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Hundreds Killed In Syria Massacre; U.N. Measure to Condemn Syria Fails; Police Believe Robber Could Be in Disguise; First Peek at Entrance Poll Results from Nevada Caucuses; Powerful Storm Slams Colorado; Former Louisiana Governor is Also a GOP Presidential Candidate.
Aired February 04, 2012 - 17:00 ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
DON LEMON, CNN ANCHOR: Hello everyone. Thank you for joining us. I'm Don Lemon. You're in the CNN newsroom.
We're going to begin with big developments surrounding Syria. More than 300 Syrians reported killed in the past two days. Opposition groups say hundreds more had been wounded. This YouTube video shows violence breaking out today at a funeral procession. Also today, a draft resolution condemning Syria failed to pass in the U.N. We'll going to break down what happened with the U.N. vote in just a moment.
But first, CNN's Mohammed Jamjoom on the latest round of bloodshed in Syria.
MOHAMMED JAMJOOM, CNN INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Utter carnage and horror. That's how residents and activists in the Syrian City of Holmes have describe what went on there starting late Friday and continuing during the overnight hours into Saturday. They say the Syrian government committed a massacre, that at least 260 people were killed in Holmes, over 130 of those killed in the Holmes neighborhood al-Khalidiya. One civilian activist identified as Danny told us of bodies in the streets. That those trying to help people were shot at, including ambulances. He said they were in dire need of assistance and of medical supplies.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
DANNY, SYRIAN PROTESTER: These aren't animals dying here. These are human beings. Being bombed by mortar bombs, being bomb by tank shells. And no one is doing anything about this. We are just going to sit here and get killed. That's one message I want to get out. That we are not going to stop. The Syrian people are not going to stop if they kill millions. That we will remember no one did anything about this.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
JAMJOOM: Later Saturday, opposition groups reported even more deaths, saying tens had been killed in different parts of Syria. Activists also reported a funeral procession that took place in the al-Khalidiya neighborhood of Holmes. This amateur video purportedly shows thousands gathered for that funeral procession. Visible are coffins on the ground. The Syrian government meanwhile denied the reports and blamed armed terrorist groups for violence in the country. Mohammed Jamjoom, CNN, Abu Dhabi.
LEMON: All right, Mohammed. Now to the U.N. vote on the Security Council tried to formally condemn Syria's government today. That didn't happen. Russia and China used their veto power to block it. American Ambassador Susan Rice saying, the U.S. is disgusted at the council is being held hostage by a couple of members. Richard Roth at the United Nations. Richard, listen, you spoke with Ambassador Rice after the vote. What else did she have to say?
RICHARD ROTH, SR. UNITED NATIONS CORRESPONDENT: Well, the ambassador is displeased. She wasn't as angry as she was during the meeting. She thinks the Russian ambassador was acting in good faith but she told me that so much more needs to be done to help the people of Syria to overcome now to overcome this double veto by China and Russia.
LEMON: What, if anything, Richard, would with a formal condemnation accomplish?
ROTH: Look, these resolutions are important. They are legally binding when approved and it would provide momentum for the protesters to know the international community was behind them. Also, it would send a message to President Assad that there is unity among the big powers even allies Russian, China. But they weren't willing. Moscow and Beijing to go along and they wanted the resolution watered down in the opinion of Western diplomats. And so, for now, U.N. action is dead in the water.
LEMON: Hey, Richard. I want to listen now to what the ambassador had to say, how she had to explain this and then you and I will talk about it.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
SUSAN RICE, U.S. AMBASSADOR TO U.N.: At the 11th hour, Russia tried to introduce amendments that would have gutted the text. They were unacceptable to the other members of the council. The one silver lining in this is that 13 members of this council supported the resolution, made strong statements in its favor. Countries that had originally not supported the resolution last time changed their position and voted in favor.
ROTH: South Africa, countries such as that. Take us into the back rooms, if you can. Do you feel Russia was stalling all along? They were presenting more consolatory front. They were working together, sleeves are being rolled up, do you feel they ever intended to either abstain or vote yes?
RICE: I can't speak for Russia, Richard. I think our colleague Ambassador Churkin was negotiating in good faith. But I also think that at the end of the day, the decisions were made in Moscow. And Moscow decided that it would rather stand with Assad against the people of Syria than do the right thing.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
LEMON: And Richard, Ambassador Rice had some very strong words there and the President's statement today also very strong, as well.
ROTH: Yes. The President of United States issued a call for the council to act. But this isn't the first time a U.S. president was ignored. Russia is certainly flexing a more aggressive posture on the international stage. Some diplomats here said it's just about Syria. The British diplomat. The British ambassador was very upset called it a sad day for the Security Council and a tragic day for the people of Syria. Russia and China think the resolution was unbalanced. It wasn't needed. Afterwards, Russian Ambassador Churkin explained to reporters a little bit about why they vetoed.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
VITALY CHURKIN, RUSSIAN AMBASSADOR TO U.N.: I would certainly agree that tragic events are happening in Syria. Tragic events are happening in Syria. But Security Council, well, what happened, happened. Let us hope that working through other diplomatic tools we have, I mean, the Security Council is not the only diplomatic tool on this planet.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
ROTH: Yes. President Obama's comments on the vote and before the vote. But he is unable to get his wishes here. President Obama is saying any government that brutalizes and massacres its people does not deserve to govern. Look, the French Don are going to try their own group to get some momentum going to maneuver around Russia and China. But President Assad got a very strong signal that the U.N. was not going to try to touch him or his troops, at least today in New York.
LEMON: Richard Roth, United Nations, thank you, sir. I appreciate your reporting.
Let's move on now and talk about the clashes in the nation's capital this afternoon between police and occupied D.C. demonstrators.
U.S. park services officers showed up in riot gear to enforce a no camping ban that had been upheld by a federal judge earlier this week. Six people were arrested, although park police said most of the demonstrators cooperated. Officers in yellow hazmat suits moved in to tear down tents. And protestors had been told Monday that sleeping bags, cooking utensils and other housekeeping items had to go. The hazmat suits were a sign of concern over unsanitary conditions.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
DAVID SCHLOSSER, U.S. PARKS SERVICE SPOKESMAN: In some of the tents we found urine-soaked bedding materials, bottles of urine. Some of the country found some dead rats and we've also found some live rats with some rat families.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
LEMON: And police say the park will reopen to the public after an inspection is completed. Want to get you up to speed right now on the republican caucuses going on in Nevada. Caucus goers around the state got things started with the chance to speak on their favorite candidates behalf. Here's a precinct in Las Vegas.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
UNIDENTIFIED WOMAN: So, if you want to lower your taxes effectively across the board, not only in the formal taxation but the hidden fees, vote for Ron Paul. Thank you.
(APPLAUSE)
(END VIDEO CLIP)
LEMON: All right. An applause there. First results will start to come in soon. And our team of correspondents are out in force including Jim Acosta at Mitt Romney's Las Vegas headquarters. I mean, he's been planted there all week. And Brianna Keilar also in Las Vegas at Newt Gingrich's headquarters. He's been covering all week as well. Jim, I'm going to start with you. How confident is the Mitt Romney campaign right now? They are looking good at least when it comes to poll numbers.
JIM ACOSTA, CNN CORRESPONDENT: That's right, Don. Mitt Romney is feeling very confident about tonight. He'll be watching the returns coming in at a casino here in Las Vegas with his family. But just to consider where Mitt Romney is right now. He is not in Nevada. He's in Colorado Springs working ahead towards that caucus battle that is coming up on Tuesday. And that essentially where his campaign has been doing all day long today. Really talking about these upcoming caucuses in Colorado, in Minnesota. The campaign is already touting the endorsement that Romney picked up earlier today from "The Denver Post."
He's got surrogates up in Maine which had its caucuses starting today. The results won't come out until a week from now. And so, really, you know, this is not a race for first place here in Nevada, it's really a race for second place between Newt Gingrich and Ron Paul. And Mitt Romney will get some very good news tonight if Ron Paul somehow beats Newt Gingrich in this state, Don. Because that will go once again to this air of inevitability for Mitt Romney. Ron Paul is not really seen as a viable threat to Mitt Romney for this GOP nomination, but Newt Gingrich is. And if Ron Paul can somehow come out ahead of Newt Gingrich, that is good news for Mitt Romney -- Don.
LEMON: All right. Man, Jim, that is a beautiful shot behind you. Las Vegas, Strip, it's looks like.
All right. So, we are going to move off to Jim real quick and we're going to go to Brianna Keilar standing by for us at Newt Gingrich's headquarters. Brianna, what are the expectations for tonight? You heard what Jim said. This is a race for second place. Have they really, you know, resigned to the fact that it's going to be second place, hopefully not third? BRIANNA KEILAR, CNN WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENT: Yes. And that is exactly it. They are hoping for second place, Don. That is really the hope. If you look at Newt Gingrich's public schedule today, there is nothing on it until he talks to the media later tonight. And at that point, caucus goers here in Nevada will have already said their peace. He had a couple of campaign events yesterday, but it's just really conspicuous that he doesn't really have anything going on today. He is trailing Romney by double digits in the polls. And also, he does, if you look at the polls have a sizable lead over Ron Paul. But the issue here is that the polls don't always say what's going on when it comes to Ron Paul. His supporters tend to be very enthusiastic. And so, I think right now the Gingrich campaign best- case scenario for them, is they come in second and hopefully they can point to a strong showing, showing some strong support by more conservative Republicans. By voters who identify themselves with the Tea Party. And this is something that certainly the Gingrich campaign is expecting more so than the Romney campaign -- Don.
LEMON: All right. We'll going to be watching very closely as you said a battle for second place. Ron Paul, Newt Gingrich duking it out. Hey, you heard Jim Acosta say that Mitt Romney was in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Let's take a live picture. Now, he's just taken the stage there. And you can see him with John Thune there. A supporter obviously. So, Mitt Romney taking the stage. Colorado Springs, Colorado. Of course, Nevada caucuses tonight, but Mitt Romney not in the state. So, he's very confident that he's going to come out on top. He has a quite hefty sizeable comfortable double- digit lead over Newt Gingrich and the rest of the PAC. But call the sense on what happens when people actually cast their votes in these caucuses. We'll be watching that. Our coverage on the Nevada caucuses. Just getting started here on CNN. And our next half hour, Mr. Wolf Blitzer and Mr. John King join us to analyze the exit polls which will give us an indication of who had a good day in Nevada. Make sure you stay tuned.
And you will want to keep it here for a special edition of "The Situation Room" with Wolf Blitzer at 6:00 p.m. Eastern followed by CNN's complete coverage, live coverage of the battle results starting at 7 p.m. with Wolf, Erin Burnett, Soledad O'Brien, Candy Crowley, John King and me as well and many others here on CNN.
What issues are most important to Nevadans as they vote in today's caucuses? Well, we are asking a man with his finger on the pulse of Nevada voters. Two minutes away.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
LEMON: All right. Welcome back, everyone. Let's get an insider's look at the Nevada caucuses from John Ralston, he is a long time columnist and a writer based in Las Vegas. Hey, John, good to see you. Before I start asking you about the polls and everything, let's put up Mitt Romney now. Colorado Springs, Colorado. There he is taking to the stage obviously a lot of supporters there. He's in campaign mode, his Mitt Romney mode. He could be heading John towards a victory tonight. That's what the polls are showing. At least, he's also been outspoken about letting the foreclosure crisis play itself out. And Nevada has taken the brunt of the housing meltdown. When you look at all the people who are under water there and how the housing prices have dropped. How is he holding on to that support having made these statements?
JON RALSTON, COLUMNIST, LAS VEGAS SUN: Well, I think that is much more of a general election issue for him. Although, there are a lot of Republicans and independents who are under water on their homes here. I mean, it's overwhelming majority of Nevadans have problems with their mortgages. And so, that is going to cause him but those comments have not been put in 30-second ads yet as they will be by the Obama campaign team and the Democrats come the fall. So, it hasn't really percolated yet to the point where it's going to hurt him in something like a low turnout caucus with inveterate republican voters.
LEMON: Is this a state Jon where Romney's Mormonism is a good thing? It helped him, you know, a lot there four years ago.
RALSTON: Yes. The Mormon vote is somewhat exaggerated. The Mormons are only seven percent of the population. But they vote in disproportion, a numbers to that population. Maybe a quarter of the electorate was Mormon in the republican caucus in '08. It will probably be about the same this time. So, that is a nice base to start from. But Romney will probably begin to get over 55 percent of the vote. So, it's much more than the Mormon vote that is going to cause him to win here. He had the organization, the money and nobody else was able to compete with that.
LEMON: Yes. Is that going to be a big factor really as they say, is the economy, stupid? And we know, it's really been a triple whammy when it comes to Nevada. When you look at the unemployment rate, you look at the foreclosure rate, you look at housing, you look at tourism. It's been more than a double, triple whammy, it's been a whammy all the way around for that state.
RALSTON: Yes. We may have the worst economy in the country. We have the highest unemployment, the worst foreclosure crisis. We are essentially an economy built on what you see behind all around me here which is gaming. And gaming has not done well. The other major component of the economy was construction. And of course, that's dried up. No one is building anything, anymore. So, this state is really, really hurting. And I think the comments that you alluded to that Romney made and the economy and the fact that the Democrats here are more organized than the Republicans, that gives them hope that they can win Nevada in 2012.
LEMON: Can we talk about ads, Jon? And then, I want to get into the Super PACs. They spent a heck of a lot of money on ads in South Carolina, heck of a lot of money on ads in Florida and so on and so forth. They are spending money somewhat, some of the candidates in Nevada, but not as much. Have you seen because you've been watching and covering, as many negative ads, have you seen a lot of them in Nevada from all of the candidates?
RALSTON: Not that much this time. Remember, Nevada moved itself back from third in the country to fifth. And we are only four days here essentially after Florida. And so, there hasn't been that much time to campaign. Only two candidates has spent money on TV. Romney, who spent a lot of money as has his Super PAC and Ron Paul. Ron Paul has spent some money here. And they are probably going to finish one-two here. Newt Gingrich has spent nothing. Absolutely nothing. And his Super PAC which ironically is essentially funded by a guy who built some of the places behind me, The Venetian and The Palazzo show that Adelson (ph) has not spent any money here in Nevada. And of course, Santorum only made a token appearance here. Romney's money is what is winning this for him. It's not the Mormon vote. It's money which begets organization grassroots.
LEMON: Yes. That's my question, when I asked. How much is that going to play, probably not much. But it's certainly is interesting to see that they are not spending that much money and their Super PACs as well on ads there. And it's a battleground stake. Jon, good perspective. We appreciate you joining us. So, stick around, I'm sure we'll be counting on you throughout the election year.
Tonight, it's Nevada's turn as you've been hearing to join the heated contest to decide the republican presidential nominee. Our coverage is going to begin at the top of the hour with the special -- as a matter of fact, our coverage begins now. Because that's what we're doing it. We will have a special edition in "THE SITUATION ROOM" with Wolf Blitzer at the top of the hour followed by our extensive live coverage of the Nevada results and the candidate reaction continuing throughout the evening here on CNN. So, keep it live. We're starting our coverage now. But it's going to go until it's over. Until we say it's over tonight and early in the wee hours.
But up next here on CNN, why is the FBI calling this man the geezer bandit? He's been robbing banks in Southern California. We'll explain in just two minutes.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
LEMON: Trust me, you want to watch this next story. A gun-wielding grandpa who's robbed more than a dozen banks in Southern California, still on the run. But as CNN's Kareen Wynter tells us, he may be a lot younger than police think.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
UNIDENTIFIED MAN: This is a stick-up.
KAREEN WYNTER, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Old men robbing banks looks comical in "Going in Style."
UNIDENTIFIED MAN: You've got to be kidding.
WYNTER: But the FBI says, this seemingly elderly serial bank robber dubbed the geezer bandit is no joke.
DARRELL FOXWORTH, FBI: This isn't funny. This guy is going out there and he's victimized people, threatening that he is going to shoot these tellers if they don't give him money.
WYNTER: On wanted posters, the geezer bandit is described as 60 to 70 years old. He's hit 16 banks in California so far making off with tens of thousands of dollars over the past two-and-a-half years. The FBI says, he's been hard to nab because of his nonthreatening look and his discreet manner of putting bank tellers at gun point so he escapes before too many witnesses know what happened. These are the type of takeover robberies you see in the movies like Point Breaks, Thieving, Ex-Presidents.
Or the town's elderly gun-toting nuns, but there may be one thing in common. The geezer bandit too may be a masked man. Watch this surveillance tape closely as he flees the bank two months ago.
FOXWORTH: It doesn't appear to be consistent with someone who is 60 or 70 years old moving at that pace.
WYNTER (on-camera): Clues have led law enforcement authorities here to this business. On the outskirts of Hollywood, could this be the fact of the geezer bandit? Yes. That's Rusty Slusser, the man behind this mask.
(voice-over) Slusser creates these form-fitting silicone masks.
RUSTY SLUSSER, SILICONE MASKS ARTIST: The idea is to make this thing look absolutely real.
WYNTER: That he sells around the world for $600 and up.
(on camera) You can see how someone could say, wow, this is so life- like, maybe I can fool someone.
SLUSSER: Well, like I said, that was the idea originally.
WYNTER (voice-over): Slusser says, he cooperated when law enforcement agencies contacted him about the geezer bandit and asked about any buyers of this specific type of mask. When Slusser puts it on, it transforms him. The same style was used by a young Asian man who snuck onboard a flight to Canada to seek refugee status. This one was worn during a bank heist in Ohio. And the robber was actually white. And this mask dubbed the handsome guy was a disguise in a series of brazen Texas bank robberies last year. But the mask maker says, he is tired of seeing his creations on surveillance video and prefers to see them on the big screen like in the movie "Drive."
SLUSSER: These are not meant to commit crimes. These are meant for novelty use only. And people have fun, fool their friends.
WYNTER (on camera): One thing to do pranks, another thing to rob banks. So, if this person is actually out there committing these crimes with your mask, what do you say to them?
SLUSSER: I say, please do not use our masks to commit crimes.
WYNTER (voice-over): The FBI is offering a $20,000 reward for anyone who can help them unmask the geezer bandit. Kareen Wynter, CNN, Los Angeles.
(END VIDEOTAPE) LEMON: Wow. The caucuses still going on in Nevada. But we are already getting an indication of how people are voting. CNN's Wolf Blitzer, John King, they're in the CNN election center. There it is. They're all getting ready. They are taking a look at the entrance poll numbers this year in seven minutes, so make sure you join us and stay tuned. But first we have this for you.
Do you like your parents or in-laws enough to have them move in permanently? Spurred by the recent recession, rising health care cost, unemployment and foreclosure, multi-generation households are making a comeback. And today's Smart is a New Rich, CNN's Christine Romans reports the move is actually helping boost housing construction.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
CHRISTINE ROMANS, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Meet the Loefflers.
TOM LOEFFLER, LIVES IN MULTI-GENERATIONAL HOUSEHOLD: I'm dad.
SHARON LOEFFLER, LIVES IN MULTI-GENERATIONAL HOUSEHOLD: I'm the mom.
NATT LOEFFLER, LIVES IN MULTI-GENERATIONAL HOUSEHOLD: I am the son.
UNIDENTIFIED GREAT GRANDMOTHER: I am the mother and great grandmother.
ROMANS: Three generations plus one dog living under one roof. Make that four generations when granddaughter Ella visits.
UNIDENTIFIED GREAT GRANDMOTHER: I really value family. It means a lot to me to have everybody together a lot.
ROMANS (on camera): For the first time in decades, more generations are moving in together reversing a trend that's been in place since World War II. It's about culture, it's about convenience, it's about money.
(voice-over) The trend has grown 30 percent over the past decade fueled by immigration, people living longer and more recently job losses and foreclosures.
DON DYRNESS, SPECTRUM CONSTRUCTION: We have a couple of bedrooms upstairs.
ROMANS: New Jersey builder Don Dyrness renovates single-family homes to accommodate more than one generation.
(on camera) When you look at what's been happening in the housing market, you can see that this is an area in housing that is showing growth, no question. Are you seeing that in your business?
DYRNESS: Absolutely. We've been doing multi-gen houses for 20 something years. The spotty, one in years, two in years, zero. And then in 2009 it's grown to three to five projects per year.
ROMANS (voice-over): One of those projects, building an addition for the Loeffler.
SHARON LOEFFLER: This is the kitchen.
UNIDENTIFIED GREAT GRANDMOTHER: I could have never lived by myself. I could have never afforded it.
SHARON LOEFFLER: For her it was definitely economic. But for us, I think it was peace of mind having her here.
ROMANS: Peace of mind also meant a new social dynamic to keep the peace.
SHARON LOEFFLER: Mom is sensitive to our family dynamics, too.
TOM LOEFFLER: It was important for us to keep the flat feet her room separate. I mean, she is an integrative part of the house. But, you know, she could make it separate. And she has a separate entrance to the back deck. Hopefully, she feels like, hey, it is separate. I think those are the important things.
ROMANS: But change comes with unexpected perks, too.
NATT LOEFFLER: Every couple of days I bring my laundry down, drop it off. And when I come home from work it's all pressed and good to go.
ROMANS: Christine Romans, Secosana (ph), New Jersey.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
LEMON: Bottom of the hour. Want to get you caught up on the headlines.
Opposition groups say more than 300 Syrians had been killed in the past two days. Hundreds more reportedly wounded. This YouTube video shows violence breaking out today at a funeral procession.
Also today, a draft resolution formally condemning the Syrian regime for the violence failed to pass at the U.N. China and Russia used their veto power to block it.
Clashes in the nation's capital this afternoon between police and Occupy D.C. demonstrators. Park Service officers showed up in riot gear to enforce a no-camping ban upheld by a federal judge earlier this week. Six people were arrested. Officers in yellow hazmat suits moved in to tear down tents. The suits, a sign of concern over unsanitary conditions in the park.
Officials in Le Roy, New York, say a local school in is safe despite a cluster of children developing tic-like symptoms. A community meeting turned ugly today when parents accused school officials of failing to do their jobs. Doctors diagnosed most of the children as suffering from conversion disorder, a condition induced by stress. Some parents suspect the problem is linked to a train derailment 42 years ago that spilled toxic chemical as few miles from the school. Extensive testing has shown no environmental link.
Police in Maine are investigating after two windows were smashed at the home of missing toddler, Ayla Reynolds. Detectives believe the windows were broken with a baseball bat. The 20-month-old has been missing from her home for seven weeks now. Police found traces of her blood in a basement her father was using as a bedroom.
We've got it all covered for you. The Nevada Republican caucuses will wrap up soon. They've been going on all day across the state. We'll start getting results in a little bit. But already, we are getting our first peek at entrance poll numbers for you.
Let's turn to CNN's Wolf Blitzer.
Wolf, thank you for joining us. The studio looks great. Everybody is ready. Let's talk about the issues on the mind of caucus goers in Nevada.
WOLF BLITZER, HOST, THE SITUATION ROOM: It's a funny thing you mentioned that because we are beginning to get a sense of precisely the most important issue voters in Nevada are considering, Republicans specifically.
Let's go to John King, at the entrance polling center.
These are entrance poll results as opposed to exit poll results because?
JOHN KING, CNN CHIEF NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Important distinction. Remember the Iowa caucuses. These are caucuses, not a primary. We surveyed people on the way in. Some say it's a little less reliable because you're polling people on the way into the site, not on a normal Election Day, we do the survey on the way out, after they have voted. Some say it's a little less reliable because we're polling people on the way in. They could change their mind. But history has proven these to be consistent and very worthwhile.
Wolf, no surprise. The number-one issue for Republicans caucusing in Nevada, 12.6 percent unemployment in the state. It's been above 14 percent.
(CROSSTALK)
BLITZER: The highest in the nation.
KING: The highest by state in the country right now, 12.6 percent. It's been over 14 percent. The foreclosure issue, the housing crisis in Nevada. The economy is issue number one. Shouldn't be a surprise among conservatives. We've seen this in many states, these Republican caucuses and primaries so far, the budget deficit consistently ranking second. The economy has been number one in every state. Lesser issues, abortion and illegal immigration, much smaller issues. The economy dominating the discussion.
Let's look at this. What is the most candidate quality? When people show up to caucus today, this number is almost exactly the same. People say Nevada is different than Florida. You look at the demographics, the size of the state. In Florida it was 45 percent. By far, the number-one thing on the mind of Republican caucus-goers in Nevada is winning in the fall. Like Florida, it will be a key swing state. George W. Bush carried it once. Barack Obama carried it last time. Nevada, a key swing state. These Republicans are thinking ahead to November, Wolf, to defeat Obama. A true conservative, 17 percent said that was the most important candidate quality. Strong moral character, 20 percent. 16 percent said the right experience. Look at this. Obviously, overwhelmingly, can beat --
BLITZER: They want to win in November.
KING: They want to win in November. They know their state matters.
This is the one thing about Nevada that is different. 26 percent of the electorate today are members of the Church of Latter Day Saints. They are Mormons. 27 percent are Protestants. This is the highest number we've seen. Tiny percentage of Mormons in other states. Mitt Romney, the former Massachusetts governor, is a member of the LDS church. Harry Reid, the Senate Majority Leader, who is from Nevada, is a matter of LDS Church. One in four voters are Mormons in Nevada today. This is the beginning of what we are seeing on the way in. A lot more to show you as the night unfolds.
BLITZER: We are just beginning get these numbers.
Don, I want to point out, we're going to be here for hours dissecting these numbers. Soon, around 8:00 p.m. eastern, we'll be getting official numbers coming in from throughout the state. All the caucuses won't close until 10:00 p.m. eastern. We've got a lot of information coming. We'll get the initial official voting results in the next hour at 6:00 p.m. eastern time.
LEMON: I'll be up there joining you. I was up there earlier and tried to touch John King's magic wall, go play with it. I almost got tackled. He's very possessive.
BLITZER: Yes, he is. He loves touching that wall. He won't let anybody else touch it.
(LAUGHTER)
He's the only one. He's touching it right now, Don. Take a look. He loves touching that wall.
(LAUGHTER)
KING: Anytime, Don, come on up. Come on up, Don. I'll give you a tutorial.
(LAUGHTER)
LEMON: I'll see you, under 30 minutes there.
Thank you, guys. Check in with you soon. Which Republican presidential candidate will Nevada choose? You heard Wolf Blitzer say we're going to be covering it all night. Keep it here for a special edition of "The Situation Room" with Wolf Blitzer in the next hour, followed by CNN's complete live coverage of the caucus results, 7:00 eastern, John King as well. Soledad O'Brien joining us as well.
The most powerful winter storm of the season slams Colorado. Where will the snow hit next? Here is a hint. It's heading east. Get your shovels ready everybody.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
LEMON: Extreme weather in our nation's tonight.
Jacqui Jeras, it's not an exaggeration to say extreme, is it?
JACQUI JERAS, AMS METEOROLOGIST: No, not at all, Don. The snow, flooding, we have all of it. We have incredible pictures out of this one storm causing everything.
This out of Colorado. This is in Blackhawk County. They had as much as 40 inches of snow in about three days. It came fast. It came furious. It brought a whole lot of snow. You've been waiting all winter for that. The system has been on the move. Nebraska getting hit hard today. You can see video of treacherous conditions along the interstate there. Lincoln, Nebraska, had more than a foot of snow. A mail carrier tweeted me to tell me today was the first day that he can remember they did not deliver the mail.
Let's move on to Texas now. That's where the rain has been coming down so heavy. This is Burleson County. Between five and seven inches fell in a short period of time, flooding out roadways. We still have dozens of roads still closed at this hour. The system on the move and still causing problems. We'll get the map and show where the heavy snow has been falling. It's moving across parts of Iowa at this hour. There you can see it behind me. Expecting to see a good four to eight inches for you in the Des Moines area. On the southern tier, we have heavy rainfall, showers and thunderstorms. Some on the strong side moving through New Orleans right now, heading towards Birmingham. Nothing really severe expected though. This system will still impact in the southeast for tomorrow.
The rest of the nation, Don, sunny and nice, a calmer week ahead. Thank goodness.
(LAUGHTER)
LEMON: Thank goodness.
Thank you, Jacqui Jeras. We'll see you in a little bit latter on CNN.
You know about Romney, Gingrich, Santorum and Paul -- I almost gave it away -- but there is another Republican running for president. Who is he? Take a look. There he is. Still don't know him? We'll tell you who he is after the break. I almost gave it away. I almost gave it away.
But first, we have this for you.
(LAUGHTER)
A new year brings a new group of "CNN Heroes." And starting next week, we will begin introducing you to the class of 2012. But first, let's take a look back at Robin Lim, whose dedication to the safety of women and their babies has earned her the nickname Mother Robin. She was your choice for the 2011 CNN Hero of the Year.
(CNN HERO)
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LEMON: Nevada Republican caucuses will be finished just hours from now. All eyes on the four main GOP contenders, right? What you may not know is there are other candidates in the running.
Former Louisiana Governor Charles "Buddy" Roemer joins me now from my home town of Baton Rouge.
I've been wanting to get you on forever. Finally, the schedules and the stars have lined up, Governor, so thank you for coming on.
You've been out of public office for some time. I remember when you said you were going to run for president. My mom sent me a text saying Buddy Roemer is going to run. Get him on. Why did you decide to come back?
CHARLES "BUDDY" ROEMER, (R), FORMER LOUISIANA GOVERNOR: I thought that the -- let me put it this way. I don't think Washington's broken. I think it's bought. I saw it in Louisiana, when a system becomes corrupt, Don, and decent people get treated like dirt. I see that in Washington. You've got to have a big check to get Congress' attention. They only care about re-election and they spend 70 percent of their time fundraising. It's not right. We need tax reform, budget reform, immigration reform, trade reform, banking reform, health care reform, but it won't happen when the big boys own the system.
(CROSSTALK)
ROEMER: I run with $100 limit, no PACs, no super PACs. I'm different.
LEMON: Some people say that's OK, they respect you for that. That's great. That's honorable. Let's be honest, Governor. Look at the position you're in. Everyone is paying attention to Mitt Romney. Lots of money. Newt Gingrich, doesn't have as much. You said you put a $100 limit. And here you are, you're not even showing up in the polls.
ROEMER: That -- it's a good question, Don. It doesn't dissuade me. The money defeats them, even when they get elected. I remember Obama got elected with hope and change. What happened? There's been no change. He signed bank reform, went to Wall Street, had a fundraiser, $35,000 a ticket, hosted by Goldman Sachs. This is what's wrong with the system. America can do better than this. We had an employment report out yesterday that was the best we've had in eight months. I was real pleased with that. Under Obama's leadership, we've had two better reports a year ago. Yet, there's been no follow-up. Tax reform is needed. No follow-up. You know why? The big money owns it.
I'll give you one number.
LEMON: OK.
ROEMER: There was more money given in Washington, D.C. four years ago by the lobbyists and the PACs to McCain and Obama than 32 states combined. Who owns Washington? The lobbyists or the people? We need to ask that question, Don.
LEMON: Governor, the same points you're making now, yesterday, I had Jack Abramoff on the program. He is a convicted lobbyist. He's making the same points that you're making.
ROEMER: Yes.
LEMON: You're talking about the jobs report and the Obama administration. But the economist, even yesterday, said there is -- the jobs report that came out yesterday, there's nothing bad that you can say about that jobs report.
ROEMER: And I wouldn't.
LEMON: 240,000 jobs added to the economy in January, added to the job market in January.
ROEMER: It is good.
LEMON: Yes.
ROEMER: It was -- Don, don't misunderstood me. It's good. But you'd have to go six consecutive years with that same report every month to put America back to work. What are we waiting on?
(CROSSTALK)
LEMON: I don't want to cut you off.
(CROSSTALK)
LEMON: Look, we're out of time. I understand the point you're making.
(CROSSTALK)
LEMON: Listen, your candidacy, is it more about trying to make a point? Because obviously the reality is that you're not going to be the next president of the United States, or you're not going to be -- (CROSSTALK)
ROEMER: You don't know that. No, you can't say that, Don. The only thing I haven't been on is a national debate. CNN has one coming up in Arizona. I'm going to be in Arizona. Why don't you give a man that has matching funds, the only candidate in the race whose has been a congressman and a governor, give him a chance to show --
(CROSSTALK)
LEMON: The only reason I'm stopping you is not because of what you're talking about. It's because we're out of time. What you're talking about is way above my pay grade.
ROEMER: I know.
LEMON: And there are other metrics that go into it --
(LAUGHTER)
-- that I know nothing about and it has nothing to do with me.
But I appreciate you coming on the show. You're a good sport. Best of luck to you, Governor Buddy Roemer, OK?
ROEMER: Baton Rouge, man, Baton Rouge.
LEMON: OK. Say hi to my mom when you see her.
All right --
ROEMER: Thank you.
LEMON: -- you know about the big battle on the football field tomorrow in Indianapolis. But for one New York Giant, that's going to be easy. It was a battle against cancer that was his biggest challenge. Dr. Sanjay Gupta has the story just two minutes away.
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(HUMAN FACTOR)
LEMON: Doctor, thank you very much.
Your top stories are next, including a tribute to the man who brought a little soul into our homes for decades -- Don Cornelius.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
LEMON: Let's check our top stories.
Police and Occupiers went head to head during a raid. Park Service officers showed up in riot gear to enforce a no-camping ban that had been upheld by a federal judge earlier this week. Six people were arrested. Officers in yellow hazmat suits moved in to tear down tents. Those suits that you see are a sign over unsanitary conditions in the park.
Iran is flexing its military muscles again with a series of war games in the south. An Iranian commander says the airborne drills are aimed at maintaining and improving the combat preparedness of ground forces. It follows similar drills by the Revolutionary Guard in January and naval exercises in the Persian Gulf last year.
Friends and colleagues paid tribute to Don Cornelius in Harlem today. The legendary deep-voiced host of "Soul Train" died Wednesday of a self-inflected gunshot wound to the head. Reverend Al Sharpton hosted the event. Key singer, Roberta Flack and others honored Cornelius for changing music in American. Make sure you join us tomorrow night, 6:00 p.m. eastern on CNN. Jody Watley, one of the originals on "Soul Train," singer and dancer, is going to join us here on CNN to pay tribute to Don Cornelius.
I'm Don Lemon at the CNN headquarters here in Atlanta. See you back here, 11:00 p.m., for a special edition of the CNN NEWSROOM.
The Nevada caucus coverage begins right now with Wolf Blitzer.
