THE MIND BOGGLES...
July 10, 2004
Dick Cheney Could Be President
Raleigh, NC | Shortly after Democratic Presidential candidate John Kerry's announcement of John Edwards as his choice for a running mate in the November election, President Bush fielded questions from reporters in Edwards' hometown.
When asked what differentiates Edwards from Vice-President Dick Cheney, Bush declared flatly, "Dick Cheney could be president. Next?"
But this widely broadcast sound-byte represents only a portion of the President's news conference. He actually went on to answer several more questions.
A transcript of the rest of Bush's interview has now been made public.
Question: "Many political analysts believe Kerry picked Edwards because their contrasting personalities and backgrounds would help balance the Democratic ticket. What is the biggest contrast between you and Vice-President Cheney?"
Bush: "Dick Cheney could be President. Next?"
Question: "Edwards' record as a lawyer shows he is strongly against corporate greed and corruption. Is there any way your administration could be more closely allied to executives under scrutiny for their questionable business practices?"
Bush: "Dick Cheney could be President. Next?"
Question: "Because of this administration's foreign policy failures, the United States is mistrusted and hated around the world now more than ever before. Terrorist threats at home and abroad are growing. If you're re-elected, what should the American public fear most?"
Bush: "Dick Cheney could be President. Next?"
Question: "Corporate profits and CEO salaries continue to skyrocket, but the average family has only seen their economic situation deteriorate. Could things possibly get any worse for the working class in this country?"
Bush: "Dick Cheney could be President. Next?"
Question: "There is speculation that the GOP might welcome a change on the Republican ticket. What, in your opinion, would please conservative right wing extremists more than anything else?"
Bush: "Dick Cheney could be President."
