Russert: Gotcha! Dodd: No You Don't

Tim Russert tried to take Senator and Democratic Presidential candidate Chris Dodd to the woodshed Sunday regarding Dodd's promise to block any FISA (Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act) revision that includes retroactive immunity for telecomm companies. Crooks and Liars has the video.

Dodd responded well, losing his footing a little bit when Russert accused Dodd of campaigning on the issue. Yes, how dare Dodd try to raise funds for his campaign based on his substantive position on an issue? Russert seemed poised for the kill: "What about those who say you eat fooood to stay aliiiive?!?!?"

i know I'm no political genius with a dry-erase board or any other analytical tools obtainable with an "Easy Button", but I gotta say, it seems like Russert has an easier time grilling a Senator who's standing up for American's civil liberties than he ever does challenging conservative guests.

The exchange reiminded me of this one between Chris Wallace and Nancy Pelosi about praying, except that Dodd didn't swallow the hook, it just grazed his cheek. These types of straw man questions get bounced around the right-wing echo chamber until they get swallowed by mainstream TV personalities and spit up onto a Democrat. You know, like how a President who refuses to compromise is "resolute", while those who oppose him are "partisan". Neither of those words has any intrinsic value. It's like saying the President is "Bi-Pedal" while the Democrats are a "group".

Good on Dodd for offering a clear response on his opposition to FISA. Russert quotes Jay Rockerfeller's assertion that the telecomms should be immune because the government gave them legal assurances. That sounds like a perfect defense that they can use in court! Thanks, Jay! If they have nothing to hide, then they have nothing to worry about.

But, Chris, next time somebody asks if you're trying to raise funds based on your positions, ask him what other basis there should be? Your skill as a varmint hunter?

Because I love it so much, here's Dodd's pledge to oppose telecomm immunity: