How much did Carnahan pay your station for the advertising time - your interview. You appear complicit in undermining the financial and health stability of our country. Your response to his first answer about not reading the bill was something like "So you're not going into this uninformed." Wrong Larry, He's going into this along party lines and hurting the American people. Maybe you should make an average wage instead of 6 figures, where you have to care whether you will be covered and can get reasonable care. What a disgusting interview - no journalistic backbone, just fluff. Does your station condone this? If so, how sad. What channel is FOX News on, I'm headed there.

Larry, you did just fine. Honestly, some people you can't make happy no matter what you do. I am sure you know this better than many of us.
Thanks for the professionalism, sir.
You are a great journalist. Keep up the good work.
Keith from Florissant

I can't believe you let Russ Carnahan out right lie on your show. Or is that normal, as thing like this are why I have not watched local news for 20 years.

I am struck by something regarding the health care debate. Why are those that are against the current proposals being called, "disrespectful" or "shrills", etc...There seems to be a spin happening and last I checked, as Americans we all have a voice. I agree there is no need for violence - but let's hear what People have to say.

Larry, I watch KMOV largely because of you and Vickie. However, I have to agree with the 90%. The Democrats are hell bent on ramming major change down our throats without taking the time to examine the legislation.

I feel that the Democrats are feeling the heat on this issue largely because of their refusal to answer questions and be honest about how bad the bill really is. I think you passed up a fine opportunity to have a defender of the legislation explain just how good of an idea this to the very people who gave him his current job in the first place.

Lastly, there can be no mistake, the violence that erupted last night was started by folks who were invited by Carnahans people to salt the audience. Honest and reasonable people now know this. next time you get a defender of health care reform on camera, I hope you can ask them questions no one asking..nor answering..

I watched the interview and found it to be disappointing -- not that you didn't ask the right questions, but they were just not answered. I noticed right off the bat when you asked Carnahan if he would have the same health coverage and he started his snow job that things weren't going to get any better. If one good thing comes out of the "interview," it will be exposing Russ Carnahan for the incompetent bumbling goofball that he is. Maybe he can get a job with ACORN.

I loved your question about was he afraid his stance would hurt him come election time -- Of course, he didn't answer that question, either. I not only hope he loses at the next election, I hope he goes down in a resounding defeat. We have allowed this mess to occur in our country, so now we're going to have to get some backbone and straighten it up, all the way to the top. I saw a bumper sticker recently that said "Obozo," and that just about sums it up. Russ Carnahan is a follower, not a leader, and the man he is following is a disgrace to our country. Carnahan may have said he's read that Health Care bill, but he obviously missed quite a few very important excerpts.

I watched the interview and found it to be disappointing -- not that you didn't ask the right questions, but they were just not answered. I noticed right off the bat when you asked Carnahan if he would have the same health coverage and he started his snow job that things weren't going to get any better. If one good thing comes out of the "interview," it will be exposing Russ Carnahan for the incompetent bumbling goofball that he is. Maybe he can get a job with ACORN.

I loved your question about was he afraid his stance would hurt him come election time -- Of course, he didn't answer that question, either. I not only hope he loses at the next election, I hope he goes down in a resounding defeat. We have allowed this mess to occur in our country, so now we're going to have to get some backbone and straighten it up, all the way to the top. I saw a bumper sticker recently that said "Obozo," and that just about sums it up. Russ Carnahan is a follower, not a leader, and the man he is following is a disgrace to our country. Carnahan may have said he's read that Health Care bill, but he obviously missed quite a few very important excerpts.

Why do people have so much resentment for the the presidents health plan? This was part of his platform when he ran president. I think people don't understand his plan.I think alot the people don't know what it is for the people without health plans. I am on medicare and it is ran by the government and been happy with it.The only complaint I have is the doughnut hole on the RX plan which hopefully will be stopped.

The use of time contstaints for not asking pertinent questions is very weak and more likley to be used by a journalism student.

Germane questions can be asked without being rude.

Watch the today show or other like programs when a conservative is being interviewed. They never have problems with time and they ask tough questions without rudeness.

I guess thats why you never made it in big time. Couldn't design a meaningful interview in time constraints given.

Mr. Conners:

I thought you handled the interview professionally. I also believe that Congressman Carnahan answered to the best of his ability. Some people just won't believe the truth no matter what. Thanks to the Limbaughs, and Becks of the world for promoting civil discourse. To those of you on the government run Medicare which operates at 3% overhead as oppose to most insurance companies 20% overhead.... http://www.pleasecutthecrap.com/ Regards...

Mr. Conners:

I thought you handled the interview professionally. I also believe that Congressman Carnahan answered to the best of his ability. Some people just won't believe the truth no matter what. Thanks to the Limbaughs, and Becks of the world for promoting civil discourse. To those of you on the government run Medicare which operates at 3% overhead as oppose to most insurance companies 20% overhead.... http://www.pleasecutthecrap.com/ Regards...

Larry:

It would be simple enough for you to show the pages of the proposed bill where Mr. Carnahan says there is not these items. Personaly I ahve been an independent voter all my life. NEVER MORE
I will never vote for a DEMOCRATE AGAIN

Gee, maybe you can replace Larry King-what a worthless interview. Yes, you asked the questions, but no follow-up to get an answer. That is what a good reporter does. What do you want to bet that the abc world news will not cover the town meetings tonight - along with your interview, just another example of the out and out biases and mistruths that are on the mainstream media. If you really want to be fair, Larry, why don't you give us some bullet points on this health care plan - I dare you to really let the public know why senior care will be circumvented when the money runs out especially since we will be taking care of illegal immigrts- neither the Mayo Clinic nor the Cleveland Clinic agrees with this plan - come on Larry, you are forcing me to watch Fox news exclusively.

Mr. Conners,
I believe you are an honest and caring person and I commned you for having Mr. Carnahan on to demonstrate his total lack of knowledge of the bill. He did a "soft shoe" around all the questions you posed to him and just plainly did not tell the truth. You asked the right questions which were those submitted by people who are concerned about what the Administration is proposing. The fact that Mr. Carnahan did not answer the questions is not necessarily your fault but entirely his. As a matter of fact, it's the voter's failure to elect politicians that are worth their salt and not those, like Mr. Carnahan, who are well versed in half truths and more lies.

I realize it is tough to do an interview without a lot of time. Maybe you just shouldn't do it then. We get the same answers. He did not read it, just like the rest of them. We get this kind of stuff on all of the other networks. I am sick of the media. We watch channel 4 news every night and are very disappointed!

Wake up people and get your heads out of your asses, this country has been in this mess for the last 8 years. For the first time in a long time we have someone in office who knows how the commom Joe lives (and works when there is work. He is doing his best. Lets work with him not against him and get this country back on tract. Bush put us in this mess, we all have to work together to get out of it. AND everyone NEEDS heath care. It is so scary without it!

I watched the interview. I thought that it was a polite courtesy exchange.

Most activists today are used to the talk show in your face type of interviewer who plays more to the audience than the issues.

Thanks Larry for not being an O'Reilly wannabe.

Yes, that was a lousy interview of Carnahan, but no way was Larry going to get him to admit he hadn't read the bill, that it covered illegals and abortion, or that Carnahan would sacrifice his Congressionally supplied Cadillac health coverage for Obamacare. BUT, I commend Larry and the KMOV.News producer for acknowledging their shortcomings on this interview.
I switched to KMOV from KSDK because of the obvious bias of NBC. I will remain with KMOV.

Mr. Connor,
I watched the interview and with the time limit you did great! The questions you were able to ask were the ones that are so misunderstood and people need to do research along with being able to go to townhall meetings to get informed not drowned out by angry people! This is everyones right and they should try and listen plus do their own research instead of thinking they have all the correct information. There are so many lies being thrown around by angry conservatives. Let's at least listen to what this healthcare bill consists of and we can sometimes agree to disagree on certain policies.
Thank you for your interview.

There was absolutely no passion in that interview whatsoever. I take pride in my job. You should too, by at least bringing out the truth for your public viewers. I used to watch KMOV. That interview sealed the deal, never again.

Larry, my husband and I watch your news station all the time and are very happy with it. We both watched your interview with Mr. Carnahan last night and thought you did a great job. He answered the questions very honestly, I thought. Some people just have their minds set on a certain thing and if that's not the answer they hear, they are unhappy. Well, too bad!!!!
Truth is what matters. We both are on Medicare, a government plan, and are very happy with it.
Keep up the good work!

LARRY, I THINK YOU MISSED THE POINT - THE VIEWERS
WERE NOT UPSET BECAUSE OF THE WAY YOU HANDLED THE INTERVIEW - YOU WERE VERY RESPECTFUL AS YOU SHOULD OF BEEN AND NOT BECAUSE OF THE FRIENDSHIP WITH THE CARNAHANS OR NOT EVEN BECAUSE OF THE QUESTIONS THAT WERE ASKED - YOU DID A GOOD JOB ON ASKING THE HARD QUESTIONS THAT THE VIEWERS EMAILED IN - WHERE THE PROBLEMS LIES IS WITH THE ANSWERS THAT WERE GIVEN FROM MR. CARNAHAN THERE WAS NO REBUTLE - HE WAS ABLE TO ANSWER THEM WITH HIS POLITICAL AGENDA IN MIND - THE AMERICAN PEOPLE
DESERVE TO NO THE TRUTH WITH SIMPLE FACTS - NEXT TIME HIRE A LAWYER TO READ THE BILL THEN BROADCAST THE FACTS TO US IN SIMPLE TERMS SO THAT CONGRESS AND THE AMERICAN PEOPLE CAN UNDERSTAND WHAT IS REALLY IN IT - THAT WAY YOU WILL NOT COME OFF SO ONE SIDED
BETWEEN THE CORRUPT POLITICANS (CONGRESS) , THE MEDIA, BANKERS, ETC. WE NEED TO COUNT ON OUR LOCAL STATIONS TO MAKE SURE THE PUBLIC GETS THE TRUTH WITH NEITHER POLITICAL SIDES FAVORED
THANKS FOR LISTENING

Mr. Conners,

You asked the questions and Mr. Carnahan doge the questions. That why people our upset. I believe that people our no longer sitting back at home and just going to take a spoon full of sugar. Americans our more inform these days and wants more than sound bites and with only five minutes that's what anybody was going to get from the congress man. Why not have a town hall meeting were all congressman and senator get together and get people out on the street in a fair lottery system to ask the questions sponsor by cbs or someone else.

Thank you
Bill Foster
educate country boy from cedar hill that went Webster University

God Bless

Larry,

I thought you were prepared, professional and as always obtained your high standard of professionalism. I agree that there are two sides to this debate, but loud voices and organized groups all talking at once is not a solution to the problem. We need people to ask questions and be tolerant when they are answered. I ask myself if these groups people go to church and would they surround their pastor if they don't like what he has to say? I don't think they would and my problem with what is happening to our town hall meetings is that the american public has lost their sense of respect for each other and that saddens me. We need to "look in the mirror" and take stock that you treat people as you wish to be treated. Remember that while watching the live debate last night, I could not hear what questions were being asked so I ignored it, it did not help me understand the health care issue at all, so wonder why everyone wanted you to be so hard on Mr. Carnahan?
Respectfully yours,
Lori Miller

I think we have a classic case of "shoot the messenger" going on here, except that it could be better characterized as "shoot the interviewer". Those folks who left negative comments about the interview weren't interested in the job you did. They were angry because you dared interview Carnahan at all.

Right wingers don't want to hear the other side of the story and they don't want others to hear it either. It seems that a lot of them are in denial about (1) under whose administration the recession got its start, and (2) who won the election. They just can't stand being on the losing side!

That said, I think you did an excellent job.

When will people decide to read the article in the Wall Street Journal about France and the problems they are having with their "universal" health care? This is why I am against Obama's health care. Too big, too expensive, too government involved.

Larry did NOT press Carnahan to answer any of the questions, so Carnahan didn't. It is not surprising and it is what I expect from all Democrats. They walk around every issue and give no definitive answer.

The United States of America came about as the result of people objecting to the power mongers not hearing complaints of being overtaxed and receiving nothing. Will we be seeing another revolution soon since the same thing is happening now, or will the Democrats wisen up and stop accusing opponents to health care of being Nazis or too stupid to think on their own.

Sorry Larry, I do tend to pay attention to your interviews, as usually I think you get in depth on the interviews more than anyone else (even when I disagree with your opinions).

And I understand that you had a very limited time, and you want the powers-that-be to come back for follow up questions when possible. I'm not one of those who think you softballed it because you have an association with the Representative and his family.

But every time that he evaded a question, it seemed that you accepted it and went right on to the next question. There were so many possibilities out there that could have been followed up on, and done in a professional manner (as you were intent on doing, and no problem with that) and you barely scratched at very few of them.

I understand you not going after the "organization" question, and I have _NO_ problem with that I wanted to know about why he voted "yes" on this BOONDOGGLE, not about his opinion on SIEU and the happenings outside... without reading the bill (note , he NEVER even answered THAT SIMPLE question)... but you were no more hard-hitting than any other journalist in this.

I thought you were going to do that when you brought the bill out and put it in front of him, but you just let him run wherever he wanted to go.

As one person said, you asked the exact same questions that other reporters have asked, and you got the EXACT same responses other reporters got. And you were satisfied with that? To be exactly the same as every other "indepth" interview/reporter. Where is the desire to get to the truth, to be the "4th branch of the checks and balances of the govt"? _You_ had the chance to do that for us, because we sure don't get that chance now.. and you just let him control the whole process.

Larry did these people watch the same interview I did? It seems they didn't listen or had their minds made up before they watched!! Congressman Carnahan answered most of you questions, though he didn't say he read the bill, but he said he was briefed on the sections of it so I believe he will make an informed vote on this bill! I agree that the Limbaugh and Becks are clouding the issue and will add that they are liars!! Don't worry about these people who say they aren't going to listen to you anymore because they get their slanted news from Fox and that clears up a lot!!! Richard Fones

We enjoyed your interview last night with MR. Carnahan. You could not help it when he avoided to answer the questions. Thanks

Mr. Conners is a reliable news person. Channel 4 is my preferred news channel and I am sure Channel 4 will interview Mr. Atkins for the other side of the story.

I must tell you that referring to these people who show up for these town hall meetings as activist is Un-American and is a dangerous challenge our rights and freedom.

The appearance of union representative and their attempt to intimate people so to scare them, so not to attend the town hall meetings is something that should be reported. It is an attack on our rights to free speech and assembly.

I will be waiting for the Channel 4 interview with Mr. Atkins.

The first question of the interview by viewers was basically asking him if he would join this plan and drop the plan he gets for being in congress. He totally dodged the question saying people will have choice just as he does. I wouldn't sign up for this plan. I'm sure I will have to when my employer says they will no loonger pay when we can get government care for "free". It just shows that none of these politicians are worthy of representing us! They just want control wether it is for money or any other reason. I promise to support ANY candidate opposing him in the next election cycle. The same goes for the useless senators McCaskill and Bond! It is NOT about Democrat or Republican-both parties are equally unfit to serve us!

I understand the time factor in Larry's interview with Russ Carnahan....there really was no way to hammer him. Carnahan certainly did NOT answer ANY of the questions....actually, I guess he DID just by dancing around them....he WON'T sign up for the healthcare for himself; he has NOT read the bill and dosesn't intend to; he said that abortion is NOT covered by the bill--funny, many others "in the know" say it is. I thought it was pretty obvious that Carnahan is just another slimy politician who lets legitimate questions slide off of him and just gives a canned answer that says nothing. Since I live in Illinois, I won't have the pleasure of voting against him, but believe me I will exercise that option with my own politicians!!

Dear Larry -

I did as your requested after watching the 5:00pm
newscast. I viewed your interview with Carnahan and read the blogs. I have to say that I do agree that you did not hold his feet to the fire. You are a seasoned reporter, time constraints should not have been an issue. He did not answer your question asking if he had read the bill. I do not believe that he has read it. It is difficult for me to say that a person is lying, but I believe that he is. The bill does cover illegals, it does provide federally funded abortions, it does not allow people to make their own medical decisions with their doctors and it mandates that those on Medicare will receive a government visit to discuss end of life decisions. You should have and could have challenged his veracity.

Kathleen Wimmer

Thank you for posting all of the negative comments from your interview with Mr. Carnahan. I feel that many people are unaware of a lot of things things that are in the bill. I wonder how many of those who are oppose to universal health care have read the bill themselves. I woulld like you to know even though Mr. Carnahan has health care though the Federal Government he may have to pay a monthly premium to have this coverage. My husband is a retired Federal Employee and we have health care continued through the government. We always, even when he was employed, paid for health care. I have had conversation with people who knew my husband worked for the Federal Govenment and thought our health care was free. It never was and even though he is retired we still pay a monthly premium for health care and it goes up every year and his retirement check gets smaller. It truely amazes me how many people are not aware what truly goes on in business and government and still want to cause problems when they are truly not informed on what the bill is all about.

Sorry that people were so critical. Funny how President Obama or other politicians of greater stature dance all of the time and people don't crucify the interviewer.

The biggest problem with the plan is that no one in Washington has explained the details and i think it's because they themselves don't have the details. Most likely it will cost much more than they think and that will be a problem.

As for the comment posted here on Medicare and the Donut Hole, the Donut Hole is part of the Med D plans ran by public companies but subsidized somewhat by the Government. Hopefully people understand that once they pay through the donut hole, meds are practically free. But everyone needs to pay something (such as what is paid in the donut hole) or the plan will fail. Instead of focusing on the months one is in the Donut Hole, one should add what his/her expenses would be without the plan for one year and what his/her expenses for the year are with the plan. For anyone spending several thousands of dollars, he/she will come out ahead with the plan. Unfortunately, we cannot have everything for nothing.

As for those blasting non-government insurers and comparing them to Medicare, let's not forget the government is not a corporation that pays taxes. Not every Democrat wants government healthcare; it's unfortunate some people are so biased, thinking every Republican is a Rush Limbaugh, that they don't understand there are Democrats uncomfortable with this plan as well.

Again, Larry, you are very professional and a real asset to KMOV. Keep up the good work.

Good evening,
I heard your comment on your newscast suggesting that the people who emailed you were irate; that you weren't fair with Rep. Carnahan. I saw the interview as you did it and I thought it was very fair. My only disappointment was that he didn't answer your question regarding the reading of the 1017 pages. He said, "We've poured over it and worked through it." but never said he read.
I've attempted to read it and it is like reading an upside down cross-word puzzle.
I thought you did a good job under the tight schedule. I've been watching you for many years, I remember when you had a lot more hair, but I guess we all change; what I have has gone gray.
I appreciate all you've done for St. Louis. Stay tough on the politicians and continue to be polite as you've always been.
Sincerely,
Jimbo7

Dear Larry:

I am 64 years old and have watched you for many years. I believe you to be a "good guy". I however, question the government's motive at this point in time. I have worked my whole life for the dangling carrot and the benefits always promised at the end of the ride. Now, the ride has come to fruition and the carrot is gone or being substituted by a less tasty product. We older citizens have for the most part done it right. Worked, paid our taxes, not broken any laws and now are being told that our social security is gone. The social security that we have paid into for 40 years or so. Forgive us if we become a little testy. Where have our values gone. Our government officials seem to spend and take and spend and take. They do not listen to us. They were voted in to represent us and they only fill their own bank accounts. We are close to an insurrection in this country. As for your interview with Russ Carnahan, I feel that it was merely a PR ploy for him because when he has public venues he does not do well. I think most people feel you gave him a free pass.

Sorry Larry, he may be a nice guy but he is not for the people. He cannot even talk about the health care bill.

Pat Stamps

Mr. Conners.. you seemed upset on tonights broadcast with the 90% that are upset with you. Why don't you get a full length interview with Congressman Carnahan and use the time to hold his feet to the fire with tough questions. The people of Missouri deserve answers and that is what they are looking for. The Congressman is NOT providing answers but typical political spin. You need to do the same with Senators McCaskill and Bond and any other Congressmen/woman you can get to do this.

Journalists in America should be doing this, but they have abdicated that responsibility for the perch of 'political analyst' trying to impact the minds and votes of the public. In the process, we get spin from politicians and bad bad legislation. If you want to be a journalist, be one.. report for the people of Missouri and not to them... to this point, the media is nothing but a messenger for the administration, parroting what the administration wants said all the while, wanting to be seen as a 'journalist'. If you want the title, do the title.. be the title.. and get us some straight answers to the tough questions to ALL politicians... NO MORE SPIN....

Larry,
I think you did a great job and I have listened to you fo years and years. You are a fair and squared away reporter and anchor. Mr. Carnahan unfortunately is not and sites the company line. I do not believe for a minute that he read the bill.

Thanks for this oppertunity.

John J Wilshire
Vietnam Vet.
Retired Militray
Ciivl Servant
Citizen

Mr Conners:

It is obvious that most all who have responded to your "live" interview with Congressman Carnahan feel that it was a colossal waste of time for everybody.

Some have suggested that you reschedule an interview with the Congressman where you would be able to put questions to him in the appropriate manner. I will add my name to the list of those who would like to see a serious interview with the Congressman and Senator McCaskill.

I must admit that I do not understand the purpose of trying to interview a politician in the manner that it was presented.

Sincerely,

Dave Sullivan

You softballed him and didn't do your job. The media is supposed to ask tough questions. You are a sissy journalist!

Larry,

I am so tired of our officials being played as victims. It is obvious that the american people
want their VOICES heard and not dismissed as an angry mob. My question to you is: What did you get for being a poster boy for the govenment.

Did you even ask if Russ Read the Bill?
I can answer it for you, NO he didn't.

So don't believe in what they tell you, Or what they offer. I have always like you as an anchor and you do a lot of good for our community. I hope you can stand up for the people and not become a part of the Chicago style politics.

Mike

Larry,
You are so misinformed by the Thursday night meeting. As I walked toward the school, after parking 2-3 blocks away, I observed the following:
Men apparently 20-40 years old, mostly in tee-shirts & alone generally or with like-kind, were let into the school while those of us (elderly) were told they were full up & were turned away. These "gentlemen" appeared to me to be Union men & strong arms for the speakers. You were too easy on Congressman Carnahan, in my opinion. It was quite obvious that there was an agenda, but not by the conservative people who just wanted answers. Stay with the hard questions. I really admired you for asking some questions the other news people appear to be afraid to ask. Thanks you so much!

Larry

Obviously, you failed with your Carnahan interview. Suggest you get the facts correct by inviting Todd Akin for an on air interview with same time allotment as you gave Carnahan. At least you will get non-evasive answers.

Newell Derryberry

Larry,
You continue to show how you are the finest, most upstanding and ethical journalist in town. We appreciate your professionalism, even in the heat of nasty political fire. You have a loyal place in our living room every night from now on.

Larry,

If Carnahan wants this "discussion", why doesn't he just discuss it with you? You have our questions and our concerns. What ELSE could he be doing? What else could he be doing RIGHT NOW?

Carnahan, give a comprehensive, satisfactory address to our concerns, or PROMISE TO VOTE NO.

It's really that simple, Larry. You have the big microphone in this community; it's time to use it.

Thanks for at least paying our concerns lip service tonight.

I think you're great. Who can fault you for Rep. Carnahan not answering what he was asked? No one. It's what policitians do. I no longer expect anything from my government, particularly state and federal. It's getting scary out there and people are afraid, so emotions run high. BUT-I remember back to the time when Ronald Reagan was President, and he had a friend--Tip O'Neal. They were in different political parties, but they had deep respect for each other as human beings. I miss that.

Larry, I'm a 21 year old moderate college student and I thought you did a great job. I thought you handled the interview fine with the time constraints you had to deal with. The other folks are upset that you didn't interview Carnahan like Fox News (who have helped degrade the quality of journalism over the years) would interview him, who would more likely yell at Carnahan at being a socialist and won't even let him have a chance to say anything. I do understand that you didn't have time to rebuttal. Perhaps you guys can do a 30 or 60 minute special where you would interview politicians on both sides of the issue, that would give you a chance to have an intelligent and civil conversation with both sides (just don't invite the lunatics fringes from both sides).

Larry: I would like to thank you for being honest and courageous enough to ask Rep. Carnahan about the Heath Insurance proposals. If we can't get answers at a Town Hall mtg, it was very community empathetic for KMOV to ask the questions that would have been answered in a CIVIL mtg. God bless and again thank you and Vicky for your great efforts on getting the news to the Metro area

PS: In a real interview, you would demand an answer to each question. Acceptable answers include, "yes", "no", or "I refuse to answer that question because...". If the interviewee filibusters, you simply ask the question again, or postively state their inferred answer.

As a very intersted voter, I was very displeased that you allowed Carnahan to get away with answering NO questions. It was very disappointing, but did I really expect any different... not really this is the way that all interviews. I also watched your response tonight, why not stop making excuses and do something about it... how about you put together an open forum. You could include people that have not read the bill such as Carnahan and then maybe you could get some people that have actually read it. They might help him understand as well and might actualy inform some of your viewers that are interested.

Mr. carnahan is just the typical democrat just follow obama that is why you did not get any straight answer from him read thew bill first before you try and tell people what is in it

Mr. Conners,
A few months ago, my husband and I switched to channel 4 news. I think that there is more news and that the coverage is better than on our previous choice of station. I was disappointed, but not surprised, by Mr. Carnahan's answers. I do not, however, blame your questions nor your style. I appreciate your taking the chance to do the live interview under the time constraints. The result was at least a clear picture of Mr. Carnahan's penchant for indirect answers and political sound bites.
Keep up the good work.
Cheryl Blake

Mr. Connors,

I am a proud "Rightwing Extremist" in DHS terms (I am conservative, a veteran, and disagree with Obama). I think you did the interview well, and with class. Many of the emotions poured out against you come from how Congressman Carnahan answered the questions, not the questions. I paused and replayed some of his answers as a teaching point to my young daughter about how some politicans evade answering tough questions by talking a lot. Other times he simply lied. I am sure you might have drilled him to answer questions he avoided and challenged him on integrity issues in 30 minute interview. You did not have the time to do that.
I am very sad to see Democrats demean citizens who disagree with them and some activities, such as "Flag@whitehouse.gov" act to chill citizen involvement. Their reaction is very inappropriate and is fanning the flames. Obama, the uniter, is sharply dividing this country.

Thank you for your work. I think you are among the most fare journalists on TV today.

I saw your interview with representatve Carnahan. I would like to say that I am proud of The congressman and applaud his courage and stance on health care reform he told it like it is. I think the interview was reasonably good given the time constraints. This is an extremely important issue and needs serious debate. There are those that do not want this and are resorting to desperate measures to intimidate and silence politicians and the concerned public. Also, there are others like me just as determined not to give in to these bully boy tactics. I have read parts of this bill and from what I have read there is alot of miss information floating around about H.R. 3200. I hope you will continue to report on every aspect of this issue and for every person who will not watch you again there is one who will. Thank you Mr. Connors, keep up the good work. William J. Michel

I don't care about those negative comments. News 4 is still tops in MY house!!

Hello,I have started reading some of the blogs online and watching some of the web sites that are instigating all this conspiracy theories.I was shocked at the yelling and crazy talk while listening to one called Glenn Beck (obama is now the antichrist)LOL and they are going to kill all the babies and elderly.Get a gun they say,start a revolution..Obama is just going to be another Hitler,,,,read your history books...LOL..o my gosh,
I would love to tell some of these...its 2009,catch up,we cant live in the past.we have to move on,what we did in the past has NOT worked(have you not noticed that?) we are looking for ways to get out of all the messes ,so instead of spending so much time ranting and raving,they should sit down and tell how they would improve health care etc.

Ladies and gentlemen:

I am writing to express my displeasure with your overall coverage of Rep. Russ Carnahan's town hall meeting last night, and particularly Larry Conners' supposedly "balanced" interview with the congressman.

Your on-site coverage of the meeting implied that virtually everyone there was against President Obama's health care overhaul. Did you poll everyone? Did you find out how many of those in the audience were actually Carnahan's constituents and how many had been bussed in by the health care lobby? Regardless, your reporter had no business commenting on the thoughts of the audience unless he is a mind reader. Let the viewers decide for themselves.

I was most distressed, however, by the performance of Mr. Conners, who proceeded to interject his personal opinions into his interview with Carnahan.

First, Mr. Conners clearly stated that he agreed with one of the viewer questions about the supposed "failure" of Medicare, Medicaid and the VA, and then he even added that the Post Office is failing. That is opinion, not fact, and no professional journalist would make such a remark on the air.

After Carnahan said Americans already are paying for the uninsured when they go to the emergency room for care (at the highest rate in the world, I might add), Conners said, "And they do get it (care)." That was an unnecessary editorial comment, completely inappropriate coming from a so-called "news" anchor.

Later, toward the end of the interview, Conners implied that Carnahan hadn't answered his questions, and certainly not to the satisfaction of many viewers. How does he know what the viewers are thinking? That's not his job. His job is to report the news, not analyze it. That was bush league, something my high school journalism teacher wouldn't have permitted.

KMOV certainly has the right to editorialize during its broadcasts, but such segments should be clearly labeled as editorials or commentaries. If this is the kind of shoddy journalism we can expect from KMOV in the future, perhaps I should "switch back" to Channel 5.

Thanks for a good interview Larry. I think everyone saw how Carnahan was answering the questions. I'll give the straight answer for the 'did he read the bill' question. No one reads 1000 pages of anything and understands it. That's why committees go over sections of a bill that big.

That said it was just fodder for the haters that are crawling out of the right wing holes in the ground right now. Apparently we're not killing enough Iraqies these days and they're very unhappy.

I look forward to hearing a rebuttal by a local legislature on the opposing side of this ridiculous and extremely expensive bill. After all, that's what a responsible media outlet SHOULD do.

I read your statement and the questions you wanted to ask but didn't have time, I was outraged to see that Mr. Carnahan believes the opposition is part of a conspiracy and this proves just how unqualified he is for this job. Just because people have concern about this massive bill does NOT mean they are part of a conspiracy. And so much for President Obama's promise made during in the campaign. What happened to transparency and bi-partisanship. When I hear him say he will pass this bill with or without the cooperation of Republicans and calling those who are utilizing their First Amendment rights by speaking out against him "angry mobs", I see him further alienating a large majority of the American public, just as Mr. Carnahan is managing to do. They need to realize there are many Democrats who are also very concerned about this bill and oppose it.

Larry, that was a soft ball interview. I am sorry you have taken the bias CBS line. You and Vickie were my mainstay on the nightly news but not any longer. You two have been nothing more that a Obama mouth piece more the democrats. I did not watch you today for the first time in many months. I had my Tivo set to channel 4 but after last night I changed it to channel 2(even Jaco is easier to take thn the two of you). I have been a fan of yours for years. The Pro Carnihan interview ended my fan status. Larry Plummer

I listened to your interview with Sen. Carnahan the other evening. To me you did the best you could with the time restraints. For some reason, some people donot understand this. I am sure as a reporter, you have to be non-bias and fair in your interviewing and reporting of all subjects. including health care reform. Why do people always say we need to do something about health care availability, then suddenly don't want to have anything to do with it because they say the cost is too much. Why should being healthy have to go along party lines. This makes no since to me at all. Every one should be able to have the best affordable health care available to them regardless of race, gender, religion or political party that you belong to. Why do other countries can have this, regardless of their economic status, and one of the most powerful (USA) cannot get it together. Come on people, we are a great country, lets get it together.

Mr. Connors:

Thank you for doing a brief interview. Why not invite the represenatitve and Senator McCaskill back for an hour long interview. Ask the hard questions. I doubt they will agree to such a forum. You could ask the best and hard questions and then put it on the air.

It would be real Democracy at work.

Thank You.

I am sorry that KMOV is attempting to be somewhat different that what it was once. I feel alarmed and stressed at the high pitch approach to news reporting. I like the way you were.

Vickie's face is still prettier than Larry. I wish that someone could send me a monitoring note when shw is on. It would be better on my blood pressure

Mr. Conners I watch KMOV news 99% of the time because I think it is the best. The Carnahan interview was no exception. If the people at the town hall meeting had been civil there probably would have been no interview and no need to again get nasty. I believe the tone of some citizens has less to do with the health care plan and a lot more to do with the unwillingness to except an exceptional man as presedent of these UNITED STATES of AMERICA and you don`t have to be very smart to know what I am talking about especially with people like Rush Limbaugh and others of his kind. I pray to God this type of behavior does not turn in to something we all will regret because of hate.

I've got a friend that's been going through pure HELL, trying to get a workers' comp. claim approved, so he can have back surgery. He's in so much pain and I feel so sorry for him, but he's waiting on the GOVERNMENT to say it's OK for him to have surgery. I'm scared this would be the norm, if we end up with government controlled health care.

Larry, I believe people are just fed up with Washington DC. Our elected official are more interested in following the party line and, trying to get re-elected than they are representing us. The Healthcare Reform Bill is a travesty that is poorly done and being rammed down out throats by an overzelous President who wants a trophy law for his legacy. Yes, people are upset at Town Hall Meetings. Why shouldn't they? They do not know what else to do to get the attention of their legislators! Don't forget to vote in 2010!

It did not surprise me to hear about the negative responses to Representative Carnahan's interview.
Those who are on the fringe just hate to have their little nest disturbed, particularly by those who are the "have nots." Of course, those are also the ones who already have health insurance coverage or erroneously believe they don't need it. Mr. Connors did a respectable job of interviewing Representative Carnahan under predictable media restrictions. All the rationale in the world cannot deny the fact that millions of children lack adequate health care, that the government already picks up the horrendous tab for people using emergency rooms as their primary care physicians, and that despite the United States outspending the world on health care, millions of its citizens are left uninsured, under-insured, or at the mercy of BIG INSURANCE deciding their fate. We, the people of the United States, deserve better justice.

I meant to write sooner, but was motivated by your discussion on the newscast Friday night.

I'll admit that I felt some "here we go again" disappointment when the scene changed from the ruckus at Mehlville to a shot of Congressman Carnahan in studio. By having him there, apparently to soothe viewers and give the "real story", it looked to be another, so frequent, kid glove handling of all things Obama by the media.

But no.

Instead, you asked real questions, ones that viewers would (and evidently did) ask. Doing so, you gave the congressman every chance to help us understand the bill. And, in a calm setting, he chose not to. Instead, the congressman just delivered the smooth talking points from the party line, the "big picture" platitudes that Democrats are to use this summer instead of real information as they speak to their constituents. What a shame.

I think, in the short time you had, that you have tremendously helped this debate by showing how congressional supporters of the bill continue to be unable to provide logical answers to real questions. Asked about abortion coverage, he actually wouldn't answer you. Asked about Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security programs (in the context of mentioning them as examples of poorly-run, budget-busting, red-tape-plentiful government programs, and why would we want more of the same) he responded that the new program would be just like them, efficient and delivering good results. And so on.

It may be that this pattern of your direct question coupled with the congressman's illogical and orthogonal responses is what drove many of your blog posters "nuts". They seem to have wished you would have jumped in with follow-up questions (delivered in a YGTBSM tone) to illuminate how deficient Congressman Carnahan's answers were.

For me, I'm glad you didn't, and were then able to get on-the-record responses to more topics. I think that a transcript of this discussion would do more than anything so far to wake voters up on this issue. If simple, straightforward, *fact-based*, logical answers can't be given to direct questions, then this bill really is riddled with problems.

And so then, why is the Democrat party stubbornly refusing to alter it, adopting illogical and ad hominem responses to questions, and wanting to hurry-hurry-hurry the bill into law? There are likely many reasons, but the net is that growing numbers of Americans are asking the serious questions they should, and telling Congress that this solution isn't the answer. (And isn't it getting tiresome that each time this administration experiences dissent, it resorts to tactics calling protestors crazy, terrorists [last time}, Nazis [this time], and part of an organized conspiracy? How about responding to the issues? No, truthfully!)

You did a good job here, Larry. I really enjoyed the journalistic tone and setting you provided, avoiding the punditry that's usually a part of any political interview these days. I appreciated that you confirmed first that the congressman had actually read the bill, so that ignorance couldn't be an excuse. Congressman Carnahan's answers (such as they were) to so many of your questions exposed how poorly this bill can be defended. That spoke volumes to me. I expect that it did so to many others.

Keep up the good work.

I think the way the SCREAMERS are acting is ridiculous. We need an honest discussion at the table on health care. As Lincoln said, 'A house divided among itself cannot stand.' However, if we start rioting, please bury me on the Democrat's side of the cemetery.

Larry;

Perhaps it would be best to send everybody that writes you a copy of HR 3200. I started reading it last night, got a long way to go, but have already found 6 "errors" in the comments left for you. this debate is going to tear at the fabric of our country, unless everyone has a clear understanding of what the bill contains. Too many out there are relying on blogs, fear mongering "TV News programs" and radio shows and email rumors that nobody is looking at the bill themselves.

Self education is always the way to the real truth.

When we elect people to office they are to represent all of us regardless of who we are. I am an independent and I for one would like to see a copy of that proposed health bill. The people in the Senate and House have both said that they have not read it... Well, they have lots of time while they are on break. I say make it available to the public and they people will have a better understanding of what is what. Remember when they next election comes it will be the people who listen to they people they represent that will get re-elected. ALSO,
when the government has the same health plan that all other people have then maybe and retirement plan that we have Social Security then we will be on equal ground. Thanks...

I can understand that you feel you were limited by time but I have a feeling that it was more a concern about burning and losing a source.

When Carnahan didnt answer the question about whether he had read the bill, you could have said "so you havent read the bill" and see what kind of reaction you get. Similarly, after the question about him switching the public plan rather than his cadillac plan provided by the taxpayer, you could have said "so you plan to keep your gold plated plan?" On whether illegal immigrants are covered by the bill, you could have asked him why he voted down an ammendment that would added an enforcement provision that everyone have to prove they are a citizen to get coverage.

Local news reporters dont seem to have much problems ambushing someone under investigation or local officials who arent getting the job done and holding their feet to the fire. But Carnahan? Well the best thing I can say about the interview is that Carnahan was so transparent he cooked his own goose.

hey larry,
what you had, you did good. yes it could have been better but it could have been worse. the main problem is that all these demo's really do believe that this is a conspiracy. it's not
can't they see that the people are angry because they try to appease obama and pass bills that they have not read or studied or have asked their tax payers that they represent how they feel. truly feel. if they would just have the guts to stand up against obama and polozi and rahm and tell them that they care about the people and will fully investigate new bills themselves and not have their staffs do it, they might have their constituents (i think i spelled that right)back them more fully. we taxpayers deserve to know the whole story and not bits and pieces that they only want us to hear.
and i'm almost sure i heard obama say that abortions can be done thru this bill. i might be wrong
i could go on and on but i'll stop here as you have probably heard enough.
thanks for reporting only and not taking sides. we need more reporters to do that

I saw your interview with Mr Carnahan. I was impressed. You asked him the questions I would have liked to ask him. I don't think you took sides or had an agenda. You provided the information that I was looking for. Great Job!

I tried writing earlier and don't think it went through. I don't blame you, but our congressman did not give any yes or no answers, just beat around the bush as most politicians do. Wouldn't it be nice if the Democrats and Republicans could work together for the good of our country, instead of acting like a bunch of kids. What doesn't our government understand, we have had enough. If you protest you are a bunch of thugs. It is about time we stood up for what we believe in. I don't agree with the violence. I am just getting tired of the President saying I inherited this. He knew what he was getting into, so enough is enough. I know that most stations don't report about what is going on. Are you all afraid of the President? We used to live in a "free" country, how about getting back to that point. I imagine with the way the government is getting into every faction of our lives, I should be receiving a menu telling me what food I can buy and how to cook it!!!!!!!

The issue here isn't whether Obamacare is good or bad. The issue is whether Larry Conners helped or hindered the debate with his Carnahan interview. Obviously many of us feel he hindered it. As a respected (maybe the only respected) television journalist in St. Louis, Conners has a responsibility to ask the tough questions. He also has a responsibility to follow up when the interviewee refuses to give straight answers.

As you can see by some of the posts here, many St. Louisians trust Conners to give them the straight story and just can't imagine that this isn't the case. I've watched the interview four times, once live and three times on line. My problem isn't just with the lack of follow up. It's also with Larry's body language and comments.

Case in point. First question, "Have you read the bill?" Carnahan tap danced for 25 seconds, didn't answer the question, and Conners responded "So you're not voting on it blindly." WRONG!!!

Carnahan says he attended a "four hour briefing". Who conducted this "briefing"? How do we know that the material presented at this "briefing" actually represents what's in the bill? How can Carnahan possibly know the truth if he doesn't read the actual bill? Sorry, Larry, he IS voting on it blindly. I wonder if he would sign a personal note without reading the fine print? I doubt it.

Sadly, there was little or no follow up on any of the other questions either.

Newspapers and broadcast media are bleeding red ink. Why? Because many people no longer trust their news coverage. As one of a small handful of local journalists that still have credibility in this market, Larry Conners should have done a better job of getting to the truth.

Larry: I thought you did OK in your 4-minute interview with Carnahan, considering the time allotted. What irritated me was the sound bite you played Friday before your update on the aftermath of that interview. For Carnahan to suggest that protesting is somehow a "threat" to the political system is the most cowardly thing I've ever heard a politician say. To now allow some kind of retort to that statement was a shame.

Larry:
I have liked your reporting over the years with the exception of that breaking news you did after the Richards airplane suicide. [That was the one time I thought you really did not show professionalism and good journalism.]

This time I could tell you were cramped for time. I wondered why you even tried. When you started you pulled out the two 500 sheet reams to illustrate the bulk of the bill and asked Rep. Carnahan if he had read it. His response was to dodge and say that he had received briefings. He never said a direct yes or no. The visual was maybe a bit dramatic, but because you had opened with that question I did expect you to capture the hedging by saying, "So your answer is 'No' that you have not read the entire bill."

When you did not do that, I dismissed the rest of the interview. It did not help Carnahan, but you did not really delve into anything. Yes, the time was short, so maybe you should have picked just one key question and dug into that. I would have been satisfied if you had done that with the first question.

I am saddened by all the name calling. But I do see much of it coming from the Obama side, too. I got an email from Focus on the Family this morning. I do not like their political stances and Dobson's way of approaching them. BUT this was good stuff. It repeatedly urged people to be polite and respectful, and even included a video on how to do that.

KMOX is reporting that some SEIU people have been arrested for beating up someone who disagreed with the plan. I think there is a story about unions and underhanded mob techniques on the left. Remember that Rahm Emmanuel is a dirty politics player from Chicago. That's where I grew up and I know the type.

P.S. Go Cubs! (I am still a fan.)
Steve Glynn

When a politician is interviewed, can we really expect to get a straight answer to the question.
I am 73 ywears of age, and the times that I have watched politicians being interviewed is like watching Laurel and Hardy. It is obvious that Carnahan has not read the bill. I wonder how many more in Washington have actually read the bill enough to know how to vote. Well folks, it's just
another chapter in Washington Politics. By the way
Larry, you did the best you could, considering who you were interviewing.

Larry, I think your interview went as well as expected, considering it was Carnahan. This Carnahan is a joke. The way he responds to questions is ridiculous. Look at his facial expressions, and it sure indicates that he is lying about his response, or he doesn't know what the answer is. And to think you democrats
didn't have the sense to vote for someone else.
I've had my fill of the Kennedy's and the Carnahans.

You did a great job! If Cong. Carnahan seemed to be answering strangely, it was probably because he was still in shock at how some audience members acted. (Of course, being a Democrat and Obama fan, I think it was all the fault of the anti-public health care conservatives backed by the health insurance companies, big oil, etc. LOL)

Larry, I am against this obamacare bill, I was at the protest Thursday night. I feel you were quite fair in your interview. It is not your fault Carnahan lies. Those condemning you are incorrect. You asked the questions Carnahan would not answer for us that night. Thank you.

in your own words: "We can question or even disagree with each other on this volatile subject but where is it that we have to shout and turn nasty. I raise that question for both sides."

I agree with you 100%. It is Obama, the Democrats, and (some) unions who don't.

How can things not get nasty when the President of the united States publicly calls anyone who disagrees with his ideas a "Nazi"? If a group of people who oppose him come to protest, they are a "mob". He sends union thugs to "kneecap" the opposition, Chicago style.

He asks his supporters to take pictures of protestors and eamil them to a government web site.

Has the First Amendment been declared null & void? Who's the real "Nazi" here?

As far as Russ Carnahan, to me the whole family are just "Trailer Park Kennedys"!

Larry,

My view as a native St. Louisian is that your interview with Mr. Carnahan cost you more than it did him. Voters around the St Louis know Mr. Carnahan and how at the end of the day he will vote. His party line and not for principals.

Your currency of objectivity and integrity as a journalist is being challenge for good cause.In this debate of Health care the viewers have extended a trust to the media to ask tough questions on health care and they have an expectation that answers are deserved in the process.

You have to understand the frustration of viewers that feel abandoned by the so called elite media,especially, if they sense a story is being spined and/or a lid being put on it.

Hopefully, your next interview opportunity regarding this issue will have less do with social concerns and more to do with your profession as a journalist.

in your own words: "We can question or even disagree with each other on this volatile subject but where is it that we have to shout and turn nasty. I raise that question for both sides."

I agree with you 100%. The problem is Obama, the Democrats and the unions.

Things get nasty because the President of the United States says that anyone who disagrees with him is a "Nazi". If they gather in a group, they are a "mob". He sends out union thugs to "kneecap" protestors, "Chicago Style." He asks his supporters to take pictures of protestors and email them to a goverment web site.

Has the First Amendment been declared null & void? Democrats say: "If you don't like it, just shut up." Who's the real Nazi here?

Larry - I saw the interview and thought you did a respectable job based on the limited time and the fact it was live TV. I've just recently started watching Channel 4 because you present the most balanced reporting compared to 2 and 5. You bring up negative points of the administration that I don't hear on the other news programs. I'm a Republican and don't much care for the President's health care proposal. One question I wish were asked was this one. President Obama, before he was president, indicated he was for a one payer system down the road, but knew he couldn't get there in one big step. How can you (Mr. Carnahan) guarantee that down the road, this bill isn't followed by another bill and before you know it, it will be a single system which current polls show most people in our country don't want.

I wish the protest were more civil as well. There is no reason to shout someone down. Hold your sign peacefully and speak respectfully. That goes for both sides.

Al from Valley Park.

Well, I heard about the interview but it must have been quite controversial for it to be lifted off the KMOV site. That's right; only Larry's comments about it are here with all the comments.

I respect Mr. Connors as a news reporter and hope he continues in the vein he has always shown with professionalism. If you want a townhall meeting with a junk yard dog off the leash, then by all means go to one; just don't expect it on TV. Just watch your cage fighting on cable.

Now, on the other hand, I want to see that interview and resent not finding it here. The day before, I called Carnahans office and was told by his rep that they were trying to change the bill..or , so I thought. The comments here make me think otherwise.

How about another point of view from the GOP, Larry, and take yourself out of the hot seat?

Larry sec152 pg 5051 hc will be provided to all non us citizens.sec 59b pg170 line1 non resident alien is excempt from taxes AMERICANS WILL PAY FOR THEIR CARE.sec441 pg203 ling 14 15 the tax imposed under this section shall not be treated as tax.YES IT SAYS THAT

Larry, I saw the personal interview and thought this is not good. I think that the station should not have tried to address such a serious topic in such a short time. You did a good job and while I am a Proud Democrat Iwas disappointed in Mr. Carnahan's answers. He just did not seem prepared for the interview. The Health Care topic is important and should be READ by everyone in congress carefully before it is voted on. I do have insurance however it gets more costly for me to keep it every year. Keep up the good work Larry and make sure you don't make your opinions show in your interviews.MAY GOD BLESS AMERICA!
CC

Larry

I'm glad you mentioned early on that you're a friend of Carnahan, because you certainly didn't challenge any of his points! Example: It's well known -- see below -- that the health care plan is set up to pay for abortions. Carnahan denied it, and you simply went on to the next question instead of providing any of this evidence...

1. The House bill specifically includes it. The Capps amendment explicitly allows abortion coverage in the public health plan and subsidizes health plans that cover abortion. (Passed 30-28 in the House Energy and Commerce Committee, July 30)

2. Senate Democrats admit it. "[The health care bill] would include, uh, it would include, uh, Planned, uh, Parenthood clinics." (Sen. Barbara Mikulski, July 9, Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions-HELP-Committee meeting-Planned Parenthood is the No. 1 U.S. abortion chain.)

3. Senate Democrats refused to ban it.
Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah): "Madam Chairman, would you be willing to put some language in [about] not including abortion services? Then I think you would have more support."
Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.): "...No, I would not, uh, be willing to do that at this time." (July 9, Senate HELP Committee meeting)

4. The mainstream media confirms it. ("Government insurance would allow coverage for abortion," Associated Press, August 5, 2009).

5. The Obama administration includes it in its definition of reproductive health care.
"Reproductive health care includes access to abortion." (Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, July 19)

6. Every amendment to exclude it from health care legislation was defeated by the liberal sponsors. The following is a list of pro-life amendments that would have prevented abortion funding or prohibited abortion mandates for covered services. (For vote tallies and details, see our complete list at www.frc.org.)

Rep. Sam Johnson Amendment in the Ways and Means Committee (July 16)

Rep. Eric Cantor Amendment in the Ways and Means Committee (July 16)

Rep. Mark Souder Amendment in the Education and Labor Committee (July 17)

Rep. Joe Pitts Amendment in the Energy and Commerce Committee (July 30)

Reps. Bart Stupak and Pitts Amendment in Energy and Commerce Committee (July 31)

Sen. Orrin Hatch Amendment #227 in the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee (July 13)

Sen. Mike Enzi Amendment #277 in the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee (July 13)

For more ammunition in the health care debate, check out FRC Action's latest resource: "20 Questions to Ask Your Legislator about the Health Care Overhaul," now available online at www.frcaction.org.

Russ Carnahan hasn't read the bill but we citizens have and we know how horrible it is.

Republicans did try to introduce amendments to HR 3200. One amendment would have struck the "public option" plan that would put private insurance out of business. It was defeated.

Democrats also voted down an amendment that would require all members of Congress to participate in the government run plan. If it's such a great idea it should be great for members of Congress. They voted to exempt members of Congress from the government run plan.

They also voted down an amendment that would require proof of citizenship or legal status to sign up for the government plan and another amendment that would bar government funding abortion as a plan benefit.

One other thing in the bill is that the government will have direct access to your bank account for electronic funds transfers.

READ THE BILL and you will see how much government will intrude in our lives.

Dear Mr. Conners- It is possible to interview a person and ask hard questions while being respectful. Chris Wallace comes to mind (and no I do not like everyone on Fox news). However, I do have to commend you for your honesty in letting us view all the comments people made. I switched to Channel 4 from Channel 5 because I felt that your organization is much more professional and unbiased. And I have always had respect for you because of an e-mail exchange I had with you years ago regarding your interview with Archbishop Rigali. We had a very intelligent exchange and you seemed to consider my views respectfully. I e-mailed Channel 5 in a general e-mail regarding a story on stem cell research during the election. Mike Bush picked my e-mail to respond to in a condescending manner and when I e-mailed him back respectfully with a story suggestion I never heard from him again. So kudos to you for being upfront about people's criticisms- just be harder on Mr. Carnahan next time!

Mr. Connors

I Watched both of the interviews with Mr. Carnahan and Mr. Shimkus. One did a good job answering your questions, the other looked dazed & Confused. I know you were asking questions for the people and the congressman should have directed his responses to the people not just to you. Does he have a fear of looking at the camera and talking to the people.
The one question on health care for illegals did get a positive no, that the way it should be.
I consider myself an independent voter, I pick the best person, at least in my opinion. I then expect them to work for the betterment of the people not to follow the party line which most of the time is for the betterment of the party.
National security, Jobs and Health care are the top three issues that need their attention.

Mr.Connors keep up the good work and speak for the people, they need a steady voice.

too many people today are just negative and self-important. your interview was fine and they should look at their personal agenda. Those complainers didn't want an interview, but just a rehash of their own opinions.

Where did this "abortion" nonsense come from? And what do people think is going to happen? Did they all see the movie "Soilent Green"?

What about people who have a "pre-existing condition, should they just die because the insurance dictators wont cover them or are these people so hateful that they just dont care about anyone other than themselves? This must be the "new" small U.S.A. that the elephants are always trying to force down our throats.

In regard to your interview with Russ Carnahan, he sounded like a slick "snake oil" peddler reciting his rehearsed "Washington speak." Don Shimkus at least made an effort to attempt to answer the questions in the time allotted. The American people want to be heard, however people like Russ Carnahan do not want to listen. Instead of labeling people as troublemakers (or worse) at these townhall meetings, maybe they should forget their personal agendas and really listen for a change.

Larry,

I think you did a fine job. As an ex-broadcast major, I understand the constraints of a live interview. You took viewers' questions, rather than asking your own. I've re-watched the interview several times, and I can't see a mistake on your part. If Carnahan wouldn't answer, you really can't be blamed for that.

Most of these protester/disrupter types wouldn't be satisfied with anything short of you nailing every Democratic officeholder that you come in contact with up on a cross during a 90 minute primetime special. KMOV might enjoy a ratings spike, but it sure wouldn't be journalism.

Feel free not to answer this, since it would both add fuel to the fire and/or compromise your journalistic integrity, but I'm curious about your personal viewpoint on both the plan and the controversy.

Mr. Conners,

I just finished watching the Senator Claire McCaskill Town Hall Meeting online....it's a shame that the majority of folks that were civil & there to learn something or to have questions answered had to tolerate the rude,disruptive, disrespectfull behavior of a few.

Lets hope those folks are not the example that their children & grandchilren have to look up to !!!!

I wrote a rather lengthly reply, but it never appeared on your blog. Perhaps because it was in support of you? In any event, I'm retired military and a retired law enforcement officer so I don't fit the profile of some who consider me way too liberal. I also disregard titles. I do try to be civil and if that makes me a liberal, so be it.
Just remember that Hooliganism was a favorite tactic of the Nazi party too. Sadly, the tactic still works. Shame on us all.
Keep up the good work...and here's praying we all survive the radicals and screamers who attempt to silence anything that doesn't suit their own agenda.

Larry:

I watched your interviews with Carnahan and Shimkus. Of course, Shimkus had to throw out the word "socialist." How come you did not challenge him on this. How about a little follow up? I thought Shimkus had a federal government funded health care insurance plan for himself and his family. How come you did not ask Shimkus if he is willing to give up his "socialist" health care plan since it is funded by the federal government? How come you did not ask Shimkus if he would support banning Medicare and VA medical care since it "socialist" in terms of being paid for by the federal government? How come you did not ask Shimkus about all of the fear and myths being spread about health care reform (such as "death squads")by the National GOP (his party leaders) and state run GOP leaders? If we want to debate health care, how about debating about provisions which are actually in the bill(s) as opposed to spreading fear and making up provisions?

I would like to know how much money Carnahan and Shimkus have received from the health care insurance industry in regard to campaign donations. We should know if they have any conflicts of interest.

How come there was no discussion with Carnahan or Shimkus about how we are going to control health care costs which are breaking small businesses, small business owners and sending millions of Americans into bankruptcy every year? Sky rocketing health care costs cause health insurance premiums to jump every year by double digits. If health care costs and health insurance premiums are not controlled and they continue to increase faster than wages increase, then how are businesses and Americans going to be able to afford health care insurance. What does Shimkus and the GOP plan to do to fix a broken system? All I heard from Shimkus was attack after attack without any proposal to actually fix something such as sky rocketing health care costs and insurance premiums. But of course Shimkus does not have to worry about this since he has his sweet federally funded health care plan. Shimkus does not have to worry about whether his business will go broke from paying for health insurance or whether he will have to file for bankruptcy over medical bills.

How come you failed to ask both people how will government run health care be funded? In 2008, I remember President Obama and Sen. McCaskill stating numerous times that federally funded health care could be paid for by cutting off corporate tax loopholes. I guess this idea was scrapped because the corporations, such as the health insurance industry, continue to donate to congress men and women. Cutting corporate tax loopholes in combination with lowering the U.S. corporate tax rate would dramatically increase revenue to fund health care, Medicare and social security. The government could lower the corporate tax rate to 12.5% (like Ireland, i.e. lowest corporate tax rate in the developed world) and still dramatically increase revenue but only if corporate tax loopholes were cut. How many subsidiaries did Enron have in the Cayman Islands? And why did they do this? Enron avoided paying any U.S. corporate taxes from 1996 - 2000 while their stock price sky rocketed. During this time period, Enron received a $381 million net tax rebate while their profits totaled $1.785 billion. Without corporate tax loopholes, Enron should have paid $625 million at a tax rate of 35% in U.S. corporate taxes. Even at a 12.5% tax rate as opposed to 35%, Enron should have paid U.S. corporate taxes of $223 million. Think of all the revenue that could be generated by closing corporate tax loopholes and lowering the U.S. corporate tax rate to accommodate businesses.

So how are we going to cut health care costs and premiums as well as fund federal government health care?

Larry, the word "how" is powerful. Try it once in a while when someone is lying to your face (i.e., making a promise that they cannot and have no intention of delivering on).

You're such a pushover. Claire made you look like a doe eyed newbie tonight.

As voluminous as a 1000 page healthcare bill might be, I’m almost as worried about what it DOSEN’T SAY, as what it does!
The politicians will stand in front of us all day and swear that a bill does not allow certain activities such as treating illegal immigrants, rationing care and making “cost - benefit” health decisions. But if the bill does not PROHIBIT an activity, then it all sneaks in the back door.
They can claim that the bill won’t force you from your current private health care into a public option, but if that public option is supported by your taxes, the private systems will eventually be unable to compete and will go bankrupt. Then you are at their mercy, and needless to say, they have no mercy!

Mr. Connors,
I appreciate you honest journlism, that's what had kept me watching Channel 4 News for a very long time, at least since I was stationed back here in 1988. Anyway, my only commment was, is a 4 hour briefing enough to vote on a very very important Bill. I'm for Health Care Reform, so I want to see both sides get a fair shake on this Bill. Thank you.

Mr. Conners-

It's not your fault your interview want awry ... it's Carnahan that looked like the bumbling fool.

Your employer-sponsored plan is at risk also. If someone were to be treated in a hospital for a condition they would be disallowed for re-admission for the same illness such as cancer.

In Obama's words, "seniors cannot contribute to society anymore, hence less money should be expended on their healthcare."

I'm just glad the American people finally wised up to Obama and are no longer being duped by him.