Nightline's Lies Exposed: More on Justice Scalia Story

Controversy Enters Day 2
Conservative Legal Group Calls for Investigation of ABC Report

by Robert B. Bluey
Posted Jan 25, 2006

Lawyers at the Federalist Society are drafting a letter to ABC News President David Westin calling for an internal investigation of two ABC News journalists responsible for a “Nightline” segment that accused Justice Antonin Scalia of ethical lapses, a source close to the conservative legal group tells HUMAN EVENTS.

ABC News Chief Investigative Correspondent Brian Ross reported Monday for ABC’s “Nightline” that Scalia was out of town at a Federalist Society legal seminar on the day of Chief Justice John Roberts’ swearing-in ceremony. Ross’ report showed Scalia playing tennis at the hotel where he stayed—video that might have been obtained illegally, according to the Federalist Society.

In an effort to stem criticism of its report, ABC News on Tuesday invited Federalist Society Executive Vice President Leonard Leo to appear on “Nightline,” but reneged twice after insisting that Ross conduct the interview or at least appear on the program following Leo’s appearance to defend his report, the source told HUMAN EVENTS. “Nightline” anchor Terry Moran was originally supposed to conduct the interview.

One of the attendees to the seminar, who has chosen to remain anonymous as "Rebelyell" on the Huffington Post, states:

"I was an attorney present at the Continuing Legal Education seminar taught by Justice Scalia and Professor Thomas Baker. He kept his engagment to speak because it had been planned for more than six months.

On the day he played tennis he taught a course from 8 a.m. to almost 1 p.m. We then took a four-hour break and he chose to play tennis. We met again at 5 p.m. for two more hours of lectures.

Each of us paid around $300 to attand this lecture, which is in line with what similar seminars cost.

Bottom line is that Justice Scalia was either lecturing, answering questions or on the podium ready to debate or be questioned by Professor Baker for about 12 hours over two days. I find the claim that this was a "junket" offensive.

We attorneys are required to take these courses, and there is nothing unethical about jurists teaching them. I found the course to be the finest I've ever attended, and would eagerly attend one taught by an outstanding jurist on either side of the politcal fence."

It appears that ABC is about to get a "black eye" similar to that received by CBS for the Rather/Mapes scandal. It is great to finally have the MSM called to the carpet for this kind of yellow jounalism. They have had a free reign for too long.

Full Story: Bearding the ABC Lion

What do you think?

To leave your opinion click on the word "COMMENT(S)" below