Zeleny Describes “Enchant[ing]” Question For the President

The New York Times’ Jeff Zeleny sat down with host Bob Schieffer to discuss the motivation behind his recent memorable question for President Obama on this week’s edition of CBSNews.com’s Web-only show “Washington Unplugged.”

“Had this been at the very beginning of the news conference, had I worked for the Associated Press or one of the networks in the beginning, of course I would not have asked it,” Zeleny explained.

Here’s what Zeleny asked: “During these first 100 days, what has surprised you the most about this office? Enchanted you the most from serving in this office? Humbled you the most? And troubled you the most?” The question prompted quips from Mr. Obama, including “now let me write this down,” and “Enchanted? Nice.”

Zeleny said he crafted his question specifically for the president, who he has covered for years.

“He likes to reflect. He likes to sort of think in real time,” Zeleny said. “This was question, I think, seven or eight out of thirteen – almost the seventh inning stretch if you will – so I figured why not let him stretch a little bit.”

“I thought it was interesting how focused on him the answers were,” he added. “He didn’t talk about Michelle or the girls which I was hoping for that in the enchanting part of the question. “

Watch it here:



Also, Schieffer gets Zeleny’s reaction to praise from Senator Ben Nelson – and the reporter tells a hair-y story about the senator, who he covered in Nebraska.

Click here to watch the full show, including an interview with Nelcon.