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CNN Wolf Blitzer Reports

Does an Army Chaplain Have an al Qaeda Connection?; Interview With Joe Montana

Aired September 22, 2003 - 17:00   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.


(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
WOLF BLITZER, CNN ANCHOR (voice-over): Inside the 9/11 plot. Al Qaeda's mastermind tells what they had in mind for the West Coast.

Spiritual guide or spy? Does an Army chaplain have an al Qaeda connection?

Baghdad bombing. Terrorists target the United Nations again.

KOFI ANNAN, U.N. SECRETARY GENERAL: We need a secure environment to able to operate.

BLITZER: Can the U.N. hang on? Will the U.S. stay on?

Can President Bush be beaten? At least two candidates may now have a shot.

And hall of famer Joe Montana battling a silent killer and winning. Hear his message for you.

ANNOUNCER: CNN live this hour, WOLF BLITZER REPORTS, live from the nation's capital, with correspondents from around the world. WOLF BLITZER REPORTS starts now.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: It's Monday, September 22, 2003. Hello from Washington. I'm Wolf Blitzer reporting.

In just a moment, chilling new information about al Qaeda's plot against the United States.

First, though, from the White House, the president's national security adviser speaking right now, previewing a crucial speech for President Bush. It's being called "a call to action," and it's aimed at the allied critics over at the United Nations.

Let's go live to our senior White House correspondent, John King -- John.

JOHN KING, CNN SR. WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENT: A call to action, Wolf, because the president tomorrow will appeal to the United Nations General Assembly to help, to put aside the pre-war bitterness, even the post-war debate and to help with a new resolution that might get the United States 10,000 to 15,000 more international troops on the ground in Iraq. And, more importantly, many white house officials want more money to help with Iraq's reconstruction. The United States has put up $20 million in the budget next year for reconstruction. That's already controversial here at home.

Just moments ago, in the Oval Office, the president met with two ministers of the Iraqi government, the public works minister and the electricity minister. The electricity minister said afterwards that Iraq needs $80 billion just to repair its infrastructure over the next couple of years. That underscoring the challenge the president faces.

He will go to the United Nations. He will not apologize. He will say that he's right and the world should be proud for knocking Saddam Hussein from power, and he will try to get some help.

Still some debate, Wolf, though, over the language of a new resolution. France, just as it was before the war, the chief critic of this administration. The president sets in motion this urgent round of diplomacy. Still an open question as to whether he can get that compromise.

And as you noted, one of his top advisers, Dr. Condoleezza Rice, outlining the president's agenda and his plans, not only his speech, but also some keep meetings, when he gets to New York tomorrow.

BLITZER: CNN's John King over at the White House right now. We'll be checking back with you, obviously, not only later tonight but tomorrow as well.

Let's get to those stunning new details now about the 9/11 plot as told by the man U.S. officials view as its mastermind. It originally called for more hijackings, more targets and then a second wave of strikes.

Let's turn to our national security correspondent David Ensor -- David.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

DAVID ENSOR, CNN NATIONAL SECURITY CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): The tallest tower in Los Angeles was among the original targets discussed by Osama bin Laden and Khalid Shaikh Mohammed back in 196 when they first planned what became the 9/11 attacks, according to U.S. sources with access to what interrogators are getting from Mohammed, who's now a prisoner of the CIA.

The original plan called for five hijacked planes on each coast of the United States, a total of 10 aircraft, these sources say. Mohammed paints a picture of bin Laden playing a central role in the planning five years before the attacks, scaling them down to improve their chances.

MATT LEVITT, FORMER FBI ANALYST: It was more important to have four successful hijackings that would successfully strike at our political, military and economic infrastructure than to have an attack where eight or 10 planes involved and perhaps because of being overly ambitious, the plot would be discovered and thwarted.

ENSOR: At one point in the planning, the 9/11 attacks were to include 22 hijackers on the four aircraft, officials say Mohammed has told his interrogators. The attacks were to be followed by a second wave, carried out with help from al Qaeda allies in Southeast Asia.

Officials say another key prisoner has been talking, too -- the man known as Hambali, accused of orchestrating the Bali bombings, has told his American interrogators about a plot to attack a couple of large hotels in Thailand during the upcoming meetings of Asian and Pacific leaders, including President Bush.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

ENSOR: Officials say Hambali's brother and close associate, Rusman Gunawa (ph), has also been captured this weekend in Pakistan, along with about 16 others. One official called that a useful catch -- Wolf.

BLITZER: Thanks very much. David Ensor with the latest on that development.

Could a Muslim Army chaplain have ties to al Qaeda? The arrest of an officer assigned to the detainees at Guantanamo Bay in Cuba has sparked deep concern and a wide-ranging investigation.

Here's CNN Pentagon correspondent Barbara Starr.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BARBARA STARR, CNN PENTAGON CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Sources tell CNN that after the arrest of Islamic Army Chaplain Captain James Yee, the government has launched a broader investigation of possible security breaches at the U.S. Naval Facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, where more than 600 detainees, including suspected al Qaeda, are being held. Investigators are trying to find out if Yee had help in getting access to classified information about the prison and the detainees and whether any sensitive data was divulged.

It was Yee's suspicious behavior in recent weeks that drew the attention of federal agents, sources say. The Islamic Army chaplain has not been charged, but is now suspected of treason and espionage. After his arrest, officials were stunned to find the Army officer had been in touch with radical Muslims already under surveillance.

Yee has appeared on television discussing Islam.

CAPT. JAMES YEE, U.S. ARMY: Islam, you know, is a big representer of justice. I mean, anyone who commits a crime has to be brought to justice, whether he's Muslim or not.

STARR: Yee, a Chinese-American, graduated from West Point in 1990 and served as a missile officer during the first Gulf War. He then left the Army, converted to Islam, and moved to Syria to study for four years before returning to the U.S. and rejoining the Army as a Muslim cleric. Yee's family is not talking.

He was taken into custody on September 10 when he returned from the naval base he was posted since November.

(on camera): Yee appeared before a military magistrate on September 15 with two defense attorneys. He's now being held at the Naval Brig in Charleston, South Carolina. The U.S. military has 120 days to charge him.

Barbara Starr, CNN, the Pentagon.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: The United Nations headquarters compound in Iraq has once again been targeted by terrorists. For the second time in just over a month, a suicide bomber today struck at the Baghdad compound.

Let's go live to senior international correspondent Nic Robertson. He's in the Iraqi capital -- Nic.

NIC ROBERTSON, CNN SR. INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Wolf, the casualties at the U.N. compound could have been much worse if the U.N. hadn't put in place improved security at the perimeter of their base in Baghdad.

What happened today, according to coalition officials, is the suicide bomber approached this extended perimeter of the U.N. base. He was checked there by Iraqi guards. They turned him back because they were suspicious. He went across the highway into a holding area, a carpark, and it was in that carpark that he detonated his explosive device. He killed himself, he killed an Iraqi security official -- 19 other people, we understand, are wounded, four critically, still in the hospital. Many of those people wounded were Iraqi security guards working beyond that extended perimeter that had been put in place recently to keep the U.N. building, the U.N. personnel safe. And it did appear to do its job today.

Nevertheless, U.N. officials here are saying they're now re- examining their security in Iraq, re-examining their staffing levels because they say they are concerned about their safety.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

ANTONIA PARADELA, WORLD FOOD PROGRAM: How many more people needs to die for the U.N. to operate here? I mean, we need to operate in safe conditions, in conditions where we can work with the Iraqis to improve key infrastructure, to give key humanitarian assistance in a very difficult time in Iraq.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

ROBERTSON: Well, the sort of programs that could be affected, the humanitarian programs, the economic assistance programs, programs on social infrastructure, water projects such like inoculation programs for children. What we know since the last U.N. bombing, they've reduced their staff in Iraq, in Baghdad overall from 600 staff to about 50. And now they're looking at, perhaps, perhaps bringing it down further -- Wolf.

BLITZER: That would be very, very sad, very harmful, obviously, for the Iraqi people. The U.N. does some pretty important work over there.

Very briefly, Nic, any suspects?

ROBERTSON: So far, we're not told of any suspects. We're not told of anybody brought in for questioning. There is an investigation going on, however, Wolf.

BLITZER: Nic Robertson in Baghdad. Thanks very much, Nic Robertson.

Dr. Condoleezza Rice, the president's national security adviser, briefing reporters on his critical speech to the u.n. tomorrow morning. Let's listen in right now.

(JOINED IN PROGRESS)

QUESTION: ...resolution about giving that -- what you call that vital role to the U.N. Will he outline what changes, perhaps, he sees the U.N. -- an expanded role for the U.N.?

CONDOLEEZZA RICE, NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISER: The president is leaving to discussions that we're having and, frankly, discussions he will have also with his colleagues this week about how to define a proper relationship between what the United Nations can offer, what the Coalition Provisional Authority must get done, and what we all must do on behalf of the Iraqi people.

So the speech doesn't go into detail on that matter. It does, however, call to action the entire international community to recognize the tremendous opportunity we now have with a liberated Iraq -- and by the way, with a liberated Afghanistan as well -- to change the course of the history of the Middle East, and to change the course of a place that's sitting in the center of the Middle East, has been nothing but a source of trouble during Saddam Hussein's rule.

When you think about it, Kuwait no longer has to fear being called a province of Iraq. Saudi Arabia no longer has to fear the tensions that the Iraqis placed on the kingdom. The Middle East doesn't have to -- Middle East proper, Israel and the Palestinian territories, don't have to fear the $25,000 payments to suicide bombers to encourage the breaking up of the peace process.

So the president is going to talk about the tremendous, right decision that was made in finally getting rid of this terrible government, building weapons of mass destruction, having used weapons of mass destruction. You know what, Secretary Powell said when he was at Halabja, that if anybody doubted Saddam Hussein and weapons of mass destruction, just look at the devastation of these people at Halabja.

That man is gone. And the president will talk about that. But he will not get into the details of how the U.N. might play a role.

He will, by the way, also acknowledge that the United Nations is already playing an important role in Iraq, in immunization of children, in the world food program, in Afghanistan, in the things that U.N. is doing there, and that the U.N. has paid a price for it, because this wonderful, humanitarian work on behalf of the Iraqi people was rewarded with a horrific bombing by terrorists and by Baathists who want to stop the progress in Iraq.

BLITZER: The president's national security adviser, Dr. Condoleezza Rice. She is answering reporters' questions over at the White House on tomorrow's very important speech by the president's before the United Nations General Assembly. The national security adviser stressing some of the positive things, in her words, that have happened in Iraq since the end of major combat.

We will continue to monitor the Q&A session with Dr. Rice, get back there if events warrant.

Here is your turn to weigh in on the story. Our Web question of the day is this: Should the U.S. give up control of post-war Iraq if it will encourage more countries to participate? We'll have the results later in this broadcast. You can vote right now. Go to cnn.com/wolf. While you're there, I would love to hear directly from you. Send me your comments. I will try to read some of them on the air each day at the end of this program. That's also, of course, where you can read my daily online column, cnn.com/wolf.

Can President Bush be beaten in 2004? Surprising results from a brand new poll just released. Find out which two Democratic candidates are most likely to steal the show, at least right now.

Season over. Shocking details from a high school hazing incident puts the school's football team on permanent timeout. Plus...

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

JOE MONTANA, FORMER NFL PLAYER: Most of the people who have it don't even realize that they do. I found out purely by accident, by going in for a normal checkup.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

BLITZER: Taking the pressure off. NFL great Joe Montana speaking out on a silent killer. Hear from the legendary quarterback. WOLF BLITZER REPORTS will be right back.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: Welcome back.

Now, a look at the race for the White House. The retired U.S. Army General Wesley Clark is a late comer to the field of Democrats seeking to replace President Bush. But according to a brand new poll, his candidacy is having a profound impact on the race.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER (voice-over): His announcement last week came as little surprise to most political observers.

WESLEY CLARK (D), PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE: And I am here to announce that I intend to seek the presidency of the United States of America.

BLITZER: His new surge is another matter. Meet General Wesley Clark.

CLARK: I want your help.

BLITZER: In the latest CNN-"USA Today" Gallup poll, a hypothetical head-to-head matchup, registered voters asked their choice for president. Wesley Clark leads President Bush 49 percent to 46, within the 3.5 percent margin of error.

KEATING HOLLAND, CNN POLITICAL DIRECTOR: So part of it is his resume. Part of it is the announcement bounce. Part of it may simply be he's a fresh face. He is after all the flavor of the month.

BLITZER: This from a candidate without huge name recognition. Nearly half the general public surveyed is not familiar with General Clark. Still, political experts say Clark's catapult is not the most surprising thing about this poll.

WILLIAM SCHNEIDER, CNN SR. POLITICAL ANALYST: Bush is sinking, Clark is surging. Clark picked exactly the right moment to make his announcement.

BLITZER: Indeed. The same CNN-"USA Today" Gallup poll shows President Bush falling fast. A 50 percent approval rating, the lowest of his presidency, a 10 percent drop from last month. His handling of Iraq and the economy hurting the president in polls, putting his administration on the defensive.

SEN. EDWARD KENNEDY (D), MASSACHUSETTS: We don't have a post-war policy. It is being made up every single day. And as a result of it, American men and women are in a shooting gallery over there, and American people want answers, and they're not getting it from the administration.

PAUL BREMER, U.S. CIVILIAN ADMINISTRATOR: We cannot simply pat the Iraqis on the back, tell them they are lucky to be rid of Saddam and ask them to go find their place in a global market.

BLITZER: Timing aside, is there an Ike factor with General Clark? That obvious parallel with another former supreme allied commander in Europe who rode in on a white horse in 1952 and captured the White House.

HOLLAND: He does particularly well among over 65, for example, and that's the crowd that remembers Dwight Eisenhower. That's the Greatest Generation, that sort of stands up and salutes when they hear the word "general." BLITZER: According to this poll, right now Clark may not even need to be Eisenhower. Look at the numbers for his Democratic rival, John Kerry. Within the margin of error, but, still, a 48 to 47 percent lead over George W. Bush.

Less than encouraging news for an incumbent making that historically dangerous political gamble on a war's outcome and economy's recovery.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: And this footnote. Of course, this is still very, very early in that presidential contest.

When we come back, allegations of sexual assaults inside the U.S. Air Force Academy now under the military microscope. Who should be held responsible for the scandal?

Assessing the damage after Isabel. How life as usual is still a long way off for residents along the battered East Coast.

And it's almost dinnertime for many of you. Find out why your kids should be eating with you tonight. It's critically important. And that's all ahead on WOLF BLITZER REPORTS.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: Welcome back.

It sounds like a no-brainer -- families sitting down together at the dinner table as a way to strengthen their bonds. But such time can help keep children away from drugs, cigarettes and alcohol. That finding from CASA, the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University. The Center is working with the White House and groups around the country to push today as National Family Dinner Day. A TV ad is part of the push.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Hi, Mr. President. My parents believe that eating meals together will make our country strong. Is that something you did when you were a kid?

GEORGE W. BUSH, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: I did eat with my family so long as my mother wasn't cooking.

BARBARA BUSH, FMR. FIRST LADY: Not good making fun of your mother, even if you are president. It is good to have dinner with your kids.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

BLITZER: And check out this CASA survey. It shows teens from families that almost never eat dinner together are 72 percent more likely to use illegal drugs, cigarettes and alcohol than the average teen. Joseph Califano is the former secretary of health, education and welfare. He is the president of CASA. He's joining us now live from New York.

Mr. Califano, thanks very much for joining us.

What does it say about our society that we have to have this kind of public campaign encouraging kids to have dinner with their parents?

JOSEPH CALIFANO, CASA PRESIDENT: Well, I think parents -- there's so much pressure on parents, two parents working and a dad having two jobs to pay the bills that is we've forgotten how important family dinner is. And this is a reminder to them that -- and it's quite clear that the more often kids have dinner with their parents, the less likely they are smoke, drink or use drugs.

Family dinner is the most comfortable, easy way for kids and parents to communicate and we're trying to encourage that. And you know, this whole problem of drugs and alcohol and smoking is going to be solved over the dinner table, over the kitchen table, in those rooms, not in the Congressional hearing rooms...

(CROSSTALK)

BLITZER: I think everyone agrees on that. All things being equal, it's great for kids to have kids having dinner with their parents.

But as you yourself point out, a lot of parents are working during the dinnertime. They can't -- they can't -- they don't have that luxury. What does that mean?

CALIFANO: Well, I mean, I think there are other times they can do it. I mean, take yourself or a sportscaster. There's a sportscaster, John Hankin (ph), in Minneapolis-St. Paul who is working from 4:00 in the afternoon until after 11:00 at night. He gets up early and has breakfast with his kids every day.

The point is to see your kids everyday, be around the table with them at breakfast, lunch or dinner. And we surveyed kids, Wolf. And they say because both our parents are working, our dad has two jobs. When they take the time to have dinner, they care about us. They're really engaged in our lives.

BLITZER: So it doesn't mean literally dinner. It could be breakfast or lunch or some other meal as well.

CALIFANO: That's right. I mean, for most people it will be dinner. And we now have 200 cities and counties this year proclaimed it. More than 30 states have proclaimed it. As you mentioned, President Bush has. His brother actually, Jeb Bush, was the first governor in the country to proclaim Family Day for us a couple of years ago.

But this year we're really trying to get it off the ground. BLITZER: But it's not just having a meal with your kids. Because some parents might say, You know what? I've had dinner with the kids. Now I can go out and play golf and do whatever -- whatever else I want. That could be an excuse to just have a certain limited amount of time with your kids. Don't you want to spend as much time with your kids as you possibly can?

CALIFANO: Yes, you do. And we found in our work that dinner is a surrogate for parents who are engaged. I mean, help your kids with their homework, go to their plays, go to their games. And incidentally, get the schools not to have games and contests at 5:00 to 7:00 at night so you can have dinner with them.

It's the parental engagement that counts, and dinner is a great surrogate for that.

BLITZER: All right. Joe Califano spreading the word on an important subject. Nothing is more important than your kids, right, Joe?

CALIFANO: You're right. And Wolf, you are great to do this. Thank you.

BLITZER: All right. My pleasure. Thanks, Joe Califano, for joining us as usual/

Game over. A severe hazing incident sends shock waves throughout the Northeast. We'll have a live report straight ahead.

Diluted drugs. Another doctor accused of taking advantage -- get this -- of cancer patients.

And...

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

MONTANA: All the signs were there in front of me -- or some of the signs, I should say, were there. And I was looking at them, but I didn't want to see them until it actually hit me.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

BLITZER: The football legend Joe Montana speaking out on what's come to be known as the silent killer. His personal battle off the field.

That's all ahead on WOLF BLITZER REPORTS.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

(NEWSBREAK)

BLITZER: A civilian panel issued a scathing report today on the sexual assault scandal rocking the U.S. Air Force Academy. The panel's chairwoman said sexual assaults were part of life at the academy for a decade or more, and that warning signs were ignored. CNN's Elaine Quijano has more now on the report and its recommendations.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

ELAINE QUIJANO, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Their job was to examine the culture and policies at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado, and what role, if any, those things played in contributing to the dozens of sexual assaults allegations that have surfaced there since 1993. After their allotted 90 days to do the job, the seven- member panel named names and called for a more thorough investigation of previous Air Force Academy leaders.

TILLIE FOWLER, CHAIR, AIR FORCE ACADEMY REVIEW PANEL: We found a deep (UNINTELLIGIBLE) leadership during the most critical time in the academy's history, one that extended far beyond its campus in Colorado Springs.

QUIJANO: The panel also made 21 recommendations, including implementing a reporting program, involving psychotherapists, to ensure privileged communications for cadets who come forward with accusations. Even before the release of the final report, Air Force officials said they were committed to change, and would come down hard on cadets who victimized others.

MARY WALKER, AIR FORCE GENERAL COUNSEL: The assailant will get no amnesty, and the senior cadet involved in that activity will not be given amnesty, because as a matter of leadership, he or she should take responsibility for those more junior cadets.

QUIJANO: Even with that commitment, the attorney representing Air Force cadets says his clients hope any changes are lasting ones.

JIM COY, ATTORNEY FOR CADETS: They were victimized twice. Once by the other cadets, and then by the system when they turned to it for help. They genuinely don't want this to happen again.

QUIJANO: Now, with the civilian panel's work complete, the report is in the hands of Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld.

Elaine Quijano, CNN, Washington.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: Summer football camp, a key workout regime for high school athletes around the country, but allegations that some players from New York were sexually assaulted by teammates at a pre-season camp have triggered a grand jury investigation and the cancellation of the team's entire season. CNN's Jason Carroll is joining us now live from New York with more -- Jason.

JASON CARROLL, CNN CORRESPONDENT: And Wolf, the lead prosecutor in the case says he's frustrated with the status of the investigation. The district attorney says that Methlem (ph) high school officials are stonewalling and not cooperating with investigators.

Three football players at the school are accused of sodomizing three other players during a hazing incident at a training camp in Pennsylvania. The accused allegedly used a broomstick, a golf ball and a pine cone during the assault. The district attorney says that he is surprised that school officials aren't doing more to help move the investigation forward.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

MARK ZIMMER, DISTRICT ATTORNEY: I would like to think that organizations such as a school district, such as an athletic department in a school district, whose primary concern is the education and the help for children in their school district would be cooperative with an agency that is trying to make sure that those children are protected, and that if anyone has hurt them that they be punished.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

CARROLL: The school district says that it is cooperating with investigators, but they say federal law prevents them from releasing personal information about students without a subpoena. Well, the district attorney now says they are in the process of serving those subpoenas -- Wolf.

BLITZER: CNN's Jason Carroll, a very disturbing story on hazing. Thanks, Jason, very much.

Also, a critical day today in the California recall election. Within the past hour, 11 judges of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco heard arguments about whether or not the vote should be postponed. Our national correspondent Bob Franken outside the courthouse in San Francisco for us -- Bob.

BOB FRANKEN, CNN NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Hello, Wolf. And of course, they are hearing arguments about whether to reverse the three- judge panel that last Monday said that the recall election should postponed because the infamous punchcard ballot machines used in six California counties will mean that those residents of those counties were not equally protected, they're both equally counted. Well, now the 11 judges decided to review that. They tell us that they're going to have a decision within the next 48 hours. That's the word from the court, which is remarkable speed.

What was also fascinating about this today was the appearance, speaking for those who want the recall postponed, the appearance of professor Laurence Tribe. He, of course, was the lead attorney in the Bush versus Gore, the Supreme Court case. Of course, he lost that one, but he was back again, and he mixed it up with particularly one of the judges, Alex Kozinski, who is a Reagan appointee, described himself sometimes as a libertarian. They got involved in a discussion about reliability of the voting machines. How reliable are they or aren't they?

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: What the studies and the excerpts of record show is that the voting machine technology in use in six counties with 44 percent of the votes results in something over 1 percent more undervotes and overvotes. The CalTech-MIT study further shows that at least a third of those undervotes and overvotes are intentional, possibly more because it's easier to undervote and overvote on...

(CROSSTALK)

DOUGLAS WOOD, CALIFORNIA DEPUTY ATTORNEY GENERAL: The author of that study said its use in that way was, in his word, "absurd." That's on page 189 of the excerpts of record. But I really must save some time for my colleagues and for rebuttal. So I wish I could respond. Maybe when I get up again, I will try to be responsive.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

FRANKEN: That was actually Judge Kleinfeld (ph), not Judge Kozinski. But Kozinski was, in fact, mixing it up with both sides.

When it came time for the other side to argue, the deputy attorney general, Douglas Woods, in fact argued for the secretary of state that not only did the laws of California calling for this election take precedence over the concerns expressed by the other side, but the Voting Rights Act did, too, consistent with what a lower court had argued. That's when Kozinski got into the argument with Doug Wood.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

JUDGE ALEX KOZINSKI, U.S. 9TH CIRCUIT COURT OF APPEALS: The question is, do we look at whether he got the law right, or do we sort of say, close enough?

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Your honor...

KOZINSKI: I mean, it is government work, after all.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: This court is entitled to look at whether he got the law right. I submit that he did.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: He missed it on the voting rights act, right? Just between us.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: No.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I won't tell, if you won't tell.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: No, your honor. He was right on the Voting Rights Act that we're talking about a totality of the circumstances analysis, of whether or not a minority race or minority language group has been disenfranchised.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

FRANKEN: What I will point out is that the election is due just two weeks from now. The ruling is expected in the next couple days. The losing side says it will go to the Supreme Court no matter what it happens. So this is not over yet, Wolf.

BLITZER: It won't be over until it's over. And that could be in Washington. Thanks very much, Bob Franken, for that report.

This footnote, the "Tonight Show" host Jay Leno is keeping his word. In August he said he would invite the gubernatorial candidates on his show. This afternoon about 90 would-be California governors showed up at Leno's studio in Burbank, California. They will fill about one-third of the seats for tonight's show.

Lights still out after Isabel. Millions cleaning up and still living in the dark. Reliving the pressure.

He kept his cool on the football field for years. Now, NFL quarterback legend Joe Montana, is speaking out about a different kind of pressure.

And the joke is on us. Hear what Jon Stewart had to say about the news networks during last night's Emmy Awards.

But first, let's look at other news making headlines "Around the World."

Military might. Iran flexed its military muscle in a parade marking the 23rd anniversary with its war with Iraq. Making a star appearance, six new deployed medium range missiles which analysts say could reach Israel or American bases in the Gulf. The President Mohammad Khatami, says the event shouldn't be viewed as saber rattling.

Slammed again. Hurricane Marty pounded Southern Baja, California with 85 mile per hour winds and heavy rain. Forecasters say the storm is expected to cross the Gulf of California toward the Mexican mainland in 24 hours. Marty is the second hurricane to hit the area in less than a month.

Daring rescue. An ill American research worker is on his way home after being evacuated from the South Pole. The rescue flight delayed for days because of wind and snow occurred in darkness because the sun doesn't rise until Tuesday, the first day of spring in the Southern Hemisphere. The man's name and illness have not been released.

Stranded sheep. The Australian government is refusing to kill 57,000 sheep stranded at sea while trying to find a home for the animals. Animal activists are call for the humane slaughter for the sheep which have been on a sheep since August. The sheep, bound for Saudi Arabia, were rejected because some had the disease scabby mouth.

Clash of titans. Elephant rider polo players clash in Thailand's Kings Cup Tournament. Twelve teams took to the rain-soaked field in the three per side game. One unique rule that doesn't apply to traditional horse polo states that the elephants are not allowed to pick up the ball with their trunks. And that's our look "Around the World."

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: Welcome back. Millions of people from North Carolina to Pennsylvania are reeling from the effects of hurricane Isabel. And throughout the affected area, people are still dying from the aftermath of the storm.

CNN's Kris Osborn has more.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

KRIS OSBORN, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Four days after Isabel, another powerful visitor to Virginia, President Bush. He surveyed the damage from the air and toured an emergency operations center in Richmond.

G. BUSH: This country has responded, once again. So on behalf of a grateful nation, I want to thank people at all levels of our government who are working extra hard to help our country when it needed help.

OSBORN: As of this morning, more than 1 million people in seven states and the District of Columbia still had no power. And the number of deaths blamed on the storm continues to climb. At least 36 fatalities are confirmed, more than half in Virginia. The Insurance Information Institute estimates insurers will pay victims of Hurricane Isabel close to $1 billion. But the full cost may not be known to days.

MICHAEL BROWN, FEMA DIRECTOR: What's interesting and sad about this storm is that Isabel moved so deeply into inland areas that we're having to fan out across these states to find out in very minute detail where the damage has occurred.

OSBORN: Meanwhile, victims continue cleaning up, lining up for ice and waiting for life after Isabel to return to normal.

(on camera): As to when it would be, it remains an open question, varying from place to place. Emergency officials here in the state of Virginia say by this coming Thursday, they expect to have 75 percent power restoration in the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Isabel.

Kris Osborn, CNN, Virginia Beach, Virginia.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: Joe Montana under pressure. I'll talk to the hall of fame quarterback about his life and the fight for a better health.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: On the field, he was at his best under pressure, winning four Super Bowls. Now, the hall of fame quarterback Joe Montana still under pressure. He's battling the silent killer, high blood pressure. And he's still winning. Fifty-eight million Americans have the same problem, and I spoke with him about how you can battle right back. We should point out that Joe Montana represents Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. (BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: Joe Montana, thanks for joining us. Always great to speak with you.

But you've got a new campaign, "Take the Pressure Off." Our viewers are probably not familiar with it. Tell us what you're doing.

MONTANA: Well, we're out there trying to bring awareness to high blood pressure. It is one of the top afflictions in the U.S. -- 58 million Americans have it. And you know what? The thing about it is -- is which was really surprising, is that I fit into that category.

And most of us -- most of the people who have it don't even realize that they do. I found out purely by accident, by going in for a normal checkup, my yearly checkup. And I was a little bit concerned when my doctor sent me straight to the cardiologist and said, Please go there. Do not pass go and get over there. And I took it serious after I found I had a slight clogging in one of my arteries and found out that, you know, the real danger is that this is what they call the silent killer because there are no symptoms.

I felt great when I went in there. So I was as shocked as anyone to find out that here I was sitting there with high blood pressure.

(CROSSTALK)

BLITZER: I was going to say, the first thing, Joe, people have to do is get their blood pressure checked, which is a very, very simple test. But if they do have high blood pressure, there's things that people can do to deal with this silent killer.

MONTANA: Well, there definitely is. One of the things that take the pressure off, which the, better blood pressure control campaign is about, Dr. James Rippy (ph), a Harvard cardiologist, has put together a three pillar program and approach.

One is getting in to see your doctor and get -- and make sure that your blood pressure isn't high and if it is, get started on the right medications for you. That's what I did initially.

The other is that you can watch your diet and you can increase your physical activity and make sure you're getting enough exercise.

And one of the things that typically happen that people do is a lot of Americans who are on the medication still aren't controlled to the new norm of 120/180. And I wasn't in that category, and you find out that you actually -- I needed two medications. And a lot of people who have high blood pressure are going to need two medications to get down below there. I happen to be taking one called Lotrel, which has gotten me below the 120/80.

BLITZER: I just want to make sure because our viewers -- I don't want to mislead our viewers. As far as the pharmaceutical company, Lotrel, you're not on the payroll or anything like that of that company, right? MONTANA: Well, actually, I was taking -- I was actually taking the medication prior to them contacting me.

And actually it was a kind of a funny thing that happened between myself and my agent. And they were talking about something, joking around with me and asking if I new anyone. I said, Well I _- I'm all of the above. And they said, get out of here. We're talking -- we're looking for someone that can help. And I said -- you know what? I've been going to the doctor. I've been taking the medication, and here I am.

If they want to talk to me, I would love to talk about it, because it's something that -- my mother has high blood pressure. My grandfather passed away at age 54 from heart disease. My mother's two brothers, my uncles, have heart disease and have high blood pressure. So it's very prominent in my family and it's something that's a lot closer to me now. And you don't think about it. All the signs were there in front of me, or some of the signs, I should say, were there. And I was looking at them, but I didn't really want to see them until it actually hit me.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: And that was Joe Montana, of course, speaking about a very, very important subject, one that could affect everyone's health.

When we come back, a quick recap of last night's Emmys. The news media makes a brief appearance, including this reporter. And when I say brief, I mean brief.

Stay with us.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: In case you missed the Emmys last night, a special honor delivered by comedian Jon Stewart.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

JON STEWART, COMEDIAN: For too long the media has sacrificed its hard won integrity in favor of cheap entertainment value only to be unrewarded only to go unrewarded come Emmy night. Well not tonight, sister. Tonight we can congratulate television news on becoming us, mindless ratings whores. You're welcome.

Our first category honors news tuning technique. There are many ways to get viewers to watch the news, provide in-depth coverage, insight, context or you can use the technique of tonight's winner, cable news, fear and speculation.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

DARYN KAGAN, CNN ANCHOR: What is a dirty bomb?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

JOHN GIBSON, FOX NEWS HOST: How easy is it to make one?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

ALAN COLMES, FOX NEWS CO-HOST: How easy would it be to bring one into the country?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: How concerned are you and should we be about monkeypox at this point?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

BLITZER: Are others still out there?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GIBSON: Can you go out, for instance, and get a barrel of medical, radiological waste?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

HEIDI COLLINS, CNN ANCHOR: What is it? Where has it been and can you catch it?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GIBSON: And put a stick of dynamite and create a dirty bomb?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

KAGAN: What kind of implications would that have?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GIBSON: Do you know?

(END VIDEO CLIP) (BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

CHRIS JANSING, MSNBC ANCHOR: What can you tell us about Hispanic Muslims?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

STEWART: What can you tell us about Hispanic Muslims? Are they nocturnal?

(END VIDEOTAPE)

TO ORDER A VIDEO OF THIS TRANSCRIPT, PLEASE CALL 800-CNN-NEWS OR USE OUR SECURE ONLINE ORDER FORM LOCATED AT www.fdch.com





Interview With Joe Montana>


Aired September 22, 2003 - 17:00   ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
WOLF BLITZER, CNN ANCHOR (voice-over): Inside the 9/11 plot. Al Qaeda's mastermind tells what they had in mind for the West Coast.

Spiritual guide or spy? Does an Army chaplain have an al Qaeda connection?

Baghdad bombing. Terrorists target the United Nations again.

KOFI ANNAN, U.N. SECRETARY GENERAL: We need a secure environment to able to operate.

BLITZER: Can the U.N. hang on? Will the U.S. stay on?

Can President Bush be beaten? At least two candidates may now have a shot.

And hall of famer Joe Montana battling a silent killer and winning. Hear his message for you.

ANNOUNCER: CNN live this hour, WOLF BLITZER REPORTS, live from the nation's capital, with correspondents from around the world. WOLF BLITZER REPORTS starts now.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: It's Monday, September 22, 2003. Hello from Washington. I'm Wolf Blitzer reporting.

In just a moment, chilling new information about al Qaeda's plot against the United States.

First, though, from the White House, the president's national security adviser speaking right now, previewing a crucial speech for President Bush. It's being called "a call to action," and it's aimed at the allied critics over at the United Nations.

Let's go live to our senior White House correspondent, John King -- John.

JOHN KING, CNN SR. WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENT: A call to action, Wolf, because the president tomorrow will appeal to the United Nations General Assembly to help, to put aside the pre-war bitterness, even the post-war debate and to help with a new resolution that might get the United States 10,000 to 15,000 more international troops on the ground in Iraq. And, more importantly, many white house officials want more money to help with Iraq's reconstruction. The United States has put up $20 million in the budget next year for reconstruction. That's already controversial here at home.

Just moments ago, in the Oval Office, the president met with two ministers of the Iraqi government, the public works minister and the electricity minister. The electricity minister said afterwards that Iraq needs $80 billion just to repair its infrastructure over the next couple of years. That underscoring the challenge the president faces.

He will go to the United Nations. He will not apologize. He will say that he's right and the world should be proud for knocking Saddam Hussein from power, and he will try to get some help.

Still some debate, Wolf, though, over the language of a new resolution. France, just as it was before the war, the chief critic of this administration. The president sets in motion this urgent round of diplomacy. Still an open question as to whether he can get that compromise.

And as you noted, one of his top advisers, Dr. Condoleezza Rice, outlining the president's agenda and his plans, not only his speech, but also some keep meetings, when he gets to New York tomorrow.

BLITZER: CNN's John King over at the White House right now. We'll be checking back with you, obviously, not only later tonight but tomorrow as well.

Let's get to those stunning new details now about the 9/11 plot as told by the man U.S. officials view as its mastermind. It originally called for more hijackings, more targets and then a second wave of strikes.

Let's turn to our national security correspondent David Ensor -- David.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

DAVID ENSOR, CNN NATIONAL SECURITY CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): The tallest tower in Los Angeles was among the original targets discussed by Osama bin Laden and Khalid Shaikh Mohammed back in 196 when they first planned what became the 9/11 attacks, according to U.S. sources with access to what interrogators are getting from Mohammed, who's now a prisoner of the CIA.

The original plan called for five hijacked planes on each coast of the United States, a total of 10 aircraft, these sources say. Mohammed paints a picture of bin Laden playing a central role in the planning five years before the attacks, scaling them down to improve their chances.

MATT LEVITT, FORMER FBI ANALYST: It was more important to have four successful hijackings that would successfully strike at our political, military and economic infrastructure than to have an attack where eight or 10 planes involved and perhaps because of being overly ambitious, the plot would be discovered and thwarted.

ENSOR: At one point in the planning, the 9/11 attacks were to include 22 hijackers on the four aircraft, officials say Mohammed has told his interrogators. The attacks were to be followed by a second wave, carried out with help from al Qaeda allies in Southeast Asia.

Officials say another key prisoner has been talking, too -- the man known as Hambali, accused of orchestrating the Bali bombings, has told his American interrogators about a plot to attack a couple of large hotels in Thailand during the upcoming meetings of Asian and Pacific leaders, including President Bush.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

ENSOR: Officials say Hambali's brother and close associate, Rusman Gunawa (ph), has also been captured this weekend in Pakistan, along with about 16 others. One official called that a useful catch -- Wolf.

BLITZER: Thanks very much. David Ensor with the latest on that development.

Could a Muslim Army chaplain have ties to al Qaeda? The arrest of an officer assigned to the detainees at Guantanamo Bay in Cuba has sparked deep concern and a wide-ranging investigation.

Here's CNN Pentagon correspondent Barbara Starr.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BARBARA STARR, CNN PENTAGON CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Sources tell CNN that after the arrest of Islamic Army Chaplain Captain James Yee, the government has launched a broader investigation of possible security breaches at the U.S. Naval Facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, where more than 600 detainees, including suspected al Qaeda, are being held. Investigators are trying to find out if Yee had help in getting access to classified information about the prison and the detainees and whether any sensitive data was divulged.

It was Yee's suspicious behavior in recent weeks that drew the attention of federal agents, sources say. The Islamic Army chaplain has not been charged, but is now suspected of treason and espionage. After his arrest, officials were stunned to find the Army officer had been in touch with radical Muslims already under surveillance.

Yee has appeared on television discussing Islam.

CAPT. JAMES YEE, U.S. ARMY: Islam, you know, is a big representer of justice. I mean, anyone who commits a crime has to be brought to justice, whether he's Muslim or not.

STARR: Yee, a Chinese-American, graduated from West Point in 1990 and served as a missile officer during the first Gulf War. He then left the Army, converted to Islam, and moved to Syria to study for four years before returning to the U.S. and rejoining the Army as a Muslim cleric. Yee's family is not talking.

He was taken into custody on September 10 when he returned from the naval base he was posted since November.

(on camera): Yee appeared before a military magistrate on September 15 with two defense attorneys. He's now being held at the Naval Brig in Charleston, South Carolina. The U.S. military has 120 days to charge him.

Barbara Starr, CNN, the Pentagon.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: The United Nations headquarters compound in Iraq has once again been targeted by terrorists. For the second time in just over a month, a suicide bomber today struck at the Baghdad compound.

Let's go live to senior international correspondent Nic Robertson. He's in the Iraqi capital -- Nic.

NIC ROBERTSON, CNN SR. INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Wolf, the casualties at the U.N. compound could have been much worse if the U.N. hadn't put in place improved security at the perimeter of their base in Baghdad.

What happened today, according to coalition officials, is the suicide bomber approached this extended perimeter of the U.N. base. He was checked there by Iraqi guards. They turned him back because they were suspicious. He went across the highway into a holding area, a carpark, and it was in that carpark that he detonated his explosive device. He killed himself, he killed an Iraqi security official -- 19 other people, we understand, are wounded, four critically, still in the hospital. Many of those people wounded were Iraqi security guards working beyond that extended perimeter that had been put in place recently to keep the U.N. building, the U.N. personnel safe. And it did appear to do its job today.

Nevertheless, U.N. officials here are saying they're now re- examining their security in Iraq, re-examining their staffing levels because they say they are concerned about their safety.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

ANTONIA PARADELA, WORLD FOOD PROGRAM: How many more people needs to die for the U.N. to operate here? I mean, we need to operate in safe conditions, in conditions where we can work with the Iraqis to improve key infrastructure, to give key humanitarian assistance in a very difficult time in Iraq.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

ROBERTSON: Well, the sort of programs that could be affected, the humanitarian programs, the economic assistance programs, programs on social infrastructure, water projects such like inoculation programs for children. What we know since the last U.N. bombing, they've reduced their staff in Iraq, in Baghdad overall from 600 staff to about 50. And now they're looking at, perhaps, perhaps bringing it down further -- Wolf.

BLITZER: That would be very, very sad, very harmful, obviously, for the Iraqi people. The U.N. does some pretty important work over there.

Very briefly, Nic, any suspects?

ROBERTSON: So far, we're not told of any suspects. We're not told of anybody brought in for questioning. There is an investigation going on, however, Wolf.

BLITZER: Nic Robertson in Baghdad. Thanks very much, Nic Robertson.

Dr. Condoleezza Rice, the president's national security adviser, briefing reporters on his critical speech to the u.n. tomorrow morning. Let's listen in right now.

(JOINED IN PROGRESS)

QUESTION: ...resolution about giving that -- what you call that vital role to the U.N. Will he outline what changes, perhaps, he sees the U.N. -- an expanded role for the U.N.?

CONDOLEEZZA RICE, NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISER: The president is leaving to discussions that we're having and, frankly, discussions he will have also with his colleagues this week about how to define a proper relationship between what the United Nations can offer, what the Coalition Provisional Authority must get done, and what we all must do on behalf of the Iraqi people.

So the speech doesn't go into detail on that matter. It does, however, call to action the entire international community to recognize the tremendous opportunity we now have with a liberated Iraq -- and by the way, with a liberated Afghanistan as well -- to change the course of the history of the Middle East, and to change the course of a place that's sitting in the center of the Middle East, has been nothing but a source of trouble during Saddam Hussein's rule.

When you think about it, Kuwait no longer has to fear being called a province of Iraq. Saudi Arabia no longer has to fear the tensions that the Iraqis placed on the kingdom. The Middle East doesn't have to -- Middle East proper, Israel and the Palestinian territories, don't have to fear the $25,000 payments to suicide bombers to encourage the breaking up of the peace process.

So the president is going to talk about the tremendous, right decision that was made in finally getting rid of this terrible government, building weapons of mass destruction, having used weapons of mass destruction. You know what, Secretary Powell said when he was at Halabja, that if anybody doubted Saddam Hussein and weapons of mass destruction, just look at the devastation of these people at Halabja.

That man is gone. And the president will talk about that. But he will not get into the details of how the U.N. might play a role.

He will, by the way, also acknowledge that the United Nations is already playing an important role in Iraq, in immunization of children, in the world food program, in Afghanistan, in the things that U.N. is doing there, and that the U.N. has paid a price for it, because this wonderful, humanitarian work on behalf of the Iraqi people was rewarded with a horrific bombing by terrorists and by Baathists who want to stop the progress in Iraq.

BLITZER: The president's national security adviser, Dr. Condoleezza Rice. She is answering reporters' questions over at the White House on tomorrow's very important speech by the president's before the United Nations General Assembly. The national security adviser stressing some of the positive things, in her words, that have happened in Iraq since the end of major combat.

We will continue to monitor the Q&A session with Dr. Rice, get back there if events warrant.

Here is your turn to weigh in on the story. Our Web question of the day is this: Should the U.S. give up control of post-war Iraq if it will encourage more countries to participate? We'll have the results later in this broadcast. You can vote right now. Go to cnn.com/wolf. While you're there, I would love to hear directly from you. Send me your comments. I will try to read some of them on the air each day at the end of this program. That's also, of course, where you can read my daily online column, cnn.com/wolf.

Can President Bush be beaten in 2004? Surprising results from a brand new poll just released. Find out which two Democratic candidates are most likely to steal the show, at least right now.

Season over. Shocking details from a high school hazing incident puts the school's football team on permanent timeout. Plus...

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

JOE MONTANA, FORMER NFL PLAYER: Most of the people who have it don't even realize that they do. I found out purely by accident, by going in for a normal checkup.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

BLITZER: Taking the pressure off. NFL great Joe Montana speaking out on a silent killer. Hear from the legendary quarterback. WOLF BLITZER REPORTS will be right back.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: Welcome back.

Now, a look at the race for the White House. The retired U.S. Army General Wesley Clark is a late comer to the field of Democrats seeking to replace President Bush. But according to a brand new poll, his candidacy is having a profound impact on the race.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER (voice-over): His announcement last week came as little surprise to most political observers.

WESLEY CLARK (D), PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE: And I am here to announce that I intend to seek the presidency of the United States of America.

BLITZER: His new surge is another matter. Meet General Wesley Clark.

CLARK: I want your help.

BLITZER: In the latest CNN-"USA Today" Gallup poll, a hypothetical head-to-head matchup, registered voters asked their choice for president. Wesley Clark leads President Bush 49 percent to 46, within the 3.5 percent margin of error.

KEATING HOLLAND, CNN POLITICAL DIRECTOR: So part of it is his resume. Part of it is the announcement bounce. Part of it may simply be he's a fresh face. He is after all the flavor of the month.

BLITZER: This from a candidate without huge name recognition. Nearly half the general public surveyed is not familiar with General Clark. Still, political experts say Clark's catapult is not the most surprising thing about this poll.

WILLIAM SCHNEIDER, CNN SR. POLITICAL ANALYST: Bush is sinking, Clark is surging. Clark picked exactly the right moment to make his announcement.

BLITZER: Indeed. The same CNN-"USA Today" Gallup poll shows President Bush falling fast. A 50 percent approval rating, the lowest of his presidency, a 10 percent drop from last month. His handling of Iraq and the economy hurting the president in polls, putting his administration on the defensive.

SEN. EDWARD KENNEDY (D), MASSACHUSETTS: We don't have a post-war policy. It is being made up every single day. And as a result of it, American men and women are in a shooting gallery over there, and American people want answers, and they're not getting it from the administration.

PAUL BREMER, U.S. CIVILIAN ADMINISTRATOR: We cannot simply pat the Iraqis on the back, tell them they are lucky to be rid of Saddam and ask them to go find their place in a global market.

BLITZER: Timing aside, is there an Ike factor with General Clark? That obvious parallel with another former supreme allied commander in Europe who rode in on a white horse in 1952 and captured the White House.

HOLLAND: He does particularly well among over 65, for example, and that's the crowd that remembers Dwight Eisenhower. That's the Greatest Generation, that sort of stands up and salutes when they hear the word "general." BLITZER: According to this poll, right now Clark may not even need to be Eisenhower. Look at the numbers for his Democratic rival, John Kerry. Within the margin of error, but, still, a 48 to 47 percent lead over George W. Bush.

Less than encouraging news for an incumbent making that historically dangerous political gamble on a war's outcome and economy's recovery.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: And this footnote. Of course, this is still very, very early in that presidential contest.

When we come back, allegations of sexual assaults inside the U.S. Air Force Academy now under the military microscope. Who should be held responsible for the scandal?

Assessing the damage after Isabel. How life as usual is still a long way off for residents along the battered East Coast.

And it's almost dinnertime for many of you. Find out why your kids should be eating with you tonight. It's critically important. And that's all ahead on WOLF BLITZER REPORTS.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: Welcome back.

It sounds like a no-brainer -- families sitting down together at the dinner table as a way to strengthen their bonds. But such time can help keep children away from drugs, cigarettes and alcohol. That finding from CASA, the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University. The Center is working with the White House and groups around the country to push today as National Family Dinner Day. A TV ad is part of the push.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Hi, Mr. President. My parents believe that eating meals together will make our country strong. Is that something you did when you were a kid?

GEORGE W. BUSH, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: I did eat with my family so long as my mother wasn't cooking.

BARBARA BUSH, FMR. FIRST LADY: Not good making fun of your mother, even if you are president. It is good to have dinner with your kids.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

BLITZER: And check out this CASA survey. It shows teens from families that almost never eat dinner together are 72 percent more likely to use illegal drugs, cigarettes and alcohol than the average teen. Joseph Califano is the former secretary of health, education and welfare. He is the president of CASA. He's joining us now live from New York.

Mr. Califano, thanks very much for joining us.

What does it say about our society that we have to have this kind of public campaign encouraging kids to have dinner with their parents?

JOSEPH CALIFANO, CASA PRESIDENT: Well, I think parents -- there's so much pressure on parents, two parents working and a dad having two jobs to pay the bills that is we've forgotten how important family dinner is. And this is a reminder to them that -- and it's quite clear that the more often kids have dinner with their parents, the less likely they are smoke, drink or use drugs.

Family dinner is the most comfortable, easy way for kids and parents to communicate and we're trying to encourage that. And you know, this whole problem of drugs and alcohol and smoking is going to be solved over the dinner table, over the kitchen table, in those rooms, not in the Congressional hearing rooms...

(CROSSTALK)

BLITZER: I think everyone agrees on that. All things being equal, it's great for kids to have kids having dinner with their parents.

But as you yourself point out, a lot of parents are working during the dinnertime. They can't -- they can't -- they don't have that luxury. What does that mean?

CALIFANO: Well, I mean, I think there are other times they can do it. I mean, take yourself or a sportscaster. There's a sportscaster, John Hankin (ph), in Minneapolis-St. Paul who is working from 4:00 in the afternoon until after 11:00 at night. He gets up early and has breakfast with his kids every day.

The point is to see your kids everyday, be around the table with them at breakfast, lunch or dinner. And we surveyed kids, Wolf. And they say because both our parents are working, our dad has two jobs. When they take the time to have dinner, they care about us. They're really engaged in our lives.

BLITZER: So it doesn't mean literally dinner. It could be breakfast or lunch or some other meal as well.

CALIFANO: That's right. I mean, for most people it will be dinner. And we now have 200 cities and counties this year proclaimed it. More than 30 states have proclaimed it. As you mentioned, President Bush has. His brother actually, Jeb Bush, was the first governor in the country to proclaim Family Day for us a couple of years ago.

But this year we're really trying to get it off the ground. BLITZER: But it's not just having a meal with your kids. Because some parents might say, You know what? I've had dinner with the kids. Now I can go out and play golf and do whatever -- whatever else I want. That could be an excuse to just have a certain limited amount of time with your kids. Don't you want to spend as much time with your kids as you possibly can?

CALIFANO: Yes, you do. And we found in our work that dinner is a surrogate for parents who are engaged. I mean, help your kids with their homework, go to their plays, go to their games. And incidentally, get the schools not to have games and contests at 5:00 to 7:00 at night so you can have dinner with them.

It's the parental engagement that counts, and dinner is a great surrogate for that.

BLITZER: All right. Joe Califano spreading the word on an important subject. Nothing is more important than your kids, right, Joe?

CALIFANO: You're right. And Wolf, you are great to do this. Thank you.

BLITZER: All right. My pleasure. Thanks, Joe Califano, for joining us as usual/

Game over. A severe hazing incident sends shock waves throughout the Northeast. We'll have a live report straight ahead.

Diluted drugs. Another doctor accused of taking advantage -- get this -- of cancer patients.

And...

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

MONTANA: All the signs were there in front of me -- or some of the signs, I should say, were there. And I was looking at them, but I didn't want to see them until it actually hit me.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

BLITZER: The football legend Joe Montana speaking out on what's come to be known as the silent killer. His personal battle off the field.

That's all ahead on WOLF BLITZER REPORTS.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

(NEWSBREAK)

BLITZER: A civilian panel issued a scathing report today on the sexual assault scandal rocking the U.S. Air Force Academy. The panel's chairwoman said sexual assaults were part of life at the academy for a decade or more, and that warning signs were ignored. CNN's Elaine Quijano has more now on the report and its recommendations.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

ELAINE QUIJANO, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Their job was to examine the culture and policies at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado, and what role, if any, those things played in contributing to the dozens of sexual assaults allegations that have surfaced there since 1993. After their allotted 90 days to do the job, the seven- member panel named names and called for a more thorough investigation of previous Air Force Academy leaders.

TILLIE FOWLER, CHAIR, AIR FORCE ACADEMY REVIEW PANEL: We found a deep (UNINTELLIGIBLE) leadership during the most critical time in the academy's history, one that extended far beyond its campus in Colorado Springs.

QUIJANO: The panel also made 21 recommendations, including implementing a reporting program, involving psychotherapists, to ensure privileged communications for cadets who come forward with accusations. Even before the release of the final report, Air Force officials said they were committed to change, and would come down hard on cadets who victimized others.

MARY WALKER, AIR FORCE GENERAL COUNSEL: The assailant will get no amnesty, and the senior cadet involved in that activity will not be given amnesty, because as a matter of leadership, he or she should take responsibility for those more junior cadets.

QUIJANO: Even with that commitment, the attorney representing Air Force cadets says his clients hope any changes are lasting ones.

JIM COY, ATTORNEY FOR CADETS: They were victimized twice. Once by the other cadets, and then by the system when they turned to it for help. They genuinely don't want this to happen again.

QUIJANO: Now, with the civilian panel's work complete, the report is in the hands of Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld.

Elaine Quijano, CNN, Washington.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: Summer football camp, a key workout regime for high school athletes around the country, but allegations that some players from New York were sexually assaulted by teammates at a pre-season camp have triggered a grand jury investigation and the cancellation of the team's entire season. CNN's Jason Carroll is joining us now live from New York with more -- Jason.

JASON CARROLL, CNN CORRESPONDENT: And Wolf, the lead prosecutor in the case says he's frustrated with the status of the investigation. The district attorney says that Methlem (ph) high school officials are stonewalling and not cooperating with investigators.

Three football players at the school are accused of sodomizing three other players during a hazing incident at a training camp in Pennsylvania. The accused allegedly used a broomstick, a golf ball and a pine cone during the assault. The district attorney says that he is surprised that school officials aren't doing more to help move the investigation forward.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

MARK ZIMMER, DISTRICT ATTORNEY: I would like to think that organizations such as a school district, such as an athletic department in a school district, whose primary concern is the education and the help for children in their school district would be cooperative with an agency that is trying to make sure that those children are protected, and that if anyone has hurt them that they be punished.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

CARROLL: The school district says that it is cooperating with investigators, but they say federal law prevents them from releasing personal information about students without a subpoena. Well, the district attorney now says they are in the process of serving those subpoenas -- Wolf.

BLITZER: CNN's Jason Carroll, a very disturbing story on hazing. Thanks, Jason, very much.

Also, a critical day today in the California recall election. Within the past hour, 11 judges of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco heard arguments about whether or not the vote should be postponed. Our national correspondent Bob Franken outside the courthouse in San Francisco for us -- Bob.

BOB FRANKEN, CNN NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Hello, Wolf. And of course, they are hearing arguments about whether to reverse the three- judge panel that last Monday said that the recall election should postponed because the infamous punchcard ballot machines used in six California counties will mean that those residents of those counties were not equally protected, they're both equally counted. Well, now the 11 judges decided to review that. They tell us that they're going to have a decision within the next 48 hours. That's the word from the court, which is remarkable speed.

What was also fascinating about this today was the appearance, speaking for those who want the recall postponed, the appearance of professor Laurence Tribe. He, of course, was the lead attorney in the Bush versus Gore, the Supreme Court case. Of course, he lost that one, but he was back again, and he mixed it up with particularly one of the judges, Alex Kozinski, who is a Reagan appointee, described himself sometimes as a libertarian. They got involved in a discussion about reliability of the voting machines. How reliable are they or aren't they?

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: What the studies and the excerpts of record show is that the voting machine technology in use in six counties with 44 percent of the votes results in something over 1 percent more undervotes and overvotes. The CalTech-MIT study further shows that at least a third of those undervotes and overvotes are intentional, possibly more because it's easier to undervote and overvote on...

(CROSSTALK)

DOUGLAS WOOD, CALIFORNIA DEPUTY ATTORNEY GENERAL: The author of that study said its use in that way was, in his word, "absurd." That's on page 189 of the excerpts of record. But I really must save some time for my colleagues and for rebuttal. So I wish I could respond. Maybe when I get up again, I will try to be responsive.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

FRANKEN: That was actually Judge Kleinfeld (ph), not Judge Kozinski. But Kozinski was, in fact, mixing it up with both sides.

When it came time for the other side to argue, the deputy attorney general, Douglas Woods, in fact argued for the secretary of state that not only did the laws of California calling for this election take precedence over the concerns expressed by the other side, but the Voting Rights Act did, too, consistent with what a lower court had argued. That's when Kozinski got into the argument with Doug Wood.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

JUDGE ALEX KOZINSKI, U.S. 9TH CIRCUIT COURT OF APPEALS: The question is, do we look at whether he got the law right, or do we sort of say, close enough?

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Your honor...

KOZINSKI: I mean, it is government work, after all.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: This court is entitled to look at whether he got the law right. I submit that he did.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: He missed it on the voting rights act, right? Just between us.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: No.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I won't tell, if you won't tell.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: No, your honor. He was right on the Voting Rights Act that we're talking about a totality of the circumstances analysis, of whether or not a minority race or minority language group has been disenfranchised.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

FRANKEN: What I will point out is that the election is due just two weeks from now. The ruling is expected in the next couple days. The losing side says it will go to the Supreme Court no matter what it happens. So this is not over yet, Wolf.

BLITZER: It won't be over until it's over. And that could be in Washington. Thanks very much, Bob Franken, for that report.

This footnote, the "Tonight Show" host Jay Leno is keeping his word. In August he said he would invite the gubernatorial candidates on his show. This afternoon about 90 would-be California governors showed up at Leno's studio in Burbank, California. They will fill about one-third of the seats for tonight's show.

Lights still out after Isabel. Millions cleaning up and still living in the dark. Reliving the pressure.

He kept his cool on the football field for years. Now, NFL quarterback legend Joe Montana, is speaking out about a different kind of pressure.

And the joke is on us. Hear what Jon Stewart had to say about the news networks during last night's Emmy Awards.

But first, let's look at other news making headlines "Around the World."

Military might. Iran flexed its military muscle in a parade marking the 23rd anniversary with its war with Iraq. Making a star appearance, six new deployed medium range missiles which analysts say could reach Israel or American bases in the Gulf. The President Mohammad Khatami, says the event shouldn't be viewed as saber rattling.

Slammed again. Hurricane Marty pounded Southern Baja, California with 85 mile per hour winds and heavy rain. Forecasters say the storm is expected to cross the Gulf of California toward the Mexican mainland in 24 hours. Marty is the second hurricane to hit the area in less than a month.

Daring rescue. An ill American research worker is on his way home after being evacuated from the South Pole. The rescue flight delayed for days because of wind and snow occurred in darkness because the sun doesn't rise until Tuesday, the first day of spring in the Southern Hemisphere. The man's name and illness have not been released.

Stranded sheep. The Australian government is refusing to kill 57,000 sheep stranded at sea while trying to find a home for the animals. Animal activists are call for the humane slaughter for the sheep which have been on a sheep since August. The sheep, bound for Saudi Arabia, were rejected because some had the disease scabby mouth.

Clash of titans. Elephant rider polo players clash in Thailand's Kings Cup Tournament. Twelve teams took to the rain-soaked field in the three per side game. One unique rule that doesn't apply to traditional horse polo states that the elephants are not allowed to pick up the ball with their trunks. And that's our look "Around the World."

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: Welcome back. Millions of people from North Carolina to Pennsylvania are reeling from the effects of hurricane Isabel. And throughout the affected area, people are still dying from the aftermath of the storm.

CNN's Kris Osborn has more.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

KRIS OSBORN, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Four days after Isabel, another powerful visitor to Virginia, President Bush. He surveyed the damage from the air and toured an emergency operations center in Richmond.

G. BUSH: This country has responded, once again. So on behalf of a grateful nation, I want to thank people at all levels of our government who are working extra hard to help our country when it needed help.

OSBORN: As of this morning, more than 1 million people in seven states and the District of Columbia still had no power. And the number of deaths blamed on the storm continues to climb. At least 36 fatalities are confirmed, more than half in Virginia. The Insurance Information Institute estimates insurers will pay victims of Hurricane Isabel close to $1 billion. But the full cost may not be known to days.

MICHAEL BROWN, FEMA DIRECTOR: What's interesting and sad about this storm is that Isabel moved so deeply into inland areas that we're having to fan out across these states to find out in very minute detail where the damage has occurred.

OSBORN: Meanwhile, victims continue cleaning up, lining up for ice and waiting for life after Isabel to return to normal.

(on camera): As to when it would be, it remains an open question, varying from place to place. Emergency officials here in the state of Virginia say by this coming Thursday, they expect to have 75 percent power restoration in the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Isabel.

Kris Osborn, CNN, Virginia Beach, Virginia.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: Joe Montana under pressure. I'll talk to the hall of fame quarterback about his life and the fight for a better health.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: On the field, he was at his best under pressure, winning four Super Bowls. Now, the hall of fame quarterback Joe Montana still under pressure. He's battling the silent killer, high blood pressure. And he's still winning. Fifty-eight million Americans have the same problem, and I spoke with him about how you can battle right back. We should point out that Joe Montana represents Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. (BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: Joe Montana, thanks for joining us. Always great to speak with you.

But you've got a new campaign, "Take the Pressure Off." Our viewers are probably not familiar with it. Tell us what you're doing.

MONTANA: Well, we're out there trying to bring awareness to high blood pressure. It is one of the top afflictions in the U.S. -- 58 million Americans have it. And you know what? The thing about it is -- is which was really surprising, is that I fit into that category.

And most of us -- most of the people who have it don't even realize that they do. I found out purely by accident, by going in for a normal checkup, my yearly checkup. And I was a little bit concerned when my doctor sent me straight to the cardiologist and said, Please go there. Do not pass go and get over there. And I took it serious after I found I had a slight clogging in one of my arteries and found out that, you know, the real danger is that this is what they call the silent killer because there are no symptoms.

I felt great when I went in there. So I was as shocked as anyone to find out that here I was sitting there with high blood pressure.

(CROSSTALK)

BLITZER: I was going to say, the first thing, Joe, people have to do is get their blood pressure checked, which is a very, very simple test. But if they do have high blood pressure, there's things that people can do to deal with this silent killer.

MONTANA: Well, there definitely is. One of the things that take the pressure off, which the, better blood pressure control campaign is about, Dr. James Rippy (ph), a Harvard cardiologist, has put together a three pillar program and approach.

One is getting in to see your doctor and get -- and make sure that your blood pressure isn't high and if it is, get started on the right medications for you. That's what I did initially.

The other is that you can watch your diet and you can increase your physical activity and make sure you're getting enough exercise.

And one of the things that typically happen that people do is a lot of Americans who are on the medication still aren't controlled to the new norm of 120/180. And I wasn't in that category, and you find out that you actually -- I needed two medications. And a lot of people who have high blood pressure are going to need two medications to get down below there. I happen to be taking one called Lotrel, which has gotten me below the 120/80.

BLITZER: I just want to make sure because our viewers -- I don't want to mislead our viewers. As far as the pharmaceutical company, Lotrel, you're not on the payroll or anything like that of that company, right? MONTANA: Well, actually, I was taking -- I was actually taking the medication prior to them contacting me.

And actually it was a kind of a funny thing that happened between myself and my agent. And they were talking about something, joking around with me and asking if I new anyone. I said, Well I _- I'm all of the above. And they said, get out of here. We're talking -- we're looking for someone that can help. And I said -- you know what? I've been going to the doctor. I've been taking the medication, and here I am.

If they want to talk to me, I would love to talk about it, because it's something that -- my mother has high blood pressure. My grandfather passed away at age 54 from heart disease. My mother's two brothers, my uncles, have heart disease and have high blood pressure. So it's very prominent in my family and it's something that's a lot closer to me now. And you don't think about it. All the signs were there in front of me, or some of the signs, I should say, were there. And I was looking at them, but I didn't really want to see them until it actually hit me.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: And that was Joe Montana, of course, speaking about a very, very important subject, one that could affect everyone's health.

When we come back, a quick recap of last night's Emmys. The news media makes a brief appearance, including this reporter. And when I say brief, I mean brief.

Stay with us.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: In case you missed the Emmys last night, a special honor delivered by comedian Jon Stewart.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

JON STEWART, COMEDIAN: For too long the media has sacrificed its hard won integrity in favor of cheap entertainment value only to be unrewarded only to go unrewarded come Emmy night. Well not tonight, sister. Tonight we can congratulate television news on becoming us, mindless ratings whores. You're welcome.

Our first category honors news tuning technique. There are many ways to get viewers to watch the news, provide in-depth coverage, insight, context or you can use the technique of tonight's winner, cable news, fear and speculation.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

DARYN KAGAN, CNN ANCHOR: What is a dirty bomb?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

JOHN GIBSON, FOX NEWS HOST: How easy is it to make one?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

ALAN COLMES, FOX NEWS CO-HOST: How easy would it be to bring one into the country?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: How concerned are you and should we be about monkeypox at this point?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

BLITZER: Are others still out there?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GIBSON: Can you go out, for instance, and get a barrel of medical, radiological waste?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

HEIDI COLLINS, CNN ANCHOR: What is it? Where has it been and can you catch it?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GIBSON: And put a stick of dynamite and create a dirty bomb?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

KAGAN: What kind of implications would that have?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GIBSON: Do you know?

(END VIDEO CLIP) (BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

CHRIS JANSING, MSNBC ANCHOR: What can you tell us about Hispanic Muslims?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

STEWART: What can you tell us about Hispanic Muslims? Are they nocturnal?

(END VIDEOTAPE)

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Interview With Joe Montana>