CNN Stands By Robert Novak

The first question for Jon Klein and Jim Walton at the TCA press tour yesterday was simple: “Why does Robert Novak continue to be employed by CNN?”

“No one really knows what’s going on in the investigation of the Valerie Plame incident,” Klein responded. “It would be awfully presumptuous of us to take steps against a guy and his career based on second, third, fourth-hand reporting.” Lisa de Moraes has details in the Washington Post.

The Associated Press also has a write-up. Klein praised Novak as “one of the most outstanding political reporters this country has ever known,” according to Lynn Elber. Other notes and quotes:


> Orlando Sentinel: “‘Robert Novak has broken no laws, and he has distinguished himself as a journalist for many, many years,’ said Jim Walton…”

> Broadcasting & Cable: “CNN execs were also put on the defensive bye of Novak’s report, which didn’t pan out, that Chief Justice William Rehnquist would announce his retirement July 8.”