of saying: What does he think of America? That's why people talk about the flag pin absent from the lapel. They wonder if it means something. Not that the presence of the pin proves love of country—any cynic can wear a pin, and many cynics do. But what about Obama and America? Who would have taught him to love it, and what did he learn was loveable, and what does he think about it all?"
Noonan's real point is obvious, She is mentioning the flab pin for the same reason that Henry Ford complained that a yarmulke on Bernard Baruch's head. Baruch was the Other because he was Jewish. Obama is the Other because of his race. Under the guise of asking whether Obama is patriotice enough,Noonan's column suggests that an African-American must be assumed unpatriotic until proven otherwise. Rather than applaud this column I wish you would have condemned it as the ravings of a bigoted moron who believes that xenophobia is patriotism. Why a member of the working press should pose such an idiotic question is not easy to understand. Why you cite this disgusting tripe as pulitzer worthy is impossible to comprehend and disappointing.

What Times is it?

Glenn, Columbia, MD — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:11:40 GMT

Brian,

Your insightful analysis of the substance of the NYT comes from your reading, or at least highlighting of, the paper's Style and Travel sections? Do you think were idiots? How about commenting on the Time's article having to do with your network's use of Pentagon propagandists, disguised as dis-interested, purely objective and impartial "experts"?

What Times is it?

Mike, Seattle, Wash. — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:13:37 GMT

Noonan deserves a Pulizter for regurgitating the usual media-spawned "narrative" that "lefties" are "elitist"? Give me a break.

What Times is it?

Rob Jacobs, Jarretsville, Maryland — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:13:49 GMT

I find this weird beyond belief. Mr. Williams-- do you really think it's appropriate to keep a personal blog on MSNBC where you can spout off your political ideas (and they are political)? You're an anchor... and your supposed to be a journalist-- do you have no sense of shame? Can you imagine someone like Walter Cronkite doing this when he was America's top anchor? We expect you to bring us the news-- not your opinions. Is that too much to ask? I'm tired of journalists-- and I use that term provisionally-- spinning their personal ideas into things.
Now I'll be surprised if this comment makes it through the gatekeepers-- it doesn't gush "Oh Mr. Williams!" But if it does make it through I have a dare for you Mr. Williams. Respond to my comment. Tell me why I'm wrong. I dare you Mr. Williams-- heck I double dare you. Shameless.

What Times is it?

H. Smith, Minneapolis, MN — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:16:41 GMT

As Anchor and Managing Editor, when you own up to the use of retired Generals on your network (and in the media at large) in the ramp up to the most unjustified military action this country has ever undertaken, then perhaps I will take an interest in your recommendations for a Pulitzer Prize.

On second thought, when it comes to the blah-blah-blah tripe of Peggy Noonan, never mind. Your opinion on her writings and chances for a Pulitzer Prize had led me to switch you and your program off my channel for good.

For the good of the country, take one for the team - step down, switch yourself off, and hand over the reins to someone who provides a more 'fair and balanced' perspective. I'm sure Fox has room for someone with your insights and objectivity.

What Times is it?

Rich — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:18:26 GMT

Peggy Noonan ought to be doing commentary on your broadcast. Or maybe Ann Coulter. Michael Savage would be great too, if he can restrain himself just a teensy bit.

It would be a terrific way to show people where you're at politically, just in case anyone thinks you're unbiased and not just another wingnut.

What Times is it?

Neil Baltimore, MD — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:23:39 GMT

Brian,
I suggest you read Timothy Noah's recent piece in Slate on Noonan and then tell us if you come to teh same conclusions.

What Times is it?

M. T. Rea, Blacksburg, VA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:25:00 GMT

Dear Sir,
You strike me as a funny guy, usually. I quite like your giant head on The Daily Show, for example. But this is a fairly stupid entry. Readers agree with Edwards. Not Noonan. I'm "Gate 14," except of course that I teach critical thinking. And I suggest you take a critical look at what you are saying. Noonan's piece is out of touch, we don't revere McCain, and your (not your personally, but the media's) craven pandering to the Idiocracy won't disappear because you prefer not to think about it. Weren't you taught to be critical and objective? Or is that only about haircuts and flag pins.
The real problem with this administration is that you can't learn from your mistakes if you don't recognize them. So sit in your kitchen watching NASCAR, if you like, in your restored farmhouse. But if you don't experience a bit of a shiver when you see ol' George claiming that history will vindicate him (pace historians), you are living in your own little bubble. Good journalists, I would think, would wish to turn the tide of the decline of your profession.
Perhaps you would like to ruminate about why newspapers and t.v. news are declining. As part of the system, you *appear* blind to the fact that the system sucks. So make fun of people who want substance, and blogs, on your blogs.
Reaction formation isn't just for Larry Craig.
Best wishes.

What Times is it?

Abiodun, Charlottesville, VA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:27:14 GMT

I wonder why Mr Williams did not mention the decline in viewership on the evening news, the decline in advertizing,etc. while piling on the NYT. And did your network not feed us propaganda from retired military brass?
Maybe you should go back to covering Spears, Wright and other faux-controversies while you ignore all the issues plaguing this country, that will be hard work.
And pls do not insult my intelligence by nominating Noonan's tripe for a Pulitzer, while trashing a thoughtful article on health care by Edwards(by the way, McCain got govt health care his entire life), and impugning Obama's patriotism.

What Times is it?

Colleen , Bethlehem PA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:27:41 GMT

There are so many dissenting voices that have been silenced by the corporate media that it shocks people when a dissenting voice like Rev Wright finally is heard.

I hope Rev Wright starts to speak about the use of torture which has been called an "intrinsic evil" by main stream churches. Never heard of that? Well it happened in January 2008 and never made it to the corporate media

United Methodists Join Anti-Torture Campaign
http://www.religionandsocialpolicy.org/news/article.cfm?id=7824

or maybe he could talk about a nation that waged a war for profit (the oil in Iraq) and killed hundreds of thousands because of greed. Or maybe he could talk about the health care systems that are universal and successful in other western nations...while the US is mired in power plays between special interest groups like the insurance companies.

So much for Rev Wright to speak about..where could he begin? But at last the dissent has broken through with someone. Well Wright was invited to speak at the reporter's dinner because some wanted to weaken Obama. What better way to do that than to give Wright a platform?

Use that platform Rev Wright and talk about how corrupt this nation has been and call for an impeachment!

(Calling for an impeachment will get him off the stage...because the US is very very corrupt..and not following its own laws...and there is no free press in the corporate owned media)

What Times is it?

Bill Batten — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:30:26 GMT

Regarding Mr. Williams current blog entry in which he criticizes the New York Times after they outed his and other major networks for selling government propaganda to push the Iraq invasion, nothing answers his absurd opinion of the grusome Peggy Noonan column than Glenn Greenwald's most recent blog entry at Salon.com. I highly suggest that anyone who believes Brian Williams to be an honest journalist read Glenn Greenwald and, for good measure, Bob Somerby over at Daily Howler. People need to understand what a colossal phony Brian Williams is.

What Times is it?

Bill Stockton — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:33:46 GMT

I come from the pioneer stock that Peggy Noonan touted as exemplary of the American spirit. My family were the first (Stephens-Murphy party) to bring cattle and wagons over the pass at Truckee where the Donners were later trapped. I have a very deep sense of the history of this country. It is a history of slavery, genocide and xenophobia. Henry Ford was in business with the Nazis and believed as they did. If she and John McCain and their ilk want to cling to the myths of Manifest Destiny and the beneficent Captains of Industry of the Hoover Era into the new century , and wear the blinders that are required to buy into such claptrap, that is understandable. Their positions require it.

Until you cited Ms. Noonan's article as exemplary of good journalism, I believed you were a serious journalist who could see past the type of hype and hypocrisy that she dispenses on a regular basis. She is not a journalist. She was Ronald Reagan's wordsmith and is partisan to her very core. I will regard your ability to discern truth from propaganda as suspect from now on.

What Times is it?

Richard, Seattle — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:36:08 GMT

You include a report on Miley Cyrus pictures and cize the New York Times for ITS coverage?

What Times is it?

Jack James, Chapel Hill, NC — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:37:20 GMT

Before you nominate Peggy Noonan for the Pulitzer, , Mr. Williams, read ALL of her writings, especially the generally gratuitous, polemical right wing dribble she passes off as "journalism." She no more deserves a Pulitzer than Rush Limbaugh; do you think he deserves one too? Thanks for your nomination, though, it helps me decide what nightly news NOT to watch - NBC.

What Times is it?

Leslie, Durham, NC — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:37:42 GMT

I had no idea Brian Williams was such a partisan. Singling out that shallow, disingenuous column by Peggy Noonan premised on the same rightwing cant (with no evidence!) that the Democratic candidate is fundamentally less "American" than the Republican? Suggesting Obama can't appreciate America's history of hard work ethic and business acumen and bravery because he's black and can only see race? Wowza.

We have to do something to end the corporate control of the media, which produces shallow mouthpieces reading soundbites they can't even understand as constructing rightwing narratives serving an oligarchy that is hurting our country.

What Times is it?

Chr.Sweet,NY,NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:39:58 GMT

I held out for NBC news, but now see it too is in the hands of right wing flunkies. Why not comment on the NYT's article exposing the Pentagon's propaganda program in which NBC News is complicit? One less NBC News viewer here.

What Times is it?

Ross P Chicago ill — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:42:00 GMT

I stopped reading Noonan after the "Where's Sally" piece about Bush! She claimed in the artcle "that Bush is the type of guy who would go to a neghbors house after a fire and ask "where is Sally?" Vapid, banal, crap. How about covering the massive contractor fraud in the war you sold us?...rather than "where is Sally," bowling scores and lapel pins?

What Times is it?

Rob Jacobs, Jarrettsville, Maryland — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:47:51 GMT

P.S. I love the "I saw the first 50 laps at Talladega from the comfort of my kitchen" You're such a regular guy! You just like an everyday Nascar dad! Except you make 8 million dollars a year and exist in a strata of society so rarified that I bet you couldn't tell us how much a gallon of milk costs.
I don't begrudge you your success-- I really don't. But spare us the condescension. We get enough of it through the mainstream media as it is. Talladega! That made me cackle.

What Times is it?

Robert Full, Homewood, IL — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:49:24 GMT

I don't think I'll ever be watching NBC nightly news again. You promote right wing tripe from the WSJ and noonan, use the travel/style section to criticize the NYT....and yet, totally ignore a really substantive story last from Sunday's NYT.

Shame. on. you. You've been by Peter Jennings replacement, now I don't think i'll watch any evening news. I'm gonna tell everyone I can about you.

What Times is it?

Rob, Maine — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:53:11 GMT

Yikes, readers just joining us from the rest of the blogosphere need to learn that Daily Nightly readers keep a level of civility here.

Asking Brian what he thinks about the NYT military analysts story is legitimate; attacking him is not. Do people actually think that calling someone a "hack" will persuade them to reconsider their opinions in any way?

What Times is it?

Bill Batten — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:53:35 GMT

Wise up, people. Of course Brian Williams is serious about his admiration for Peggy Noonan. That's exactly where this $10 million a year elitist is coming from. He lives on his wife's family's multi-million dollar historic Conneticutt farm. He hob-nobs with the rich and famous. He cocktails with the powerful. He drives a $100K sportscar... and, of course, he speaks for the working class. Riiiiigggght!

What Times is it?

Walt Askier , Ann Arbor, MI — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:55:03 GMT

A quick perusal of the index to Sunday's Times shows the following stories:

* Elite Korean Schools, Forging Ivy League Skills
* In Argentina’s Grain Belt, Farmers Revolt Over Taxes
* Allegations Lead Army to Review Arms Policy
* Toronto Transit Workers Strike Suddenly, Stranding Thousands
* Chávez Agrees to Help U.S. Official Negotiate for FARC Captives
* Fighting in Sadr City Cuts Short Effort to Collect Trash
* Hamas Chief Sees Truce as a ‘Tactic’
* ECONOMIC VIEW; Freer Trade Could Fill the World’s Rice Bowl
* Saddled With Legacy of Dioxin, Town Considers an Odd Ally: The Mushroom
* 4 Bodies Discovered in South Carolina
* 3 Candidates With 3 Financial Plans, but One Deficit
* McCain Frequently Used Wife’s Jet for Little Cost
* Letters Give C.I.A. Tactics a Legal Rationale
* Navy Limits Applications for Its Nominations to Space Program
* After Killings, Escorts for Chicago Students
* After Quake, Reno Told to Brace for Stronger One
* Soldier’s Remains Are Returned Home

But Mr Williams instead turned directly to the stories about the "Sex Chair" and nude beaches. I think this says more about his reading habits than any shortcomings on the part of the Times. It's exactly this emphasis on the vacuous exhibited by Mr Williams that has caused me to give up on TV news.

What Times is it?

Andrew Rodgers, Philadelphia, PA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:58:52 GMT

I wonder if Ms. Noonan is weeping for SLAVERY!!!

Putlizer? I wouldn't recommend this for fish wrap!

When are you going to mention that other NYT article - you know the one about how your network paraded the Pentagon propagandists across our screens?

What Times is it?

Berkley Wilson, New York, NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:59:39 GMT

Brian,

Spot on! I completely agree with your assessment of the recent Sunday New York Times. It was in the recycle bag early. I'm starting to think the reason for a declining circulation has more to do with the content.

What Times is it?

A. Chilton — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:05:10 GMT

Noonan's piece that Brian Williams finds deserving of Pulitzer consideration is deserving of derision. She speaks of America as one who is qualified to speak of it and for it, to castigate Obama for unamerican qualities, for not loving America enough.

Tell me, Brian, was it love of America that caused your network to be part of the propaganda for the Iraq war? Was it love out of love for America that causes you to refuse to explain the use of military analysts who were acting as 'force multipliers' for the Pentagon?

http://mediamatters.org/items/200804250003?f=s_search

What Times is it?

Carrie D.Howard 220 Raymond St Statesboro, Georgia — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:09:58 GMT

Hi Mr Williams I love the way you report the news.
and may i just say these words, about senator obama.
I'm not for any one else that is runnung for president
I'am for Obama.
Thanks again.

What Times is it?

Maureen S Essex Jct, VT — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:11:02 GMT

Thanks Mr. Williams for confirming the absolute vapidness of our "liberal" press by recommending the drivel written by Noonan. Crying over Henry Ford??? Really...??? God what a load of crap. Please, continue focusing on the drivel which is currently be disemminated by our oh so esteemed press corp by the truckload to the American people. It just makes it that much easier to not seek my news from NBC or any of the other networks. You take obvious pleasure in bashing the NYT after a remarkable piece of journalism appeared in their paper last week exposing the MSM, including you, as little more than propaganda puppets for the Pentagon in pushing this misbegotten war in Iraq. Mmmm...no comment from you or NBC to date. So let me get this straight....death and destruction in Iraq on a MASSIVE scale...not such a problem. Noonan writes a bunch of tripe about flag pins and who should be misty eyed over the Wright Bros and Henry Ford and if they aren't then they must be considered UNPATRIOTIC... and well, damn, you think she deserves a Pulitzer Prize. God, how idiotic. As long as the American people continue to just lap up what the press feeds them without any kind of critical thinking you've got it made. You don't fool me, though and you are fooling less and less of the American people as demonstrated by the continual fall in network news ratings. I live in the real world Mr. Williams. People getting incensed over who wears a flag pin or not has zero consequence on my life. A trillion dollar war in Iraq along with an economy in the toilet ,on the other hand, is of great concern to me. Better Journalists....PLEASE!!!!!!

What Times is it?

walter mack — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:20:24 GMT

Brian:
I must compliment you on your ability to conceal your Limbaugh-like political tendencies for so long. Not that I watch network news much anymore (I must be among the half of your audience that you guys have lost over the past couple decades), but I was under the impression that you retained some vestigial understanding of middle class America from your youth. Thanks for clearing up that misperception.

What Times is it?

Andy Olsen, Madison, Wisconsin — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:29:41 GMT

So Williams likes the former Reagan speech writers piece where she trolls out the right wing bashing points.

Hey, Williams! We got it! You're a conservbative! No wonder you've done so well in the jounarmalism ecosystem! You've got your rewards for spiking the news with right wing slant.

Just don't give us any lectures on the independence of journalism. Instead, tell us how rich you are, how much money you pocketed from Bush's tax cuts from the wealthy. Come clean!

What Times is it?

Steve from Colchester Vermont — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:30:09 GMT

Brian Williams has lost his mind and my respect.

What Times is it?

David, Dallas, TX — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:32:00 GMT

Glenn say it better than anyone: Brian Williams is a Corporate Tool.

http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/

What Times is it?

Allan, Folsom, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:33:45 GMT

Brian Williams' writing reeks of elitist disdain. Here's what I get from his commentary:

The NY Times is becoming such a tacky and common paper, devoting all this space that should be given over to fawning over those of us who run America instead of writing about the "little people" and their common little lives.

And all this sex talk. My my, I'm getting the vapors. Homosexuals flaunting their weddings. Sex chairs.

It just makes me glad that there's a limo waiting outside to ferry me back and forth to work. And I hope that the common people I avoid believe what I'm telling them they think about Obama.

What Times is it?

Rob Jacobs, Jarrettsville, Maryland — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:35:09 GMT

So I went and read Peggy Noonan’s article—you know, the “sparkling piece of journalism” that deserves a Pulitzer. You’re joking right? Have our standards dropped so far that we now consider that kind of sentimental clichéd (McCain has America “in his bones”—when I read that sentence I almost blew coffee through my nose) prose worthy of Pulitzer talk? What would Mencken have made of that article? He would have eviscerated it—and not because of its politics—but simply because it’s bad writing. There was a time in this country when journalists were admired for their reporting and writing skills. Peggy Noonan wants to know if Mr. Obama gets misty eyed. What a joke. I find it offensive that you promote “journalists” based on their political views and then cherry-pick the most inane articles from the Times and suggest that they are irrelevant. That’s absurd and unethical. You should be promoting the finest writing and reporting—regardless of the politics. You have betrayed your profession Mr. Williams.

What Times is it?

D, Seattle WA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:35:42 GMT

Obviously, Mr. Williams, you didn't read the everything in the NYT. Next you'll be wondering where is the comic page.

What Times is it?

Andy Olsen, Madison, Wisconsin — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:39:32 GMT

When will NBC tell it's viewers about how you carried prpaganda water for the Pentagon in their campaign to lie to the American people about the Iraq occupation? END THE BLACKOUT ON THE MILITARY ADVISERS SCANDAL!

What about it, Williams? Can you handle the truth? You were played by Rumsfeld and Clarke. Is this why you attack the NY Times?

By the way, how is your veiwership faring, pal?

What Times is it?

Barry, Darien, Ct. — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:40:54 GMT

to "live[] in a restored farmhouse in Connecticut where he parks his 477-horsepower black Porsche GT2 (that is, when he's not decamping on the Upper East Side)"

Barack Obama? Nope. Just Plain Folks? Nope. You? Bingo.

Why do you think you're just like Joe Sixpack, when you're really Joe SixFigures?

What Times is it?

Tom Lynch, Elizabeth, NJ — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:45:23 GMT

The problem with America is you. You should't be allowed to appear on NBC. Your views are more likened to Fix News. You, Matthews keep bringing up Rev. Wright and say he Obama's problem. Well I'm a white man and i understand his comments.

Iknow you think it's heresy to suggest that 911 was somewhat our own fault but it was! Now don't get me wrong, I think the act was indefensable but we have to bear some responsibility as our policies have been screwing that area of the world for decades.

Do you recall that the US government intentionally infected black men with syphillus just to see what the disease would do to them. We're talking about years. I know that was a long time ago, but it goes to show that can't trust this government and we can't trust you.

Icould go on and on but it's probably useless as you're so full of yourself you wouldn't care. If you can't say somethig nice about the candidates, SHUT-UP.

What Times is it?

theWalrus — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:45:41 GMT

Hi Polly...good comment! Glenn Greenwald sums up this blog entry by Brian very nicely at his blog on salon - worth reading!

What Times is it?

Tom Lynch, Elizabeth, NJ — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:45:55 GMT

What Times is it?

Colleen, Bethlehem PA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:46:19 GMT

NBC is a propaganda tool.

Williams role is to deliver the viewers and get them to agree with the corporate owners of NBC.

Rupert Murdock recently bought the Wall Street Journal and Murdoch has stated he is competing against the NY Times. The NY times is losing revenue and is under attack from the right wing.

Noonan and Williams are a part of that attack upon the NY Times.

The US is in deep trouble and the problem is from within with the attack upon the free press.

There should be an investigation into the role of NBC in the psy ops program run by the Pentagon in the run up to the Iraq War..along with the suppression by NBC of those voices who said the war would be a disaster..

What Times is it?

Rich , North Haven, CT — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:51:21 GMT

Brian: How dissapointing that you would deride Mrs. Edwards' fine article in the NYT by selecting peripheral "soft news" articles to ridicule and then to pivot to an endorsement of Peggy Noonan's WSJ column telling Sen Obama how he can demonstrate his love of America. Get "misty eyed" over Sutter's Mill? What tripe.

When you and/or your network have addressed your complicity in the use of retired generals who shilled for the administration at the outset of the war as exposed by the NYT, will I consider that you have the credibility to opine on the Times and its standards.

What Times is it?

Sid Austin — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:59:14 GMT

Very good question. One that corporate lapdog Brian Williams and his dreary network will avoid like the plague.

Okay, what about the PREVIOUS sunday's Times story?

You know, the one about the Pentagon and you guys in the news networks? The one your network has so far refused to answer any questions about, even for PBS?

What Times is it?

Mitch, New York City — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:00:40 GMT

Wow, Brian ... very selective reading ... you picked eight or so articles in a backbreakingly heavy Sunday paper that had hundreds of stories to choose from, ranging from deadly serious to lighthearted. And that limited selection, to you, is enough to label the paper as having nothing to read? And I notice that you primarily focussed on lifestyle stories in lifestyle sections rather than any actual news stories ... a bit nearsighted, no?

What Times is it?

B. Lum — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:04:30 GMT

God, any chance of bringing back Tom Brokaw to replace pomposity with a clear-eyed perspective?

What Times is it?

Derek Whipp, Portland, OR — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:09:44 GMT

Brian's article was very depressing. He bashes those who want better coverage and extols those who want to talk more about lapel pins. Great. More lapel pin discussion for us all. We recently learned that the Pentagon put miltary analysts on the networks to intentionally spread disinformation. Not a single network has discussed it, because it involves them. I guess B.W. and Noonan know what "normal" people care about: bowling scores!

What Times is it?

Melissa Winnipeg Canada — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:10:09 GMT

Hi Brian,
It was a very funny blog posting yesterday....really enjoyed it. I had never heard of Peggy Noonan (have heard of The Wall St. Journal).Thanks for the links to great articles etc. I then saw Peggy this am on Morning Joe. It was great to put a face to a name.
I hope that the weather is better in NYC today.

What Times is it?

Joyce McGowan — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:12:45 GMT

Mr. Williams,

Peggy Noonan is a right-wing mouthpiece (as evidenced by the article you pointed to) and if you admire her perspective, it tells me a lot about your perspective. I had stopped watching most evening news programs because of the rightwing bias displayed by most producers and anchors, but occaisionally dropped in on yours because I liked the sense of humor you showed on The Colbert Report. After reading this article, I will no longer be watching your news program either.

As for Noonan's piece, it's hard to feel sorry for a white, wealthy woman who bemoans being treated like everyone else.

What Times is it?

Jean-Paul Bondy — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:18:49 GMT

Brian, you are %100 so insanely out of touch, that this Peggy Noonan diatribe didn't hardly phase me.

But, it does serve as a gruesome reminder at how much you and your cohorts live in a disgusting bubble, only built to screen-out the real world, and pat eachother on the back at the same time.

Peggy Noonan is one of the biggest hack, shrills this side of Limbaugh. The lies, mistruths and misleading statements she shoves into the echo chamber on a weekly basis only deserve to be hidden in some remote cabin somewhere, then set on fire. To even mention the word "Pulitzer" in the same sentance as "Noonan" tells me way more about you and what you believe than any smug photo or appearance on John Stewart.

What Times is it?

Andrew, Ann Arbor, MI — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:18:55 GMT

Brian,

You just got torn to shreds on Salon by Glenn Greenwald. Way to be part of the problem you hack.

What Times is it?

Tony, Philadelphia, PA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:21:01 GMT

Oh Man, how hilarious! Peggy Noon for a Pulitzer! Well, if Dowd has been so "honored", why not? Apparently, anyone can get them, now.
Brian, please get your head out of your [sand] and re-read Elizabeth Edward's Sunday Op-Ed and reconsider your post about it. Your response to it is exemplifies is core criticism of the media in which you are a leading figure and whose blatant disregard of the substantive issues of this campaign (or the daily news issues, for that matter) have turned so many viewers away from your broadcast.
You have a choice: either turn away form the status quo or become the journalistic leader that your media stature requires. Your legacy, as it currently stands, will be of an ignorance enabler and propaganda peddler.

What Times is it?

AMW, Salt Lake CIty, UT — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:22:34 GMT

Well Brian, you really have hit an all time low.
(Actually, I stopped watching NBC Nightly News after you felt it was SO important to ask John Edwards about his $400 haircut, as if a country facing massive deficits, a monstrous national debt, a catastrophe in Iraq, 47 million Americans without health insurance, global warming, etc., etc., weren't slightly more important topics for the debaters to discuss in a debate YOU moderated. So I really don't KNOW if you've sunk any lower: I have never watched your newscast after that debate and will never watch it again.)

Your vacuous, inane blog entry underscores exactly what Elizabeth Edwards was talking about. Even worse was your recommending Peggy Noonan's editorial, which is an even WORSE example of the trite, vapid, cliche-ridden, right-wing trash-talk -- and TOTALLY irrelevant pablum -- routinely served up by Peggy Noonan and others of her ilk as well as your network.

Peggy Noonan's column is THE perfect example of all that is wrong with the media's coverage of the election. And your recommending her for a Pulitzer definitely demonstrates that "the liberal media" is nothing but a figment of the imagination of the right wing that, in fact, dominates the mainstream media.

And you are hardly in a position of trashing the New York Times for loss of circulation. The combined nightly network news programs have lost almost 50% of their nightly viewers since 1980, and continues to hemorrhage viewers at the rate of 1 million per year. I highly doubt that the New York Times is having a similar hemorrhaing of readers.

Maybe your newscast is losing viewers because viewers don't get real news. Say, for example, the story -- broken by the New York Times but totally ignored by NBC -- that the network and cable news programs was "punked" by the Pentagon before and during the Iraq war when it unleashed on NBC and the other networks retired generals that were fed propaganda by the Pentagon about the war, and, as the good "message multipliers" they were, then went on your and other newscasts to repeat their lies to a gullible public with the blessing of a gullible, massively uniformed (or willifully ignorant) network news operation. Don't you think that the fact that YOUR network fed your viewers a massive amount of Pentagon propaganda and lies about the Iraq invasion and occupation worth even a single mention on your news program? Don't you think your viewers then deserve a HUGE apology for your being a war cheerleader and Pentagon propaganda disseminator?

I guess a story on Obama's failure to wear a flag pin or the latest on Rev. Wright -- neither topic having the slightest relevance to Obama's fitness to be President -- will just have to substitute for real news. Or maybe you're getting ready the cheer on Bush when he bombs Iran and you and your network will once again force feed your viewers the propaganda and lies coming from Bush and his Pentagon about the necessity for going to war on a Middle Eastern country.

What Times is it?

Brian Gygi, Richmond, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:29:58 GMT

Brian, your vacuuity shows from the first lines - OMG, the Times has articles on things that *I*, a normal working-class NASCAR-watching guy can't relate to! Maybe if they had more articles on refurbishing $10 million in Connecticut or how to soup up your Porsche, you might cut them a little more slack. Of course, it won't be until they write articles praising anti-Semites like Henry Ford that you will really give your thumbs up.

What Times is it?

Dick Hubert — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:31:51 GMT

Brian:

What a wonderful post. The New York Times staff is writing and editing for itself, and so completely misses how a significant part of their readers/subscribers look at their output that there are days when I think they are all living in an isolation ward. They are beyond hopeless. If they had real competition for international, national and LOCAL news like the Washington Post provides its subscribers, in this neighborhood, their losses would be staggering, not a few hundred thousand dollars.

The Times readers, editors, and its Ombudsman have tuned most of us out. So thank you again for carrying the torch. Coming from you, the comments have more impact than if they came from us.

What Times is it?

Joan Baldwin Chapman, Cheshire, CT — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:33:02 GMT

Brian -

Too bad so many of the posters today are misunderstanding what a journalist/reporter does which is to research all sides of an issue.

Then the broadcaster reports the findings and makes no judgement, leaving it up to the reader/viewer to decide for themselves.

This is the mark of an impartial reporter of which you are a great example.

Too bad some readers have no understanding of your craft.

In the almost twenty years that I have followed your career and news reporting, I can't ever remember even getting a clue of what happens when Brian Williams goes into a voting booth. Nor should I be able to do so - voting is a most private issue for all Americans.

Thanks.

What Times is it?

Roldo Bartimole — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:33:13 GMT

You should stick to reading the news, buddy.

What Times is it?

Stacy Spencer, New York — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:33:36 GMT

Brian --

I read the Noonan piece you recommended. She wonders why Obama doesn't get misty-eyed about Henry Ford. First, I'm not sure how she knows this. Has she asked him and watched his response? Second, Ford was a notorious racist and anti-Semite who greatly admired Hitler and accepted an award from him. Hitler kept a statue of Ford on his desk. I don't get misty-eyed about him either. Why should I? Why should anyone? I'm a native Michigander who grew up going to Greenfield Village. I find Ford interesting, which is a whole other thing than abject admiration. I'd venture to say that anyone who gets misty-eyed about someone like Ford is a pretty scary -- or uninformed -- person. It's a hell of a weird criterion for choosing the next President.

It's this kind of generalized ignorance and off-the-wall proscription that makes Noonan an unlikely candidate for a Pulitzer.

What Times is it?

jim — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:37:14 GMT

I can't even imagine the hypocrisy/cognitive dissonance it required to write this post. You complain that the "media" are only covering trivialities and then praise an article by Noonan in which she goes on a McCarthyite tirade about lapel pins and "Men's Vogue."

It would be hilarious if it weren't so pathetic.

What Times is it?

Terry Odom — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:39:33 GMT

Brian,

Somebody is talking about you...can you respond in a big boy way?

http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/

What Times is it?

Joe McAneny — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:40:40 GMT

Grandpa's knees and the Wright Brothers? How irrelevant can we get? How about some substance? Shouldn't healthcare and the war be slightly more important than flag pins and 'patriotic content'? It's absolutely shameful that people like Noonan and Williams - who by the way are about as "elite" as you can get - waste their time and ours with such nonsense. I can assure you that the Gate 14 crowd doesn't care about that; being an average American does not equal being stupid or caring about inane garbage. Not only should Noonan not get a Pulitzer, if she has any awards then one should be taken away as punishment for thinking that we want flag pin coverage rather than substance. The Gate 14 crowd would be ashamed.

What Times is it?

John Marston, Sterling, Va. — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:40:42 GMT

Brian Williams, you are beyond redemption if I am to believe what you've written. How can you ever see the flaws in your work if you are unwilling to hear criticism of it? My goodness, do you really believe that right-wing puppet Peggy Noonan more than Elizabeth Edwards, who is dying of cancer and has nothing to lose? Noonan may be articulate, but that makes her a better propagandist. And it has worked on you, obviously, sadly. Stop being so damned defensive, try to put yourself in the place of your critics, and be open to whether they have anything valid to say.

I can easily prove Elizabeth Edwards' point in one question to you, if you are willing to answer it honestly. How much time have you devoted on "Nightly News" to where the candidates stand on climate change, the overarching concern of our era, and how much time have you devoted to trivialities like whether Reverend Wright's comments mean Barack Obama doesn't "love his country?" If you think that's truly important, then I'll be sure to challenge your patriotism if I get to meet you and you're not wearing a flag pin.

What Times is it?

Gord Metcalfe — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:41:34 GMT

Mr. Williams,
With all due respect, you have proven repeatedly that you are no more than a highly paid sycophant for the Bush Administration and a cheerleader for McCain who is clearly a seriously flawed candidate and human being.
The last thing the country(world)needs is a warmonger like this idiot that the media so adores. BTW, does John McCain where a flag pin? Hint: No.

What Times is it?

Marty C., Cheshire, CT — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:42:00 GMT

Why don't you just get a job at Fox News, since you seem to have bought their line? Peggy Noonan is a great judge of true patriots, like Hitler's bosom buddy Henry Ford.

I have stopped watching NBC Nightly News for just that reason.

What Times is it?

SB, Seabrook, MD — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:46:40 GMT

So Mr. Williams thought that Republican President Bush was "very good" at the Correspondent's Dinner, claims that a WSJ rant crammed full of baseless McCarthyisms against a Democrat is Pulitzer material, and after his correspondents were done reporting on rampant corruption in the Republican Bush Justice Department asked on-air the insipid Republican talking point "Do you think this is a case where the Congress would rather investigate than legislate?"

Mr. Williams, why can't you admit that you love the Republican Party and want everyone to know it?

What Times is it?

Katharine, Illinois — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:47:39 GMT

Watching NASCAR, eh? You must be one of those "regular" people Peggy Noonan knows so well who think Sen. Obama doesn't carry his patriotism in his bones. (She had to go on a kind of field trip to find these "regular" people, because she doesn't run into them generally- and for that alone she should get a Pulitzer! ) After the week NBC News spent avoiding discussion of their complicity in foisting biased Generals on their viewing audience, I'm impressed by your ability to go after the paper that uncovered the scandal. Your blog entry, your praise of an inane, misinformed article by Peggy Noonan reminds me I was right to stop watching NBC News 6 months ago after watching for 40 years. I guess I'm the wrong kind of "regular" person- I'm like "Vinny" in his "efficiency" in the Bronx, typing away.

What Times is it?

Sheri R., Valencia, Ca. — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:52:44 GMT

After reading your recommendation of the Noonan hit piece on Sen. Obama I must say I never really gave you a hard look before. And yet you do not see fit to make even a passing mention of the MSM being spoon fed propaganda from the Pentagon war machine via your "independent military analysts".
Heck of a job, there Brian!
I'll not watch your broadcasts again. Pity. I hate it when I get to the core of someone and find them rotten. But you keep pitching the party line, Brian. You'll be as wealthy as you wish to be. So, you sold us out? That's hardly news today.

What Times is it?

Mark, Chicago, IL — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:53:56 GMT

One Sunday NYT piece you don't mention was from LAST week. It was the story detailing how the pentagon coluded with military analysts on your network and others in an organized campaign to manipulate the coverage of the Iraq war. Noticably, your network has not touched on that disturbing revelation. Judging from what was said in the article, I hardley think you are in a position to critisize others' journalism. Mr. Williams, I would urge you to reflect before you cast the first stone...

What Times is it?

Scott M. Tecumseh Mi. — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:55:56 GMT

I used to get most of my news from NBC and MSNBC. I'm done with them.

That's not true. I'll still watch Olberman.

As far as the rest are concerned, I'd rather watch Hannity. At least he's honest enough to plainly state his bias.

What Times is it?

jane paines — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:00:56 GMT

Unlike the NYTimes, Brian, your network has a legal mandate to serve the public interest, thanks to the free and priceless spectrum you enjoy. If you put Pentagon-approved propagandists on the air and then decline to report that you did so, how exactly are you promoting in democracy in America or the interests of Gate 14? (We won't even bother ask you how it is that soap operas, cheap dramas and inane and prurient comedies serve the public interest.)

As for dear Peggy -- such a soulful spiritual creature, who from a bubble of wealth and privilege nonetheless manages to see the truth about America and Americans, quite unlike Barack Obama. Oddly enough, in Peggy's view, multi-millionaires and sons of privilege GWB and John McCain also share this down-home empathy. Again, unlike elitist Barack Obama, who was born in modest (and some might say difficult) circumstances and achieved what he did without family connections or wealth. Strange, no?

Do you have to be privileged and blinkered to understand America? Ms. Noonan claims to despise Hollywood, but that seems to be where she gets her idea of America.

What Times is it?

steven medlock — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:04:00 GMT

Thank you for letting me know that I am not the audience that you seek for your evening news show. I will henceforth tune my TV to one of your competitors.

PS: I know this is just a game you play. Gotta keep playing for the ditto-heads because the suits upstairs want those ditto-heads to consume the products NBC advertises. But still, you wouldn't accede to them if you felt otherwise. Or had a backbone.

What Times is it?

Linus Bern — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:06:22 GMT

On your recommendation I read the Peggy Noonan piece and now I'm utterly baffled that you feel it is pulitzer material. Were you joking when you said that? As far as I can make out, the gist of it is that John McCain loves everything about america and it makes him all teary (which if he was a Democrat would prove he was a girly wuss, but since he is Republican it shows he's manly). But Obama only likes that there is racial equality in the US and everything else has no meaning for him. (Why she thinks it is mandatory that a black man get all teary over Henry Ford who was, in addition to a successful entrepreneur, a notorious racist, anti-semite and nazi-sympathizer is beyond me) The unspoken message seems to be that Obama can't possibly love all these things about America because he is black, so all this 'white' history is lost on him.

What Times is it?

Jon Doh — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:08:17 GMT

Brian, how is that shilling for the pentagon going for you guys? Oh, could it be that the Times exposed your lying and propagandizing? Sorry your feelings were hurt? Have you quit lying to the American people yet? Was that a yes or a no?

Why aren't you hot on the trail of that pentagon propaganda story again? Instead you Loove you some Peggy. Face it, you just want to be Faux- lite.

The day of the Mainstream media weasels is about over. People now know that the press, which you so ably represent, is both too corrupt and stupid to be believed.

Resign. Get a real job.

What Times is it?

Bruce T., Toledo, Ohio — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:17:59 GMT

Dear Mr. Williams - - I hope you don't listen to these awful people having the nerve to criticize you! I, for one, love your look: the requisite dark suit and light tie, the slightly bronzed skin, and the wonderful hair! It's the hair that draws me to your show every evening. I'm frankly hypnotized by it! It's gotten to the point that I'm not even listening to what you're saying, I'm just focused on your hair. Please keep up the good work, and the good hair!

What Times is it?

Jon Stevenson — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:18:48 GMT

It's tough to figure out exactly what readers this blog post is speaking to, or seeking. I think your recommendation of a ANY sort of Prize to hack-writer Peggy Noonan yet not a word about the Bush administration authorizing the use of former military personnel to disseminate government progaganda in violation of federal law prohibiting such campaigns clearly shows how the Media have become slaves to the Republican party. If anyone wonders how Germany began its descent into madness, look no further. It's happening here.

What Times is it?

Thom Jeff — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:26:12 GMT

One day back in the 1990s while listening to Limbaugh, I heard Limbaugh criticize Brian Williams for something--twisting a sentence or two out of context and meaning (per usual)--to use it as an example of the "liberal media." Williams quickly called in to Rush from his car to explain himself and make sure Limbaugh didn't think he was biased. (Said then that he listens every day!)

I find it interesting that Mr. Williams feels no such compulsion to explain himself to all of us "Gate 14" people.

The obvious questions:

1. What exactly did you find so worthy of a Pulitzer from Noonan?

2. Why have you ignored the NYTimes military commentators story?

3. Why did you pick out stories from the Style section to criticize?

What Times is it?

Carol, Missoula, MT — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:27:08 GMT

It's an interesting column, given that watching either the network morning shows or the evening newscasts is like re-reading the NYT from the previous day. I often wonder if the producers aren't embarrassed that so much of what they report they get from chasing after the Times.

What Times is it?

Jeremy C. Garland, Baton Rouge, Louisiana — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:32:18 GMT

Mr. Williams,

Why have you not discussed the story from the previous weekend's New York Times detailing manipulation of television military analysts by the Department of Defense?

You are part of the problem.

What Times is it?

Dan Fischer, Bellevue, Washington — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:42:06 GMT

Thanks for pointing out the Peggy Noonan article. Any time I want to throw up on cue, I will only have to refer to this "sparkling piece of journalism", which doesn't quite rank with her fabulous column about the dolphins guiding Elian Gonzalez to America. You guys keep pushing Grandpa Simpson for President, and see what happens in the next four years of McBush. I guess people like you and Noonan will have enough money to cushion yourselves against the disaster, while the ordinary people you claim to speak for will all go swirling down the toilet. I should have realized that in the debased era of journalism in which we now live, the Pulitzers had a category for "unapologetic political swill."

What Times is it?

Hugh Caley, Albany, California — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:44:14 GMT

Ah yes, another elite right wing voice pretends to speak with the voice of middle America, and the MSM is right there. Not surprising, but very disappointing.

What Times is it?

Jeremy Kirk -- London, England — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:44:48 GMT

Brian, just because the majority of society doesn't conform to your white-bread lifestyle doesn't mean you should denigrate NYT stories that pierce real American culture. We need don't need journalists that are sarcastic about how people choose to live their lives. Go work for Fox News if you want to impose your values. I've always had a much higher respect for NBC, and I think its tradition stands as testament (for now). Journalist are observers, and at times commentators, but should never pass judgment just because something seems "weird" to your narrow view of the world. Why don't you get out of your NYC office and talk to some real people? They're all around you. They have feelings, interests and passions. They make great stories. Go out and find them.

What Times is it?

Mark D., Kansas City, Mo. — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:47:19 GMT

So let me get this straight:

Someone criticizes the coverage of our elections, pointing out that the main focus seems to be on the vapid, the petty, and the hollow, rather than on the substantive, policy-level ideas of each of the candidates.

You then go on to praise Noonan's op-ed as Pulitzer worthy, even though it's focus is on ... the vapid, the petty and the hollow as she asks if Obama loves America enough for a bunch of people she saw once at an airport (the "Gate 14" crowd).

Thank you for proving Elizabeth Edwards' point -- that the media could care less about giving the country the information it truly needs to select a president, and would rather focus on asinine and ridiculous trivialities.

Hopefully, some day soon you'll stop being part of the problem.

What Times is it?

Eric, Alameda, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:58:32 GMT

"Amen, Brian. Why does news have to shock or tittilate us all the time? Why can't it just inform?" well, brian and his employees at nbc don't wanna tell us for some reason that the (ahem) independent military analysts they did their cozy propaganda pieces, i mean interviews, with were pentagon agents sent in to spew their pro-war scripts to help sell the war to the people. see? we're different from other governments that lie because little cogs like brian can pretend ignorance and when he no longer should, then he just keeps his mouth shut. good brian! here's a scooby snack.

What Times is it?

Lawyer Smith, Chicago — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:00:57 GMT

If you were providing anything but fluff on your show and everytim eyou appear on T.V., you wouldn't have been booed at the debate. You really don't get it, do you? People booed you because you failed to address even one single issue that they care about. All you addressed were the obsession of obtuse minds like Limbaugh and Hannity. You will take the time to discuss Hannah Montana but you seem to have no time to point out that the US government is backing the Iranian sponsored government of Iraq. Little things like our soldiers dying to empower our enemies seem to escape your notice but your always there for Brittany Paris and now, Hannah! You lose one millions viewers a year for the same reason the NYT is losing subscribers - you broadcast vapid opinion without context or even the smallest amount of common sense applied to real issues for whihc you don't seem to have much time, propagandists portrayed as journalists and just fluff, fluff, fluff inbetween stories that are no more than advertisements for the products of your sponsors. Snooze, no news, no read, no watch. I don't give a yuo know what what your opinion is on anything, how about some reporting for a change. If old Mr. Cronkite were still around, your desk would be located in the Green Zone in Bagghdad as there is hardly anything else out there more important for people to hear about.

What Times is it?

Hanna Braun — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:02:16 GMT

Peggy Noonan up for a Pulitzer? The same woman who wrote that smarmy What I Saw At The Revolution, that Peggy Noonan, followed by When Character Was King, about an immoral president? You're wetting your pants over a threadbare, commonplace writer? If she hadn't worked for Reagan as a spinmeister, no publisher would ever have looked at her stuff. And you think she's a shoo-in for a Pulitzer, to quote my 13-year-old daughter, ohmigod! Evidently you don't read much beyond studying the pretty pics of the fashion page.

You see, folks, this is why pretty boy news readers who used to be infotainers (in some circles still are), should stick to reading teleprompters and not offer opinions inconsistent with their questionable intelligence. Unless of course they work for Fox Noise. Then its expected.

First, Brian offers his insipid take on Letterman, why the world hates Americans; ready for new frontiers he now has a go at the New York Times. Dear Boy, why not just quit and work for Fox Noise? Rupert can match your salary, and all the other airheads there will be more than happy to welcome you into the fold.

Peggy Noonan indeed. Can't wait until you shill for Bill O'Reilley's next book.

What Times is it?

Greg M, Iowa City, IA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:04:25 GMT

Brian--you've been tagged by Glenn Greenwald. And rightfully so.
http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/2008/04/29/williams/index.html
When will you address the shocking New York Times story about paid military analysts lying on NBC? How can we ever trust you again?

What Times is it?

Jonathan, san mateo, ca — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:08:24 GMT

Unbelievable.
Noonan writes yet another piece of crap and you laud it. Elizabeth Edwards writes a stunningly typical (for her) excellent article and you dis it. And, then, you claim that bush did 'very well', when his humor is so sophomoric that my children wouldn't even laugh at him.
Try to get out more, Brian. Your (rightwing) beltway really disgusts me.

What Times is it?

Troy, San Jose, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:10:06 GMT

Gosh, the New York Times' circulation is down; gee thanks for the newsflash Brian. But you might be a little careful before you throw stones.

As I'm sure you know, the average audience for the national newscasts put on by the Big Three networks is down more than 50 percent since 1980. And those newscasts -- meaning yours and Charlie Gibson's and Katie Couric's -- are still losing viewers, at the rate of about 1 million a year. So which news outlet is it exactly that needs to worry about whether it is in sync with its audience?

Instead of ignoring Elizabeth Edwards' criticisms you might think about taking them to heart. In poll after poll, the public has said that it is disgusted with the way this election is being covered, with the focus on trivialities such as those on which your friend Peggy Noonan focuses.

Speaking of taking criticism to heart, have you read yet the Times' article that has been mentioned here repeatedly on the use of so-called military analysts by news outlets such as NBC? How about informing your audience about how you and your colleagues in the broadcast media failed to disclose -- or even ask the questions that might have brought to light the fact -- that these supposedly non-partisan generals were deeply compromised by their status as military contractors or by their ties to the Pentagon.

Gosh, but that would require you to admit a mistake. And it's much easier and more fun to poke fun at the Times.
And you might want to take a look outside of the style section to see some of the substantive news that the Times is reporting. Gosh, you might even read the story about the use of milia

What Times is it?

Mary Dolphin, Laguna Beach, California — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:25:26 GMT

The thesis of Noonan's piece was only plausibly directed at a black politician. It is disgusting. Pulitizer? This woman deserves a 'Worst Person in the World' designation from Keith Olberman (the current thinking person's news anchor!)

What Times is it?

Carol, OK — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:29:53 GMT

I take it from your admiration of Noonan that you are a conservative and pro McCain. Noonan claims in her opinion piece that McCain learned how to be misty-eyed at the Naval Academy and, if I understand correctly, misty-eyed may take the place of lapel flag pin as a measure of one's patriotism.

Now the reason I am writing is to ask you a question. It seems misty eyes may be the sum total of what McCain learned at Annapolis because he graduated 5th from the bottom of his class and has been know to brag about it. So...tell me honestly, do you sincerely think that electing another dumb President is a significant step toward solving this country's major problems?

What Times is it?

John Coleman — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:31:03 GMT

It's been at least 14 days NBC has ignored the story of the networks using Pentagon spokesmen in the guise of analysts-I'm hoping Olbermann picks up the countdown because I'm sure Williams intends to continue ignoring it. Integrity at NBC? I think not.

What Times is it?

Walt Askier , Ann Arbor, MI — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:31:53 GMT

Wow. Brian Williams is getting mauled here. It's like the scene in Frankenstein with the peasants with their torches and pitchforks. I don't recall ever reading a blog where the comments are so overwhelmingly negative towards the host.

And the amusing bit is that he deserves every bit of it. For all his pretending to watch Nascar and faux Gate-14 affectations, he's pretty seriously out of touch.

Anything to say for yourself about those Military analysts, Brian? Anything at all?

What Times is it?

Doug Bennett Huntsville, AL — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:39:33 GMT

Peggy Noonan says: "Main thought. Hillary Clinton is not Barack Obama’s problem. America is Mr. Obama’s problem. He has been tagged as a snooty lefty, as the glamorous, ambivalent candidate from Men’s Vogue, the candidate who loves America because of the great progress it has made in terms of racial fairness. Fine, good. But has he ever gotten misty-eyed over . . . the Wright Brothers and what kind of country allowed them to go off on their own and change everything? How about D-Day, or George Washington, or Henry Ford, .....

Another challenge. Snooty lefties get angry when you ask them to talk about these things."

I mean.......... this is a joke, right. A parody? Because I live out here in Gate 14 land, I'm a person who loves to talk politics, and I hear NOBODY saying these things. I hear people say that they're interested in what Obama has to say, to what Jeremiah Wright has to say. I hear them say that they think you jokers in the news biz are focused on BS.

That's what I hear. Peggy Noonan? She ain't got a clue.

What Times is it?

Tom, Hartwell, GA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:44:56 GMT

Please do us a huge favor and run a piece about how the fuel prices have gotten out of control and there is little that can be done about that. However, the cost of food rising is a direct result of the US Congress and the President providing ridiculous incentives for corn based ethanol, which is not environmentally friendly.

What Times is it?

joe, norman, oklahoma — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:51:55 GMT

wow, Mr Williams...

we must have read different columns, or maybe there is a different Peggy Noonan out there somewhere?
Peggy's famous "neo-con swoon" style of writing is cutesy, and a great way to lead people away from what matters.

i find it fascinating that you begin by trashing the NYT for covering trite stuff, while continuing to broadcast on NBC about flag lapel pins, church preferences of one candidate (but, curiously not the other two), who can drink who under the table, and bowling scores.

personally, i think Elizabeth Edwards was on target... Americans generally know precious little about the three candidates health plans or their foreign policy plans...but thanks to you and the rest of TV info-tainment, they know all about lapel pins.

maybe tonight you can report some real news?

What Times is it?

lily b, poughkeepsie, ny — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:52:34 GMT

Well, this was certainly illuminating, Brian. Here I've been watching you nightly for such a long time, without ever perceiving where your real sympathies lie. I mean, really: Peggy Noonan? Bashing The New York Times? You just lost another viewer.

What Times is it?

Rob Jacobs, Jarrettsville, Maryland — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:58:06 GMT

Well, just one more comment... to wrap things up. Well, Mr. Williams-- if this is really your blog then I assume you read the readers comments. I'd really be interested in hearing your thoughts on the overwhelmingly negative response to your recent blog entry. Seriously-- can you please respond to the salient points people have made here? Thank you.

What Times is it?

Marden Seavey, Denmark, Maine — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:59:14 GMT

All I have to say is thank God for the New York Times, thank God for Elizabeth Edwards, and Peggy Noonan is a total joke. This whole thing of yours was a joke, wasn't it, Brian? Ellen S. from Annapolis is right on! Network news is reaching new lows.

What Times is it?

Kamilla, Boston, Ma — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 20:04:24 GMT

Mr Williams,
I just want to say that i have throughly enjoyed reading your blog lately. And it was especially nice to see something you had questions and concerns about being made into a segment on the Nightly News. I couldn't agree more with the crumbling infrastructure of our roads, birdges and rail system in America....i live in boston so you can imagine....
I think the summation of the New York times is an wonderful example of why so long ago i stoppped reading papers or at least american ones as i don't think dating and whose dog resuced who is what makes news. While in themselves maybe intresting stories i think they take away the focus of the things as americans we so gladly ignore.
That leads me to all the Miley Cirus nonsense over the last few days. I was upset and sad to see that something so silly actually made the Nightly News. The whole thing seems so over silly to me and I think parents need to stop blaming media prone 15 year olds for becoming bad role models for their daughters and take responsiblitiy and teach their daughters proper morals. I was too old when Britany and Lidnsey hit the scene to ever understand why we were all suppose to look up to them, but i was also raised to understand what someone wears in a magazine, tv show, or red carpet doesn't reflect what i should do that it reflects is someone promoting themseleves and their careers and it's up to parents not vogue or annie lebowitz to tell teenage girls this.
As always thank you for your great work

What Times is it?

Glenn S — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 20:08:19 GMT

So, Brian, I take it that Elizabeth Edwards' op-ed struck a nerve, huh? Why else would you have snidely dismissed without addressing its substance only to try to change the subject and misdirect your readers/viewers to the NYT's Style and Travel sections.

What Times is it?

Ronald Hickernell — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 20:11:30 GMT

Which Bush/Pentagon paid propagandist(s) sold you the stories?

Go ahead, tell us

What Times is it?

Bob Smith, Washington, DC — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 20:27:36 GMT

The "newlywed gays" piece in the NY Times Magazine was fascinating. I found it an excellent piece of journalism. It was in the Magazine. That's roughly the equivalent of NBC's "Dateline", which usually is much farther in the tabloid gutter. Did it occur to you that there could be a large audience very interested in that story? Do you only read pieces about people just like you?

What Times is it?

Don Tuthill, NY,NY — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 20:53:10 GMT

Brian,

You cast negative aspersions on the NY Times saying their circulation is down. Have you checked the ratings of the Nightly News over the past couple of years? If not I'll tell you.. they are tanking.

Oh..and exactly what were you drinking when you read that Noonan drivel? White wine or Kool Aid?

What Times is it?

Nroman Trof East Rutherford, NJ — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 21:17:43 GMT

How about commenting on Peggy Noonan's reverence for Nazi sympathizer and noted anti Semite Henry Ford.

What Times is it?

John R., San Diego, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 21:24:13 GMT

Peggy Noonan?! Are you kidding me! Thank you for making clear the type of people you admire. I will no longer watch the NBC Nightly News.

What Times is it?

Lori, Toronto — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 21:24:30 GMT

Wow, where to begin...

1) Mr. Williams, you might want to pick up a book every now and then, since your idea of good writing would have gotten me a B- at best in high school.

2) I don't need to point out the spuriousness of Ms. Noonan's piece with regard to Barack Obama, since so many others already have, but your total embrace of the ideas espoused really do show your true colours.

3) You think the Times' numbers are down; take a look at your own broadcast!

What Times is it?

Evan, Lawrence, KS — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 21:32:02 GMT

Mr Williams,
I have long considered you to be one of the few remaining real broadcast journalists out there today. You did not seem to shy away from controversy or from doing the right thing. However, I am simply appalled by this blog post. Did you actually read Noonan's polemic, or did you just have an aide write the blog for you? By fully and irrefutably endorsing Noonan's so called commentary, you have finally come out of the closet as just-another-media-crony. Thanks for removing the last remaining piece of credibility and objectivity in the media.

What Times is it?

Rebmarks, Jamaica Plain, MA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 21:36:14 GMT

Mr. Williams, Really? While you criticize the sections of the paper that are SUPPOSED to be about fluff, you say nothing about Elizabeth Edward's complaint that the media that is supposed to be serious is saying nothing serious. And instead is covering bowling scores and flag pins. (You're punking us with that reference to Peggy Noonan, right?)

What Times is it?

Peter Brawley, McComb, MS — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 22:16:36 GMT

The Peggy Noonan WSJ piece that Brian Williams says is Pulitzer quality is McCarthyite nonsense. Why advocate sentimentality about Henry Ford, imply that wearing a lapel pin means anything substantive, or doubt Obama’s patriotism? It’s rightwing-militarist rubbish. Brian Williams’ praise of her guff is disgusting. Maybe, just maybe, it has something to do with why network news audiences have shrunk 50% in 20 years.

If NBC wants news worth watching, it might consider hiring Elizabeth Edwards to replace Williams.

But no, Jack Welch’s corporation is doing fine with all these wars and tax breaks.

What Times is it?

Dianne Lobes, Eugene, OR — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 22:18:26 GMT

You must be kidding with these comments. You really don't know WHO might be interested in a discussion of health care coverage??? That's pretty out of touch, Bri, not to mention insulting and pathetic. Your mocking of the NYT is like the pot calling the kettle black -who are you and your network, losing viewers every day, to be weakly making fun of someone else's infotainment stories when you run just as many, maybe more, than anyone? And the Peggy Noonan recommendation was just....mindboggling. She is a naive idiot whose trite flag pin writing was as boring and insipid as anything she has written. I very seldom watch you any more any way, but now I won't bother watching at all, as you have outed yourself for the neocon Republican that you are. I'm one more of the millions of people who are running, not walking, away from the MSM.

What Times is it?

trespassinthru — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 22:23:31 GMT

Thanks for proving me right by NOT posting my comment. You fake journalists have had your day and you will be excised from meaningful positions once Obama gets in, and I know that's what you're all afraid of. I hate this media, full of liars and frauds and complicit hacks who let rethuglicans and oil pigs get away with murder. You creeps are toast and I will be so happy to see you gone.

What Times is it?

Mark R. — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 22:23:46 GMT

Let's see. Peggy Noonan got her start writing speeches for Reagan and Bush, in which she artfully delivered their talking points. Writing for the WSJ in recent years, Noonan still keeps her eye on those GOP talking points. What does one call someone who faithfully parrots the party line year after year? A communist? Good for starters. How about a propagandist? Is there a pulitzer prize for propagandists? If so, you certainly deserve honorable mention for time and again presenting pentagon propagandists as independent "thinkers". Thanks for this Brian. I will be sure to watch your show with a new eye toward the "news."

m

What Times is it?

Tom Buckley — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 22:24:56 GMT

Hey Brian,

You don't seem to have any idea of who Ralph Bakshi is. He's a pretty well-known well cartoonist.

Tom

What Times is it?

Catha Willis — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 22:47:08 GMT

Gee Bri - Can you tell us more about Obama's bowling score? I am on the edge of my seat! My what a good job you news folks do -- I would have no knowledge about Barack's score had you not INFORMED me! I just don't know how I would do with out all that good information? Well gotta go to my third job to make ends meet. I better make sure I put on that flag lapel pin so everyone knows I'm a 'merican and not one of those 'ol evil terrists.
I would read the good woman Peggy's Op Ed but geez I can't afford to pay for the WSJ online. I have my babies to feed.

What Times is it?

Hugh Siegel — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 22:50:45 GMT

"Sparkling piece of journalism," Brian? Sparkling. I'll give you that. Journalism. No way. Fiction. Fantasy. Propaganda. Yes, Ms. Noonan's vivid lines would be a pleasure to read, if only they weren't the gauzy medium for her vicious agenda. Ms. Noonan, her beloved Ronald Reagan, and their free-marketeering acolytes have done more to dismantle the true idea of America -- the America of liberty, equality and democracy -- than just about anyone I can think of.

As for the New York Times, however, I have to agree with you. I seem to have read nearly all of the stories you mention, in more or less the same order, and experienced the same incredulity. What is going on at that paper? It seems to have become the organ of a decadent elite traipsing through this new Gilded Age.

What Times is it?

Charles M., Denver, CO — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 23:05:40 GMT

So, a week ago, the New York Times details in a Sunday story how the networks, including NBC, were unwittingly duped for years by the Pentagon, which trotted out a wholly owned team of spokespeople who sold the Iraq war by pretending to be unbiased network "consultants." They pulled this off because the networks failed to ever question their credentials or investments in companies profiting from the war.

Eight days later, the anchor of a newscast that regularly used these spokesgenerals chooses this forum to denigrate the quality and selection of stories in the Sunday New York Times.

Coincidence?

What Times is it?

Paige, Pittsburgh, PA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 23:05:53 GMT

I don't think I have ever seen a more pathetic, sneering, self righteous and self indulgent post on this website. Mr. Williams, you should be ashamed of yourself. I guess at least now we know that you are not a credible, objective journalist. Clearly you are a right wing shill who feels a need to go after the New York Times because they dared to run a story on how your network and your broadcast televise the Pentagon and White House talking points as though they were actual news. The NY Times and Judy Miller did that very same thing a few years ago and it led our country into an unnecessary war that has costs thousands of American lives and billions of dollars. Perhaps the Times has learned their lesson, but you clearly have not. You pretend to care so much about our troops, but obviously that's just for show and ratings. And speaking of ratings- a lot of room you've got to talk about declining readership of the Times. Last I heard your news broadcast wasn't exactly burning up the Nielsen ratings.

What Times is it?

Jonnan West, Whitestown, IN — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 23:17:37 GMT

Umm - wow. I can't understand the compliment about the Noonan piece at all.

With apologies - it is a standard right-wing vapid piece, in which she explains how she and conservatives understand middle-america so much better from NYC than, say, people that live there. And oh, btw, they all agree with me.

I just *know* it.

I find it amazing that people that have no empathy for immigrants, the poor, the sick, the middle-class, or any other minorities suddenly imagine themselves to have Betazoid like powers when sitting in the middle of airports. Happens to David Brooks too.

If having a rich fantasy life is worthy of a Pulitzer, I would prefer it actually go to a fantasy writer with talent.

What Times is it?

Daily Nightly Editor — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 23:50:28 GMT

In today's blog entry, Brian responds to the questions you've raised on the New York Times' military analysts report.

http://dailynightly.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2008/04/29/958477.aspx

What Times is it?

Peter Larkin — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 23:55:19 GMT

Brian,
Good for you that you were able to work from home.
Please consider staying home more often, like ALL the time.

What Times is it?

Richard F Hazel, Leesburg, Florida — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:18:17 GMT

Brian, please stay home every day. You are not a "Walter Cronkite" newscaster. In fact, you are a classic example of why viewership is falling rapidly among the major news networks.

What Times is it?

Joseph Bradley — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:44:28 GMT

Brian,

If you or any of the expert Generals never "pushed a rosy agenda" about this war, then why on Earth would the Pentagon stop the practice that the NYT busted them on?

Shame on you.

What Times is it?

Scott Rose, New York, New York — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:46:52 GMT

The Sunday New York Times is a diverse paper, with many things for many different types of readers. It was never intended that any single reader would read every single word in it.

I happened to have read Elizabeth Edwards' opinion piece, and to have agreed with it. But I'd like to know; who in hell is Brian Williams to criticize The Times for putting an article about young married gay men on the front of its Sunday magazine? Did Brian even read this piece? He minimizes the depth of the reporting done in it. And he exposes his own bigotries by criticizing the paper for publishing it prominently. When was the last time Brian Williams did an in-depth report on young gay married men in Massachusetts? Does Brian Williams even care about eliminating anti-gay prejudice . . . of which there is still quite a great deal in the U.S.? I am outraged by this bit of frippery from Brian Williams. It convinces me that I am correct in believing that television news sources are not among the most probing and intelligent ones available.

What Times is it?

Bill Wilson — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 01:09:39 GMT

peggy noonan for commentary over paul krugman? or frank rich? ya gotta be freakin' kiddin' me.

yeah, there's piffle in the fat advertiser-friendly sunday times. (of course, you were genuinely shocked to learn there's gambling in rick's establishment, too.)

i recall peggy noonan writing that god sent dolphins to hold up cuban boy elian gonzalez from drowning.
certifiably insane.

but i can agree with you on one thing: she's certainly doing the best work of her life right now. (BWA-HA-HA-HA-HA-HA-HA)

What Times is it?

Michael McGettigan — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 01:35:31 GMT

Please, can you give us some details about the bought and paid for "military analysts" (read war profiteers).?

It seems you missed that story in the Times.

It's a sad world when the Daily Show has more hard news than NBC!

Sorry to see what passes for journalism these days.

What Times is it?

Craig, Chicago, IL — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 01:45:42 GMT

Brian,

See you have been talking to Rupert Murdoch, he should be happy with your praise. It's strange that someone from nbc would be criticizing anyone, considering the rather inane news stories that you and your organization produce. You are just a talking head, not a journalist, something that doesn't seem to exist on tv anymore. So until you manage to do some real journalism keep your dribble to yourself and your hack friends.

What Times is it?

Robert Belknap, Raleigh, NC — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 02:01:47 GMT

excrementitious.

What Times is it?

Allison, New York — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 02:17:20 GMT

Brian,
Those Times pieces you mentioned were about real people and real life. The stuff of good feature stories, after all.

What's wrong with a nudist vacation? The Times is one of the few MSM outlets that doesn't seem to have that proverbial bug up its rear end. Yes, gays are marrying and your kids are getting piercings and voting for men and women that in your early days didn't stand a chance in politics.

Lighten up. It's not as if the Times is sacrificing quality in their effort to add a bit of irony and attract new, young readers. TV news could learn a thing or two.

What Times is it?

joan c. grim, knoxville, TN — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 02:27:31 GMT

MR WILLIAMS, When will you answer to your viewers about the generals groomed by the Pentagon to mislead us about the war? From The New York Times 4/20/08 re: retired generals hired as NBC "analysts" on the Iraq war: "members of this group have echoed administration talking points, sometimes even when they suspected the information was false or inflated. Some analysts acknowledge they suppressed doubts because they feared jeopardizing their access."
You owe us an explanation.

Peggy Noonan for a Pulitzer? Please. A patrician snob questioning Obama's patriotism in a column so melodramatic it seemed to be written by an adolescent. And she didn't read her assignment on Henry Ford- he was a Nazi sympathizer. Maybe she should take vacation to the Hamptons & catch up on her reading like us regular folks.

What Times is it?

Ross C. New York, NY — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 02:27:36 GMT

Sunday April 27- The page one story, top right, was "Letters Outline Legal Rationale For C.I.A. Tactics". The other top story was about the candidates budget proposals.

How about the page one story the week before? The one about the army of generals fed to your network and others by the Pentagon to spread propaganda? The expose ignored en masse by the televised media?

The Sunday Times has lots of sections. We know which ones contain news and which contain other types of writing.

What Times is it?

Jim Bishop, Reno, NV — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 04:02:30 GMT

Brian,

Maybe you could shed some light on why exactly you think Peggy Noonan's piece is the sort of "journalism" you think we should see more of, and why it is Pulitzer-worthy. From where I'm sitting, it seems sloppy and almost impossibly stupid.

First, Noonan suggests that Barack Obama has been less than forthcoming about his attitudes about the United States. Give me a break. The man wrote an entire book on the subject. It's called The Audacity of Hope. In addition, I don't think I've ever seen a candidate forced to defend his patriotism in as much detail, and as repeatedly, as Obama has. What more does Noonan want? What more do you want, Brian? Or is it simply that you want McCain elected? I assume the latter. Why not just say it?

Second, Noonan lists Henry Ford among the great Americans whom she thinks should make Obama "misty eyed." Maybe she can explain the role of Ford's blatant anti-Semitism in her admiration of him? And maybe you, Brian, can explain why Noonan's piece is an example of great journalism.

More than likely, it's the fact that Noonan's piece is a pure anti-Obama screed that you found so compelling.

What Times is it?

Brian Douglas, Astoria, NY — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 05:48:10 GMT

I agree Brian, Noonan deserves to be commended for asking the tough questions about whether Barack Obama cries Patriot Tears of Freedom Juice for the Wright Brothers and Henry Ford much. And You should be commended for remaining silent on the unpatriotic coverage of your network's use of Pentagon war cheerleaders.

Keep up the good hair!

What Times is it?

Brian Lundquist, Boise, Idaho — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 07:50:26 GMT

Brian,

Please be careful not to look too closely in a mirror...

First you snidely dismiss the Times:"I read that the New York Times Sunday (and weekday) circulation is down."

Could it be that you're miffed that Elizabeth Edwards correctly called the corporate media out for its petty, vapid and inane political coverage?

Hmm. Could that same coverage be why the combined average audience for the big-three evening newscasts in down 50%, from 53 million viewers in 1980 to 21.5 million viewers in 2008?

And the very same day you wrote the blog item mocking the NYT for its coverage of sex-related frivolous stories, you spent over two minutes on the "nude" photos of teen star Miley Cyrus in Vanity Fair. That's 10% of your 22 minutes of "news" time.

You link to Peggy Noonan's attempt to smear Obama as an elitist but neglect to disclose that your multi-million dollar Connecticut mansion and $3+ million annual salary (more than what 99% of Americans earn) makes you part of the, er, economic elite.

Could your enthusiasm for Obama bashing have anything to do with the fact that his proposed repeal of the Bush tax cuts for the ultra-rich would hurt your pocket book to the tune of several hundred thousand dollars?

Could self-interest ever affect what stories you cover? Gasp! Of course not! That's why you've been out front on the Pentagon propaganda story, the one where NBC and other broadcasters who used retired military men spoonfed by Donald Rumsfeld and others to hype the Iraq War...

Oh, wait, Brian Williams and NBC haven't covered that story. In fact, NBC has stonewalled PBS's request for interviews.

Wake up folks. Brian Williams is not a blue-collar guy who's looking out for your interests. He's a very rich man interested in protecting his and his corporate boss's interests.

What Times is it?

victor, l.a, ca — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 07:55:42 GMT

hey brian

lets talk about a real issue everyone is concerned about: immigration. why are boeing, haliburton and the u.s. military just as concerned about it as xenophobic america? because the private companies get the billion dollar contracts for the new security state and the military sustains its budget and expands its intrusion into domestic security. how does this wash with non-immigrant america? are they willing to, lose their privacy and constitutional rights to get rid of mexicans? i bet they are since theyve done it before: alien sedition acts, red scare, etc, etc.

What Times is it?

Andrew, Los Angeles, California — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 08:30:51 GMT

Where do you get off hammering the NYT when they were one of the only establishment media to report on your little deal with the administration to sell all of us this war?

You're not fooling anyone with this populist rhetoric. We can all clearly see just how much you are not the fourth Estate but clearly just another tool of those in power.

What Times is it?

Mjosef, Salem, NY — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 10:53:11 GMT

Hey Brian - Thanks for allowing the negative comments to go through - I second every one of them, and will never watch a program with you in it. Thanks again - you rich nitwits just can never keep your prejudices entirely to yourselves, though I would question why you did so. Any personal problems over the weekend you want to confess to? Do you foresee any talking-to by your bosses at whatever transnational conglomerate owns you about you offending the admittedly minority base of non-fascists who might have tuned into your nightly puppet show?

What Times is it?

Jack Baker — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 12:19:55 GMT

You are right Brian, the NYT is going downhill. Guess what else is? NBC News. I prefer to watch you over the other networks but I am becoming decreasingly dissatisfied with your news program because of its lack of substance. Both the NYT and NBC select stories for a reason -- readers and viewers. I note that the nudist story to which you refer was first on the most e-mailed list. You folks are just as guilty as the Times in selecting stories for ratings.

What Times is it?

T, Tulsa, OK — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 12:53:50 GMT

In a civil fraud case against Bill Clinton in Los Angeles, where the former President is charged with defrauding a Hollywood dot com millionaire to help Hillary Clinton obtain more than $1.2 million for her 2000 Senate campaign, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Aurelio Munoz ruled on April 25 that Hillary Clinton would not be required to testify in a sworn deposition as a material witness in the case until after the November election!

While Bill Clinton, Chelsea Clinton, Al Gore, Ed Rendell, among others, may be called to testify and be deposed starting in May, Hillary alone has been protected from explaining her role in her husband’s fraud charges. In an astonishing ruling by the Judge, Hillary Clinton may not be deposed about her role in the illegal solicitation and cover up of the largest contribution made to her Senate campaign until after the presidential election.

WHY AREN’T YOU REPORTING ON THIS??

What Times is it?

Hannah Robertson, Boise, Idaho — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:17:27 GMT

Hey Brian,
I loved you on Jon Stewart's show, I just wished you had his character and told us why your network lied to the public in the lead up to war.
Thanks,
America

What Times is it?

Elias Shamieh — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:17:47 GMT

Brian,
when are you going to appropriately address the Pentagon's domestic propaganda program involving retired generals appearing on your show as “consultants” regarding the Iraq war?

What Times is it?

Sydney Ann Arbor, MI. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:18:12 GMT

If Williams' post wasn't so pitiable it would pass for comedy relief.

"Curl up with" that racist, elitist, hate-spewing, Peggy Noonan: An early favorite for a Pulitzer prize? I want whatever you're smoking. Noonan's a sub-mediocre writer not fit to wipe the shoes of Maureen Dowd. considering you think her piece was an example of the "work of her career," it's no wonder you also think Rush is deep.

Noonan, like all Righties, has entitlement issues, so wouldn't be caught dead with the hoi poloi. First Class never does. Given that she sure as hell wouldn't know what was on the common man and woman's mind. I do; I travel coach a lot and talk to people. Here's insight: they never, never talk politics.

Wanna bet Mr. Williams cuts a check to the GOP every two years. Given that and his idiotic pronouncements,(Wow! Choosing between a dimwit president make bad jokes on tv or stock cars at redneck Tallageda Raceway turn left 400 times--what to watch; what to watch?), we can conclude no MENSA candidate, Williams. But speaking of the great unwashed, from whose ranks he hails, we're not as stupid as he now believes. This pretension to intellecual acuity might work if he was a tv personality in Butte, Montana, but not in the big times. C'mon Brian, grow a pair and declare yourself for what you are. No matter, count me as one you've lost forever.

What Times is it?

stuart morgan Rhode Island — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:38:12 GMT

Dear Brian
How about a response to the the Salon piece on your deceptive use of retierd Military men to comment on the Iraq war.

What Times is it?

Elaine T — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:38:25 GMT

Wow,

How on Earth does Peggy Noonan know if Obama was inspired by the resourcefulness of the Wright Brothers? I mean, did she ask him? Her speculation about the three candidates' feelings about American historical events and figures is galling. And she's supposed to be a journalist? Is that what passes for journalism these days--just guessing at which things influenced important people?

It really says something about Brian Williams that he thinks this is "sparkling" journalism.

What Times is it?

Doug, Boston, MA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:42:45 GMT

Gutless. You just lost another viewer. I know the following probably won't be allowed on you comments section but maybe some of your fans would be interested why while mocking the NYT, you've reall y done virtually no on-air reporting of the Times most important piece of the last few months. You know, the Pentagon "thing". The following is from Glenn Greenwald's piece from Salon.com regarding the two Independent military thinkers who appeared on Williams' program leading up to and through the Iraq war.

Both McCaffrey and Downing were about as far from "independent" as a news analyst could possibly be. On November 15, 2002, a press release was issued announcing the formation of something called "The Committee for the Liberation of Iraq," which was devoted "to advocat[ing] freedom and democracy in Iraq." Its list of 25 members was filled to the brim with the standard cast of war-hungry neocons -- including Bill Kristol, Newt Gingrich, Richard Perle, Leon Wieseltier, Danielle Pletka of the American Enterprise Institute, Eliot Cohen, and anti-Muslim "scholar" Bernard Lewis. Both Barry McCaffrey and Wayne Downing -- the two extremely independent "news sources" hailed yesterday by Brian Williams -- were two of its 25 founding members.

On the day of its formation, the group announced that they would meet later that day with then-National Security Adviser Condolleeza Rice to discuss Iraq. The group's President was quoted in the Press Release as follows: "We believe it is time to confront the clear and present danger posed by Saddam Hussein's regime by liberating the Iraqi people." Here was its stated purpose:

The Committee for the Liberation of Iraq will engage in educational and advocacy efforts to mobilize domestic and international support for policies aimed at ending the aggression of Saddam Hussein and freeing the Iraqi people from tyranny. The Committee is committed to work beyond the liberation of Iraq to the reconstruction of its economy and the establishment of political pluralism, democratic institutions, and the rule of law.

So this was a group devoted to building domestic support in the U.S. for the invasion of Iraq through so-called "educational and advocacy efforts." And NBC News then hired both Barry McCaffrey and Wayne Downing as supposedly "independent analysts" to opine to NBC's viewers about the war, and did so without ever once disclosing this affiliation to their viewers, without ever disclosing that they were dedicated to propagandizing on behalf of the Bush administration's desire to invade Iraq.

Beyond their ideological affiliations that negated their "independence," both McCaffrey and Downing had substantial ties to the defense industry which gave them strong financial incentives to advocate for the war. Worse, these ties were detailed all the way back in April of 2003 by The Nation, in an article entitled "TV's Conflicted Experts:

But some of these ex-generals also have ideological or financial stakes in the war. Many hold paid advisory board and executive positions at defense companies and serve as advisers for groups that promoted an invasion of Iraq. Their offscreen commitments raise questions about whether they are influenced by more than just "a lifetime of experience and objectivity"--in the words of Lieut. Gen. Barry McCaffrey, a military analyst for NBC News--as they explain the risks of this war to the American people.

McCaffrey and his NBC colleague Col. Wayne Downing, who reports nightly from Kuwait, are both on the advisory board of the Committee for the Liberation of Iraq, a Washington-based lobbying group formed last October to bolster public support for a war. Its stated mission is to "engage in educational advocacy efforts to mobilize US and international support for policies aimed at ending the aggression of Saddam Hussein," and among its targets are the US and European media. The group is chaired by Bruce Jackson, former vice president of defense giant Lockheed Martin (manufacturer of the F-117 Nighthawk, the F-16 Fighting Falcon and other aircraft in use in Iraq), and includes such neocon luminaries as former Defense Policy Board chair Richard Perle. Downing has also served as an unpaid lobbyist and adviser to the Iraqi National Congress, an Administration-backed (and bankrolled) opposition group that stands to profit from regime change in Iraq.

NBC News has yet to disclose those or other involvements that give McCaffrey a vested interest in Operation Iraqi Freedom. McCaffrey, who commanded an infantry division in the Gulf War, is now on the board of Mitretek, Veritas Capital and two Veritas companies, Raytheon Aerospace and Integrated Defense Technologies--all of which have multimillion-dollar government defense contracts. Despite that, IDT is floundering -- its stock price has fallen by half since March 2002 -- a situation that one stock analyst says war could remedy. Since IDT is a specialist in tank upgrades, the company stands to benefit significantly from a massive ground war.

The same article details that Downing had many of the same problems, including the fact that he sat on the "board of directors at Metal Storm Ltd., a ballistics-technology company that has contracts with US and Australian defense departments." None of this was ever disclosed to NBC's viewers -- not once -- as McCaffrey and Downing were paraded out by Williams and other NBC reporters as "independent" military analysts touting the need to invade and occupy Iraq.

* * * * *

In fact, rather than disclose these obviously relevant allegiances, Williams -- throughout 2003 and well after -- presented McCaffrey to his then-CNBC audience as the definitively objective, independent analyst, with introductions like this one, from the November 24, 2003 broadcast, as extremely typical:

WILLIAMS: Retired four-star General Barry McCaffrey joins us from Seattle tonight. He earned three Purple Hearts in Vietnam, two Distinguished Service Crosses, was a division commander during the first Gulf War.

These days, he's a professor at West Point and an NBC News military analyst, and I know him well enough to know that he's going to want to say a word here, General, and please feel free, about the value of sergeant majors in the U.S. Army who are as talented and as beloved as that man.

GEN. BARRY MCCAFFREY (RET.), U.S. ARMY, NBC MILITARY ANALYST: Well, you know, you're right on the money, Brian.

As always, there was not a word to NBC's viewers that this "NBC Military analyst" was on the Board of Advisers of a neocon group devoted to persuading Americans of the need to invade and occupy Iraq, nor a word about his financial investments in the policies he was advocating. Just look at the completely deceitful way that Williams presented McCaffrey repeatedly, and the type of "independent analysis" to which NBC viewers were consequently subjected. From the September 8, 2003 broadcast:

WILLIAMS: We are joined now from Washington by retired four-star general Barry McCaffrey, one of the foremost military experts currently in civilian life. He was a division commander during the first Gulf War, now a professor at West Point, and an NBC News military analyst.

General, let's start with what Senator Harkin just said. You were far from a protester of Vietnam, you were on the other end of it as a combatant. He said it smells like Vietnam, so do the bills coming in for it. Do you concur at all?

GEN. BARRY MCCAFFREY (RET.), U.S. ARMY: No, not at all. I think there could be two inept metaphors in Vietnam applied to either Central America, Iraq, or any of the current crises we're facing. That was a very different, externally supported war by a homogeneous people who were essentially on the tail end of a struggle against colonialism, using communism as a vector.

My gosh, this is nothing like that. I think Iraq -- By the way, just to get to the heart of the matter, Brian, I actually think the president's speech was an item of tremendous political courage. He has now faced up to -- what I think he was getting from Secretary Rumsfeld was war on the cheap.

And now he's saying, We got to succeed, we got to have resources, forces, U.N. legitimacy. This is a step in the right direction . . . . But we better stay the course, or we're in trouble..

Here is the dialogue those two shared on Mission Accomplished Day -- May 1, 2003:

WILLIAMS: With us tonight to look back at the military operation and perhaps what today means as a media event and a significant event in the lives of the soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen is retired four-star General Barry McCaffrey who, of course, commanded the 24th Mechanized during the first Gulf War. He is an NBC News analyst on military affairs.

General, let's start with today. The pictures were beautiful. It was quite something to see the first-ever American president on a -- on a carrier landing. This must be very meaningful to the United States military.

General BARRY McCAFFREY (US Army): Oh, yeah, I think it's a huge shot in the arm to the morale of--of the entire armed forces, never mind to remind Americans why we pay for these 10-carrier battle groups. I mean, this is a -- just an enormous source of military power and the ability influence events sometimes without fighting.

In the weeks leading up to the invasion, McCaffrey was frequently on numerous NBC shows, including Williams', presented as an independent expert. On the February 18, 2003 edition of Williams' CNBC show, he was on with fellow war-supporter Michael O'Hanlon -- that was "balance" -- to talk about the risks of the war, and McCaffrey said:

Well, I think that the Iraqis have no good options, and so what we're going to do, we will encounter chemical weapons. It will be abject misery. Some will be killed by them. It won't change the military operation. The biological weapons we hope will be deterred by some pretty strong background threats. I think what we're going to have to do is go in and take down 60,000 Republican Guard troops in stiff urban combat in Baghdad and Tikrit, and that's going to look, at rifle company commander level, like World War II for about five days.

I could go on for pages printing similar exchanges Williams had with McCaffrey throughout 2003. The same is true for Downing, who was repeatedly presented to NBC viewers as an independent analyst without his multiple political and financial affiliations ever once being disclosed (Months before the war began, in November, McCaffrey was a guest on an MSNBC show to tout the launch of the new pro-war group; when McCaffrey was presented as an independent analyst throughout 2003 and beyond, that connection was never mentioned).

It's true, as Williams points out as though it is exculpatory, that -- like Bill Kristol and plenty of other hard-core war supporters -- McCaffrey wanted more U.S. troops in Iraq. He even signed a 2005 letter from PNAC -- along with the likes of Kristol, the mighty Kagan Brothers, Max Boot, Frank Gaffney, Michael O'Hanlon and Peter Beinart -- demanding that more troops be deployed to Iraq (the Kagans, O'Hanlon and Beinart -- despite their relative youth -- were all unavailable for duty).

It really ought to go without saying by now that advocating more troops for the War hardly made one a "war critic" nor did it demonstrate independence from the Bush administration's propaganda campaign for the War. To the contrary, the fact that both McCaffrey and Downing had financial ties to the defense industry which would stand to profit from policies entailing more defense spending further calls into question their independence, rather than resolves those questions. As The Nation reported back in 2003:

McCaffrey has recently emerged as the most outspoken military critic of Rumsfeld's approach to the war, but his primary complaint is that "armor and artillery don't count" enough. In McCaffrey's recent MSNBC commentary, he exclaimed enthusiastically, "Thank God for the Abrams tank and . . . the Bradley fighting vehicle," and added for good measure that the "war isn't over until we've got a tank sitting on top of Saddam's bunker." In March alone, IDT [on whose Board of Directors McCaffrey sat] received more than $14 million worth of contracts relating to Abrams and Bradley machinery parts and support hardware.

At the very least, NBC viewers ought to have been told of the numerous, substantial ties which these "independent" military analysts had.

* * * * *

What makes all of this even more astounding -- and what makes Williams' glib dismissal of these issues yesterday all the more indefensible -- is that all of these conflicts and all of this deceit was well-known long before the NYT article added more details. As I've repeatedly noted, concerns over the use by news networks of retired Generals masquerading as "independent analysts" were raised for years in multiple venues -- including by the NYT and by the astoundingly prescient Colman McCarthy in The Washington Post, and the networks simply ignored those concerns, marching along with their pro-war parade of military analysts.

But far worse, the specific, undisclosed conflicts of both McCaffrey and Downing -- the two Generals cited by Williams to prove NBC did nothing wrong -- were disclosed more than four years ago by The Nation. And there is no way that NBC and Williams can claim not to have known about them, since The Nation described those ties as specifically as could be. Did NBC ask the Generals about these ties? Did they consider disclosing them to their viewers? Did the undislcosed ties violate NBC News policy? Does NBC have policies now to prevent this from happening again? Who knows? NBC refuses to comment on any of this.

In fact, it appears that NBC was informed of these specific conflicts by The Nation four years ago. From The Nation article:

The networks don't seem too concerned about what the analysts do on their own time. "We are employing them for their military expertise, not their political views," Elena Nachmanoff, vice president of talent development at NBC News, told The Nation. She says that NBC's military experts play an influential role behind the scenes, briefing executive producers and holding seminars for staffers that provide "texture for both on-air pieces and background." Defense contracts, she adds, are "not our interest."

That was just false. As I noted last week after I interviewed CNN's former anchor Aaron Brown, who offered a similar defense, these retired Generals -- certainly including McCaffrey -- repeatedly argued in support for the war and the ongoing occupation, not merely commented upon military tactics. But to NBC, the substantial financial interests of their "independent" military experts to advocate for the war were simply "not their interest." Of course, it's not all that surprising that NBC News doesn't consider these conflicts worth noting given that, as a subsidiary of General Electric, a corporation that also profits greatly from increased defense spending and wars, NBC News is plagued by the very same conflicts in its reporting on the Government's military policies.

* * * * *

Just consider what is going on here. The core credibility of war reporting by Brian Williams and NBC News has been severely undermined by a major NYT expose. That story involves likely illegal behavior by the Pentagon, in which NBC News appears to have been complicit, resulting in the deceitful presentation of highly biased and conflicted individuals as "independent" news analysts. Yet they refuse to tell their viewers about any of this, and refuse to address any of the questions that have been raised.

More amazingly still, when Brian Williams is forced by a virtual mob on his blog yesterday finally to address this issue -- something he really couldn't avoid doing given that, the day before, he found time to analyze seven other NYT articles -- Williams cited McCaffrey and Downing as proof that they did nothing wrong, and insists that his and their credibility simply ought to be beyond reproach because they are good, patriotic men. But those two individuals in particular had all kinds of ties to the Government, the defense industry, and ideological groups which gave them vested interests in vigorous pro-war advocacy -- ties which NBC News knew about and failed to disclose, all while presenting these individuals to their millions of viewers as "independent." Is there anyone who thinks that behavior is anything other than deeply corrupt?

What Times is it?

Mark Cohen Ft Plain, NY — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:44:51 GMT

Just a short blurb from Greenwald's reply to your non-reply regarding the NYT sock-puppet piece.

The system is definately broken when a guy who isn't even a journalist is a better journalist than the "real" journalists.

Heckuva a job Brian-eee...

"Just consider what is going on here. The core credibility of war reporting by Brian Williams and NBC News has been severely undermined by a major NYT expose. That story involves likely illegal behavior by the Pentagon, in which NBC News appears to have been complicit, resulting in the deceitful presentation of highly biased and conflicted individuals as "independent" news analysts. Yet they refuse to tell their viewers about any of this, and refuse to address any of the questions that have been raised."

What Times is it?

Bernard Latham, Portland, Oregon — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:50:03 GMT

Mr. Williams

In regards to this story of Pentagon/administration purposeful propogation of a pro-war stance using your network along with others, you, as a "journalist", continue to demand far too little of yourself.

This is a professional and ethical matter (not to mention a matter of fundamental civic responsibility) and you are failing, seriously failing, to fulfill your duties to inform.

What Times is it?

Max Doef, Seattle, Wash — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:50:30 GMT

How could you not be ashamed to have been made such a fool of by the Pentagon propaganda machine and a chump for not coming clean and discussing it? Did men and women lose their lives because you and the rest of the major media were hoodwinked and bamboozled by this administration once again? How can we ever get to the truth in this country if the childlike instincts of the major networks is to flippantly toss under the rug important revelations that might expose and make them vulnerable to scorn. Meanwhile someone in the soundproof room where decisions are made is tearing off strips of duct tape with his dentures sweating on the slipping adhesive in a desperate attempt at covering exposed rear ends with ceramic plates in kevlar, dragon skin, and anything else that will deflect or stop the light of truth from inflaming the infants asses.
"Don't worry if this doesn't work I have sun block 1200. Nothing gets through that!" He shouts and falls on his back and exhausted heap of hot trembling pink in sweaty stripped white cotton.
A single coin falls from his pocket spinning. A penny falls tails and a drop of sweat from the old mans wrist falls magnifying on the words E pluribus unum.
Melting pot.

What Times is it?

Mickey Mouse, Anaheim, Ca. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:07:09 GMT

Journalists are supposed to have objectivity - you have none.
Journalists are supposed to have integrity - you have none.

Did you flush them down the toilet all those years ago or did you never have them to begin with?
8million dollars a year that's criminal.

What Times is it?

Ruth Pabich,Thorp,Wisconsin — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:28:38 GMT

Well, Brian, you just lost another viewer with your praise of Peggy Noonan's insipid piece (can you be for real about that???)and your trashing of the NYT (joining the Bill O'Reilly crowd are you?)I now know where you stand on what makes for good journalism, to say nothing of your dodging the retired Generals story. What a disappointment you are.

What Times is it?

Steve Ruger, Rock Hill, SC — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:34:56 GMT

You have presented "Independent" retired military sources, who are actually politically aligned with Right-wing Bill Kristol's "The Committee for the Liberation of Iraq", as though they were objective and unbiased. In reality they are 100% behind the Bush Administration agenda, only "admitting" problems after they are so obvious even Donald Rumsfeld had to admit they existed (such as the Civil War in Iraq).

Drew Pearson must be spinning in his grave at the degree to which our media reporters have become lap dogs to the Bush team.

What Times is it?

Stan Jacobs, Ann Arbor, Michigan — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:09:05 GMT

NBC News's refusal to address its cheerleading for the Iraq War is disgraceful. The same is true of ABC, CBS, Fox, and CNN. Edward R. Murrow must be turning in his grave. Nice work, Mr. Williams.

What Times is it?

Miles Bachman, Cincinnati Ohio — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:28:12 GMT

It may be redundant at this point, but nonetheless, I want to add my name and my voice to those who have rightly noted Brian Williams blatant right-wing partisanship, especially at a time that NBC News is refusing to acknowledge, own up to or apologize for the corruption exposed by the very New York Times he so casually bashes in its use of generals as consultants and commentators who were working in cahoots with the Pentagon to spread propaganda and lies to the American people. Shame on you, Brian Williams. The network anchors of this era will not be treated kindly by history. You have disgraced your profession and betrayed your nation

What Times is it?

Tom Castle, Dayton, Ohio — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:28:57 GMT

Peggy Noonan: I don't have any proof, but I don't think Barack Obama loves America. Brian Williams: Give Noonan the Pulitzer! Brilliant!

Brian, a big part of me likes you, but this post is idiotic and it's become impossible to avoid the conclusion that you are a real rightwing nutbag.

What Times is it?

frances burke Rumsey CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:31:26 GMT

Brian, You are no Tom Brokaw, alas I have continued to hope. It is my opinion that You do have a responsibility to be honest with your audience. Presenting your "friends" the Generals who have a predisposition to sell the war to the American people and who work for the defence industry as independent is dishonest. That makes you responsible for the deaths of Americans and Iraqies and how it has facilited our economic disaster .Great accomplishment for one unremarkable guy.

What Times is it?

Whitney, Berkeley, CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:37:25 GMT

Just consider what is going on here. The core credibility of war reporting by Brian Williams and NBC News has been severely undermined by a major NYT expose. That story involves likely illegal behavior by the Pentagon, in which NBC News appears to have been complicit, resulting in the deceitful presentation of highly biased and conflicted individuals as "independent" news analysts. Yet they refuse to tell their viewers about any of this, and refuse to address any of the questions that have been raised.

More amazingly still, when Brian Williams is forced by a virtual mob on his blog yesterday finally to address this issue -- something he really couldn't avoid doing given that, the day before, he found time to analyze seven other NYT articles -- Williams cited McCaffrey and Downing as proof that they did nothing wrong, and insists that his and their credibility simply ought to be beyond reproach because they are good, patriotic men. But those two individuals in particular had all kinds of ties to the Government, the defense industry, and ideological groups which gave them vested interests in vigorous pro-war advocacy -- ties which NBC News knew about and failed to disclose, all while presenting these individuals to their millions of viewers as "independent." Is there anyone who thinks that behavior is anything other than deeply corrupt?

-Glenn Greenwald

What Times is it?

Edwin — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:58:46 GMT

Hi Brian,

Peggy Noonan was not raised in this country and is out of touch with the reality faced by the struggling middle class today. Neither Peggy nor you are "regular" folk with your million dollar salaries and homes.

Instead of offering right wing talking points as instruction do your job and report on how the Pentagon and your network fed propaganda to the citizens of the US of A. If your complicit in the cover up have another reporter who isn't tainted do the report and take a day off to rest and watch the next NASCAR spectacle.

Edwin

What Times is it?

Eric Morris, St. Jacob, IL — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:04:18 GMT

Mr. Williams, your attempts to rationalize away your and NBC's involvement in spreading the Pentagon's (seemingly unconstitutional) propaganda are rather pathetic and self-serving.

From Glenn Grenwald --
"these retired Generals -- certainly including McCaffrey -- repeatedly argued in support for the war and the ongoing occupation, not merely commented upon military tactics. But to NBC, the substantial financial interests of their "independent" military experts to advocate for the war were simply "not their interest." Of course, it's not all that surprising that NBC News doesn't consider these conflicts worth noting given that, as a subsidiary of General Electric, a corporation that also profits greatly from increased defense spending and wars, NBC News is plagued by the very same conflicts in its reporting on the Government's military policies."

You should admit that you are part of the problem, Mr. Williams, with what is wrong with much of the media coverage these days, apologize to your viewers, and start to do some helpful and honest reporting.

What Times is it?

George L, Santa Rosa Beach FL — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:14:34 GMT

Why don't you comment on your blatant misrepresentation of NBC military analysts?

There are over 4000 soldiers dead because people like you acted as cheerleaders for the Bush war effort.

Focusing on the tribulations of the Times is a bit strange.

What Times is it?

Doug E., Madison, WI — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:15:46 GMT

Your critique of the Sunday NYT was unfair. You focused almost exclusively on the newspaper's culture-and-style related sections, so of course some of the content would seem frivolous. That's sort of the point -- it's a break from the harder news.

What Times is it?

William Booth, Chicago, Illinois — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:45:50 GMT

To answer Peggy Noonan's question, no I would have to guess that when Barack Obama thinks of avowed anti-semite and Nazi sympathizer Henry Ford (insert photo of Ford receiving medal from Hitler in 1938) he does not get "weepy." Quick question for Peggy Noonan, what is it about Henry Ford that makes you weepy? And just why is a trite expansion of the meaningless "flag pin controversy" Pulitzer-worthy?

Quick question for Brian Williams. Possibly illegal Pentagon program that fed talking points to "independent" military experts (who also sit on policy groups and boards of defense contractors set to reap huge profits from Iraq War), who then repeat said talking points -- not a "controversy" worth covering on air. Miley Cyrus takes some "controversial" photos -- BIG STORY! Which story do you think Cronkite or Murrow would have covered?

What Times is it?

Mark b — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:47:15 GMT

I have to laugh - you blast the times for publishing that which you deem not-newsworthy and then you spend 2 minutes on national tv doing a total puff piece on Miley Cyrus - what hypocrisy!

What Times is it?

D Kirby Boulder, CO — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:51:10 GMT

Dear Brian - while you're still devoting on-air time to Myley Cyrus' Very Scandalous photo shoot, you may want to reconsider slamming other news media outlets for peddling puffery.

Just a suggestion.

What Times is it?

Clint, Atlanta, GA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:51:15 GMT

Thanks for all the time you spent on Miley Cyrus last night! You gave it as much time as your piece on The Supreme Court's ruling on Voter IDs. And in that piece you provided no dissenting point of view. I guess you didn't have enough time what with having to breathlessly report every little detail about Miley. I feel so much more informed thanks to you and the so called liberal main stream media.

What Times is it?

Bill Uicker, Portland, OR — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:04:21 GMT

Brian, thanks for pointing me to the article by Noonan. I really don't read enough random observations from narrow minded morons who vend veiled racism. Honestly, it sounded a lot more like her point was that us regular white folk should be left alone, everyone knows that scary looking brown men (like Barack Obama) are terrorists. If you think this is good writing, you need to get out more.

What Times is it?

Alan Coltharp, Chimacum, WA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:17:11 GMT

Oy, Brian, such a spanking! You'll be eating off the mantle for at least a week. And Oh! so richly deserved.
Embrace the shame.

What Times is it?

Mrs. Days — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:20:17 GMT

Thank you for providing an easy to enter message box. Unlike other sites that take you to page after page until you arrive back at the box and can't remember what it was you were going to say....

I just jumped in here to say that we are really not interested in your opinions Brian. You are really not that interesting Brian. In fact, I don't watch the show anymore because the reporting is... well.. thin.

The inadequate coverage for the last 10 years has caused me to give up pay TV. If it's free? I might check it out once in a while, but I have switched to radio. It frees me to stay active while I listen.

What Times is it?

david surlaw — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:23:08 GMT

Hey Brian--what about that NYT piece about the Pentagon-sponsored analysts your network used to "explain" the war to us? And Peggy Noonan, are you kidding? You belong on the Fox network if you belong anywhere on TV. What a bunch of crap you spew.

What Times is it?

Incredulous, Podunk, America — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:23:53 GMT

Seriously, Brian, who do you think you are? No one thinks you will be the next Cronkite because no one can believe you anymore. Peggy Noonan's "sparkling journalism" may have pretty words in it, but it is absolute garbage. I don't think in your whole career you've ever done anything that made me angry as a viewer, but this is absurd. You criticize the NYT while you talk about Miley Cyrus on your newscast? You have 30 MINUTES every night to cover the whole world of news and you cover that. Get off your high horse. The NYT is the only place that real journalism still exists, and even that is going down the drain thanks to know-nothings like you. I'll never watch or read anything with your name on it ever again.

What Times is it?

Channon Holiday — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:35:46 GMT

The NYT piece on the Pentagon's "Propaganda Generals" program is an unprecedented embarrassment to NBC News and Williams. I can't recall a time when an achor's or agency's credibility was so undermined. Even the events that brought down Dan Rather pale in comparison.

Take responsibility. Step up to some ethical standard. Review the file footage. Air a special program on "How we were fooled."

What Times is it?

donna, pittsbutgh, PA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:37:09 GMT

Good God! You link to that drivel spewed out by Noonan. Does Obama get misty eyed over Henry Ford? Find me one single human being in the nation who gets misty eyed over Henry ford (the well known Nazi lover). No wonder the networks are losing their viewership. "John McCain has patriotism in his bones"! How dare she and how dare you sir!
I came for the first time to this blog following Glen Greenwald's article and what do I see-shameless rubbish like the rest of the media.
If you had any decency you would fully address why you have deceived your audience for so many years by not revealing that your so called military experts were nothing but shills for the govt.
Bush does not need Pravda when he has Brian Williams and NBC news.
And by the way people in this country are not getting misty eyed over lapel pins and patriotism-they are crying over high food costs, unaffordable health care, high gas prices and job loss-remember that when you spend 2 mins in a half hour news broadcast on a bare back 15 yr old.

What Times is it?

Charles Davenport, Florida — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:39:51 GMT

Dear Peggy and Brian:

The reason nobody at Gate 14 bothers to look at the television news (and on a primary Tuesday! Gasp!) is because they know it's a pile of lying bullcrap. The Times article simply offers some sources for what is obvious to anyone with a few neurons left to rub together: tv news lies.

In your role as paid propagandist, how can you be expected to treat with that reality? It's liking asking Clint Eastwood the actor to look into his heart and change Dirty Harry into a Ghandi. It's not what's in the script. Brian's job is to market a worldview that NORMALIZES the dropping of bombs on people. Profits before people, baby.

And Peggy? Peggy is the intellectual at Gate 14, craving the vidfeed from the Ministry of Truth (as per Jacques Ellul's book 'Propaganda'--highly recommended), astonished that the 'real' people (durn proles) don't even LOOK at Goldstein's bleating. What ever happened to the 2-minute hate?!

At the least, tell your amanuensis to be more selective in who he "curls up" with.

What Times is it?

SamTyler, Hoboken, NJ — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:46:40 GMT

This thread isn't exactly shattering the stereotype of leftists having no sense of humor or proportion.

"How does this feel, of all the honors that have come your way, all the publicity?...Who does it make you think of? Is there, is there a loved one?" -- Williams in an interview with Obama on the January 7 Nightly News.

Anyone who thinks Brian Williams is a right-winger either doesn't watch the news or is ideologically blinded. Remember that 89% of the media voted for Clinton in 1992.

Plus it's common sense that reporters and anchors lean left. These folks are based in Manhattan. Even the conservatives are liberal in NYC! Of course the journalists would be.

What Times is it?

McGruff, Phoenix, AZ — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:01:35 GMT

Glenn Greenwald @ Salon:

"More amazingly still, when Brian Williams is forced by a virtual mob on his blog yesterday finally to address this issue -- something he really couldn't avoid doing given that, the day before, he found time to analyze seven other NYT articles -- Williams cited McCaffrey and Downing as proof that they did nothing wrong, and insists that his and their credibility simply ought to be beyond reproach because they are good, patriotic men. But those two individuals in particular had all kinds of ties to the Government, the defense industry, and ideological groups which gave them vested interests in vigorous pro-war advocacy -- ties which NBC News knew about and failed to disclose, all while presenting these individuals to their millions of viewers as "independent." Is there anyone who thinks that behavior is anything other than deeply corrupt?"

Well Mr. Williams? What do you have to say for yourself?

Why were these men presented as "independent" by you and the network?

What Times is it?

KC, NH — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:01:47 GMT

Is it any wonder that the networks, all of them, are so often referred to as "Prava West" by people who look in other areas for the real news? This article by Williams is just one example of their salvitating the neocon/theocon right wingers, and it is sooo boring. It isn't even amusing due to the fact that it is continuing the lying and corruption we as a nation have been experiencing. The true elitists are those that are spewing the lies coming from corporate/media/right wingers america. As for Noonan and Limbaugh - the true lie and hate spewers -just other shills for the right, nothing more than that - poor things.

What Times is it?

Mark, Glenville, NY — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:04:23 GMT

Mr. Williams,

I agree that The New York Times stories that you noted clearly call into question the news judgment of some people at that organization. I cannot give as much merit to Peggy Noonan's column. Ms. Noonan's political allegiances and resulting biases are both well known and well documented.

However, one is always strongest and able to display the most integrity, I've found, when examining one's own performance and the performance of one's peers. Let's see if you're willing to do that.

During the most recent Democratic presidential debate, ABC News moderator George Stephanopoulos called the economy the "number one issue on the minds of Americans." Mr. Stephanopoulos made this comment prior to asking the 16th question in the 62nd minute of the debate. Please comment, if you will, on the motivations of Mr. Stephanopoulos for making his self-described "number one issue" in America the 16th question asked in the 62nd minute.

Why would a professional journalist not ask the number one issue as part of the first question in said debate?

Why did Mr. Stephanopoulos delay posing this query until the 16th question? The 62nd minute?

How do the actions of Mr. Stephanopoulos reflect on other television journalists such as yourself?

Also, during the same debate, ABC News anchor Charles Gibson defined Americans with annual salaries of $250,000 as "middle class." According to the IRS, individuals with annual salaries of $250,000 or more will comprise 2 percent of the American population next year, while couples with joint incomes of $250,000 or more will include 3.1 percent of the American population next year. These numbers hardly seem to be "middle class," as defined by Mr. Gibson.

To what do you attribute Mr. Gibson's mathematical and economics errors?

How do you define a middle class income?

Will yours be a middle class income next year?

How do you believe Mr. Gibson's statement reflects upon broadcast journalists?

I look forward to your prompt, professional reply to these questions.

Thank you for your time.

What Times is it?

Steven Emery, Somerset, NJ — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:08:29 GMT

You, sir, are a disgrace as a purported newsman. You have the temerity to criticize the editorial choices of the NY Times? We're still waiting to hear some honest disclosure of the "military experts" affair exposed by the Times, but no, you need to tell us more about Miley Cyrus. Really? Even worse, as a lifelong resident, I'm embarrassed you're from NJ, and a NASCAR fan to boot.

BTGW, I'm a 54-year-old communications professional, not effing Vinnie from The Bronx writing from my basement.

Steven Emery
Somerset, NJ

What Times is it?

Paul G. Minneapolis, MN — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:43:23 GMT

What is your obsession with right wing hacks? Rush Limbaugh a journalist? Peggy Noonan deserves a Pulitzer Prize? How much time did you devote to Mylie Cyrus? The Times' circulation is certainly down. How would you say network news ratings are doing? Physician heal thyself.

What Times is it?

John Taylor, Pacifica, CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:01:09 GMT

Glenn Greenwald has you pegged again:

:
Williams argues that the two retired Generals whom he identified in particular -- Downing and McCaffrey -- voiced "harsh criticism of the Rumsfeld Pentagon and the war effort." As proof, he cites a McCaffrey quote from 2006 -- more then 3 years after we invaded Iraq -- in which McCaffrey said there was a civil war there and that "it's a very bad situation, and it's getting worse." He also said Downing was angry that we didn't use more troops for the invasion.

That is the sum and substance of Williams' response to allegations that these analysts were presented as "independent" despite having multiple political and financial ties which negated their independence. There is no indication that he has any plans to tell his viewers about the story. And he seems to think that this smug, dismissive response resolves the questions surrounding the behavior of NBC News. It doesn't. If fact, Williams' response -- and his citation to these two specific retired Generals -- raises far more questions than it answers.

* * * * *

Both McCaffrey and Downing were about as far from "independent" as a news analyst could possibly be."

http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/2008/04/30/williams/

What Times is it?

Paul Binkley, San Francisco, CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:05:42 GMT

Brian, you need to give a serious response to the NYT story about 'independent' military analysts, and specifically respond to Glenn Greenwald's critique of your last 'response' in today's Salon.com, or you need to stop collecting your paycheck as a journalist and simply call yourself a propogandist.

What Times is it?

Rob Lewis, Langley, WA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:06:22 GMT

Um, well, I guess Mr. Greenwald pretty much eviscerated your lame "response" to the Generalgate scandal: http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/2008/04/30/williams/index.html. We need more guys like him, and fewer like you.

What Times is it?

Tom Shefchik, San Jose, CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:26:18 GMT

You thought that Peggy Noonan piece was worth mentioning? The Garrison Keillor piece in Salon was vastly superior. Noonan: "America got trough security. America didn't look up at Wolf Blitzer on TV." So narcissistic yet still trite. Embarrassing drivel, as always from that bitter old hag.

And Bush was good at the correspondents dinner? No wonder GE has it so easy using you as its whore for war. You are One. Dim. Bulb.

What Times is it?

Fynn Dartmoor — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:40:31 GMT

So interesting to see so many of the upwardly mobile middle class join the ranks of the elite. Something strange and not-so-wonderful happens when they arrive: they become Rightwing tools.

There’s Lou Dobbs on his 300 acre horse ranch claiming to speak for the little guy; there’s Limbaugh, Rupert Murdoch, Noonan, Hannity, that xenophobic rightist Mormon, Glen Beck, Pat Robertson, all rich, all claiming they speak for us, all of them from the same roots, and all card-carrying members of the über conservative club, the GOP. How quick they forget those roots they boast about.

And then there’s Brian Williams with his x million dollar contract.

I don’t begrudge them their wealth or privilege. God love them for it, but to turn into ugly people who war on the poor and the middle class, who express the vilest of opinions and demand the rest of us see it as godly truth, that I find unpleasant.

It might be ok if it stopped there, but it doesn’t. This nouveau-riche class feels a compulsion to pound us with Rightwing crazymaking, to ram it down our throats and dilute and distort the truth with blather.

Peggy Noonan is a vulgar and objectionable propagandist, a third-rate writer masquerading as a columnist. That she writes for The Wall Street Urinal, a paper that lacks honor and morality, tells you all you need to know. On a moralistic scale she does no better than Carl Rove.

Yet here’s Mr. Williams insistence she does "the work of her career and must be considered an early favorite for next cycle’s Pulitzer for commentary." Fine by me, but I didn’t know there was a multi category for yellow journalism, fawning and propagandizing. Rhetorical question, but does she eat with that mouth of hers?

Oh, the gushing of her by Mr. Williams. Noonan's journalistic pedigree is the same as Mr. Williams—none. Both work in the media industry, neither as respected journalists. Beyond that you can be sure they're both paid-up members of the GOP.

I miss the great journalists cum anchor men of the past, but to swipe a phrase from Lloyd Benson, you, Mr. Williams are no Edward R. Murrow. Or any of the other greats that came after him. On the plus side (for you), no doubt Fox News would be proud to have you join them.

From now on I get my news from the internet, NPR and yes, the New York Times. I’m coming back.

What Times is it?

Laura J. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:50:24 GMT

I agree with Mr. Batten. Brian Williams is an infotainer. He isn't a real journalist. He just plays one on TV. Tune out, America.
http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/2008/04/30/williams/index.html

What Times is it?

richard block — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:03:44 GMT

When I look up "soooty" in the dictionary (Noonan's term), I see two pictures: one of Noonan and one of Williams. He's compromised goods now after the NY Times, just another water boy for the administration.

What Times is it?

rowan, proctor MN — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:04:54 GMT

Dear Mr. Williams:

When you had your "unbiased former pentagon generals" on NBC as "independent military analysts", did you ever think to either ask them or disclose that both your "good friends" are linked to neoconservative thinktanks that promote the war in Iraq?

Did you think while you hobnobbing around Bagadad with these former generals ever to do your job as a journalist and ask them about their ties to these organizations? Did you think to ask them these questions before the War?

Or is being friends with generals more important than doing your job as a journalist?

Thank the gods Murrow is dead.

What Times is it?

tim, washington dc — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:11:54 GMT

brian,

why would you be surprised that the New York Times, you know, a paper written for New Yorkers, has these types of articles in the Sunday Styles section? Think about the demographics of the city. I think your question is easily answered.

And as far as citing Peggy Noonan's piece, it might make a cohesive whole, but I'm disappointed by lines like "America is Mr. Obama's problem" or "There's gold in that history. John McCain carries it in his bones." Although I should expect no pretense of objectivity from the opinion pages, and certainly no respect for liberal candidates over at Opinion Journal

What Times is it?

April — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:16:08 GMT

Do you read Glenn Greenwald?
"Both McCaffrey and Downing were about as far from "independent" as a news analyst could possibly be. On November 15, 2002, a press release was issued announcing the formation of something called "The Committee for the Liberation of Iraq," which was devoted "to advocat[ing] freedom and democracy in Iraq." Its list of 25 members was filled to the brim with the standard cast of war-hungry neocons -- including Bill Kristol, Newt Gingrich, Richard Perle, Leon Wieseltier, Danielle Pletka of the American Enterprise Institute, Eliot Cohen, and anti-Muslim "scholar" Bernard Lewis. Both Barry McCaffrey and Wayne Downing -- the two extremely independent "news sources" hailed yesterday by Brian Williams -- were two of its 25 founding members."
http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/2008/04/30/williams/index.html

What Times is it?

Cara, New York, NY — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:22:28 GMT

All I have to say is that I saw you on the Jon Stewart show: "WILLIAMS. HUNGRY." Enough to make my year.

What Times is it?

disappointed in MSM in Hayward CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:40:43 GMT

I'm disappointed, Mr. Williams, with your failure to cover the military analyst gate propaganda program reported 10 days ago by the NYT.

What Times is it?

Kyle Michel Sullivan, Los Angeles, Ca. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:48:02 GMT

Liar. Hypocrite. If one word of this is true -- and it looks like every word is -- you're nothing but a Neo-Con Republican shill, just like Chris Matthews.

http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/2008/04/30/williams/index.html

I guess we should change the name of NBC to NB-GOP.

What Times is it?

Fremont, CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 22:37:36 GMT

Yes, depressing when there is so much serious news being reported- like Miley Cyrus' back skin...

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John A., Charlotte, NC — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 22:47:53 GMT

Mr. Williams,

When someone refers to those with whom she disagrees as "snooty lefties," I stop reading. Sorry. Peggy Noonan's article wasn't worth the time you suggested. It seemed to do the same thing for which you deride the NY Times. I suppose the only difference is the subject matter.

Thank you for the suggestion, though.

What Times is it?

disappointed in MSM in Hayward CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 23:23:59 GMT

I'm disappointed, Mr. Williams, with your failure to cover the military analyst gate propaganda program reported 10 days ago by the NYT.

What Times is it?

Neil, Manhattan — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 23:56:59 GMT

Mr. Williams,

Have you considered becoming a defense industry lobbyist? Reading Glen Greenwald's blog convinced me you're not fit to be a journalist.

What Times is it?

J Huntley — Thu, 01 May 2008 00:36:28 GMT

Mr Williams, I'm simply appalled - Peggy Noonan deserving of the Pulitzer? You have got to be kidding...or have the Pulitzer folks started a new category for "Rehashed RNC Talking Points"! I love how you knock the NY Times by pointing out its fallen subscription rates while your own network's nightly news audience has fallen in rates equal to newspaper readership in the past decade. Elizabeth Edward's Op-Ed piece was right on the money...the establishment news has indeed covered this presidential race by focusing on puff stories aimed at the lowest common interest level. At least Mrs. Edwards' doesn't duck stories like how Pentagon Generals are used as PR stooges on the network news. Go figure.

What Times is it?

Harry Allan, Hackensack, New Jersey — Thu, 01 May 2008 01:12:13 GMT

Nice on the Times. I've subscribed to the Times for the best part of my 70+ years, and search for it when I'm traveling because it continues to be "good in parts." But why -- while circulation is evaporating --does it seem intent on making me feel unwelcome. Why not get the politics out of the music reviews and teach the headline writers to read the stories first.

What Times is it?

Craig Henslin St. Paul, MN — Thu, 01 May 2008 01:48:50 GMT

Count me out as an NBC news watcher! Between this ridiculous excuse for its own lack of coverage and banning Ariana Huffington, Russert and company have finally and irrefutably shown their real agenda. I knew not to trust the networks for the most part but now you're so blatant! Saying NYT resorted to tabloid coverage and following it with a story of Miley Cyrus was classic! Tools.

What Times is it?

James Hankins, Haines City, FL — Thu, 01 May 2008 02:19:53 GMT

Yeah, well at least most readers are aware that they're reading a pile of insubstantial drivel when they go the Style and Travel Section of the NYTimes Sunday or any other MSM rag. Perhaps not so obvious is the misleading information they're ingesting when tuning into the NBC evening newscast. You, Mr. Williams, are grievously irresponsible for not addressing the NYTimes article about the Pentagon using your network to propagandize the American public on the Iraq debacle. You're exemplary of the problems with the MSM.

What Times is it?

Tom Mulhall — Thu, 01 May 2008 03:11:33 GMT

As the owner of The Terra Cotta Inn clothing optional resort and spa in Palm Springs, CA, one of the nudist resorts mentioned in the New York Times article, what Mr Williams is missing is reporting on nudist resorts is not an attempt to gain readers, but is reporting informative information to a growing segment of society that vacations at clothing optional resorts.

According to a survey released by Trip Advisor last October, 12% of travelers have vacationed at clothing optional resorts. That means maybe 12% of the NYT readers have been to nudist resorts and they are looking for more information about new places to visit. As Forbes Magazine once said vacationing at nudist resorts is the fastest growing trend in the vacation industry.

And according to Trip Advisor only 6% of surveyed people were interested in tennis vacations, yet tennis is reported on much more than nudist resorts.

Europe is very enlightened towards nudism and nudist resorts. Americans are slowly maturing to this wonderful, relaxing way to vacation.

You should try it someday, you would be surprised at how many high level executives, politicians, and celebrities enjoy nude and topless sunbathing.

What Times is it?

Andy, Chicago, IL — Thu, 01 May 2008 03:25:38 GMT

Please give careful consideration to the role your network played in the entry to war and its continuance. This is an important issue and deserves your careful, thoughtful reflection, and not a knee-jerk self-defense.

What Times is it?

brett roseberry, phoenix, az — Thu, 01 May 2008 04:01:39 GMT

Brian, please read Glen Greenwald's latest post on Salon and fess up. You are being deceitful and glib and need to set the record straight on your crony military analysts that have led and kept us in this horrible war.

What Times is it?

Bob Soper, Portland OR — Thu, 01 May 2008 04:13:10 GMT

It's no wonder you and your corporate media cronies are losing viewers in droves. Hopefully the internet will remain free from corporate interference (in terms of what content is available), though AT&T, Concast & Verizon are doind their best to screw that up too. Your fawning admiration of Peggy Noonan's reactionary tripe, along with your complete refusal to give ANY coverage to last Sunday's NYT story of the Pentagon's disgusting corruption of TV news coverage, makes it quite obvious that you are the perfect mouthpiece for the defense contractors (including your employer). And a hack.

What Times is it?

D. Jasper, Covington, KY — Thu, 01 May 2008 04:32:41 GMT

I grew up watching NBC nightly news: Huntley, Brinkley, Brokaw, and then Williams. No more. I'm breaking off a thirty year relationship with my primary network news source. It's not you -- it's me. I guess I expected more...

What Times is it?

Jim in Ohio — Thu, 01 May 2008 04:35:55 GMT

Last night, NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams allotted eighty seconds to yesterday's momentous Supreme Court ruling that there's nothing unconstitutional with Indiana's law requiring a photo ID to vote. Meanwhile, during the same broadcast, it spent over two minutes on the concern caused by photos of teen star Miley Cyrus in Vanity Fair.

That would be embarrassing enough for a news organization purporting to be credible.

More at
http://www.bradblog.com/?p=5938

What Times is it?

Susan Malmstrom, Bear River, Nova Scotia — Thu, 01 May 2008 14:01:43 GMT

Regarding your response to the military analyst scandal: once again it is demonstrated how true that (getting more tired by the minute, unfortunately) quote of Samuel Johnson is--you know, the one about patriotism being the last refuge of the scoundrel...

What Times is it?

Ray LeMoine — Thu, 01 May 2008 14:08:18 GMT

Brain, using the Sunday Styles as your second para example is pretty pathetic. Why no mention of the front page Pentagon-cable network information scandal, the Sunday NYT's mega-headline from two weeks ago? It was only a--gulp--9000 word breaking news story, three years in the making, about the White House and Pentagon manipulating cable media by offering access. Why leave that out? Is it because MSNBC is among the guilty parties using Pentagon collusion-ists?

Fact is, the Sunday NYT still offers wonderful reporting in its national and, especially, international sections. Looking to Travel and Styles as support for your beefs is idiotic: Everyone knows those sections are used to generate ad revenue to pay for hard news--just ask Bill Keller. Considering you've had exactly one great moment--in New Orleans, calling for the "LZ" (which was a brilliant news moment)--I'd suggest you focus on breaking news not criticizing it.

What Times is it?

Christopher Ryan, Barcelona, Spain — Thu, 01 May 2008 15:12:27 GMT

Brian,
I greatly enjoyed your interview with the "wounded warrior" the other night. But I couldn't help noticing that even after you broadcast his appeal to you to not limit yourself to the number of dead in Iraq (and you gracefully included footage of yourself doing just that), you still didn't mention the number of wounded! Are your writers brain-dead?

What Times is it?

William Bryant — Thu, 01 May 2008 15:18:51 GMT

I miss Tom Brokaw--an excellent example of journalistic class and integrity.

I used to be a television journalist. Take it from me, the business is going downhill...filled with press release reporting and so-called journalists who care more about if they are wearing the right make-up and hairstyle than if they are credible and accurate. Corporate suits, t.v. consultants and hacks--like Brian Williams--have ruined the business.

P.S. Did I say I miss Tom Brokaw?

What Times is it?

Erich E. Schuttauf, Kissimmee, Florida — Thu, 01 May 2008 16:48:13 GMT

Dear Brian,

In this blog you have opined that you may not be "getting out enough on weekends" as the NY Times article on the growth of nakations and nude travel took you by surprise.

As Executive Director for the American Association for Nude Recreation ---which was referenced several places in the Times article--- I would like to take this opportunity to extend an invitation to you to tour one of our resorts. I would also be happy to arrange for you to receive copies of articles from such other credible publications as The Wall St. Journal and Forbes which have noted the increasing dollar value of this niche market in travel.

I look forward to hearing from you. In the meantime, please feel free to visit the Association's web site at http://www.aanr.com , or call toll-free to 1-800-TRY-NUDE for more information.

Sun-cerely,

Erich E. Schuttauf, JD
AANR Executive Director

What Times is it?

Darla Morgan, Austin, Texas. — Thu, 01 May 2008 17:02:21 GMT

Mr. Williams, Your blog revals another reason I no longer turn on to NBC Nightly News or ABC World News Report or CBS....you are hopelessly in the pockets of your big media bosses and show nothing but distain for viewers who make less than $200,000 a year and don't have a table at whatever the newest media hot spot is.

For your to call Generals McCafferty and Downy "independent analysts" is beyond a mistake...it is pure propaganda. Your legal department knew or should have known that both were members of the Committee for Liberation of Iraq. Maybe your deep friendship gets in the way of your perspective or maybe you are just another hack wanting to keep his million dollar paycheck. Either way, you've lost my eyes and ears forever. p.s. I turned off Tim Russert a year ago and couldn't be happier or more informed.

What Times is it?

Richard C., Burrows, near Seattle, WA — Thu, 01 May 2008 17:20:53 GMT

The failure of NBC Williams to acknowledge their deception in presenting "Pentagon propaganda" is not really surprising to me. Only a week or so ago, in reporting that the president made a big announcement that tours of duty would decrease from 15 months to 12, Brian failed to mention that the decrease would NOT AFFECT those already in Iraq (that is, most of the troops involved).

What Times is it?

Patrick Witherell — Thu, 01 May 2008 17:29:55 GMT

Brian:
maybe you should meet a true patriotic reporter. One with real journalistic integrity - who admits mistakes instead of saying "as you were". You've heard of her because her network has 'democracy' in its name. You (and your cadere) have become a national disgrace.

What Times is it?

Richard St. Louis — Thu, 01 May 2008 17:54:19 GMT

Peggy Noonan is a right-wing hack. This is typical of the conservative mainstream media. I expect better from you Mr. Williams.

I'd like to know what you think about the Times article on the propaganda program you station promoted. Typical conservative media.

What Times is it?

Beverly Butler, Weston, CT — Thu, 01 May 2008 18:14:32 GMT

Brian, I've been a devoted nightly network news watcher for 43 years. I understand that those of us are becoming fewer and fewer. After watching you closely for the last year and after reading your blog over the past week, you've lost another viewer. I suggest you submit your application to Fox News, where you could aspire toward someday outshining Brit Hume.

What Times is it?

Paul R — Thu, 01 May 2008 18:24:48 GMT

There's a word that comes to mind when I read your defense of the military propagandists that beat the drums for war on your network. The word is: LAME. LAME. LAME.

When confronted with the damning facts of the NYT story, you retreat into the last defense of the scoundrel: Patriotism, character, blah blah blah. However, unlike the pablum your network serves up for the viewers whose intelligence you continue to insult, patriotism isn't the issue here - it's the concerted effort by our own government to mislead the American people into war via a parade of parrots wearing shiny medals.

You claim these men are objective but can marshal no other support for your position than quotes from 3 years AFTER the invasion, AFTER the damage was done.

I'll say it again, Williams: LAME. Why don't you hang up your tie and go work as a PR flack for one of your buddies' contracting outfits?

What Times is it?

Robb Wells — Thu, 01 May 2008 18:31:16 GMT

Ridiculous. Irrelevant. Mr. Williams, since I am not a millionaire like yourself, I think it's safe to say that you do not speak for me. But, rest assured, the next time I am craving corporate-approved, Bush administration-tested "news", I will watch your broadcast. And you're right: Regarding the military analyst scandal, we should just trust your judgement, because you know what's best. And that's worked out great for the last seven years. Thanks for being such a dedicated journalist.

What Times is it?

rudy lucas — Thu, 01 May 2008 18:50:23 GMT

It is sad that people like you, making multi million dollars, chose to mislead the American public. I am truly sorry for you. If you think that a rabid right wing agent--Ms. Noonan-- deserves a Pulitzer, you are completely out of line. In fact, you owe an apology to all of us, including Senator Obama for writing such utter nonsense.

What Times is it?

John Andreini, Minneapolis, MN — Thu, 01 May 2008 19:04:30 GMT

Your recent response to the NYT article that exposed many military analysts as water carriers for the Pentagon was both disingenuous and dismissive. There is ample evidence that your analysts, and those used by other networks, were in fact pushing a Pentagon agenda before, during and after the invasion of Iraq. I’m happy to know that retired generals Downing and McCaffrey are buddies of yours. It’s good to have friends. But were you aware that your pals were among the founding members of “The Committee for the Liberation of Iraq,” a group of prominent right-wing neo-cons that strongly lobbied the government to go to war with Iraq? If you didn’t, you might want to rethink your assertion that these guys are “honest brokers.” If you did, please explain why this was never mentioned during their many appearances on your channel. Propaganda is propaganda, with it’s coming from a dictatorship or a supposedly free press.

What Times is it?

Ricardo de Anda, Laredo, TX — Thu, 01 May 2008 19:24:50 GMT

Brian,
No use trying to explain away getting caught shilling government propaganda. It's pretty clear to all of us. You and NBC News have lost all credibility. Better for you just to ignore the issue, as you have for so long now.

It's interesting though how you are so busy attacking the NYT after their piece outing your pals as war mongers and profiteers, and your network as a Bush Administration scribe.

What Times is it?

Mark Jones, Albany, New York — Thu, 01 May 2008 19:35:05 GMT

Brian,
I used to watch the Nightly News but I have decided to turn you and your network off. For you to criticize the NYT after you won't even report on or mention the disgraceful pentagon paid propaganda of Downing and McCaffery is unbelievable...Sometimes I really wonder - are you guys trying to destroy our nation or are you just greedy paid hacks?? It defies common sense. Look what you have done to our Nation??? Oh well I guess in the end - you have your wealth and tax breaks and access to power to ask fluffy, one-sided, cowardly non-journalist questions and that is all that apparently matters to you.

What Times is it?

Caro Avanessian — Thu, 01 May 2008 19:56:53 GMT

Here is the dialogue those two shared on Mission Accomplished Day -- May 1, 2003:
WILLIAMS: With us tonight to look back at the military operation and perhaps what today means as a media event and a significant event in the lives of the soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen is retired four-star General Barry McCaffrey who, of course, commanded the 24th Mechanized during the first Gulf War. He is an NBC News analyst on military affairs.

General, let's start with today. The pictures were beautiful. It was quite something to see the first-ever American president on a -- on a carrier landing. This must be very meaningful to the United States military.

Should I comment any more?
Caro

What Times is it?

Nathan Andover, USA — Thu, 01 May 2008 19:57:51 GMT

Let me add my voice to the discraceful blackout of the Pentagon Analyst story. This is the problem with having all of our media owned by a few companies. If the monopoly media companies do something wrong, nobody will hear about it.

What Times is it?

Phil, Des Moines, Iowa — Thu, 01 May 2008 20:01:46 GMT

Brian,
How can you honestly sit there and say McCafferty and Downing were objective independent analysts??? You either think all people are ignorant or didn't do your homework or you are unpatriotic or you are a right-wing schill trying to act independent or maybe all of the above. I mean seriously folks...go read the Glen Greenwald article at Salon.com. We have no 4th Estate folks - they are more interested in access as opposed to honest journalism.

What Times is it?

Jason Biggs, Baltimore, MD — Thu, 01 May 2008 20:04:06 GMT

Dear Mr. Williams,

Thank you for continuing the lies and propaganda of the Bush regime. When I think responsible journalism, I think NBC.

What Times is it?

Tom C. Seattle, WA — Thu, 01 May 2008 20:06:28 GMT

Mr Williams is again demonstrating his bias as a "journalist". It's embarrassing to see such petty behavior from a person so many people rely on for news. It would be far more productive to admit that NBC was duped by the Pentagon and expose the role of the White House in that propaganda effort than lash out at the NYT. No wonder so many people are abandoning "news" programs that are more focused on ratings than delivering news.

What Times is it?

Murray Polner Great Neck, NY — Thu, 01 May 2008 20:09:39 GMT

Dear Mr. Williams: Your failure to mention the Pentagon generals story is shameful.It reflects the way the major media (print and TV) genuflected before the lies of this administration and its sycophants.

What Times is it?

Ann, Portland, OR — Thu, 01 May 2008 21:01:34 GMT

And you folks wonder why the network news ratings are falling like crazy. Even my 65 year old, Republican husband can't stand this junk anymore! And for sure the twenty-somethings are gone....

What Times is it?

Erasmus — Thu, 01 May 2008 21:34:54 GMT

I am not sure that I completely follow Brian Williams's Sunday afternoon reflections, so correct me if I am mistaken? According to Brian, gay marriages, indeed sex of any kind, and reporting on such matters betrays a wrong-headed approach to boosting circulation. Fair enough. Instead, Brian shows us that the only way to boost circulation is to appeal to craven national legends of rapacious frontier conquest.

Noonan's op ed forges a lurid mold about frequent fliers' airport agony (P. N. feels your ordinary peoples' pain! "O! the germs! the germs!") as the homespun vehicle for a crazy yarn about the problem with Obama: he doesn't have the right westward-ho stuff in his BLOOD because--let's call Noonan's spade a spade--he's black and not white like the good old party candidates used to be (you know, like John Wayne).

Thus, Reagan was adorable because he was exactly like Bush who we nonetheless are no longer in a convenient position to love or prop up on the same old GOP rhetoric of boom town daring do. The nostalgia for Bush will have to wait for the next presidential election cycle when Miss Peggy will no doubt dust off another episode of Gunsmoke to spin a rugged yarn about the prodigal son's blessings. All of this boosts the circulation of the blood if not newspapers because it agitates for another doomed generation of relentless race-baiting. To this, Brian adds homo-bashing?

Brian Williams, you are a national treasure--most of that treasure now completely in the portfolios of the Oligarchy for whom you perform your nightly offices at the teleprompter with the remainder going to subsidize the good works you'd like the next generation to make due with: Reagan Cheese.

What Times is it?

Robert T, Fort Worth, Texas — Thu, 01 May 2008 21:41:05 GMT

Brian,
I am a registered republican and WAS viewer of the Nightly News...Your non-coverage of this in addition to the non-explanation dismissal of this on your blog is disgraceful. I will no longer be a viewer. I don't always agree with the left-wingers but the right-wingers are just as bad and to have that propaganda infused with what is supposed to be our independent news is disgusting. I want what is best for our country not what is best for my wallet or for partisan party hacks. Shame on you Brian. Yes folks...believe it or not I'm a republican but not a right-wing nut job. We have lost our party to the Bush/Rove/Delay/Limbaugh/Hannity/Fox type propaganda tactics that Brian is proudly displaying.
Thanks for nothing Brian. Hope you enjoy the bloody mess in Iraq you helped to create by your shoddy propaganda - it's not journalism we are talking about here. God help us!

What Times is it?

Peter Fish, New York City — Thu, 01 May 2008 22:56:29 GMT

Mr. Williams, the fact that you see nothing wrong with the Pentagon-Journalist issue, and think that it does not warrant more discussion, is troubling. As you no doubt learned in journalism school, your profession must go the extra mile to demonstrate impartiality. To deserve the title of professional journalist, you must not have even the appearance of partiality. To say that the generals you worked with "are your friends" and are therefore reliable is nonsense. Your viewers deserve to hear from you an acknowledgment that the Pentagon program was unethical - and that you are aware of that. At that point you can explain why you and your staff were unaffected, if indeed they were. We are living in a time when serious journalism must go the extra mile to demonstrate impartiality and distinguish itself from corporate sponsored infotainment. I would like to have my faith in television news restored. It cannot happen until people like yourself begin to demonstrate journalistic and moral courage and speak out against improprieties. Edward Murrow at CBS had that kind of courage in another time when the government overstepped its bounds in the name of "patriotism." I believe you have that courage as well. Please show it.

What Times is it?

Mordechai Shiblikov Pinole, CA — Thu, 01 May 2008 23:47:55 GMT

You people in the so-called mainstream media may think you have all of us by the short hairs with your slanted, ersatz "journalism", shoveling out the government and corporate line, but you're all rapidly losing viewers. In a generation your audience will be so small you might as well broadcast through a tin can tied to a waxed string. The worse things get in this country (and they are going to get much, much worse) the more your I'm all right, Jack propaganda will fall on deaf ears. As you know nothing else, as you are simply nothing more than fraternity brothers and sorority sisters reading B.S. off a teleprompter, you will, in the end, get everything you deserve. Couldn't happen to a nicer bunch of people.

What Times is it?

James Thurgood, New York, NY — Fri, 02 May 2008 02:12:20 GMT

I'm in shock. I always thought Brian Williams was a stand up and impartial journalist - he is nothing more than a polished propaganda artist. Being in journalism I really can't think of much more of a cardinal sin than acting impartial but yet having a hidden agenda - like Fox News. It truly is propaganda in the purest form conjuring up memories of Goebbels and the Third Reich.

I know that sounds harsh - but his platform should be on Fox News and not a mainstream network. I can't believe any sane person in this beautiful country can possibly say the last 7 years have been good. There is so much cronyism, incompetence, corruption, greed, politicization of every branch of government including our Justice Department. Rove/Bush and the corporate media that Brian represents is literally ruining and dumbing down this nation. They are not reporting and digging and investigating.

These people - including Brian, O'Reilly, Hannity,etc...they think - Hey, I got mine and I want more...screw the rest of you.

How can Brian Williams of all people dismiss so glibly what he has partaken in with these "retired" military generals and such. It is the height of arrogance or it is just plain - screw you peasants or it is the height of stupidity and laziness.

Brian - stop worrying about your perfect hair, make up, and delivery...and try reporting what is really going on. You guys are so ashamed of what you have done you can barely mention it.

This my friends is the epitome of having no soul and being a slave to the almighty dollar.

What Times is it?

Jim Wolf Bigfork Mt — Fri, 02 May 2008 02:58:58 GMT

Brian:
Please report on the Generals who were and still are acting as "experts" for your and other networks. Its a great story. It's about how our system is leading us down a path of no return because the fourth estate no longer practices things you all should have learned in journalism 101. We certainly need to know if your so called experts are also war profiteers!!! I mean get with it, sir.

And by the way, I too think that have seriously lost your marbles when you criticize the NYT for fluff. Are you kidding. Just a week after they came out with the General "experts" story? I can't remember for the life of me the last time NBC reported something as substantive as this. Start using your noggin or you are the problem, my friend.

JW

What Times is it?

mimi soon Mpls. MN — Fri, 02 May 2008 03:13:18 GMT

I had no idea Brian Williams was not a journalist until this story came out. Now I understand why he performed so well on SNL.
Brian you are, at heart, an actor saying lines for money. Please resign as a news reader and ply your trade in the entertainment field. Your caring & concerned demeanor on the Nightly News will now look phony. Real journalists with real integrity are essential to the continued survival of our country and your credibility is now severely diminished.

What Times is it?

John Parisella — Fri, 02 May 2008 10:45:32 GMT

I believe that you should recognize yourself if you haven't already, and report to your viewers on the nightly news and the readers of this page that the generals that you've had on the news providing 'independent' opinions abut the invasion and ongoing occupation of Iraq are paid advocates for more war and aggression that has made America less, not more, secure. Your explanation / defense of their use on the nightly news was incomplete and therefore untruthful. They were founding members of a very high level group that was dedicated to advocating the governments case for war against Sadaam Hussein which, as we all now know, was full of lies. You did not share that fact with the readers of this page.

What Times is it?

Dennis, Boston MA — Fri, 02 May 2008 11:37:11 GMT

Cable news channels occupy a hotter side of hell than the old broadcast sources (ABC, CBS, NBC) -- but all of them have morphed into a form of American Idol entertainment.

The only broadcast news source that even attempts to report news objectively is the News Hour on PBS.

What Times is it?

Steve — Fri, 02 May 2008 12:20:57 GMT

This is the reason why I get my news from other sources than you or the other networks.

http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/2008/04/30/williams/index.html

What Times is it?

Michael Doliner Ithaca, NY — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:35:31 GMT

Gelen Greenwald has nailed you dude. From now on when you sit down at the computer and your fingers hover over the keys you will think, "I am a shill. I AM A SHILL." Then you will know what to write.

What Times is it?

Thomas — Fri, 02 May 2008 16:32:23 GMT

"Cable news channels occupy a hotter side of hell than the old broadcast sources (ABC, CBS, NBC) -- but all of them have morphed into a form of American Idol entertainment.

The only broadcast news source that even attempts to report news objectively is the News Hour on PBS."

Amen.

What Times is it?

Steve Daniels, Cleveland, Ohio — Fri, 02 May 2008 19:14:45 GMT

Peggy Noonan? Get real. What a waste of time that was.
Flag waving isn't Patriotism, it's Nationalism.
You should get it straight, Williams, and quit being a tool.

Brian Williams has been a central part of the media blackout of the "independent" military analysts story:
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/20/washington/20generals.html

What Times is it?

R.T.Thaddeus — Fri, 02 May 2008 19:29:45 GMT

Brian: Your explanation for failing to report on the retired generals obvious conflict of interest in peddling Bush's war propaganda was patronizing, arrogant and absurd. And the fact that you tried to ignore the outcry is evidence of NBC's and your's lack of integrity. All of the TV news programs including NBC, ABC, CBS, CNN (I don't include FOX because it is a blatant Republican propaganda organ which doesn't produce news)are vapid, brainless and useless. At times I even wonder about PBS but at least they have a shred of integrity left. You have none.

What Times is it?

Kathy P, Washington, PA — Fri, 02 May 2008 19:58:06 GMT

Mr. Williams,
Looks to me like you are alot peturbed at the NYT for the article exposing networks like yours putting government propaganda on their show. I wonder, did any of the networks apologize for this? Where did the media ever question anything this administration said or did in the run up to the Iraq occupation?
You fell down on the job, as other networks did. Now we have a person writing an excellent op ed on the problem with the media in this election cycle. You choose to ignore that and whine about the filler in the NYT. Are you upset that someone wants to focus on the real issues in this campaign instead of the Reverend Wright issue? Why doesn't NBC News talk about the Hagee endorsement of McCain and the vile things he has said? What about the fact McCain called his wife a trollop and a C**t in public? I guess it is because your corporate masters would rather see a McCain or Clinton in the White House who would still serve their interests rather than a candidate who is not so beholden to corporate America. It is pretty obvious to see the bias on your network and is one of the reasons your so called news broadcasts are unwatchable.

What Times is it?

Michael Kropp, Mahwah, NJ — Fri, 02 May 2008 20:16:35 GMT

Please. Peggy Noonan and Pulitzer should never be mentioned in the same sentence. You really want to curl up and read that garbage? Do you really think that Obama should go misty-eyed over serial anti-semite Henry Ford? Besides, how the hell does Peggy Noonan know what Obama grows "misty-eyed" over anyway?

Newsflash: Peggy Noonan doesn't like Obama! Nor do any Republicans. And that's what she is, Brian, a Republican operative. It surprises me not that another member of the press would have a problem with the NY Times writing about gay marriage, but be thrilled that Peggy Noonan is imagining what a presidential candidate goes misty-eyed over.

At least she didn't write about Reverand Wright!

What Times is it?

Brian P. Evans, San Diego, CA — Fri, 02 May 2008 20:58:49 GMT

Noonan for a Pulitzer? This is the same Noonan who advocated assaulting Arab-looking men if they didn't smile at her? And calling the police? And having them arrested? And if it turns out that no, he's not really a terrorist, ma'am, she could make it up to him by taking him out to a "nice dinner"?

That Peggy Noonan?

Have you ever actually read her work, Mr. Williams?

What Times is it?

Robert Danow, Dallas, Texas — Fri, 02 May 2008 22:45:32 GMT

All these people calling Brian Williams "a bad, bad man." I think it's just terrible . . . .

But as for me, frankly, my dear, I don't give a d***.

I've expressed my own sentiments my turning off all the MSM news and now look for my info on the internet.
Adios, Brian, Katie, and Charlie. I hope others will do the same and the MSMs will just go out of business.

What Times is it?

Ignatov, Orlando, FL — Fri, 02 May 2008 23:16:50 GMT

In Brian's defense, he was pretty funny on SNL.

What Times is it?

Roger Backus, Greenwich, CT — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:38:31 GMT

I am genuinely disappointed at your refusal to discuss "General Gate". I know it reflects poorly on you - maybe you should recuse yourself and let David Schuster report. Then it won't appear you are picking on your general friends, fellow teleprompter readers, and network. Plus you will still be invited to all the Washington cocktail parties with Russert. Really shameful Brian. I really used to admire you.

What Times is it?

Bill Steen, Pittsburgh, PA — Sat, 03 May 2008 06:58:21 GMT

Hey Brian,

I found Glenn Greenwald's (Salon.com) piece on your, and the rest of the main stream media's, deceitful relationship with those "independent military analysts" very illuminating. In case you didn't see it, this is what real investigative journalism looks like:

http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/2008/04/30/williams/index.html

The parts where he quotes your gushing, sycophantic introductions for the the good generals is nauseating. How do you look at yourself in the mirror?

Regarding your blog above, "I thought the President was very good." Torture, secret prisons, warrant-less surveillance of American citizens, indefinite detentions without habeas corpus, extraordinary renditions, voter ID laws. I know you make a boatload of money Brian, but you're absolutely worthless.

What Times is it?

Brian Keith O'Hara — Sat, 03 May 2008 09:52:40 GMT

Brian Williams is the new generation of "journalist," someone who gets propaganda from his Republican handlers and immediately publishes it under his own name. Helen Thomas represents what Journalism is really about, asking tough questions, never accepting gratuitous, self-serving statements because she knows them for what they are.
Edward R. Murrow was a journalist, Helen Thomas, Michael Ware and Christiane Amonopour of CNN are journalists. You are a "Goebbels" working for Carl Rove and the Republican Party. I know the one thing I will never get from you is the truth.
Brian you like Rush Limbaugh. I remember when the Clintons got a pet cat and he joked that it wasn't the first pet the Clintons had. Then showed a picture of their 12-year-old dauhter Chelsea and said they also have a pet dog.
That man is beneath contempt. Anyone who makes fun of a child because of the way they look is. I hope you know what that makes you.
Yeah, I'm sure his mockery of Chris Reeve(whose 12-year-old son lost both his mother and his father and had to endure his father's ridicule at the hands of your great American, Limbaugh) was misunderstood; just like Michael J. Fox's ridicule.
When I was growing up we called people like him bullies, I guess that makes you one too. You are also lazy and dishonest.

What Times is it?

Ted Precht — Sat, 03 May 2008 12:51:58 GMT

You fill up an electronic "page" with these supposedly humorous observations about the NYT coverage.. yet you cowardly refuse to mention the big story which appeared in their pages: namely, the Pentagon "military analysts" who were merely shilling for the Pentagon and defense industries.

What's the matter, Brian? cat got your tongue? You think you can distract us with drivel rather than cover a large story like this.. no, wait.. you do not just "not cover" it.. you won't even MENTION it.. bowing to your corporate NBC masters.

Oh, and Peggy Noonan is a ridiculous embarrassment to anyone with taste and intelligence. Always has been, always will be. If you want to tout the rightwingers, Brian, whatever will we think of YOU?

What Times is it?

Linda Wilbur Hancock Maine — Sun, 04 May 2008 14:42:23 GMT

Brian
I would like to know why main stream media will not report or even check into Larry Sinclairs allegations on doing cocaine in the back of a limo with Barack Obama In 1999. Puerto Rico Television has reported on this .dont you think if a presidential canidate does cocaine we the people should know .As far as his sexual relationship with Larry That is between to consenting adults But I have a hard time about the drugs.

What Times is it?

Carlos M, St Petersburg, FL — Mon, 05 May 2008 20:03:03 GMT

I find it very interesting that Mr Williams can quote all inane headlines from the Sunday Times, but not once mentions the little headline that uncovered the Pentagon program which paid retired military personnel for administration fueled war propaganda. The more interesting, since some, if not many, of these administration stooges appeared in his "newscasts".

What Times is it?

Dan — Tue, 06 May 2008 18:21:22 GMT

Mr. Williams, I honestly just don't get the Noonan thing. Most of the time I've found you to be a pretty astute observer, and certainly a man of more integrity than many in the media. But did you actually *read* the Noonan piece? Or were you joking about it, as an example of the sort of fluff the news media dwells upon? If you were being dry and ironic, as I know you often are, you were *so* deadpan I couldn't tell. But if you weren't trying to be amusing, the irony is THICK. A post talking about various fluff thrown about in the Times, and then your glistening beacon of hope is a piece by Peggy Noonan about how McCain is a SuperHeroCaptainAmericaUltraPatriot, and the likely Democratic candidate clearly doesn't know America from a pair of Prada suit pants? Really?

Please, please clarify if this was a serious recommendation or a joke.

What Times is it?

keith ramsey — Wed, 07 May 2008 15:52:57 GMT

How great is a "hero" that endangers his own commrades, someone needs to ask Mr.McCain if he ever "WET STARTED" his jet on the deck of the USS FORRESTAL....and everone knows what happen on that ship...

what, you say you don't?

What Times is it?

Josef Krystof — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:35:47 GMT

Dear Mr. Williams:

If you are a representative of what Sam from Toronto (above) call "the liberal media" it seems this lable is a total misnomer (though how anyone could think that media outlets run by large conglomerates could be "liberal" in the American/leftist parlance is beyond me; perhaps people like Sam didn't get the memo about how corporations prefer conservatives, the better to squash unions).

Also, I find it amusing that you whack the Times for decreasing circulation when the nightly news is hemorrhage viewers.

I'm going to go ahead and agree with Al Wilson above that Ms. Noonan's column is tripe, though perhaps piffle is a better description.

But my main point is that I think you're pissed at the NY Times b/c they outed the ex-military folks you always have on as paid shills. The failure of your program (or any other programs) to address this issue implies to me that you have no integrity and/or see nothing wrong with coordinated propaganda campaigns to convince the populace that this administration's lies are indeed the truth. Please, prove me wrong and address this shameful debacle on air in a truthful fashion.

What Times is it?

Blaine Kinsey — Tue, 13 May 2008 17:51:53 GMT

At first, I was disappointed to see praise from Brian Williams for Peggy Noonan, who has no capacity for logical thought and who presents this flaw for public display. Then I realized that Mr. Williams was still in his satire-mode and that Peggy Noonan really had made him curl up on his couch (in a fetal position). Good joke, Bridey.

What Times is it?

carl, chicago, il — Fri, 16 May 2008 03:46:11 GMT

Brain,

What stupid and soft interview you gave Barrack Obamma. I am sure you could have asked better questions than bowling scores and what tie your gonna wear tommorow.

No wonder why your ratings sufer

What Times is it?

William G, Jasper , Ar — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 01:31:56 GMT

Well I am not surprised that NBC has sunk so low as giving T Boone airtime. He financed the Swift Boat to get $300 oil and we are not quite there yet we will probably get there. Bush did his part by not raising taxes on Boone to finance His Iraq folly and instead by borrowing and thereby weakening the dollar and making the middle east even richer in the next story and nobody at NBC even mentioned that.

What Times is it?

Missy S., New York, NY — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 05:21:57 GMT

Wow. I honestly thought I could count on NBC for some entertainment and I guess I found it - I just didn't expect it to be on the Nightly News. When I saw Peggy Noonan gush over Palin's performace after the VP debates I seriously thought that I had been dropped into some parallel universe where she had she had come off as charismatic, folksy, AND intelligent. Charismatic and folksy I will give you, but to say that "She killed," as in won the debate was so incredibly far off the mark it was LAUGHABLE. I understand that media will be biased no matter how objectively it's delivered but to not see Palin's shortcomings in both interviews in the debate and to not temper her enthusiasm for this woefully inexperienced vice presidential nominee is just simply inexcusably bad journalism. Perhaps I held you to too high a standard but I think like McCain, you've shown yourself to have poor judgment by whom you choose to praise. You call out the NYT for wooing readers with flashy liberal articles, that's fine, but - just guessing here - that the NYT is writing for New Yorkers who actually find these pieces, if not of some great intellectual value, interesting and worth 5 minutes perusing. As I'm writing now I'm realizing (as I write this) that you are just a news anchor and probably not a journalist but I'm disappointed that you would applaud someone who has very much dropped the ball on an giving an honest and balanced assessment of Mrs. Palin. I've read the article you link to and you are right, Peggy Noonan's writing skills and her ability to engage are quite good, however I very much do doubt her ability to approach anything in a fair-minded and balanced way. To give a platform to her views is one thing, but to praise her when she's demonstrated such a flagrant lack of insight is downright disappointing and disheartening. I will probably catch your show while flipping through channels but I am now aware that anything you report will probably be biased.

What Times is it?

B Thwaithe Port Jefferson, NY — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 03:39:29 GMT

I just finished reading up on how Mr Brian Williams and NBC deliberately hid the fact that "independent military analysts" they were using on their "news" segments for years were actually men who have very lucrative ties to industries which are profiteering directly from the war in Iraq. Not only that, but these "independent military analysts" were part of a propaganda program coming from the Pentagon. And NBC refused to admit this for years!

Since you either don't know or are too cynical to admit it to your viewers, I feel I must tutor you and your viewers on some very important information. Government funded propaganda being broadcast on news programs as "independent analysis" is against the law. You must identify the speakers as Pentagon spokespersons. And not disclosing that these "military analysts" have business ties to corporations directly profiteering from a war they are commenting upon may not be illegal, but it is unethical, immoral and just plain sickmaking.

I would be ashamed to have been a journalism professor who taught Brian Williams and any other person who calls him or herself a journalist who sneeringly presents propagandist war profiteers to the public without providing transparency. This is disgraceful.

What Times is it?

Robin, Calif. — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 18:44:04 GMT

Brian, shame on you for lambasting the NY Times simply because it chooses to call you out for deceitful journalism. That you choose not to address the issues surrounding your use of Ret. General McCaffrey ensures that I will not watch NBC any longer. I'm sure this won't get posted as it isn't praising you and that's too bad.

What Times is it?

R A W — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 20:01:09 GMT

I sincerely hope someday that we get some real news anchors again or perhaps real news. Brian isn't part of either.

What Times is it?

Jim Brown — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:24 GMT

Brian, the report on the foreclosure scam was very poorly done. The "tease" promised you would make us aware of how this scam worked. It did not. It did not tell us what the finance company promised them they would do. It did not tell us what they were supposed to do and what they did not do. It did not tell us how they discovered the scam etc. We enjoy the show every night Brian, but this was not good.