CBS viewers, especially those who are always suspecting the network of tilting left, may have been jolted by the recorded announcement played during the closing credits of "Armed & Famous," the show that preceded the president's speech on the network. Said an announcer: " 'Criminal Minds' is next, here on CBS."That, of course, was the regularly scheduled program, the one to which CBS rushed back at about 9:29.
Here are how the Big Three networks introduced Bush's Speech (HT TV Newser):
Katie Couric on CBS: "President Bush is about to deliver what is arguably his most important speech ever. He'll lay out a new strategy for the par in Iraq, a war he admits we are not winning but insists we still can and must win."Brian Williams on NBC: "For the 20th time in his presidency and for about the next 20 minutes from the White House, President Bush will address the nation. Tonight's message has to do with a tough topic at a tough time. Moments from now, the president will announce he's sending over 20,000 more troops into the fight in Iraq."
Charles Gibson on ABC: "In just a moment the president will address the nation outlining a new strategy in Iraq. This speech has been two months in the making as the president has held wide ranging consultations in Iraq."