March 25, 2007

Exclusive: John And Elizabeth Edwards

Edwards Open About Cancer, Unconditional About Couple's Decision On Presidential Run

  • Play CBS Video Video John And Elizabeth Edwards

    60 Minutes Exclusive: Katie Couric sat down for an exclusive interview with the presidential candidate and his wife after the announcement of the recurrence of Elizabeth's cancer.

  • Video Edwards Campaign Forges Ahead

    On the same day his wife, Elizabeth, announced her cancer relapse, John Edwards and his presidential campaign forged ahead at a fundraiser in New York City. Gloria Borger reports.

  • Video Politico On Edwards Campaign

    Jim VandeHei, executive editor of Politico.com, speaks with Hannah Storm about the impact of Elizabeth Edwards' cancer relapse on her husband's 2008 presidential campaign.

    • Former Sen. John Edwards and his wife, Elizabeth, talk to Katie Couric in Las Vegas on March 24, 2007. Photo

      Former Sen. John Edwards and his wife, Elizabeth, talk to Katie Couric in Las Vegas on March 24, 2007.  (CBS)

    • Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. John Edwards greets his wife, Elizabeth, during the New Leadership on Health Care Presidential Forum on Saturday, March 24, 2007, in Las Vegas. Photo

      Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. John Edwards greets his wife, Elizabeth, during the New Leadership on Health Care Presidential Forum on Saturday, March 24, 2007, in Las Vegas.  (AP)

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  • Photo Essay John Edwards

    The former N.C. senator and VP candidate makes another run for the White House

  • Who's Who 2008 Democratic Hopefuls

    Clinton, Obama and Edwards lead the chase for the Democratic nomination.

  • Interactive Cancer

    Learn about the most common cancers, who gets them and how they are treated.

(CBS) 

Elizabeth Edwards:
Cancer took a lot away from us a few years ago. It took a year of my life and a lot of John's. I didn't want it to take this away not just from me but from those people who depend on our having the kind of president he would be.

Katie Couric:
Here you're staring at possible death...

Elizabeth Edwards:
Aren't we all though.

Katie Couric:
And you're thinking, "I don't want to deprive the country of having my husband lead us."

Elizabeth Edwards:
That would be my legacy wouldn't it, Katie. That I'd... that I'd... that I'd... that I'd taken out this fine man from the possibility of giving a great service. I mean, I don't want that to be my legacy.

Katie Couric:
Politics, as you know, can be a cynical business.

John Edwards:
No!

Katie Couric:
You didn't know that?

John Edwards:
Yeah, I was not aware of that.

Katie Couric:
Glad I... (laughter) I’m glad I could teach you something today. Some have suggested that you're capitalizing on this.

John Edwards:
Here's what I would say about that.

First of all, there's not a single person in America that should vote for me because Elizabeth has cancer. Not a one. If you're considering doing it, don't do it. Do not vote for us because you feel some sympathy or compassion for us. That would be an enormous mistake. The vote for the presidency is far too important for any of those things to influence it.

But, I think every single candidate for president, Republican and Democratic have lives, personal lives, that indicate something about what kind of human being they are. And I think it is a fair evaluation for America to engage in to look at what kind of human beings each of us are, and what kind of president we'd make.

Katie Couric:
Some people watching this would say, "I would put my family first always, and my job second." And you're doing the exact opposite. You're putting your work first, and your family second.

John Edwards:
But this is not work. Work is what I did as a lawyer. This is service. This is... this is a country that I love – both of us love, as much as we love our lives.

Katie Couric:
I guess some people would say that there's some middle ground. You don't have to necessarily stay at home and feel sorry for yourself, and do nothing. But, if given a finite – a possibly finite period of time on the planet – being on the campaign trail, away from my children, a lot of time, and sort of pursuing this goal, is not, necessarily, what I'd do.

John Edwards:
Well, but we all... we are all different, number one. Number two, we all have a finite period time, and the idea that we know what that finite period is, is a fantasy to begin with.

Elizabeth Edwards:
We learned that in ’96.

John Edwards:
As we learned in 1996, with our son. We don’t know what’s gonna happen. We don't know what's gonna happen tomorrow. We have to live today the best way we know how. And that's exactly what the two of us are doing. I do think, though, that we have to be very sensitive about the tension that exists between our wanting to serve our country, and our children.

Continued



Produced by Robert Anderson, Lori Beecher and Michael Rosenbaum
© MMVII, CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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Add a Comment See all 1076 Comments
by msmartin_99 March 24, 2007 6:11 PM EDT
The Edwards family is a study in strength, grace, and courage under difficult circumstances. I wish them both the best.
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by ronmwanga March 24, 2007 6:59 PM EDT
will be appearing on CBS' "60 Minutes" on Sunday to discuss the return and spread of the cancer that is unfortunately no longer in remission. Katie Couric is particularly well-suited to this important interview for many reasons evident, we believe, in the above "Reporter's Notebook" graphic.

One, Katie has a long history reporting on cancer, from its devastating effects to advocating preventative screening. Colon cancer, in particular, has been a major subject to her since her husband Jay died in 1998.

Two, health reporting, in general, is Katie's strength. No other anchor has increased health reporting as a staple of the Evening News. If there is any discernible difference in CBS Evening News since Couric took over -- at this early date -- it would be the noticeable addition of health reporting.

Three, Katie is unique in that she reports on stories like this with compassion.
Reply to this comment
by jebby_one March 24, 2007 9:22 PM EDT
I thought Katie Coric's specialty was colon cancer? Isn't Tony Snow scheduled for a precautionary operation for colon cancer?

Why isn't Katie planning to interview Tony Snow?

Oh, never mind. I already know the answer :)
Reply to this comment
by scott4261 March 24, 2007 10:02 PM EDT
I am deeply saddened by the news of Elizabeth Edwards' recurring breast cancer. I will be praying for her health and I greatly admire John's dedication to her above all else.

Not since Bobby Kennedy's run for the presidency in 1968 have I seen a candidate with as much genuine interest in the issue of poverty as I see in John Edwards. Since that is an issue I'm very passionate about, he has gained my support.

I certainly glad to learn that the Edwards have decided to continue his campaign. If elected, he will make a fine president.
Reply to this comment
by March 24, 2007 10:45 PM EDT
Sorry. I don't watch Katie Couric. Not even for John and Elizabeth.
Reply to this comment
by c2371010 March 25, 2007 4:30 AM EDT
I will be watching 60 Minutes and I admire John and Elizabeth's dedication. I think John Edwards is a good presidential candidate. I like what he believes in and stands for. However, I can't help but think what I would do in Elizibeth Edward's place and I know that I would definitely be spending my time with my children. Please understand that I don't mean to be critical. I admire and like Elizabth Edwards, but I guess I don't understand the dedication that it takes to run for president and the support needed. Does anyone else feel this way?
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by tootsiesilve March 25, 2007 6:01 AM EDT
My heart goes out to Mrs Edwards. As a breast cancer patient, I know what she is going through. I also want to cry for her children, who will lose a mother when they are at an age to really need one. I only hope her husband understands the sacrifice she is making for his career.

She signed her death sentence the last time around by waiting so late (after the Kerry concession), to get treatment. Believe it or not, days can make a difference in the successful treatment of this type of cancer.

She may be brave to face the rigours of a presidential race while receiving cancer treatments, or she may not know yet just what is going to happen to her.

Regardless, her "Bravery in the face of Illness" helps no one but her husband. Actually, it makes other cancer survivors think less of him. His place now is by her side along with their children - not running around the country raising money. It plainly shows where his priorities stand: Politics, job, children, wife. He should be ashamed!

It tends to make us mortal women suffering from the same thing look like slugs when we cannot get out of bed due to extreme fatigue and other debilitating side effects of cancer treatment. Now, husbands, children, bosses, etc. will insist that, "If Elizabeth can do it, why can't you?"

Toots - a real cancer survivor who doesn't know yet how long she will survive.
Reply to this comment
by cvilledem March 25, 2007 6:10 AM EDT
Couric's sister a State Senator from Charlottesville, Virginia was also a cancer victim. I can see why this is very relevant to her. Having a husband and a sister both pass away makes this a priority in anyone's life.
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by joan209 March 25, 2007 7:08 AM EDT
I have been wowed by Elizabeth Edwards since the previous Presidential campaign. My very positive impressions of her were solidified after reading her book.

As with so many others dealing with this beast of a disease, I was devastated to learn of its recurrance in Elizabeth.

Her bravery and positve attitude in the face of what must have been devastating news have been awe-inspiring to me.

As for those who disagree with how she and her family are handling it, in my opinion the Edwards's are doing what is best for them, and I am convinced what she prefers.

I too would not want any of my family's plans or goals to be "sidetracked" because of my illness. That would only give the disease more power -- and add to my dismay.

In watching the press conference this past Thursday, I became convinced that the Edwards's priorities are family and country.

Yes, Elizabeth will be challenged during the demands of the campaign, but she does have tremendous support and resources.

I can not imagine how any of this will undermine her prognosis -- as a matter of fact, thinking, and acting, positively can only help it.

I will certainly be rooting for her throughout this, and wishing the best for her and her husband.

Joan
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by mrconservative March 25, 2007 8:58 AM EDT
My Mother died 50 years ago of the same situation in which Elizabeth finds herself. However, she lived just over five years from the original radical mastectomy. Most likely Elizabeth will live much longer due to 50 years of advancement in cancer treatment.

If you pray for public figures who have cancer, please also pray for Laura Bush, and Tony Snow.

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by jstrucko March 25, 2007 12:46 PM EDT
I am a Republican, but what Mrs. Edwards is doing and her feelings on the issue, my Vote goes to John Edwards as President of the United States.

Good Luck to you, John Strucko
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by k48bkr March 25, 2007 3:08 PM EDT
I am a one year breast cancer survivor and also underwent chemo and radiation. I know no one knows but Elizabeth what is right. Each of us are entitled to those personal decisions even tho she is very much in the public eye now. I hope she realizes the importance of her children and her personal life at these moments. We should not judge her decisions for her previous treatment nor her decisions now. I would have felt differently about some of her decisons had I not gone through this horrible experience myself. Let's don't be too critical of this brave woman who life has dealt a second dose of an extremely bad situation to.
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by mpaninop March 25, 2007 3:36 PM EDT
You only need to know two things:

First, their oncologist has said there is no medical reason for her to stop campaigning.

Second, Elizabeth observed %u201CMy feeling is, if we gave up what we have committed to as our life%u2019s work, wouldn%u2019t I be getting ready to die? That%u2019s what I%u2019d be doing. This cause is not just John%u2019s cause, it%u2019s my cause.%u201D

That is all that any rational person needs to know to understand that they have made the right decision for themselves and their family. Now, please think good thoughts or pray or send good vibes or whatever it is that you do and stop judging other people.

Thank you.
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by mpaninop March 25, 2007 3:57 PM EDT
You only need to know two things:

First, their oncologist has said there is no medical reason for her to stop campaigning.

Second, Elizabeth observed %u201CMy feeling is, if we gave up what we have committed to as our life%u2019s work, wouldn%u2019t I be getting ready to die? That%u2019s what I%u2019d be doing. This cause is not just John%u2019s cause, it%u2019s my cause.%u201D

That is all that any rational person needs to know to understand that they have made the right decision for themselves and their family. Now, please think good thoughts or pray or send good vibes or whatever it is that you do and stop judging other people.

Thank you.
Reply to this comment
by mpaninop March 25, 2007 4:01 PM EDT
I think you really only need to know two things:

First, their oncologist has said there is no medical reason for her to stop campaigning.

Second, Elizabeth observed %u201CMy feeling is, if we gave up what we have committed to as our life%u2019s work, wouldn%u2019t I be getting ready to die? That%u2019s what I%u2019d be doing. This cause is not just John%u2019s cause, it%u2019s my cause.%u201D

What else does anyone need to know to understand that they have made the right decision for themselves and their family? Now, please, think good thoughts or pray or send good vibes or whatever it is that you do and stop judging these good people.

Thank you.
Reply to this comment
by mpaninop March 25, 2007 4:05 PM EDT
I think you really only need to know two things:

First, their oncologist has said there is no medical reason for her to stop campaigning.

Second, Elizabeth observed %u201CMy feeling is, if we gave up what we have committed to as our life%u2019s work, wouldn%u2019t I be getting ready to die? That%u2019s what I%u2019d be doing. This cause is not just John%u2019s cause, it%u2019s my cause.%u201D

What else does anyone need to know to understand that they have made the right decision for themselves and their family? Now, please, think good thoughts or pray or send good vibes or whatever it is that you do and stop judging these good people.

Thank you.
Reply to this comment
by scott4261 March 25, 2007 4:22 PM EDT
c2371010,

I understand what you are saying about Elizabeth Edwards and the time she needs to spend with her young children. My mother expressed the same concern to me a few days ago.

But don't you thing that she and John have lied awake discussed this many nights, since 2004? The children also have living grandparents and other relatives and close friends who, I am sure, are already spending much time with these children due to the campaign itself. Point is: This is a family that undoubtedly has surrounded these children with love and I believe most can see that regardless of political affiliation.

This decision not to interrupt the campaign was between John & Elizabeth. If Elizabeth did not want him to run, in light of this news, I believe he would drop out. I admire the integrity in which they handled this issue now and in 2004. But those with cancer usually do not want to be considered victims and it has been my experience that they want to keep living life as fully as possible for as long as they can. This is the path that they chose together and we should respect their decision.

I am already a John Edwards supporter and my support is further solidified.
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by crustofur March 25, 2007 5:49 PM EDT
Pray for her. She has an aggressive, at Stage 4, metastasized cancer, discovered and treated in 2004. Her treatment would have ended in 2005. a year ago. If you opened her abdomen now, and took a look inside, the spread of cancer would be as though someone had shaken a pepper shaker inside her. Even her oncologist said there are disturbing shadows in her. Though it is small, it is everywhere. And all of the spread cancer cells are just as virulent as the one that spread to her rib. It has spread to her organs. Will it be lung cancer, a persistent cough being shrugged off, with her struggling to breath. What of liver cancer, turning cirrhotic, and dieing yellow and jaundiced? What of intestinal cancer, getting first a colostomy, then one higher, then an ileostomy? Pancreatic cancer? All very painful. John should spend his remaining years with his wife, if she is the love of his life. Or, maybe politics is his real love, and she is just an accessory.
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by henry6543 March 25, 2007 8:31 PM EDT
All those complaining about George W Bush and *** Cheney:
Have you noticed who the Democrats have come up with for "08?
Edwards, Hillary, and Obama can barely tie their own shoelaces!
Compared to them, GEORGE W BUSH is the best president we've
ever had. Go GW !

Democrats haven't won anything.
Reply to this comment
by hgieiri2 March 25, 2007 9:10 PM EDT
That's funny Henry. Your boy George is gonna go down as one of the biggest failures the American Presidency has ever seen. Say what you want, but in the end, history will get the last word on this guy. John Edwards 08! Elect some brains this time!
Reply to this comment
by hgieiri2 March 25, 2007 9:24 PM EDT
That's funny Henry. Your boy George is gonna go down as one of the biggest failures the American Presidency has ever seen. Say what you want, but in the end, history will get the last word on this guy. John Edwards 08! Elect some brains this time!
Reply to this comment
by verified1 March 25, 2007 9:31 PM EDT
I signed onto this blog because I could not fail to respond to henry6543's recent grotesque and frankly creepy post.

First, please leave this woman alone. If you disagree with her politics, fine - please let us know how you feel. But her body is her business and if she chooses after consultation with her family to live her life the way she wants, it's not you business nor is it mine to tell her differently.

Second, there is no reason for her not to continue to live until she dies and I daresay, henry, you cannot foresee the hour of her death.

Third, why was it when Sen. Specter showed up in the senate bald from cancer treatment, he was thought of as courageous? No one went around saying he should run and hide.

If you would stay at home with your children after such a diagnosis, I say fine. But you are not Mrs. Edwards and so it's not your place nor a political commentator's place to judge or patronize. SHE is living with this illness and that makes it HER and her family's choice.
Reply to this comment
by nazirp March 25, 2007 9:49 PM EDT
I thought that John would be leaving from the race. Now no matter what he says about sympathy votes nothing could have gained him the kind of wide publicity coverage he is getting.I wish Elizabeth speedy recovery. Would Katie have interviewed John Edwards prior to Elizabeth's announcement ? I still am the opinion that Hillary Rodham Clinton is the best candidate.It is time for a Democrat in the White House. Rudy and the likes will be the same working for corporations and not for the average working Citizen. Hillary Clinton has a clear platform and will deliver.Few years back she spoke about the need for a Universal Health Care she was ridiculed and today is such an urgent need for many Americans. She has experience in politics having been on four Senate committees, the most important - Senate Armed Services Committee and she knows the world leaders having travelled the world but also going to Iraq and Afghanistan. When she came to NY there was skepticism about whether she would make a good Senator but New Yorkers twice voted for her and she has worked very hard.
Citizens just need to keep an open mind on her.
The nation has a trillion dollar debt thanks to the current administration. Hillary Clinton will bring back the good old days of a well run economy. She will also bring the soldiers home.
The President lied about the WMD.
She did what was right at that time - a period when even Americans went along with the President and supported him.
Reply to this comment
by verified1 March 25, 2007 10:02 PM EDT
To Stockseer. I agree with your point of view of Sen. Clinton and being from NC I have some difficulties with former Sen. Edwards' performance in office. But I take issue with the insinuation that their 60 minutes interview might be somehow exploitative for sympathy votes. He is running for office and therefore he is of interest to the public. Citizens need to know and understand the "person" who will fill the office of president and it makes sense to me that the Edwards' would be happy to share some of that with the nation. But we have to be careful to counter the reptilian attitude that has been put forth over the last few days that "no-one will be able to attack Edwards now". Why should he be subject to personal attacks anyway? Have we lowered our standards so much to think that the vicious personal attacks of the last decade are status quo for candidates?

The Edwards' are politically savvy people. If they hadn't come out with this announcement, it would have leaked out and they wouldn't have been able to control the message. So I commend them for their courage and honesty and willingness to work for what they believe in, despite the flack.
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by elgraz March 25, 2007 10:04 PM EDT
A vote for Hillary is a vote for her cheating husband..........No way Jose. I'd rather have my Rottweiller as President.........a first. All politicians suck.
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by drinuk March 25, 2007 10:08 PM EDT
Please read my comments on the Health News blog concerning this lovely couple. There is a Natural Alternative path, unfortunately Big Pharma, the FDA and government do not wish us to know this, it's all about money and greed. God has given us the remedies, we should be allowed to use them.
Reply to this comment
by ncblueyes March 25, 2007 10:13 PM EDT
Having recently lost a dear friend to this horrible illness, I wish Elizabeth Edwards the very best. Her graciousness and pleasantness to the world during this time makes her a person to be admired. She is a public face of what too many families know all too well.

I pray she beats the odds and sees her daughter Cate marry, her young children graduate from college and rock a grandbaby in her arms.

God Bless !
Reply to this comment
by pared1 March 25, 2007 10:31 PM EDT
"Quote"
All those complaining about George W Bush and *** Cheney:
Have you noticed who the Democrats have come up with for "08?
Edwards, Hillary, and Obama can barely tie their own shoelaces!
Compared to them, GEORGE W BUSH is the best president we've
ever had. Go GW !

Democrats haven't won anything.
Posted by henry6543 at 05:31 PM : Mar 25, 2007

"end quote"

Henry you are the reason inbreed's should not be allowed to vote. LOL George W is an idiot who can't put a sentance together without help. He's a war criminal. He's lied to America and other countries.

Henry go to bed it's past your bed time.
Reply to this comment
by scott4261 March 25, 2007 10:33 PM EDT
If we are fortunate enough to vote for him as the Democratic nominee, John Edwards will make a fine president.
Reply to this comment
by scott4261 March 25, 2007 10:38 PM EDT
But don't you thing that she and John have lied awake discussed this many nights, since 2004? The children also have living grandparents and other relatives and close friends who, I am sure, are already spending much time with these children due to the campaign itself. Point is: This is a family that undoubtedly has surrounded these children with love and I believe most can see that regardless of political affiliation.

This decision not to interrupt the campaign was between John & Elizabeth. If Elizabeth did not want him to run, in light of this news, I believe he would drop out. I admire the integrity in which they handled this issue now and in 2004. But those with cancer usually do not want to be considered victims and it has been my experience that they want to keep living life as fully as possible for as long as they can. This is the path that they chose together and we should respect their decision.

I am already a John Edwards supporter and my support is further solidified.
Reply to this comment
by scott4261 March 25, 2007 10:41 PM EDT
Elizabeth Edwards obviously believe in her husband's message and believes in the campaign for president. Did you even watch this interview? I swear, I'm really amazed! This decision they've made TOGETHER to continue his campaign is not for any of us judge. Period.
Reply to this comment
by shellerch March 25, 2007 10:43 PM EDT
First, let me say that it is tragic that her cancer has returned. Secondly, are there doctors in NC that Edwards hasn't sued that she can go to?

Will no one question Edwards on his hypocritical position on healthcare? He wants to fix the healthcare system, but he caused so much damage to it by his relentless litigation that raised costs across the board. Enough that he can afford to build the second largest private home in NC, second only to the Biltmore Estate. He made his millions raising the malpractice and overall insurance of everyone, but now that he is rich, he wants to fix it? Why does the media not have the courage to ask him about this?
Reply to this comment
by juliaw55 March 25, 2007 10:59 PM EDT
I think that John and Elizabeth Edwards were very open and forthcoming about Elizabeth's condition. I applaud them wholeheartedly for their openess. I think that Katie was slightly overbearing in pressing them about certain questions. I think we should put ourselves in their shoes--they are doing an remarkable job with staying with the campaign in light of the difficult days ahead.
Bravo John and Elizabeth!
Reply to this comment
by scott4261 March 25, 2007 10:59 PM EDT
Oh, God...
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by ncblueyes March 25, 2007 11:00 PM EDT
Why are so many of you so cynical? John Edwards is no different in that all presidential candidates have enormous egos or they wouldn't be running. John Edwards has been an ambitious attorney and made a lot of money. Does earning a great deal of money automatically make him evil? Or is it better to be GW who was born wealthy??

George Bush has proven he lied to America about Iraq. Now John Edwards tells the truth about his wife and that makes him wrong?

Why can't the Edwards family make their own decision and not have everyone second guess their decision? They just learned this news last week; are they suppose to just "stop" their lives and give in? No one knows how they will react in this situation until it is their own situation.

Let the Edwards live their life and serve this country. We have had far worse from GW and potentially far worse from Hillary Clinton (I am female & a Democrat). I didn't vote for GW either time and I won't vote for Hillary.

Bravo John and Elizabeth !
Reply to this comment
by jpwentford March 25, 2007 11:01 PM EDT
I commend the Edwards family for continuing to move their campaign forward. It is unseemly to challenge the integrity of the Edwards simply because cancer has entered their lives and because they want to live their lives to the fullest, with each other and by serving their country. I wish the Edwards a very successful campaign and look forward to hearing more about their stances on issues that our affecting our country.
Reply to this comment
by jonnamarlene March 25, 2007 11:07 PM EDT
First of all....I am not a Democrat. I respect John and Elizabeth Edwards for their stand in what they believe. What a legacy to help her husband do something that she loves and believes in!! In a world today of cancer and disease...what an inspiration to see someone "live" despite the news of tragedy. I am so very sad that Katie Couric showed no heart or emotion in her interview. She came across very uncaring and rude! Is Katie a Democrat? This interview could of been a positive and inspiring warm story that could uplift Americans to go beyond the limitations in our lives. The Edward's are wonderful, self confident people who are very unselfish. Too bad Katie Couric lost her "nice girl" image and now is a hard core reporter who tries to trash the good things in life. I was not impressed and very disappointed.
Reply to this comment
by bfnelms March 25, 2007 11:08 PM EDT
If Katie Couric had ever been even one/tenth as forthright in her interviews with Bush administration members, one might possibly respect her overbearing, negative response to John and Elizabeth Edwards. She has never been. So, of course, we recognize her for what she is: a fan and mouthpiece for Rush Limbaugh.

Katie Couric, of course, speaks for Corporate America, from whence her riches come. John Edward speaks for the American people--the working class, the poor, the thoughtful, those who want to restore the constitution that the Bush regime has vigorously attempted to undermine.

60 minutes was once an American treasure. Not now. No more 60 minutes for me!
Reply to this comment
by dannogil March 25, 2007 11:08 PM EDT
Katie is the weepiest, sappiest interviewer ever. Not only that, she persists in bringing up the same dewey-eyed observations and questions from only slightly different angles, hardly ever adding to understanding, but making us all aware how feeling she is. When is CBS going to wake up and get a Reporter instead of a Sob Sister for an anchor. My God, can't CBS do better than this?

Dan Gilmartin, Winter Springs Florida
Reply to this comment
by cmkronberg March 25, 2007 11:09 PM EDT
It's apparent that John and Elizabeth are fulfilled with their lives as public servants, and to stay at home and knit would drive them crazy. I was disappointed that the interview didn't get beyond that idea. John Edwards and his wife had to answer 20 versions of the same question; all versions of which seemed to point to the idea that they really should quit the race and enjoy a little golf until Elizabeth keels over because that's what 'normal' people would do.
Reply to this comment
by rosecrawford March 25, 2007 11:09 PM EDT
How is he going to do anything IF like he said she has something important to do he'll be there? With chemo you can be sick or REALLY sick! If it was my husband I would want him there for everyday things. I would be so afraid and he is the only one that makes me feel like it's not as bad as it seems. Maybe this is the TRUE test to see what is IMPORTANT to him? Why be PRESIDENT if you don't have the one you love there to share it with? UNLESS you are like Bill Clinton!!!!
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by angelavruth March 25, 2007 11:11 PM EDT
There is a reason why this household does not watch Katie Couric on CBS News and it was reaffirmed to us 10 minutes ago. If anyone could have been a great person to conduct this interview, it should have been Couric; instead, she revealed that she knows very little about approaching families who hare dealing with cancer (especially high profile families). She exposed her ignorance.

Also, it was painfully obvious that Couric was attempting to bring the Edwards to some emotional crescendo with her line of questions - over and over again with the prospect of death. Yikes Katie - you're not on a morning show anymore!

Bravo to the Edwards who showed outstanding grace and poise - glad that they had the exposure tonight so that America can see what a strong marriage they have and how committed they our to their cause.

Reply to this comment
by scott4261 March 25, 2007 11:12 PM EDT
shellerch,

The whole "millionaire trial lawyer" thing is getting kind of old... The case that made John Edwards a millionaire was against a pool manufacurer. In the case, the drain on the pool was so powerful that it started to pull a little girl's intestines out when she got stuck at the bottom of the pool. You wanna tell me that win was not justified?

Jeez, I don't even know how you people can be so nasty about him. I really don't get it.
Reply to this comment
by sandrakelly-2009 March 25, 2007 11:15 PM EDT
John & Elizabeth Edwards come across as a sincere, loving couple who are managing a very difficult situation. Katie Couric conducted a viper like interview. Her questions seemed motivated to provoke the worst from one or both of the Edwards - instead they made her look like a shrew and suggested she may be trying to bolster her media ratings. Shame on her. We will note be watching another interview by her.
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by valentineb-2009 March 25, 2007 11:15 PM EDT
It is my opinion that the media has gone too far in its belief that the public has a right to know. Some subjects are much too personal for the public to know OR to voice an opinion. The opinions are always going to be good AND bad and a person going through a health crisis does not need to add negative comments to their already stressful lives, especially when the opinion givers don't know all the facts and have no vested interest in the lives to which they are giving an opinion.
Reply to this comment
by lindamontell March 25, 2007 11:16 PM EDT
Dear Katie,

This was such a NEGATIVE interview, maybe even a little cruel. It reeked of tabloid journalism and I am disappointed that, in light of your own sad experiences with cancer, you would stoop to this type of interview. I may not vote for John Edwards, but after watching the interview he and Elizabeth gave last week, I was left thinking how very refreshing it was to witness two decent, loving people who have had more than their share of grief to bear, bravely and honestly face the press and answer very personal questions. I cannot imagine drilling them with "what if you die" questions. Shame! Linda MC
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by mols77 March 25, 2007 11:16 PM EDT
Every family in the U.S. has endured cancer either becuase a family member has been diagnosed or they have personally endured the diagnosis. No one with any moral sense would use this diagnosis as a ploy to televise and promote a presidential campaign. This situation just shows you that the democratic party will go to any length to gain publicity.....John Edwards is basically showing the world that he cares very little for who should be most sacred to him. Is this truly a man I want to lead this country? Tragically, I am not surprised of such a ploy from a man that supported Kerry and a station that is absorbed in ratings and controversy. Its truly disappointing........and only strengthens my support towards a true leader. Ever read Gialianis book on Leadership? Now there is a man with the ability to lead this country - but you'll never see 60 minutes higlight this man.....
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by zoenipp March 25, 2007 11:17 PM EDT
I am a longtime fan of Katie Couric. However, the cold-blooded and callous way in which she interviewed John and Elizabeth Edwards, continuously and awkwardly questioning/re-questioning their PERSONAL decision in such a cold manner made me physically sick. I will NEVER watch her again. She is a ***.
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by mkief05 March 25, 2007 11:18 PM EDT
Katie, I have never been more disappointed in one of your interviews. You, of all people, questioning the Edwards the way you did! I can't believe you questioned them about putting their work before family. Did you not go to work while your husband was battling cancer and you had two small children at home? Millions of people continue to work while given this type of devastating news. Shame on you!
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by alycejane March 25, 2007 11:22 PM EDT
I was a fan of Katie Couric from our mutual days in Washington DC but tonight my opinion of her was changed permanently. I never imagined that she could bring herself to conduct the sort of interview she did tonight wtih John and Elizabeth Edwards. It was unfeeling, rude and pointless. If someone were to approach Katie this way about the death of her husband, the entire media world would cry foul but she somehow felt free to try to take away the Edwards' dignity and hope. Shame on you, Katie.
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