CBS Retracts Report on Bush Service Memos

Authenticity Seems Doubtful, Republicans Point Finger at Democrats

-CBS News announced today that it can no longer vouch for the authenticity of the infamous "Bush Service Memos," which came to light last week in a CBS exclusive. The memos had been alledged to be those of the late Lt. Col. Jerry Killian, squandron commander for the Texas National Air Guard during the time President Bush was in service. These documents, broadcast on the program "60 Minutes" for national television, seemed to suggest the President refused direct orders of superior officers, while also alluding to outside pressure for the Lt. Col. to "sugarcoat" young Mr. Bush's performance record. The authenticity of the documents came under question immeadiately after airing, as they appeared to have been produced by technology which was not available at the time of Bush's service.
Republicans wasted no time after the network's announcement to try to pin the blame on Democrats, with press secretary Scott McClellan claiming "there's been an orchestrated effort by Democrats and the Kerry campaign to tear down the president." When asked later by reporters what evidence was available to support such a claim, the secretary only was able to suggest "coordinated timing."