Comments:  In one sense, the above message does "say it all" about the 2004 presidential campaign, which has been characterized from beginning to end by base rumormongering perpetuating lies and half-truths.

This shining example falls into the "half-truth" category.

Candidate John Kerry did say precisely the following during an appearance with Larry King on July 8, 2004, when King solicited his reaction to an announcement that al Qaeda was planning a large-scale attack on the United States:

"Well, I haven't been briefed yet, Larry. They have offered to brief me; I just haven't had time. But all Americans are united in our efforts to defeat terrorism."

However, contrary to what the email implies, the question wasn't posed in general terms, nor was Kerry's response nonchalant. King had asked specifically about a government announcement made earlier that same day. Here is his question in full:

"Let's get to, first thing's first, news of the day. Tom Ridge warned today about al Qaeda plans of a large-scale attack on the United States, didn't increase the — do you see any politics in this? What's your reaction?"

A full transcript of the interview is available here.

Last updated: 10/29/04