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February 08, 2008

MSNBC's Shuster Suspended

MSNBC's David Shuster has been suspended for comments he made on last night's "Tucker" about Chelsea Clinton. During the broadcast, which Shuster hosted, he asked a guest if Chelsea was "being pimped out in some weird sort of way?"

According to "The Trail," Hillary Clinton communications director Howard Wolfson called the comment "disgusting," "beneath contempt" and "the kind of thing that should never be said on a national news network." Wolfson also noted Clinton had just agreed to participate in an MSNBC debate Feb. 26 in Cleveland and added: "I, at this point, can't envision doing another debate on that network."

Shuster is expected to apologize for the remark on tonight's "Tucker." He already apologized this morning, when he appeared on "Morning Joe," saying: "Last night I used a phrase, some slang about her efforts. I didn't think that people would take it literally, but some people have. ... I apologize for that. I should have seen people would see it that way. I'm sorry."

According to the NBC statement, despite the suspension, he will be allowed to make the appearance on "Tucker" tonight.

From NBC: "Shuster, who apologized this morning on MSNBC and will again this evening, has been suspended from appearing on all NBC News broadcasts, other than to make his apology. He has also extended an apology to the Clinton family. NBC News takes these matters seriously, and offers our sincere regrets to the Clintons for the remarks."

EMILY's List got into the action earlier today, announcing President Ellen Malcolm sent a letter to MSNBC News Senior Vice President Phil Griffin, stating: "The half hearted apology by Mr. Shuster this morning fails to even acknowledge the insulting nature of his comments. Your tolerance for this behavior speaks volumes about the corporate culture of MSNBC. If you refuse to take action, women across the country, viewers, sponsors, and consumers can only assume your implicit endorsement of this type of sexist commentary on women and repugnant treatment of our children."

TMP posted You Tube clips from Shuster's "Tucker" appearance with his original comments and his apology this morning on "Morning Joe":

The ongoing saga has been the main story on Drudge most of the day. (EMILY GOODIN)

Posted at 04:13 PM

Comments

What on earth is wrong with MSNBC? Who sets the agenda there? It has become so transparent that MSNBC is acting just like PRAVDA, the official soviet news agency in the good old days of the commissars, and it has become and appendage of the Obama campaign. From Chris Matthews down to Keith Olbermann, it is a daily propaganda stream of anti Clinton sentiment. It has become difficult to watch. They are validating everything that the right wing kooks have always said about the media. The take side, and when they do they are relentless in the pursuit of a partisan goal. A total abuse of the freedom our constitution grant to the press.

Robert_V | 02.08.08 04:52 PM

Calling someone a pimp is unfortunate but isn't Wolfson at least(to be kind) a mercenary for Clinton?

Putney | 02.08.08 05:25 PM

We have certainly noticed the "dislike" for Hillary Clinton seeping through Chris Mathews' commentary which is why my husband and I have stopped watching hardball - it is now going to be difficult to watch MSNBC at all now that David Shuster has forgotten his journalistic ethics - honestly folks you cannot constantly be bashing Fox and then acting like them at the same time.

sandy | 02.08.08 05:35 PM

I will never ,ever watch MSNBC again.Neither will my family or many of our close associates.I am a democrat and do not care whether Obama or Hilary wins but to have MSNBC essentially be a part of Barak Obama's campaign is disgusting.I am not surprised at David Shuster,Chris Mathews,Chris Todd Or Norah O'Donnell.My biggest sadness is at Mr Olbermann-Sir,George Bush has more honor than you.You have no moral grounds to keep attacking George Bush.

nkem ikekpeazu | 02.08.08 05:50 PM

There is no excuse for the kind of thoughtless drivel demonstrated by Shuster, but calling out our cable channels for being biased, oh grow up, they're all biased, the only question is who's point of view do they follow. We are way past the day of expecting or getting, thoughtful, fair, balanced journalism. Today, if it isn't punchy, edgy, provacative or inflammatory it wont hold viewship. Shuster is an idiot, and so are most of the others, but what planet viewed with rose colored glasses do you guys live on - it aint journalism, it's entertainment. And Chelsea knows it as well as most of the rest of us.

Vern Dellapiana | 02.08.08 05:51 PM

Keith o has also cashed in his creditability too. Messnbc, worst persons in the world.It is Fox for me.I watched the election results on mute.

ashwin patel | 02.08.08 05:55 PM

I am getting really tired of Morning Joe's show where his hate for Hillary is very clear. I would much rather hear the news without having to hear how much he hates her.

Julie | 02.08.08 06:11 PM

As someone who might qualify as a member of the younger generation, I'm just not understanding Hillary's outrage - sort of like how I don't understand old folks who think that everyone should wear a tie to dinner. Maybe she'll get some older feminists fired up for her cause but the divisiveness of this kind of over-the-top response may lose her some younger voters.

John | 02.08.08 06:53 PM

While it may be true that many of us have come to expect this sort of sexism and hatefulness from the MSM, it doesn't follow that we should just grin and bear it. I am angry and thoroughly fed up, not only with widespread misogyny and sexism on television news, but with the female commentators they invite on who so hate Senator Clinton that they cannot contain it, though some try to hide it with a subtlety anyone with half a brain could see through. Whether open or covert, the arrogance of these reporters and their guests toward their female viewers is stunning.

We do not have to take this. Besides making our views known by blogging or e-mailing, we can notch it up a level by boycotting products advertised on these networks.

I stopped watching Fox long ago. I have recently stopped watching CNN, who, while not as outright rude as their brethren on other networks, are just as biased and unfair in their reporting on Senator Clinton. I stopped watching MSNBC after Chris Matthews bashed Senator Clinton the first time. Now, I watch only ABC News, though I wonder if they will continue to be fair in their reporting on the candidates.

This latest comment about Chelsea Clinton is absolutely inexcusable. If we allow such comments to continue, we are as guilty as those who make them. I call on all Americans to demand that political discourse in the MSM become civil and fair. Sexism is no more tolerable than racism or anti-Semitism. Let's see what we can do to stop it before it descends any lower. Our very democracy is at stake.

Judy Kilgore | 02.08.08 07:04 PM

we should all email msnbc to condemn this

Joe | 02.08.08 07:16 PM

We do not have to take this. Besides making our views known by blogging or e-mailing, we can notch it up a level by boycotting products advertised on these networks.

Judy Kilgore | 02.08.08 07:55 PM

My husband and I have been loyal MSNBC supporters for years. But, have noticed all the vitriolic comments spewing forth from Tucker, Chris Mathews,
Keith Olberman, (whom we loved) and have turned our satellite controls to CNN. Oh, yes, you can include Brian Willilams and Tim Russert in that same vitriolic group. I also did like (notice the past tense) David Shuster, but he really stepped over the boundary this time. He insulted
a lovely young lady who has been well brought up, when all she wants to do is generate support for her Mother for the presidency. MSNBC is giving Obama the same free ride it gave George W. Bush. Where is all your outrage over all the lies that he and his administration told to get this country into a war that has killed thousands of innocent people, both Iraqui's and Americans.
Lynn Sweet wrote an article in the Chicago Sun Times revealing a 17 year relationship between Obama and Revko (maybe misspelled)the slum lord.

Linda Hale | 02.08.08 08:22 PM

Linda Hale | 02.08.08 08:52 PM

This is it, I had a very loyal MSNBC viewer but this did it for me. Shuster's stupid and disrespectful comment about Chelsea is the drop that fill the glass. MSNBC hasta la vista, will not loose my time with your pundits anymore.

Dan Cordova | 02.08.08 08:52 PM

This is it, I has been a very loyal MSNBC viewer but this did it for me. Shuster's stupid and disrespectful comment about Chelsea is the drop that filled the glass. MSNBC hasta la vista!, will not loose my time with your pundits anymore.

Dan Cordova | 02.08.08 08:53 PM

Hey Keith Olberman, way to throw another one of your coworkers under the bus, what a wimp that guy is. At least Shuster had the courage to call a spade a spade. Oh, and the reason Obama is getting all the attention from MSNBC is quite simple...he is the better candidate.

Dave | 02.08.08 08:53 PM

Dave | 02.08.08 08:54 PM

Dave | 02.08.08 08:55 PM

I understand the Clinton campaign's anger over this and I certainly share it. However, they don't want to debate on MSNBC now? That's where they lose me.

Earlier this week, they were pushing Obama for a debate on Fox News. C'mon now.

natthedem | 02.08.08 08:56 PM

MSNBC has suspended Shuster only after the tidal wave of complaints couldn't be ignored. The comments blasted at Hillary were bad enough but to attack Chelsea is inexcusable. I will not be watching NBC or MSNBC any longer and will be going over to ABC. I am so disappointed with Kieth Olbermann and am just over all disgusted with this network.

Ashana | 02.08.08 09:05 PM

The role of the commentator as it relates to entertainment journalism, is to stir debate. To question the reasons thereof prompts thought. Shusters' choice of words may have been unseemly, but he was making a valid point from a political comentating perspective. His choice of words should not have been taken literally. If he had used the words "being used" as opposed to "pimped", no one would have said boo.

Paul Bauer | 02.08.08 09:17 PM

MSNBC has a fine staff of journalists and talk show hosts with one notable exception: Joe Scarborough. Question? What was MSNBC thinking when they put Scarborough in Imus' slot? At least Imus, for all his idiosyncrasies, belonged in New York City. Try as he may to ride his ponies in New Mexico, he was still Don the King of the city. But Scarborough is more like the recalcitrant high school jock from Ruraltucky, FL. His sophomoric taunts to co-host Mikka the "Beat Her Doll," his condescension (loud interruptions and visible disdain) towards colleagues Shuster and Mika, and his total lack of sophistication and lack of depth, well, make him a bad choice. Nora O'Donnell or Dan Abrams would have been the choice. Nora, yes. She's attractive, can handle a live mike, intelligent, a great sense of humor and an infectious laugh. Also, watch out for Willie Geist. It's a matter of time before Media Watch or someone else catches him in a faux paus over his most obvious weakness: a genuine dislike of minorities, especially minority celebrities.

Joe S. | 02.08.08 09:17 PM

So you actually think David Schuster who has taken consistent liberal stances in his reporting is sexist and actually meant that Hillary is sending her daughter out to have sex for money? I actually watched this last night and no one on the panel with him was "appalled" or "disgusted", one of them even laughed, and that's because it's a figure of speech. In this context it DOESN'T have anything to do with sex, how could it? It's meant to suggest that Chelsea's getting used in some way, (I don't believe she is, I'm sure she wants to be making these phone calls), but it's completely fair for David Schuster to ask a question about it. He could have put it in less slang terms, but everyone watching that knew what he meant, and if they claim they didn't they're trying to make an issue out of nothing.
As a Democrat I'm sick of seeing us eat our own. Instead of attacking another Democrat for supposedly insinuating something he obviously didn't mean to insinuate, why don't we spend our time attacking Romney for saying Democrats would surrender to terror? (Which, by the way, is what Mr. Schuster spent the entire last day doing because he's a good and decent voice for liberalism). All this does is give fodder for Republicans and hurts a man who everyday provides honest political analysis, and asks questions a lot of us are wondering ourselves. I guess now if someone thinks Chelsea Clinton is being exploited by her mom's campaign it makes them a "pig"? I don't think she is, I just don't think if that's someone's opinion they're being chauvinistic. If Schuster's comments were malicious I'd be against them too but he was asking a question on whether or not Chelsea was being used. He didn't mean "pimped out" in the traditional sense, and that's completely obvious. If you've ever watched David Schuster on MSNBC, you'd know he's the last person to deliberately say something sexist. We're attacking someone who's been the lone voice on the air arguing against Mitt Romney's idiotic statement at CPAC and I have yet to hear anyone else come out so forcefully against that statement.

neilc | 02.08.08 09:39 PM

neilc | 02.08.08 09:40 PM

Some of you people are too sensitive. Yes, it's cable tv with a national audience, but seriously comparing this network with FOX! I think you're probably getting older and delusional. MSNBC for the most part (expect JOE & Tucker) is about reporting FACTS while being creative and hip. It's for cool people that are intelligent not like trash that watches FOX.

john | 02.08.08 09:40 PM

As a pimp..oops, "independent adult entertainment contractor"...I'm offended by Shuster's comment. My b**ches and h*'s work hard for MY money and I'll be damned if some smart-ass, J-School cracker is gonna diss me, my profession, and my employees.

MarkJ | 02.08.08 09:57 PM

MSNBC lost me when they let Don Imus go. He was the best thing going for them. His program was so informative. Interesting guests, wonderful music, new books,wide ranging political discussions and guests worth listening to...

Now MSNBC has nothing but hacks who struggle to amuse. And these so called journalists find themselves constantly saying the wrong thing and getting themselves in hot water..
Never informative and certainly not interesting.

Shame on all of you at MSNBC. You deserve every bit criticism you are now receiving. You will rue the day you let Don Imus go and buckled down to the likes of Sharpton. BTW I will NEVER buy another GM car, nor will I patronize Staples, and I try hard to avoid Proctor and Gamble products.

DRS | 02.08.08 10:34 PM

I am disgusted with how NBC and MSNBC people play politics. I know we have freedom of speech, but, don't go too far, disrespecting people. Chelsea was raised greatly by her parents. Whether, you like her or not, all she's doing is campaigning for her mother. If you think the word "pimping" is not offensive, I guess you belong in the streets. TEMPORARY SUSPENSION IS NOT ENOUGH. I've been a loyal viewer of MSNBC, but I am disgusted with your people. I WILL CONVINCE ALL MY FRIENDS AND RELATIVES TO BOYCOTT MSNBC.

andrea | 02.08.08 10:51 PM

Just leave the guy alone. I personally am a strong Hilary supporter but David Shuster's reputation as a news/political analyst should not be ruined over a comment such as this. Everyone knows that he didn't mean the literal definition of Chelsea actually being "pimped out" on the streets. He was using it as reference point so people woule understand what he was trying to portray. He meant nothing by it and before that comment was even complimenting Chelsea and the way in which she was brought up. People who are up in arms, maybe except for Hilary and Chelsea, should all get lives and lighten up. David Shuster is one of the best journalists that MSNBC has seen in years and if he is lost I wonder what else people won't be able to say on T.V. MSNBC, if you want people not to say stuff why don't you just script them?

Andrew | 02.08.08 10:58 PM

am an avid watcher of your shows and am very disappointed in your decision to suspend David Shuster. He is one of the best that you have. He did err in using the words that he did, but that said, it was nothing compared to Chris Mathews' complete verbal attack on the Clinton. Why are you not suspending him?

I have been a very big Keith Olbermann fan, but I am very disappointed in him. He seems to think that he is "in" with the Clintons after his one on one interview with Bill Clinton and now he is reluctant to go after them when they are wrong. Shame on him.

Please takes steps to equalize your treatment of missteps on your network. David is a greater reporter that chose the wrong word. That said, his sins are far less than some of your less dignified columnists such as Chris Mathews and Pat Buchanan.

Richard | 02.08.08 11:10 PM

Isn't MSNBC being just a little hypocritical in suspending David Shuster, although I agree that his comment was inappropriate, when it failed to suspend or fire Pat Buchanan when he called Rep. Foley a "flamer", an insensitive, homophobic reference on Joe Scarborough's show .

It is about time that MSNBC and the rest of the media stop ignoring blatant antigay comments by its commentators and major politicos.

Richard | 02.08.08 11:12 PM

"John SAID; As someone who might qualify as a member of the younger generation, I'm just not understanding Hillary's outrage - sort of like how I don't understand old folks who think that everyone should wear a tie to dinner. Maybe she'll get some older feminists fired up for her cause but the divisiveness of this kind of over-the-top response may lose her some younger voters."

Young man, I am afraid you are an idiot, and unfortunately there might not be a cure for your problem in the immediate future. I refuse to believe that accepting boorish and crude behavior from those that have a big bully pulpit, guarantee by the constitution and validated by all of us is not considered offensive by the "young” folks like you. Please do not wear a tie for diner, specially if all you can afford is McDonalds, but draw a line on the value of human dignity. The Clintons are not over the top on this issue. You are just to desensitized by The Simpsons to know any better. I really pity you

Robert_V | 02.08.08 11:27 PM

msnbc has a show called Sex Slaves in America, which it repeats often, and in prime time, after the political commentary. The show description says millions of women are bought/sold around the world. I am sick of reading this on my guide on my tv, sick of the use of women as a slave in the title. Kids and young people see this displayed week after week on msnbc, even if they don't watch it, this title and description keeps popping up. Why is this show on? Why does msnbc keep using this degrading subject as repeat entertainment after political shows???? Don't say the show is an expose documentary for the education of the public about a social problem, and thus insult my intelligence on the purpose of this show. My disgust is vast.

ellen | 02.09.08 12:21 AM

I watch MSNBC for several hours every day. David Shuster was and continues to be my favorite reporter. It was obvious to me what he meant when he used the unfortunate term. He even qualified it "in some weird sort of way" meaning he does not mean it literally.
I think that the problem lies in how much time all of the reporters spend on the air talking off the cuff, every day. An error in judgment is bound to occur occasionally. I think the off-handed rude comments of Tucker and Joe are all too frequent and unprofessional. Shuster is a real professional who made a slip-up. Suspension is not needed.

Jeff R | 02.09.08 01:01 AM

As a life long Democrat I was not offended by David Schuster's comment.

I am highly offended by the Clinton response, NBC's pandering to that response and all of these thought police crawling out from under the carpet.

David's comment was only marginally offensive at worst. I'll be damned if I'll support people who have so little going on in their heads that they have room to obsess over so little.

grik | 02.09.08 02:32 AM

NBC, MSNBC is fast becoming another cable network with the slant, WE REPORT, YOU DECIDE, way of reporting a hypocritical news reporting ploy.I pulled the plug on FOX NEWS four years ago.Its a mortal to say FOX NEWS in this household, and to be honest, NBC and MSNBC is on the brink of the same status. And I love to yak, and have many friends and relatives. MEET the PRESS, with devious ans disgusting Tim Rusert is already outlawed here and my friends homes. Rusert is too one sided and an attitude its Rusert or the highway attitude . Smiles when he questions a ''GATCHA ?? '' as thogh he hit the gold mother lode but to the public looks stupid and timid as his eyes tells his true nature. Nora, Fineman, Euegene, David, Rachel are peas in the same pod, all smiles when reporting on OBAMA ( AS THOUGH THEY ALREADY VOTED FOR HIM) but on reporting other candidates and its a so, so non interesting type attitude news. Note: The eyes and facial signs do not lie, as you can fool some of the people some of the time but you can't fool all the people all the time. Chris has lately changed to the better reporting, he's great. Pat Buchanan is honest, sharp and straight. Pat is knows his politics as Alaskans would class him great and a SOURDOUGH ( been around the block for a month of Sunday's). Keith Oberman is great and sez it as it is in an enjoyable frame of reporting. And last, David Shuster, the day NBC hired him, should have been the day , he was sent back on rails to FOX NEWS.

stan harhut | 02.09.08 03:03 AM

I'VE STOP WATCHING NBC PERIOD. I'VE SWITCHED OVER TO ABC NIGHTLY NEWS. MSNBC AKA THE OBAMA NETWORK IS A JOKE.

HILLARY SHOULD NOT DO THE DEBATE ON MSNBC. OUT OF ALL THE NETWORK, FOX IN MY OPINION HAS BEEN THE MOST FAIR TO HILLARY.

Vince | 02.09.08 03:04 AM

stan harhut | 02.09.08 03:04 AM

Awe just let him go. He will be just fine. I'm sure that FOX News wasted no time in trying to hire him over at the "Unfair & Unbalanced" network. I'll bet you he will be working on air for Fox News by the time the March 5 caucuses come around. He's only guilty of going to work for the wrong network.
Before we know it, he will be "Pimped out" by FOX NEWS NETWORK. Right where he belongs.
Dude, you blew it! Someone gave you a chance to guest host a somewhat prominant show and you showed your stupidity and immaturity. Go and bend over for FOX. As for MSNBC...the only reason they made him apologize is cause they're afraid of losing the upcoming debate and further interviews. Guess the Sheister hasn't mastered Hardball like Chris Matthews.

Al S. | 02.09.08 03:06 AM

NBC, MSNBC is fast becoming another cable network with the slant, WE REPORT, YOU DECIDE, way of reporting a hypocritical news reporting ploy.I pulled the plug on FOX NEWS four years ago.Its a mortal sin to say FOX NEWS in this household, and to be honest, NBC and MSNBC is on the brink of the same status. And I love to yak, and have many friends and relatives. MEET the PRESS, with devious and disgusting Tim Rusert is already outlawed here and my friends homes. Rusert is too one sided and an attitude its Rusert or the highway attitude . Smiles when he questions a ''GATCHA ?? '' as though he hit the gold mother lode but to the public he looks stupid and timid as his eyes tells his true nature. Nora, Fineman, Euegene, David, Rachel are peas in the same pod, all smiles when reporting on OBAMA ( AS THOUGH THEY ALREADY VOTED FOR HIM) but on reporting other candidates and its a so, so non interesting type attitude news. Note: The eyes and facial signs do not lie, as you can fool some of the people some of the time but you can't fool all the people all the time. Chris has lately changed to the better reporting, he's great. Pat Buchanan is honest, sharp and straight. Pat knows his politics as Alaskans would class him great and a SOURDOUGH ( been around the block for a month of Sunday's). Keith Oberman is great and sez it as it is in an enjoyable frame of reporting. And last, David Shuster, the day NBC hired him, should have been the day , he was sent back on rails to FOX NEWS.

stan harhut | 02.09.08 03:10 AM

The comment was not disrespectful. Hillary and Bill have "pimped" each other for years. It is simple slang for allowing someone to proxy for you. GROW UP!

Daniel Harris | 02.09.08 05:31 AM

So first it is Chris with the comment about sympathy for Hillary because of Bill's tryst with Monica, and that is why she is doing well as a candidate. I wonder what Chris's wife thought of that comment? He has had her on his show several times and she seems to be the kind of woman who would not tolerate this kind of garbage from him. Now we have David Schuster with his "slutty" comment about Chelsea. So why at this point is Keith Olberman criticizing "Fox Noise".....MSNBC is running a close second. Don Imus was fired for a similar comment. What is the deal with "suspension" for David?

June Hazleton | 02.09.08 10:06 AM

Look,

I listened to this segment with the Chelsea comment and it didn't phase me at all. I'm not a huge fan of Clinton but I think Shuster was being real about the perception of what he saw. Chelsea is not a little kid anymore, she's grown up and supporting her mother in this race. She has every right to do that but David did not mean his term literally and it's rediculous to think othewise and I don't agree with the decision to suspend him. I often wonder if this isn't just another political tactic orchestrated by the Clintons to get back in the limelight and have the focus back on them and get the sympathy vote again. It's the same thing I thought about the Bill Clinton coming out and saying some pretty bad things in the beginning about Obama's campaign and other historical events and issues, and his disrespectful act of sleeping during the MLK speech. But now he's been "reeled in" so it looks like Hillary Clinton has control. There isn't a thing the Clintons do or say that make me think there isn't some political agenda behind it. Please put David back on the air.

Scout | 02.09.08 11:12 AM

I have been DONE with MSNBC ever since last April when they dumped Don Imus, not even giving him a suspension, not letting him finish an already scheduled telethon. I'm fed up with Wolf Blizter too, and CNN's pro-Obama spiel. I try and catch my political updates on C-Span now. Whatever happened to reporting the facts and leaving the commentary out of it. I'm so disgusted with the media.

Kathy | 02.09.08 11:37 AM

I hate David Shuster. I hope he never gets a national journalist job again.

Jared | 02.09.08 12:32 PM

NBC and MSNBC are responsible for this! If they don't take serious action against Shuster I won't be watching them for a long, long time!

I hate when networks condone Shuster's offensive and dispicable language.

Rick | 02.09.08 12:43 PM

I thought it might interest people to know that apparently the current usage of the term "pimped out" has no gender reference at all. It seems to mean "decorate," or "decorate and present." How did I learn this? This morning I was googling for "how to do an Irish accent" for a little local show in which I play an Irishman, and there on the "Soyouwanna.com" website is this statement: "It's all in the voice, and we're here to pimp you out to whomever it is that you're hoping to impress. We'll give you some vital pointers on how to tap into the emerald vein of charming and lyrical elocution." So although Shuster made an extremely stupid and careless mistake, my humble opinion is that he was just trying to be trendy in using this abominable expression. I don't see how any sensible person could imagine that he had anything in mind connected with sex purveyors.

Jerry | 02.09.08 12:48 PM

Jerry | 02.09.08 12:49 PM

Jerry | 02.09.08 12:50 PM

David Shuster's comment regarding Chelsea Clinton was insignificant when compared to Erin Burnett's on 11-26-07 when she referred to the President of The United States as a monkey. Yet, David Shuster gets fired and Erin Burnett gets off with a laugh. Where is the fairness? Erin Burnett should have been fired on 11-27-07.

Chuck | 02.09.08 01:40 PM

Shuster was crude but efficient in making a proper point. Chelsea last spoke to the media to say she doesn't speak to the media, guarding her private persona. Ironic that she now suddenty flaunts her public figure status, apparently with her presidential (not) parents' blessing, to work the superdelegates.

sean.o | 02.09.08 02:11 PM

The rich (millionares like all reporters) wants the Republicans to win, so they could have the tax cut be permanent. They want Obama to win because they know he can't win a national election; also, he would have a draft effect and bring down many democratic senators and representatives with him. This would destroy the democratic party. However, if Hillary wins she would have the opposite effect of Obama. And then she would prevent a tax cut for the rich, and instead give the tax cut to the middle class instead. This is why they are bashing Hillary and marketing Obama.

mike s | 02.09.08 02:43 PM

MICA Brezinski is part of antiClinton gang also. Her dad Supports or works for Obama. So she trashes Clintons at every turn.

alrx | 02.09.08 03:28 PM

Finally that cable network is being brought to task by the unseemingly remark by David Schuster.
Chris Matthew, Andrea Mitchell, Morning Joe gang especially Mica and most of all Nora O'donnell has a big wide gaping laugh every time they say something untasteful about Hillary. They are determined to see O'bama in the white house.

DAN ABRAHMS IS THE ONLY ONE WHO BRINGS OUT THE UNFAIR TREATMENT OF HILLARY VS O'BAMA WHO GETS FAR MORE FAVORABLE PRESS THAN HILLARY.

MATTHEWS AND HIS GANG ARE A DISPICABLE LOT. I THOUGHT FOX WAS BIASED, THEY GOT NOTHING ON MSNBC FOR BIAS!
How long is he going to be suspended, 24 hours? It won't be long and they'll all be back to their dirty tricks against HILLARY.
DON'T BACK DOWN AND GO ON THAT DEBATE ON MSNBC HILLARY BECAUSE THAT FAT RUSSERT WILL HAVE ALL KINDS OF 'GOTCHA' QUESTIONS FOR YOU. HE IS THE LEADER OF HILLARY HATERS!

Shirl A. | 02.09.08 04:02 PM

The liberal press , the same that harps on Fox being in cahoots with the Republican Party , is joined at the hip to Obama's campaign. MSNBC is the worst culprit, they should change their name to MSObamaCentral

Jose Izquierdo | 02.09.08 05:40 PM

You mean politicians aren't pimps and whores? What did I miss here?

George in Texas | 02.09.08 06:23 PM

Wow, how far MSNBC has fallen from he days when you guys showed CNN, and really the networks too, that you were the new benchmark for professional television journalism.

Your distorting of the news has been incremental - but wih Chris Matthews (now seemingly out of his head) and this Schuster thing, you have taken your eyes off the core of what you were supposed to do, namely, provide accurate and insightful (oh, and UNBIASED) analyisis of the news. And, now you hav become the yin of Fox's yang - yuck!

Nothing is permanent - so let me encourage YOU to become agents of change and do some editotial adjustments and perhaps a few personnel changes.

David in Vermont | 02.09.08 07:14 PM

When you have a twenty four hour news channel in which the majority of time is filled with commentary vs. people just delivering you the facts you're going to get peoples opinions. The irony for me is that I have always heard MSNBC is this liberally biased network while I have honestly found it somewhat balanced in its views/attacks. When you get a Keith Olberman on the same set as Pat Buchanan in covering election returns I would say you have a pretty balanced presentation. None of our candidates are perfect. People have an opinion based on perception (based hopefully on some hard facts)....because you don't agree with one persons perception doesn't mean that they are wrong or that what they are communicating isn't ringing a tone of truth in someone elses ears. While his choice of words was unfortunate...I get the gist of what he (Shuster) was trying to say. Indeed many people for all candidates are put in a position of ( being used) trying to influence delegates/super delegates on behalf of the candidates. I think we need to try and listen to those folks who we don't agree with once in a while...I think you will often find that even if you don't like what they say...if you look at things honestly you will probably find some grain of truth.....open your minds people! I've seen Russert deliver plenty of gotcha questions to many different candidates/politicians on both sides of the aisle....why should your candidate be any different. If they put themselves in a position of getting a gotcha question...too bad.

Paul | 02.09.08 07:44 PM

I agree with those who bring up the point that another NBC reporter made a similar stupid comment this past fall. CNBC's ERIN BURNETT CALLED PRESIDENT BUSH A MONKEY and got off with an insincere apology on-air and calling the White House to say she was sorry. But Shuster gets suspended? What sick hypocrisy! Since Shuster got suspended, Burnett should get fired.

Patty in Utah | 02.09.08 07:48 PM

David and MSNBC are not the only ones that constantly attacks the Clintons. 95% of all news reporter and commentator does it. The only difference this time is they attacked the Clintons child. Low blow. Anyone who loves their child as much as the Clintons love Chelsea, would do what the Clintons did and probably more.

dennis | 02.09.08 11:09 PM

David Shuster, had always impressed me. Not this time. This needs to be treated like Imus. Where is the respect for former 1st ladies? Never mind taking sides, let your guests do that and you be the moderator. Walking papers would be in order and use Shuster as an example that respect is still in order.

David | 02.10.08 11:04 AM

I was watching when Shuster made his now infamous comment, and I recoiled in disgust, but it was not just his use of the "pimped-out" tag that was offensive. His questions, comments and demeanor clearly bespoke his dislike of Sen. Clinton and anyone connected with her. The other panelists, to their credit, were quick to defend Chelsea's right to campaign for her mother.

The media-bashing of Hillary Clinton from both the left and the right is helping me make up my mind. If she can withstand this kind of bruising, she is the tough Leader-of-the-Free-World we need.

Nancy U. | 02.10.08 03:48 PM

The media-bashing of Hillary Clinton from both the left and the right is helping me make up my mind. If she can withstand this kind of bruising, she is the tough Leader-of-the-Free-World we need.

Nancy U. | 02.10.08 03:49 PM

MSNBC is losing another loyal viewer from their obvious pro-Obama bias on virtually all shows except
Dan Abrams'. Mika and Willy knock each other over fawning over BO on Morning Joe each day--competing for the title of Obama's biggest fan. All of these writers who do not believe that Shuster's comments went over the line--I ask you: What if he had said after Obama's Christmas campaign add, which included his daugters, that Obama was 'pimping' them out?? I would venture that it would be getting a little more play...

JohnV | 02.10.08 10:22 PM

MSNBC is losing another loyal viewer due to their obvious pro-Obama bias on virtually all shows except
Dan Abrams'. Mika and Willy knock each other over fawning over BO on Morning Joe each day--competing for the title of Obama's biggest fan. It has become so prevalent and disturbing to me. From Chris and Keith and Tucker to the invited talking heads, it is a steady drum beat against Hillary and propaganda machine for Obama. All of these writers who do not believe that Shuster's comments went over the line--I ask you: What if he had said after Obama's Christmas campaign add, which included his daughters, that Obama was 'pimping' them out?? I would venture that it would be getting a little more play...

JohnV | 02.10.08 10:34 PM

I must say Shuster did use inappropriate dialect concerning the clintons. He is a fabulous reporter and if there is anyway we can support him I would. Everyone errs at times. I am a bit perplexed at some of the commentary by some viewers, I seem to disagree that Obama gets all the praise or recognition. In my view the Clintons does everything right, and as for Joe I love him and Mika is difinalely a Clinton fan, always making some remark or another. People you have to state the facts. I am looking at this from the outside in, America has to get into the "Acceptable mode" again, Obama is about Unity and Love, being from a different country, I look at things differently. Wake up people!! I happen to love the Clintons as well. It's not about that, it's much deeper than that!! Live life, and don't get got up in the moment!! Love and Peace to all!! Mr. Shuster didn't get a grammy just because.... or is America that shallow? I LOVE MSNBC!!!!

cathy | 02.10.08 10:51 PM

We have to get over the race and gender fix. We have to move on, I am trying to get a grasp at some of the viewers comments. I happen to love the Clintons, and I have to take an honest step here, How is it that Obama is the "light of Msnbc", who and what have you been watching. Have anyone listened to Mr. Buchanan lately along with the other comments about Obama? He can't win the large state votes, he couldn't win Cal, NY, or NJ? He never was in the lead, and yet he gets knocked down on that. We really have to look beyond this and move on. As for Mr. Shuster, he comment was definately out of place, and an apology is required as he did, I really don't think there was any malice in it, and to the viewer that stated if it was Obama it wouldn't have that much play, I tend to diagree on that!! Let's not allow RACE, and GENDER play into our intelligent minds. Wrong is Wrong, and Right is Right, lets not cloud our eyesight to the obvious. Clinton came out and said she put in 5 mill, now she has 10 million, this is simply POLITICS!!! I happen to be a Clinton fan, but I am simply keeping this Real!!!!! I LOVE THIS GREAT COUNTRY, NATION THAT IS CALLED AMERICA, DON'T YOU!!!!!

Point | 02.10.08 11:11 PM

God could we please get over the pathetic sensitivity!!! Everyone knows, including the Clintons, that David Shuster did not mean anything literally by his comments. They were not sexist but were referring to the fact that the press was told "hands off Chelsea" and followed that rule but as soon as it became expedient for the Clintons to USE their daughter, they trotted her out to campaign for them. She's 29 for Christ's sake, and her mother is running for President..........it's called fake outrage folks. Hillary is just angling for more of the women's vote. As a woman I can say she's just losing me each time she pulls this crap.

poed | 02.10.08 11:47 PM

Ladies and gentlemen, even if you are 65 years old, how would you feel if someone use such a sexual word to describe your relationship with your parents or your child? Would you feel uncomfortable? Would you feel any shame? I guess the Clintons have.

Tony D. | 02.11.08 01:04 PM

As a liberal female I am very disgusted with MSNBC and the treatment they have dished-out to Hillary.There is no equal reporting on the two Democratic opponents.MSNBC is so hyped on "dreams","new visions for America" and "hopes" that the reporting is one sided and anti-Hillary.All reporting on ALL candidates should be the same whether the anchor likes the person or not.As soon as the microphone is turned on,personal opnions should not be in their reporting.Females should stand up for our sister Hillary and not tolerate such reporting on her or any other female.We have the power and the right to speak our mind.Don't sit on the sideline women,now is the time to make our opinions heard.

Chong Lee | 02.14.08 01:25 PM

I've stopped watching MSNBC. If I want to watch Hillary bashing, I'll go to Fox News...they're even better at it than Chris Mathews and the rest of the crew there. This was a decision I made even before the Chelsea comment.

Peter Marklin | 02.15.08 09:07 AM

Peter Marklin | 02.15.08 09:14 AM

The constant ravings of these predjudiced pundits with their own agendas such as everyone at MSNBC except Pat Buchanan & Dan Abrams has put me off of watching this channel anymore. I can hear this garbage from the ridiculous Dick Morris over on Fox. Guess the media must be proud of having a large part in trying to keep who would be the best candidate for President, that would be Hillary Clinton from having a fair shot at the nomination. Thanks a lot!!!!!!!!

Margie Armistead | 05.09.08 07:13 PM

Margie Armistead | 05.09.08 07:14 PM

Margie Armistead | 05.09.08 07:16 PM

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February 08, 2008

MSNBC's Shuster Suspended

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