The AP is running a story with the title “Bush Reiterates Firing Pledge on Leak Case.” This is misleading, as even the text of the story notes.
Bush didn’t “reiterate” his pledge to fire a leaker. Instead, he “added a qualifier” that the leaker must first be shown to have committed a “crime” before the President will fire that person.
It may seem like a minor detail. But with so much misinformation and spin being tossed about by the White House, it’s important that the media not create the impression that Bush is remaining consistent on this issue. He absolutely is not; he is moving the goalposts. I have a recommendation for a new title: Bush Backs Away From Pledge To Fire Leaker. Any other suggestions?
UPDATE: The AP has changed their headline. It now reads, as noted in the comments section, “Bush Would Fire Leaker if Crime Committed”
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