The New York Times
George W. Bush will end a self-imposed silence about his presidency in an NBC prime-time special on Monday, the eve of the release of his memoir, “Decision Points.” That the interviewer will be Matt Lauer, the co-host of the “Today” show, reveals calculations by Mr. Bush and his advisers, as well as a campaign by NBC.
In the past, the first interview of a controversial ex-president would be expected to go to the nation’s top evening news anchor, currently NBC’s Brian Williams. By choosing the top morning anchor instead, both sides are essentially endorsing the soft power of Matt Lauer.
“He’s an extraordinarily fair interviewer,” said Jim Bell, the executive producer of “Today” and of the prime-time special. More…