Return to Transcripts main page

CNN Newsroom

Maine Caucus Results to be Released Tonight; CPAC to Announce Endorsement in GOP Race

Aired February 11, 2012 - 16:00   ET

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

FREDRICKA WHITFIELD, CNN ANCHOR: All right. This is a big day for the Republicans running for president. One of the most influential conservative groups in the country is about to announce results of its straw poll. CNN's Dana Bash will be joining us live from the CPAC conference in a moment.

Also today, in Maine, Republican voters are finishing their caucuses. Both Mitt Romney and Ron Paul are campaigning in the state today trying to break their string of losses. CNN's live coverage of the Maine caucuses beginning tonight at 5:30 Eastern time. Wolf Blitzer in "The Situation Room."

All right. Overseas now. The besieged Syrian town of Homs endures a seventh straight day of bombardment there. Opposition activists say hundreds of people have been killed there in the past week. The death toll across Syria today climbed to at least 30.

The U.S. conference of Catholic bishops issued a statement on President Obama's compromise over contraception funding. It says the plan raises serious moral concerns. The government's new health policy originally wanted hospitals and schools with religious ties to offer full coverage for contraceptives. But after days of opposition from the Catholic Church, the White House dropped that requirement leaving insurers to pick up the tab.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

BARACK OBAMA, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: Today we reached a decision on how to move forward. Under the rule, women will still have access to free preventive care that includes contraceptive services, no matter where they work. That core principle remains.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WHITFIELD: There will be a one year transition period for religious organizations after the policy formally takes effect August 1st.

The CIA Web site is back online after hackers brought it down. The group Anonymous is claiming responsibility for the attack. Hackers also hit Web sites run by the state of Alabama and the Mexican mining industry. Both the CIA and Alabama government officials say they are working to find those responsible for the cyber attacks.

In Atlanta, a rally today near the site of a vicious beating. Three men could be seen shouting anti-gay slurs, punching and kicking 20- year-old Brandon White. They could be seen on surveillance video that week. That video was then circulated online. And one of the three suspects has been arrested. Eighteen-year-old Christopher Cain is charged with aggravated assault and robbery.

An American war ship is named after former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. The Navy very rarely names a ship after a living person. Giffords resigned from Congress last month and is recovering from a gunshot wound. The Navy secretary says the name Gabrielle Giffords is synonymous with courage.

The conservative group known as CPAC is going to announce the results of its new straw poll today. The Conservative Political Action Committee annual conference is one of the most important events on the conservative calendar. And the candidates appeared pushing their conservative credentials.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

RICK SANTORUM (R), PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE: This is the most important election in your lifetime. It's an election about what kind of country you're going to leave to the next generation. Are we going to be a country that believes as our founders did, that our rights don't come from the government. They come from a much higher authority.

MITT ROMNEY (R), PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE: This election really is about a battle for the soul of America. And it's going to come down to a choice, a choice whether we want our nation to be of and by Washington or a nation of and by a free people. And we conservatives believe in freedom and free people and free enterprises.

NEWT GINGRICH (R), PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE: All of you've seen the Washington establishment and the Wall Street establishment pile on top of me. All of you've seen them say things that were just profoundly false. And there is a good reason they're doing it. This campaign is a mortal threat to their grip on the establishment because we intend to change Washington, not accommodate it.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WHITFIELD: All right. Let's bring in CNN's Dana Bash who joins us live from the CPAC conference in Washington now. So Dana, what's taking place?

DANA BASH, CNN SENIOR CONGRESSIONAL CORRESPONDENT: What's taking place very shortly is the grand finale of this nearly three-day conference. And that is going to be Sarah Palin, Fred. She is going to speak. She is the closing speaker. Right behind me, we're going to hear her probably in about 15 minutes. She actually - our own Peter Hamby caught up with her actually as she was coming into the building here.

She was - maybe give a little bit of a preview of what she's going to say. She said that she believes that Mitt Romney has to do a better job explaining his conservative record. She said that she is very concerned that because he hasn't done that, if he is the nominee, it will push down voter turnout, and that's obviously the last thing Republicans want.

She also said that she was concerned that Mitt Romney just yesterday when he spoke here said that he was severely conservative. That raised a lot of eyebrows here at this conservative conference because it's not typically the language a genuinely conservative person uses, that's what many people said. She also said that she is not concerned if there is a brokered convention in Tampa this summer. Because she thinks that's good for the party. Going against the grain to what many other people believe.

This has been a very interesting conference, Fredricka. Because it seems to really mirror what we are seeing in public opinion polls and even throughout the country with these contests as they've been going on. And that is certainly, they're looking for a conservative nominee. They are looking for somebody that they can get excited about. But just anecdotally walking through the crowds here, there are a lot of people who say that they maybe will go for one candidate or another, but not a lot of excitement about any one in particular.

WHITFIELD: All right. Dana Bash, thanks so much from Washington. And of course, you'll be keeping us posted on the straw poll results as they come in, as well.

All right. Now to Maine for the Republican caucusing. Mitt Romney toured Maine this morning shaking hands and talking face-to-face on decision day in Maine. This is the first time Romney has visited a caucus site on a voting day. Well tonight Maine will announce its winner. Both Romney and Ron Paul are in Maine today hoping to break their losing streaks.

CNN's Mary Snow joining us live now from Portland, Maine. So Mary, with both Romney and Paul on the ground in Maine, many are calling this is kind of a two-man race there. Is that the case?

MARY SNOW, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Yes, it really is, Fredericka. Because Rick Santorum and Newt Gingrich are not actively competing here. Now only 21 delegates are at stake here in Maine. But it's getting a lot of attention because Ron Paul has a chance of winning his first contest. He's the only Republican candidate in this cycle who hasn't yet won a contest.

Also for Mitt Romney, this comes on the heels of three losses earlier this week. If he does not win here tonight, it would be a fourth. This is not a headline that he wants to have. Because after this caucus, there is a 17-day lull until the next contest. So that is kind of the situation ahead of these results tonight.

WHITFIELD: And what about Ron Paul? How confident is he feeling? Even though the pressure is on and he feels like he's got to win at least one contest?

SNOW: Yes, you know, this morning he said he feels he has a good chance. He has campaigned here more than Mitt Romney. He appeals to people with libertarian streaks, to younger voters. Also he has a better ground game. He is more organized in the state. But Governor Romney comes from neighboring Massachusetts. He has ties to state law makers here. A sign that Mitt Romney is not taking anything for granted, he added two stops this morning visiting caucus site. Those were not on his schedule as of yesterday. So he's certainly not taking this for granted. Also his campaign is kind of dialing back expectations about tonight, noting that Ron Paul has spent more time and resources in Maine.

WHITFIELD: All right. Mary Snow, thanks so much from Portland, Maine. Keep us posted.

Of course, CNN will have live coverage of the Maine caucuses and the results beginning at 5:30 p.m. Eastern time tonight with a special edition of "The Situation Room" and Wolf Blitzer. Stay with us as we bring you the outcome.

And join us, of course, every Sunday afternoon 4:00 Eastern time when we dedicate an entire hour to the presidential contenders in this 2012 election. Tomorrow we'll be talking to Jackie Cushman. She is the daughter of Newt Gingrich. And we'll ask her strategy for staying in the campaign and how he is focusing on super Tuesday.

All right. Dozens more died today across Syria. We'll talk about what world leaders are doing to stop the violent crackdown or at least try to stop it. Next.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

WHITFIELD: All right. Momentarily there will be a straw poll vote, at least the results coming from the conservative group known as CPAC. They're all meeting, the Conservative Political Action Committee. It's the annual conference there in Washington, D.C. and they are still at the microphones there. Also one of the headlining events later on this hour, former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin is the keynote speaker. We'll continue to pop in and out of the conference there to update you on all that's taking place from the straw poll results to the outcome of those findings.

Meantime, at least 30 more people died today in towns across Syria. And Saudi Arabia has now drafted a resolution condemning the Syrian government for what it calls human rights violations. I'm going to talk to CNN's Rima Maktabi about. She's in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. So Rima, what does the Saudi government hope to do with resolution?

RIMA MAKTABI, CNN CORRESPONDENT: They are hoping for an international community to make a strong statement and decision and help the Syrian people. They're suggesting another resolution is not yet on the table of the U.N. Security Council. It's being discussed among Arab countries. As you know, Saudi Arabia heads the Arab League. And they're trying to suggest new things to help the people on the ground and stop violence and give medical aid to all the people injured and probably return the army to its places and to stop the clashes happening on the ground. Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: And so the king is talking about these human rights violations taking place in Syria. What is the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Syria, and as to whether Syria would respond to Saudi Arabian king? MAKTABI: Well, the relationship has gone through many ups and downs over the past years. Since 2005, the assassination of the former prime minister, the Lebanese former prime minister, (INAUDIBLE), the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Syria has immensely deteriorated. It's because there were accusations that the Syrian regime actually assassinated Hariri. But then the relationship got better over the past year but since the unrest started in Syria, things deteriorated. The reason for that is that Saudi Arabia is a Sunni country, dominantly Sunni. So is Syria, but it's ruled by an otherwise minority.

WHITFIELD: Rima Maktabi, thanks so much, from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Let's talk more about the situation in Syria and beyond. I want to talk to Michelle Dunne. She's the director of the Atlantic Council Center for the Middle East and served on the White House national security staff. Good to see you, Michelle.

MICHELLE DUNNE, DIRECTOR, ATLANTIC COUNCIL CENTER FOR THE MIDDLE EAST: Thank you.

WHITFIELD: So from what you understand there with what Saudi Arabia is attempting here with its resolution that would go before the U.N. Security Council as early as Monday, is there much pull here? That Saudi Arabia might have with this resolution?

DUNNE: Well, I think what we are talking about actually is a general assembly resolution after the failure of a security council resolution last week. When Russia and China vetoed it. A general assembly resolution probably can be passed. That would just be passed by majority and no one can veto it and what that would do is express the opposition of the international community to what's happening in Syria.

Now nobody actually thinks that would cause the Syrian regime to stop using force. The idea here, I think, is to show the isolation of the Assad regime and to persuade people within the regime to remove Bashara al-Assad from power.

WHITFIELD: Well does that isolation - does it appear so it would really make a difference for President Bashar al-Assad? He hasn't responded thus far to any kind of international pressure.

DUNNE: No, I don't think he's going to respond. It would be trying to get people around him to remove him, which of course is what happened in Tunisia and Egypt nonviolently and also happened in Libya, although much more violently. But removing Assad from power is probably the only, the easiest exit from the current situation in Syria. Otherwise it will just go on and on, and the violence could go on for a very long time.

WHITFIELD: China and Russia, you know, vetoed that resolution during the security council vote. What's the feeling one before the general assembly what might unfold? Whether China and Russia would maintain their stronghold? DUNNE: Well, in the general assembly, China and Russia can vote against the resolution. Countries are free to vote for, against, abstain, do what they like. But most likely a resolution would pass. It's just that it wouldn't have any kind of teeth. A security council resolution could lead to things like the imposition of greater sanctions. Obligation of countries to observe sanctions. It could even pave the way for some kind of more extensive humanitarian or even military assistance to the Syrian rebels. But a general assembly resolution isn't going to do those things. It's just going to be an expression how the international community feels about the situation in Syria.

WHITFIELD: All right. Real quick before I let you go, how about Egypt? One year after the fall of Hosni Mubarak. Is this the Egypt that protestors, demonstrators, many of whom lost their lives, is this the Egypt they were hoping for one year later?

DUNNE: Egypt is in a transition, but a very difficult one. Right now the military has been in power in Egypt for a year since Mubarak was removed. There is a lot of pressure on them to relinquish power to civilian authorities. They started to do that. They allowed parliamentary elections. But even so they really - they've made so many bad decisions in terms of the economy and security that it's a very high pressure situation in Egypt right now. I think a lot of Egyptians feel very disappointed. But I have to say this often happens with transitions from authoritarianism to democracy or something else. They're long and difficult and they just don't emerge usually in a year or so.

WHITFIELD: Michelle Dunne, thanks so much for your time from Washington.

DUNNE: Thanks for inviting me, Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: And CNN presents a special program tonight focusing on the center of the Syrian uprising. It's called "Homs, City under Siege." Watch tonight 10:30 Eastern time right here on CNN.

All right. It's the only constant in the work place, change. So how to embrace it and remain resilient. But first each week, CNN's Dr. Sanjay Gupta profiles innovators from all walks of life and all fields of endeavor. The program is called "The Next List." This week he talks to Dale Dougherty who believes we are all born to be makers of things instead of just consumers.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

DALE DOUGHERTY: One of the things that happens in making is that we are gaining some control over the world we live in. This world is awfully complex. It's hard sometimes to figure out what are the building blocks. You know, how do you get going? How do you get started. You can have impact today. You can do things today and encourage yourself to participate to build things and make things.

(END VIDEO CLIP) WHITFIELD: Tune in to watch "The Next List" or set your DVR for 2:00 p.m. Eastern Sunday. And then tune in tomorrow afternoon when we dive into Valentine's Day chocolates. Bob Appetit. "Travel and Leisure" and "Southern Living" magazines call Atlanta one of the best chocolate shop in the country. (INAUDIBLE) what to consider when buying boutique candy.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: ... four o'clock in the morning and of that we are most proud. Since then as I think you know the media has transformed into a 24/7 multiplatform monster with a taste for destruction. Major polls reveal that 70 percent of us say the press is out of touch with average Americans. Only 44 percent trust the media to accurately and fairly report the news. And over 2/3 of us are weary of political bias. Only Congress gets worse favorability numbers than the press.

Patriotic conservatives like you however continue to seek out and protect traditional America. They also seek a narrative that articulates genuine American values, clearly and without apology. "The Washington Times" is a patriots' destination to provide evidence that America is strong, resilient and intact, and that we will prevail as the true shining city on the hill. A 21st century beacon for the world.

Every day through our distinctive news and insightful opinion content, "The Times" provides argument, but it also provides answers. With credibility in a sense of what works which was the true motto of the Reagan administration. In this epic battle to define America in 2012, the accuracy of the news and information that you consume about politics, policy, culture and especially national security is absolutely critical.

Please know the "Washington Times" is your reliable resource wherever you live and however you get your news. In fact, our greatest audience strength is now in regions in the country, around the country where there are highest concentrations of conservatives. Our audiences have expanded to tens of millions due to our flagship daily newspaper, our digital channels of washingtontimes.com, times24/7.com, our new explosive Web site and our new radio show from Washington "America Morning News." And of course, as many of you know, our national weekly edition.

Well, I'm here today to announce that this pivotal election year, that "The Washington Times" is committed to becoming the official newspaper of 2012. "The Washington Times" an American conservative union have long shared a profound concern to move this country in the right direction. That's why we are very proud to once again sponsor the "Washington Times" CPAC straw poll and now a new national poll in the most important presidential election in modern history.

Many would say we've heard the very finest speeches ever yesterday from three presidential hopefuls. So I'm sure you're as excited as I am to learn the results of the 2012 "Times"-CPAC poll. Of course, we have one more speaker coming up. She is a remarkable, courageous and significant force.

She's a remarkable, courageous and significant force who has reshaped the American mindset. I think you know who I mean. So I will finish now by saying thank you for your time, and on behalf of all of us at "The Washington Times," thank you for your tremendous work to improve our country. May god bless you all and god bless America.

WHITFIELD: OK. Well, we thought he was going to actually reveal the results of the straw poll. We understand that our Dana Bash may have an early look at those numbers. Let's go to you. The "Washington Times" got a little, you know, extra plug in there for their publication. But we thought they were also going to reveal the poll results. So what do you know about these straw poll results?

BASH: We have the headline. The headline is that Mitt Romney is the winner here. Mitt Romney won this straw poll at the CPAC with 38 percent of the vote. Rick Santorum came in second with 31 percent. Newt Gingrich trailing pretty far behind, third place with 15 percent and Ron Paul 12 percent.

So Mitt Romney is the big winner here at this conservative conference, as you mentioned, the biggest conservative conference of the year. Very, very important win for Mitt Romney as he is struggling to make it clear to conservatives that he is one of them. He spoke at the podium right behind me yesterday, used the word conservative, I believe, about 25 times in his - I'm sorry, I'm listening behind me. I think they are about to officially announce what I just said.

But he used the word conservative about 25 times trying to make that case. Obviously, it worked. Interesting that this particular group of people, probably about 10,000 people came here. I'm not sure how many people voted. That they actually went for Romney. Anecdotally again this is just anecdotally, walking through the crowd, I told you earlier not a lot of excitement in general, but the passion here absolutely is about trying to find a way to beat Barack Obama. And people I talked to who said they were going for Romney by far said the number one reason isn't because of him, because of his agenda, because of his credentials or platform, but it's because they believe he is the best to beat Barack Obama. That sold the day here.

WHITFIELD: Yes, so clearly a potential real shot in the arm for Mitt Romney there after his defeat of three primary and caucus states in a row. However, there is always Maine we know they are caucusing today. We hope to hear the results. Mitt Romney spending a lot of time in Maine today. First time that he's actually been in a caucus state on the day of that voting. So perhaps he's feeling a little boost of confidence now after that CPAC vote straw poll.

BASH: Absolutely. I mean he should be because he did not have a very good week to say the least. I should also note that Mitt Romney does have an organization. And anecdotally, I think that his campaign certainly worked it hard here. The Santorum campaign, I was just talking to a senior advisor to Rick Santorum who is actually walking around, not so much. They certainly are trying to get their volunteers out and supporters out. Mitt Romney clearly wanted to win here, needed to win here and got a win here. It doesn't matter in terms of the grand scheme of things, but many delegates but it is a symbolic win, a moral win with the kind of voters that he really needs to do well with.

WHITFIELD: All right. Dana Bash, thank you so much for bringing that to us. Appreciate that from Washington.

Much more on the Maine caucusing as well later on.

All right. Meantime, it's been 30 years since actress Debbie Allen played her famous, most famous character Lydia on "Fame." Miss Allen is still acting, dancing, producing composing, you name it, on stage and on television. Recently, I talked face to face with her about the importance of the arts. One of her top passions.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

DEBBIE ALLEN, ACTRESS: It's so important that young people have some kind of art training, dance, music, painting, film, something. It will give them a sense of discipline. It will give them a sense of responsibility.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WHITFIELD: Straight ahead, the iconic entertainer tells us what wakes her up at night and her three keys to greatness. Coming up, "Face-to- Face" with Debbie Allen.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

WHITFIELD: Alright, just moments ago in Washington, D.C. at the conservative political action committee annual conference there was a sizable straw poll vote that took place. And the outcome that Mitt Romney is the winner with 38 percent of the support of those voting members.

Well, today is also caucusing day in Maine. That's where Mitt Romney has been spending a good part of his day. Ron Paul is been there although came on fourth in the straw poll.

Let's check in with our Shannon Travis who was there in Portland, Maine.

OK. So, has the news trickled there to Mitt Romney's camp? And if so, what are they saying?

SHANNON TRAVIS, CNN POLITICAL REPORTER: Well, he's on his way to California, if he isn't already there. So, it's unclear if he has this news. But, you know, he went 0-3 on Tuesday, Fred, in those three contests, Missouri, Colorado and Minnesota. Will he go 2-2 today? He just got that CPAC win. He is certainly hoping for a win in these Maine caucuses.

We are here at the Portland regency in Portland, Maine, where right behind me in about two hours the chairman of the Republican party is going to step up to that podium and announce the winner -- the results, whether Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich or Rick Santorum or Ron Paul won. We know that Mitt Romney and Ron Paul are the only two actively here competing in Maine for these caucuses. The other two wasn't really part of the delegate count. But, we'll be right here. I've already been priming the pump with Charlie Webster, the GOP chairman to see if we can get a little scoop like that and just (inaudible) to get those numbers early. So, we'll bring you whatever we get.

WHITFIELD: OK. We'll look for that. Thanks so much Shannon Travis there in Portland, Maine. Of course we'll bring in all, the results later o on. Our special "SITUATION ROOM" coverage begins at 5:30 p.m. Eastern time with Wolf Blitzer. You will stay with us. We will bring you all the results from the Maine caucus as well.

Alright, from award-winning director, to actress to dancer, the iconic entertainer Debbie Allen has done it all and continues to do it all. So, what does she attribute to her greatness and success? Find out when we sit down face to face next.

But first, it's the afternoon. So, you had breakfast, you had lunch maybe, are you feeling right now? Where is your energy level? If you experience a midday slump, you're not alone. Many people find themselves craving an afternoon pick-me-up.

In this week's "health for her" Elizabeth Cohen has tips to boost your energy in a healthy way.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

ELIZABETH COHEN, CNN SENIOR MEDICAL CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): During your workday, do you often feel like your energy is zapped in the middle of the afternoon? Registered dietitian Ellie Krieger, author of the book "so easy" has some healthy options for people who get their snacks from vending machines.

ELLI KRIEGER, REGISTERED DIETITIAN: A lot of times, people reach for sugary foods and things like that to try to boost their energy. That gives you a short-term boost in your blood sugar, but ultimately will lead to you crash.

COHEN: Instead, Krieger suggests reaching for a snack with protein. She also suggests a handful of almonds.

KRIEGER: Rich in protein, rich in nutrients and healthy fat. It is going to give you sustained energy.

COHEN: Or Greek style yogurt with a piece of foot.

KRIEGER: That is going to give you protein as well as carbohydrate. It is going to give you an immediate energy boost and also the sustenance that you need.

COHEN: But she has one key message.

KRIEGER: The most important thing you can do to keep your energy up throughout the day is eat regular meals and snacks throughout the day. COHEN: Quick tips for all day energy. With this week's "health for her," I'm Elizabeth Cohen.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

WHITFIELD: All right. In the face of downsizing, outsourcing and higher job demands, more employers are looking for workers who embrace change rather than fight it. Every week, we focus on ways to get a jump-start in the work place. Valerie Burton, author of "successful women think differently," joining us right now.

OK. So, it's more important now than ever to be a resilient employee. Why?

VALORIE BURTON, EXECUTIVE COACH: I really noticed that during a lot of, you know, just keynote speaking and things around the country. Companies are high on this topic of resilience. I think it's because so many companies are dealing with change.

And, I mean, even really established companies that never changed in 80 or 90 years, are having to change whether it's because of the economy or because of technology or the demands of customers. And so, employees have to be tuned into that because really, it can be your career advantage if you're able to be resilient. If you are not, you're going to be at a big disadvantage when it comes to promotions and --.

WHITFIELD: And what is it mean to be resilient?

BURTON: It means that over and over again, you're able to bounce back. Things don't always go the way you want them to be. When there is change, you're able to be flexible. You're able to adapt, you are able to learn new things. And you're willing to learn. I think that is a key message because a lot of people don't want to learn anything new. And so, they are resistant to change and that will work against you and your career.

WHITFIELD: And you said here are some guide points. You get a reality check. Embrace change.

BURTON: Yes. So, get in the reality check is about the fact, that you know what, maybe the company was that way for 20 years, but it's not any more. And so, you've got to get onboard with reality and make sure that you're not hanging on to the past but instead you are embracing what is now.

WHITFIELD: And being a bridge builder, meaning you are helping to execute that change. Helping to get others onboard, too?

BURTON: Yes, exactly. Those who aren't tuned into their fear instead are saying, you know what; can I be the person that inspires people to get onboard? Even if I don't agree with all the changes, you know, would the company say that I'm helping? Is the change going easier because I'm here or is it more difficult because I'm here? If it's more difficult, you may see your career derail. And when there is downsizing, they are looking for the people who are making it easier.

WHITFIELD: And you can't dig in your heels and isolate yourself and say I'm going to do it the way I've been doing it a long time. That's dangerous, isn't it?

BURTON: That is dangerous. Don't isolate yourself. And even if you're in a job where you don't have to manage people, I mean, you may be in I.T. and you think I don't like people. You make sure that you still are building those relationships with your co-workers. That you're making your contributions known, I mean, in a team sense to your boss and other people because those connections and those relationships are what help you move ahead in your career.

WHITFIELD: And bouncing back is that up to you?

BURTON: Bouncing back is about how you think. So, when you're dealing with change, instead of I don't want to deal with this change, I'm so sick of this, I don't know if I can survive. You can say to yourself, I don't necessary like the change, but I can adapt. I choose to embrace the change and learn what I need to learn to go forward. It's hard, Fredricka. I mean, it can be really hard for people. People feel scared, they feel uncertain, but you've got to take control by making a decision if there is change, I'm going to make the decision to adapt.

WHITFIELD: But fear is big. So, maybe people are afraid of even adapting or making a change because they are afraid if they don't do it well, that will be worse than doing what they've been doing a long time well.

BURTON: That's right. They want to stick with what they know.

WHITFIELD: Interesting.

BURTON: And you've got to be willing to try new things and to make that company more successful in the face of change.

WHITFIELD: All right. Valorie Burton. Thanks so much. Always keeping it real for us.

BURTON: Thanks Fred.

WHITFIELD: All right. Appreciate that.

Alright Valorie, you probably remember "fame," right?

BURTON: I loved "fame."

WHITFIELD: After watching the show, you probably you know, you're doing (inaudible) in all that around the room.

BURTON: I do it during the show.

(LAUGHTER)

WHITFIELD: We all were and in large part because of this woman, composer, choreographer, producer and current star now in TV's "grey's anatomy," Debbie Allen, she was Lydia in "fame," well, she represents so much in the competitive entertainment industry, resilience and versatility, just to name a few. She tells me face-to-face what she believes are three keys to her greatness in a career that spans nearly four decades.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

DEBBIE ALLEN, ACTRESS, PRODUCER: Three keys. Well, one key is absolutely discipline and dedication to the craft. Discipline. That means no matter what is happening, you perform. You rise to the challenge. You stay focused. If you have a headache, you go to class. If your leg is hurting, you do the show. Find a way through it. Discipline.

Creativity wakes me up at night. It motivates me during the day. I get ideas and think of things. And I think it's somehow connected to my feeling about the world and people, and ideas how can I take my gift and express it in a way that it might touch someone?

The support of my family has allowed me greatness, if that's what we call it, success, accomplishment. That I have a family that embraces me, understands who I am. Allows me to do what I do, holds my hand when I need I, shakes a finger at me when I need it, that's the love of my family.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WHITFIELD: If you missed any of these face to face installments with producer, actress, you know she does it all, Debbie Allen. You can go to CNN.com, my blog or facebook page to see them.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

WHITFIELD: Moments after revealing the results of the straw poll from the conservative political action conference there in Washington, D.C., now former Alaska governor Sarah Palin is there as the keynote speaker. And the results of that straw poll, by the way, Mitt Romney winning 38 percent of the vote, Rick Santorum coming in second, then Newt Gingrich and then Ron Paul.

We are keeping a close eye on all of the latest headlines. And you can, too, by going to CNNpolitics.com.

So, here's what crossing right now. More on the straw poll results from that political action conference with Romney winning 38 percent of the vote, Rick Santorum coming in second, Newt Gingrich third and Ron Paul in fourth.

And the U.S. conference of catholic bishops is denouncing Barack Obama's compromise over whether religiously affiliated institution should be require to provide contraception to female employees. The group says the proposal raises serious moral concerns.

Also, President Barack Obama will propose a budget on Monday that forecasts a $91 billion deficit in 2013. The budget includes plans to invest in rebuilding infrastructure while hiking taxes on the rich.

And for the latest political news, you know where to go, CNNpolitics.com.

Hard to believe Valentine's Day just three days away. So consider this. Are you cheating on your spouse financially? If so, it's time to come clean.

Christine Romans and Ali Velshi show how to have the money talk with your significant other in this week's "smart is the new rich."

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

CHRISTINE ROMANS, CNN BUSINESS CORRESPONDENT: When it comes to money, my friend Ali Velshi and I speak two different languages. And that's OK, because thankfully, we are not married to each other.

(LAUGHTER)

ROMANS: We just work together and wrote a book together called "how to speak money." Couples in debt, one of the topics we talked about in that book. It's a big strain on relationships. And Ali is here to talk about it.

In fact, I want to look at some of this data. From Jet to over Utah State University, even wives who had no debt were 12 percent more likely to be very happy in marriage than wives who had between 10 and $20,000. That makes sense.

Husbands, apparently -- if you look at that, they are happy no matter what. But look, one thing that we talked about and we wrote about in our book is that, a lot of couples aren't honest to each other when it comes to debt. And I wanted to ask you, is it ever OK to hide spending, Ali, or hide debt?

ALI VELSHI, CNN CHIEF BUSINESS CORRESPONDENT: Is anybody listening to my answer?

ROMANS: Your wife is watching the program.

VELSHI: No, it's not. Then there are two issues when you said men don't care. There are two issues. One, is do you care about your habits on spending? A lot of guys don't care. And then it's the, are you completely honest about what your debt situation is? Both of those are important. So, you can't just know about your partner's debt.

ROMANS: Right.

VELSHI: You actually have to know about how they answer that question.

ROMANS: Next question I want to ask you, in honor of Valentine's Day coming up by the way. Is it OK for one person to handle the finances in the relationship? VELSHI: Yes, absolutely. Let the better person do it. In my -- believe it or not in my family, you know it, my wife is better at this stuff. And so, she sort of takes the lead on it. It gets done better. Look, there is an issue about responsibility about money. The other partner should have involvement in it so they know about it. But, I think it's totally OK for the smarter, better one, more organized one to handle it.

ROMANS: So, how to have the money talk?

VELSHI: This is where we disagree. I don't know in the dating process, you started to sort of, you're older and --

ROMANS: You are telling me you would dump me if I asked you how much debt you would have.

(CROSSTALK)

VELSHI: Why not get to the third or fourth date then say, listen, this is working out really well. Something I've got to tell you.

ROMANS: Thanks Ali.

For "Smart is the New Rich," I'm Christine Romans.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

WHITFIELD: All right. Get used to the name Jeremy Lin. He is making the New York Knicks hot again. Coming up the story of one pretty amazing athlete.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

WHITFIELD: What a game for the New York Knicks. Get used to the name Jeremy Lin, if I could say it properly. He came out of virtually nowhere scoring 38 points last night against the Lakers. He is the city's new hero. CNN's Richard Roth has more on this amazing athlete, Jeremy Lin.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

RICHARD ROTH, CNN SENIOR U.N. CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Jeremy Lin says he is a low-key guy. He looks unassuming at practice with the New York Knicks. But when the lights go on in the world's most famous arena, Madison Square Garden --

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Jeremy Lin does it again.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The magical night for Jeremy Lin.

ROTH: Jeremy Lin, a rare Asian-American in the NBA, is an overnight star and the talk of the big town.

PABLO TORRE, SPORTS ILLUSTRATED: What we are seeing in New York is something I have never seen. And we haven't seen for generations really, a guy who can excite the garden like this out of nowhere. ROTH: Is this overwhelming for you?

JEREMY LIN, NEW YORK KNICKS PLAYER: Yes.

ROTH: Fans agreed on how to describe the Lin phenomenon.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Lin-sanity.

ROTH: Have you seen the alleged offense Saturday?

LANDRY FIELDS, NEW YORK KNICKS PLAYER: I've seen it everywhere. I've seen it even back home. I'm from the west coast and everybody is yelling about it, so, sweet in nation.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: There is this fever in New York called Lin-sanity. And he's just an electrifying player.

ROTH: Lin was a star at Harvard University, not a traditional launching path for NBA star. He wasn't drafted and was later cut by two NBA teams before the nose diving Knicks picked him up.

MIKE D'ANTONI, NEW YORK KNICKS COACH: We had an ideal that liked him and it worked out. You have to have luck in this world and we had bunch of luck and it worked out for us.

ROTH: At first, souvenir stores weren't prepared for Lin-sanity. But now, the Lin jersey is a hunt number.

ROTH: Lin is amazed that it is instant fame.

LIN: Things are changing so much. Everyone wants to talk to me and my family. We are very low-key people and private people. And so, sometimes it's tough.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: He's the man.

ROTH: Lin's parents migrated from Taiwan. Chinese media offer nonstop coverage here when games are shown back to Asia.

JOSEPH LIAO, WORLD JOURNALIST: It's huge back in Taiwan. People are crazy about him. Even my grandma asked about him. My grandma is 90 years old. And she is like; you're covering Jeremy Lin, good for you.

ROTH: He is a marketing bonanza. Drawing fans such as first time ticket buyer, Chris Lee.

CHRIS LEE, FAN: More reason to go now. And you have Chinese American playing.

LIN: I'm a home body. So, I just try to stay inside.

ROTH: Lin's next goal though is to get off the couch, sleeping at his brother's apartment while trying to revive the Knicks.

Richard Roth, CNN, New York.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

WHITFIELD: My ball friend over here, Don Lemon, can't wait to see a Knicks game with Jeremy Lin.

(LAUGHTER)

Alright, much more of the NEWSROOM straight ahead. Because you know, he can play some ball. Don Lemon.

DON LEMON, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Bye, Fred.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)