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CNN Live Today
Much of Democrats' Message Will Target Undecided Voters
Aired July 26, 2004 - 10:00 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.
DARYN KAGAN, CNN ANCHOR: Good morning from CNN headquarters in Atlanta. I'm Daryn Kagan.
In the news now, both Hillary and Bill Clinton headline the speakers' list tonight at the Democratic National Convention. Former President Clinton says his plan is to, quote, "Give a talk and get out of town." A live report from the Fleet Center in Boston coming right up.
Democratic presidential nominee, John Edwards is in Raleigh, North Carolina planning his convention speech and talking with students at North Carolina Biotechnology Center in the Research Triangle. A planned appearance at North Carolina AT&T has been postponed.
The search goes on for a missing Salt Lake City woman. And her husband, Mark Hacking, remains what police are calling a person of interest in the disappearance of his wife Lori. Officials are waiting for tests on a clump of hair found in the trash. Police will not comment on a newspaper report that a bloody knife was taken from the couple's apartment.
This dramatic picture shows why the main road to the Florida Keys is closed at this hour. A tractor-trailer has been dangling from the side of the bridge. And we mean dangling simply by one of its wheels. You can't see the cab. Police say it did not go over the guardrail. One person reported injured in that accident.
And in world news, there was a massive protest Sunday in Gaza when Israeli protesters lined up along a highway. They formed a human chain stretching from Gaza to Jerusalem. The demonstrators oppose Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's plan to withdraw from the settlements.
We are keeping you informed here at CNN, the most trusted name in news.
Live this hour, John Kerry, hundreds of miles, but just two days away from receiving his party's presidential nomination. The Democrat is in Florida this hour, as he winds his way to Boston and the Democratic National Convention.
That gathering of the party faithful formally convenes six hours from now, in what many say is the party's most unified stand in decades. Much of the Democrats' message will be targeting the all- important undecided voters, who may well decide the election. Which, by the way, if you're counting, is 100 days from today.
Our national correspondent Bob Franken is at Boston Fleet Center, the site of the DNC.
Good morning.
BOB FRANKEN, CNN NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Good morning, Daryn. And the order of the day is be positive. And that is an order. The Democrats are trying to make sure that this doesn't turn into some sort of food fight with the Republicans, at least not yet. Everybody is being told to be upbeat. Which is really kind of a test because of all the security.
Before you even get into the Fleet Center, one must endure stops repeatedly from security forces, who have absolutely taken over this town by the thousands. Of course, this has been declared a national security event, because of concerns that there might be an attack at this highly visible Democratic convention. And that means that the security is slowing things down for those who are here for the convention. Nevertheless, the word is out. Keep it positive.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
SEN. EDWARD KENNEDY (D), MASSACHUSETTS: People are tired of cliches. People are tired of slogans. People are tired of bumper sticker solutions. They want to hear some positive message. John Kerry has it. And John Edwards will be speaking to that as well. We've got a great team. It's a team for the future. And between John Edwards and John Kerry, I'm absolutely confident that they're going to be successful.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
FRANKEN: So what do you bet there's not going to be any cliche slogans or bumper stickers. Don't hold your breath on that one.
But inside the Fleet Center this afternoon, where the elite will meet this afternoon, the Democratic convention will get under way. And it is the hope of the Democrats that before it's over, the message of the day, positive of course, is that John Kerry and John Edwards are going out to do battle. And that all the security was not needed -- Daryn.
KAGAN: I understand about the Republicans have set up their own operation there in Boston this week.
FRANKEN: Absolutely. And the Democrats will do the same thing. They used to call this a "truth squad." The Republicans will basically be saying every chance they get, everything the Democrats say is wrong.
KAGAN: All right. Thank you so much. As you say, we'll see the reverse when the Republicans get together in New York City next week. Bob Franken in Boston, thank you for that. Well, let's take a look now at John Kerry's wife. She has taken on a more public role in the campaign. Last night though, Teresa Heinz-Kerry gained attention after she stepped off the stage. She had just spoken to a gathering of her home state delegates from Pennsylvania. She was urging them to restore civility to American politics. But minutes later, a newspaper reporter questioned what she meant by the quote, "sometimes un-American traits in American politics." Here is how that scene unfolded behind the scenes.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: You mentioned un-American...
TERESA HEINZ-KERRY, WIFE OF SENATOR JOHN KERRY: No, I didn't say that.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: What did you mean?
HEINZ-KERRY: I didn't say that. I didn't say that.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I'm just asking what you said.
HEINZ-KERRY: Well, why did you put those words in any mouth?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: You said something about un-American...
HEINZ-KERRY: No, I didn't say that.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: ... activity.
HEINZ-KERRY: I did not say activity or un-American.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: OK.
HEINZ-KERRY: Those are your words. You can report it...
(END VIDEO CLIP)
KAGAN: All right. Well, then Heinz-Kerry, she left. But then she came back to ask the reporter if he was from a newspaper, that the campaign has accused of biased, unfair coverage. And here's what happened then.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
HEINZ-KERRY: Are you from the "Tribune-Review?"
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Yes. I am.
HEINZ-KERRY: Of course.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Come here.
HEINZ-KERRY: Understandable. You said something I didn't say. Now shove it.
(LAUGHTER)
(END VIDEO CLIP)
KAGAN: Yes. That's what she said. A spokeswoman later told that station, WTAE-TV, quote, "This was sheer frustration aimed at a right-wing rag that has consistently and purposely misrepresented the facts in reporting on Mrs. Kerry and her family," end of that quote.
Well, just as the Kerry camp is unapologetic, so is the party's most high profile female office holder. This is what Hillary Rodham Clinton had to say. She spoke to our Bill Hemmer earlier on CNN's "AMERICAN MORNING."
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
SEN. HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON (D), NEW YORK: A lot of Americans are going to say, good for you. You go, girl. And that certainly is how I feel about it.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
KAGAN: Tonight the former first lady will have a chance to speak. She'll be introducing her husband at the convention. She says the party's message will be upbeat and unified with a central theme.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
CLINTON: I am so excited about replacing this administration. You know, I think that the Bush-Cheney presidency has been bad for America, and bad for the world. I cannot wait to see them leave the White House. The sooner the better. I wish we could move the inauguration up a few months.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
KAGAN: Well, as for President Bush, it turns out he's going to be spending much of his week at his ranch in Crawford, Texas. That's where he's been reviewing his 9/11 Report and his recommendations. National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice is joining him there to discuss the intelligence reform.
Our White House correspondent, Suzanne Malveaux is live in Crawford this morning with the latest on that.
Suzanne, good morning.
SUZANNE MALVEAUX, CNN WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENT: Good morning, Daryn. President Bush is laying low at his Crawford ranch, while the Democrats take center stage. But White House officials are telling us that he is on the fast track, when it comes to enacting some of those recommendations from the 9/11 Commission. He has been studying the report over the weekend, as you had mentioned. His National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice will be joining him at the Crawford ranch at about 3:30 this afternoon local time, to continue those discussions.
And at this hour, at this moment a very high level meeting is taking place at the White House, just as the president's special task force specifically to look at the kinds of reforms that are necessary for intelligence and security. Now, at the White House, and on a secure video teleconference call, just to name a few names in this meeting, you have the chief of staff Andy Card. You have Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge. You have the acting CIA director, national security adviser. And the list goes on. Representatives from Justice, from the Pentagon.
All of these people assembled for one purpose. That is to try to figure out how this administration can overhaul its intelligence agencies. We should also let you know as well, that officials are telling us, those familiar with the deliberations that the first priority is for the president to enact those recommendations that he could do immediately by executive order.
Also should let you know that sources are telling us, those familiar with those deliberations, that the White House is open to some kind of national director position of intelligence. This is a very controversial proposal. But this is something that the White House is looking at -- Daryn.
KAGAN: And Suzanne, we often hear that position referred to as controversial. Why is it controversial? Is it really among the established community that they don't want to give up the turf that they already have?
MALVEAUX: Well, Daryn, it's all about the money. It is all about the budget. Who controls the money? And as you know, Homeland Security director -- or rather the head of Homeland Security, the Secretary Tom Ridge has come out against it, as well as the acting CIA director. The Pentagon also perhaps has a lot to lose.
That position would have the authority of the budget; would also consolidate some 15 intelligence agencies within the intelligence community. It is a high-level position. That person would have a direct link to the president, would answer to the president. Some of those people within the administration say this is just another level of bureaucracy. It's not necessary. There are others in the administration who believe you can work out some of those turf wars, figure this out. And that perhaps this will be one way they consolidate all of that information and get better access, better information to the president faster.
KAGAN: Suzanne Malveaux in Crawford, Texas. Suzanne, thank you.
Well, Senator Kerry's nomination is a mere formality in Boston, the election itself is most certainly are not. Let's take a look at some new numbers. The CNN/"USA Today"/Gallup poll showing John Kerry and George Bush in a virtual dead heat in battle ground states, including Florida. There Bush does hold a slight lead. Fifty percent of likely voters compared to Kerry's 47 percent.
For a closer look, let's turn to CNN political analyst Carlos Watson in New York for a look.
Carlos, good morning.
CARLOS WATSON, CNN POLITICAL ANALYST: Daryn, good morning. How are you doing?
KAGAN: I want to get your com -- I'm doing fine. I'm wondering about those numbers, what you think of those. WATSON: It's still very close. Going into the first convention, probably the closest presidential race in half a century. The last presidential race was a double-digit gap going into the first convention. So it's a really close race. And a lot of swing states in play. Maybe as many as 20 swing states.
KAGAN: All right. Looking forward to tonight. As we're looking down the agenda, it looks like the Clintons are opening the show. What's the goal of the party tonight?
WATSON: Well, tonight is kind of something old. So if tonight is something old, tomorrow is something new with some new faces. And we move on to John Edwards and John Kerry.
Tonight, I think they need to do three things. First and foremost, they need to portray not just an upbeat image, as Bob Franken talked about. But a centrist image. Which is going to be important for those undecided voters in states like Arizona, New Mexico.
Second, I think they've got to get people to believe that on national security -- and it's going to be a four-day process, really longer. That on national security, John Kerry is not only competent, but in fact, can be tough on issues of national security.
And last but not least, the three main speakers tonight: Carter, Clinton and Gore, really make sure that they excite people such as they actually want to watch the following days. Remember, this is often the second highest watched day of the four-day convention process. The first day is; and it's the day that really sets the tone.
KAGAN: All right. Setting the tone, John Kerry. At this convention, is he going to have a chance to expand his agenda, some past the very few issues we've heard discussed up to this point?
WATSON: Well, this is an unusual election in some ways, Daryn. Because often, for example, in the last election there were kind of four or five media issues that were debated between Bush and Gore. This election in many ways so far, at least according to polls, has come down to the economy and national security; kind of lumping in terrorism and the war.
But there could be an opportunity here for John Kerry to expand the playing field and to begin to talk, for example, about the Supreme Court. There hasn't been an opening on the court in 10 years. That's the longest period without a new justice in over 150 years. And so, the next president is likely to appoint two to three justices.
KAGAN: Hmm.
WATSON: Will John Kerry talk about this a lot? Maybe. Could it become an issue, particularly around the issue of choice that helps him with Republican women who are pro choice? Maybe. So I think there's an opportunity to talk about some new issues. KAGAN: And speaking of talking. Teresa Heinz-Kerry, we just a couple of minutes ago played some videotape, clearly frustrated with a single reporter backstage. This is a woman who some people celebrate her because she speaks her mind, but some people say that she is actually hurting John Kerry. Which one is it?
WATSON: Well, I think we'll know as time goes by. Remember, a key block this time around -- last time we talked about soccer moms. This time a lot of people are talking about single women, and also single mothers. And a lot of people may look to Teresa Heinz-Kerry and say, ah, she's too outspoken. But others may say, in fact, I kind of like someone who's confident enough to say what she thinks.
She's an older woman, married to a younger man. She's older than John Kerry by five years. She's wealthier than him, which is also a big change in the times since John F. Kennedy, for example. And so it we'll wait to see whether or not she ends up being an asset.
The accent could also play for better or for worse in certain places. Some people may say, hey, she sounds a little bit like Ingrid Bergman. It sounds kind of nice. Other people may say, hmm, you know, she doesn't quite sound like us here in the heartland.
So, I think she's going to be an interesting person to watch, not just today, but over the next 100 days.
KAGAN: Absolutely. Carlos Watson, you're heading up to Boston, I think. Aren't you?
WATSON: I am. I am. It's going to get better and warmer.
KAGAN: OK. The party is starting. Don't miss.
WATSON: I won't.
KAGAN: Thank you so much.
WATSON: Take care. Good to see you.
KAGAN: Good to have you with us.
And don't miss the party there at home. Stay with CNN for extensive coverage of today's DNC. "SPECIAL CONVENTION EDITION" of "ANDERSON COOPER 360" will kick off our prime time lineup. That's 7:00 Eastern/4:00 Pacific. Followed by an "AMERICA VOTES SPECIAL" with Wolf Blitzer. Then "LARRY KING LIVE," live from the Fleet Center, site of the convention. That's the usually time, 9:00 Eastern/6:00 Pacific.
John Kerry officially makes his pitch as the Democratic presidential nominee this week. Last night, well, let's just hope for him he keeps his day job. Making an different pitch of a different kind. Could that be a sign of things to come? Not the kind of bounce he's looking for.
Kerry's campaign adviser Tad Devine joins me for a look at the challenges the Democrats face.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
MICHAEL MOORE, FILMMAKER, "FAHRENHEIT 9/11": Nice to meet you. Very nice to meet you.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Yes.
MOORE: Do you have kids?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Yes.
MOORE: Is there any way we can get them to enlist?
(END VIDEO CLIP)
KAGAN: Later, Michael Moore's "Fahrenheit 9/11" hits a milestone, as he takes his message to the Democratic National Convention. Hear from him a little bit later on CNN LIVE TODAY.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
KAGAN: I want to update you on a situation we're following out of the Florida Keys. This truck was just hanging by its one rear wheel. They've brought a crane in to help remove that truck. And it looks like they're making progress. Because just an hour ago, you saw it hanging by the one rear wheel. But the problem, besides the truck's problem, of course, is that the -- this is the main road going -- U.S. 1, going in and out of the Florida keys.
That is going to remain shut down, according to officials, at least until early afternoon. Once they remove the truck, then they need to go back and check the integrity of the bridge before they say it's OK for folks to travel on that. So we'll continue to follow that situation out of the Florida Keys.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
UNIDENTIFIED MALE (voice-over): He's going to get the nomination. He's throwing out the ceremonial first pitch to a veteran of the war in Afghanistan.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
KAGAN: OK. So Pedro Martinez is not shaking in his boots, let's just say.
Meanwhile, Senator John Kerry taking the pitch before the hometown crowd at the Boston Red Sox fans. His surprise appearance was greeted with both cheers and boos. And more with a few heckles, after he bounced his pitch past a soldier who took part in the photo op. The soldier was recognized for his many decorations he received for his service in Afghanistan.
More on John Kerry. John Kerry's in Florida. Supposed to speak at Cape Canaveral later today. We are standing by for live coverage of his town hall meeting from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Actually, something went wrong though, on his way to a speech. We'll tell you more about that just ahead.
While we're waiting, our Gerri Willis has tips on making some sweet profits in a sour market.
Gerri, good morning.
GERRI WILLIS, CNNFN PERSONAL FINANCE EDITOR: Hey, Daryn. Good to see you. The markets going nowhere fast. What can you do to help your 401(k)? We'll tell you about it when CNN LIVE TODAY continues. .
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
KAGAN: Well, the Dow, you might say, lost its grip on 10,000 on Friday. The NASDAQ closed at its lowest level since October of last year. But before you start tinkering with the 401(k), CNNfn personal financial editor Gerri Willis says hold on. Hold on. Top folve tip -- "Top Five Tips" for winning in a stagnant market.
I had kind of a stagnant mouth today coming back off of vacation.
(LAUGHTER)
KAGAN: So bear with me, Ger.
WILLIS: Ah, Daryn, you're perfect, as always.
KAGAN: Thank you.
WILLIS: Tip No. 1: don't disengage from this market. I know it's -- you want to just pull out right? You want to stop putting money in your 401(k), because you're tired of seeing it go down the drain. Think again. Your money is the only thing that's going to give you returns in a market like this right now. So think about continuing to put money in.
Also, make sure you get that free company match. If you don't put money in, you don't get that money. And remember, your money is pre-taxed. So you're getting that added incentive of 20 to 30 percent more, because you're not paying tax -- Daryn.
KAGAN: All right. Extreme makeovers. They are popular with those popular plastic surgery shows on television, but don't apply them to your 401(k).
WILLIS: Yes. You know, people get so upset, they either want to take their money out or they want to change absolutely everything they're doing. Both ideas are bad. Here's why. If you make some kind of rash decision on the basis of emotion, you'll probably make a bad one. And you'll do something that people typically do. You'll market time. Or you'll decide, hey, I'm going to put everything in this one investment that's really working for me right now. Both ideas are bad -- Daryn.
KAGAN: How about dividends, the magic word? WILLIS: Well, maybe you can get paid. If you're not seeing stocks go up, your funds are going nowhere; at least you can get dividends. There are a couple of mutual funds you might want to take a look at here. They were recommended to us by Morningstar. Vanguard-Windsor too. American Funds, Washington Mutual, two really good funds that pay dividends. So you get income even if your stocks aren't going up.
KAGAN: And cut the fat. We're not talking a diet segment here. We're talking the 401(k).
WILLIS: No. When markets aren't going anywhere, every little quarter point counts. Right? That means you want to pay very low expenses on your mutual funds. Take a look at the expense ratio. Daryn, if you have a stock fund, you should be paying less than 1 percent. Bond funds, even less, 0.75 percent or less. It's always a good idea to pay attention to expenses. But when the market's going south, it's even more important.
KAGAN: And finally, something that if you can afford it, why not just hire some good help.
WILLIS: Well, and you probably can afford it. Particularly if you're paying attention to the expenses. Target Maturity Funds are also sometimes called Life Cycle Funds. They do all the asset allocation for you.
So if you're worried about getting that allocation right, particularly in strange times like these, where the markets are sort of all over the place, this is an option that will take the burden off of you. You won't have to make the heavy lifting decisions. You can turn it over to somebody else.
And they're called again Target Maturity Funds. Take a look at them. Make sure the fees aren't too expensive. And don't panic -- Daryn.
KAGAN: Don't panic. We will not live in fear.
Thank you for that. Gerri Willis in New York City, thank you.
WILLIS: Thank you.
Much more in politics ahead. John Kerry chairs a town hall meeting in Florida before heading to the Democratic National Convention. We're standing by for live coverage of that.
And heating up things for the Democrats, Michael Moore makes an appearance at the convention. Hear what he says about the Democrats moving to win back the White House.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
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Aired July 26, 2004 - 10:00 ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
DARYN KAGAN, CNN ANCHOR: Good morning from CNN headquarters in Atlanta. I'm Daryn Kagan.
In the news now, both Hillary and Bill Clinton headline the speakers' list tonight at the Democratic National Convention. Former President Clinton says his plan is to, quote, "Give a talk and get out of town." A live report from the Fleet Center in Boston coming right up.
Democratic presidential nominee, John Edwards is in Raleigh, North Carolina planning his convention speech and talking with students at North Carolina Biotechnology Center in the Research Triangle. A planned appearance at North Carolina AT&T has been postponed.
The search goes on for a missing Salt Lake City woman. And her husband, Mark Hacking, remains what police are calling a person of interest in the disappearance of his wife Lori. Officials are waiting for tests on a clump of hair found in the trash. Police will not comment on a newspaper report that a bloody knife was taken from the couple's apartment.
This dramatic picture shows why the main road to the Florida Keys is closed at this hour. A tractor-trailer has been dangling from the side of the bridge. And we mean dangling simply by one of its wheels. You can't see the cab. Police say it did not go over the guardrail. One person reported injured in that accident.
And in world news, there was a massive protest Sunday in Gaza when Israeli protesters lined up along a highway. They formed a human chain stretching from Gaza to Jerusalem. The demonstrators oppose Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's plan to withdraw from the settlements.
We are keeping you informed here at CNN, the most trusted name in news.
Live this hour, John Kerry, hundreds of miles, but just two days away from receiving his party's presidential nomination. The Democrat is in Florida this hour, as he winds his way to Boston and the Democratic National Convention.
That gathering of the party faithful formally convenes six hours from now, in what many say is the party's most unified stand in decades. Much of the Democrats' message will be targeting the all- important undecided voters, who may well decide the election. Which, by the way, if you're counting, is 100 days from today.
Our national correspondent Bob Franken is at Boston Fleet Center, the site of the DNC.
Good morning.
BOB FRANKEN, CNN NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Good morning, Daryn. And the order of the day is be positive. And that is an order. The Democrats are trying to make sure that this doesn't turn into some sort of food fight with the Republicans, at least not yet. Everybody is being told to be upbeat. Which is really kind of a test because of all the security.
Before you even get into the Fleet Center, one must endure stops repeatedly from security forces, who have absolutely taken over this town by the thousands. Of course, this has been declared a national security event, because of concerns that there might be an attack at this highly visible Democratic convention. And that means that the security is slowing things down for those who are here for the convention. Nevertheless, the word is out. Keep it positive.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
SEN. EDWARD KENNEDY (D), MASSACHUSETTS: People are tired of cliches. People are tired of slogans. People are tired of bumper sticker solutions. They want to hear some positive message. John Kerry has it. And John Edwards will be speaking to that as well. We've got a great team. It's a team for the future. And between John Edwards and John Kerry, I'm absolutely confident that they're going to be successful.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
FRANKEN: So what do you bet there's not going to be any cliche slogans or bumper stickers. Don't hold your breath on that one.
But inside the Fleet Center this afternoon, where the elite will meet this afternoon, the Democratic convention will get under way. And it is the hope of the Democrats that before it's over, the message of the day, positive of course, is that John Kerry and John Edwards are going out to do battle. And that all the security was not needed -- Daryn.
KAGAN: I understand about the Republicans have set up their own operation there in Boston this week.
FRANKEN: Absolutely. And the Democrats will do the same thing. They used to call this a "truth squad." The Republicans will basically be saying every chance they get, everything the Democrats say is wrong.
KAGAN: All right. Thank you so much. As you say, we'll see the reverse when the Republicans get together in New York City next week. Bob Franken in Boston, thank you for that. Well, let's take a look now at John Kerry's wife. She has taken on a more public role in the campaign. Last night though, Teresa Heinz-Kerry gained attention after she stepped off the stage. She had just spoken to a gathering of her home state delegates from Pennsylvania. She was urging them to restore civility to American politics. But minutes later, a newspaper reporter questioned what she meant by the quote, "sometimes un-American traits in American politics." Here is how that scene unfolded behind the scenes.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: You mentioned un-American...
TERESA HEINZ-KERRY, WIFE OF SENATOR JOHN KERRY: No, I didn't say that.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: What did you mean?
HEINZ-KERRY: I didn't say that. I didn't say that.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I'm just asking what you said.
HEINZ-KERRY: Well, why did you put those words in any mouth?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: You said something about un-American...
HEINZ-KERRY: No, I didn't say that.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: ... activity.
HEINZ-KERRY: I did not say activity or un-American.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: OK.
HEINZ-KERRY: Those are your words. You can report it...
(END VIDEO CLIP)
KAGAN: All right. Well, then Heinz-Kerry, she left. But then she came back to ask the reporter if he was from a newspaper, that the campaign has accused of biased, unfair coverage. And here's what happened then.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
HEINZ-KERRY: Are you from the "Tribune-Review?"
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Yes. I am.
HEINZ-KERRY: Of course.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Come here.
HEINZ-KERRY: Understandable. You said something I didn't say. Now shove it.
(LAUGHTER)
(END VIDEO CLIP)
KAGAN: Yes. That's what she said. A spokeswoman later told that station, WTAE-TV, quote, "This was sheer frustration aimed at a right-wing rag that has consistently and purposely misrepresented the facts in reporting on Mrs. Kerry and her family," end of that quote.
Well, just as the Kerry camp is unapologetic, so is the party's most high profile female office holder. This is what Hillary Rodham Clinton had to say. She spoke to our Bill Hemmer earlier on CNN's "AMERICAN MORNING."
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
SEN. HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON (D), NEW YORK: A lot of Americans are going to say, good for you. You go, girl. And that certainly is how I feel about it.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
KAGAN: Tonight the former first lady will have a chance to speak. She'll be introducing her husband at the convention. She says the party's message will be upbeat and unified with a central theme.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
CLINTON: I am so excited about replacing this administration. You know, I think that the Bush-Cheney presidency has been bad for America, and bad for the world. I cannot wait to see them leave the White House. The sooner the better. I wish we could move the inauguration up a few months.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
KAGAN: Well, as for President Bush, it turns out he's going to be spending much of his week at his ranch in Crawford, Texas. That's where he's been reviewing his 9/11 Report and his recommendations. National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice is joining him there to discuss the intelligence reform.
Our White House correspondent, Suzanne Malveaux is live in Crawford this morning with the latest on that.
Suzanne, good morning.
SUZANNE MALVEAUX, CNN WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENT: Good morning, Daryn. President Bush is laying low at his Crawford ranch, while the Democrats take center stage. But White House officials are telling us that he is on the fast track, when it comes to enacting some of those recommendations from the 9/11 Commission. He has been studying the report over the weekend, as you had mentioned. His National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice will be joining him at the Crawford ranch at about 3:30 this afternoon local time, to continue those discussions.
And at this hour, at this moment a very high level meeting is taking place at the White House, just as the president's special task force specifically to look at the kinds of reforms that are necessary for intelligence and security. Now, at the White House, and on a secure video teleconference call, just to name a few names in this meeting, you have the chief of staff Andy Card. You have Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge. You have the acting CIA director, national security adviser. And the list goes on. Representatives from Justice, from the Pentagon.
All of these people assembled for one purpose. That is to try to figure out how this administration can overhaul its intelligence agencies. We should also let you know as well, that officials are telling us, those familiar with the deliberations that the first priority is for the president to enact those recommendations that he could do immediately by executive order.
Also should let you know that sources are telling us, those familiar with those deliberations, that the White House is open to some kind of national director position of intelligence. This is a very controversial proposal. But this is something that the White House is looking at -- Daryn.
KAGAN: And Suzanne, we often hear that position referred to as controversial. Why is it controversial? Is it really among the established community that they don't want to give up the turf that they already have?
MALVEAUX: Well, Daryn, it's all about the money. It is all about the budget. Who controls the money? And as you know, Homeland Security director -- or rather the head of Homeland Security, the Secretary Tom Ridge has come out against it, as well as the acting CIA director. The Pentagon also perhaps has a lot to lose.
That position would have the authority of the budget; would also consolidate some 15 intelligence agencies within the intelligence community. It is a high-level position. That person would have a direct link to the president, would answer to the president. Some of those people within the administration say this is just another level of bureaucracy. It's not necessary. There are others in the administration who believe you can work out some of those turf wars, figure this out. And that perhaps this will be one way they consolidate all of that information and get better access, better information to the president faster.
KAGAN: Suzanne Malveaux in Crawford, Texas. Suzanne, thank you.
Well, Senator Kerry's nomination is a mere formality in Boston, the election itself is most certainly are not. Let's take a look at some new numbers. The CNN/"USA Today"/Gallup poll showing John Kerry and George Bush in a virtual dead heat in battle ground states, including Florida. There Bush does hold a slight lead. Fifty percent of likely voters compared to Kerry's 47 percent.
For a closer look, let's turn to CNN political analyst Carlos Watson in New York for a look.
Carlos, good morning.
CARLOS WATSON, CNN POLITICAL ANALYST: Daryn, good morning. How are you doing?
KAGAN: I want to get your com -- I'm doing fine. I'm wondering about those numbers, what you think of those. WATSON: It's still very close. Going into the first convention, probably the closest presidential race in half a century. The last presidential race was a double-digit gap going into the first convention. So it's a really close race. And a lot of swing states in play. Maybe as many as 20 swing states.
KAGAN: All right. Looking forward to tonight. As we're looking down the agenda, it looks like the Clintons are opening the show. What's the goal of the party tonight?
WATSON: Well, tonight is kind of something old. So if tonight is something old, tomorrow is something new with some new faces. And we move on to John Edwards and John Kerry.
Tonight, I think they need to do three things. First and foremost, they need to portray not just an upbeat image, as Bob Franken talked about. But a centrist image. Which is going to be important for those undecided voters in states like Arizona, New Mexico.
Second, I think they've got to get people to believe that on national security -- and it's going to be a four-day process, really longer. That on national security, John Kerry is not only competent, but in fact, can be tough on issues of national security.
And last but not least, the three main speakers tonight: Carter, Clinton and Gore, really make sure that they excite people such as they actually want to watch the following days. Remember, this is often the second highest watched day of the four-day convention process. The first day is; and it's the day that really sets the tone.
KAGAN: All right. Setting the tone, John Kerry. At this convention, is he going to have a chance to expand his agenda, some past the very few issues we've heard discussed up to this point?
WATSON: Well, this is an unusual election in some ways, Daryn. Because often, for example, in the last election there were kind of four or five media issues that were debated between Bush and Gore. This election in many ways so far, at least according to polls, has come down to the economy and national security; kind of lumping in terrorism and the war.
But there could be an opportunity here for John Kerry to expand the playing field and to begin to talk, for example, about the Supreme Court. There hasn't been an opening on the court in 10 years. That's the longest period without a new justice in over 150 years. And so, the next president is likely to appoint two to three justices.
KAGAN: Hmm.
WATSON: Will John Kerry talk about this a lot? Maybe. Could it become an issue, particularly around the issue of choice that helps him with Republican women who are pro choice? Maybe. So I think there's an opportunity to talk about some new issues. KAGAN: And speaking of talking. Teresa Heinz-Kerry, we just a couple of minutes ago played some videotape, clearly frustrated with a single reporter backstage. This is a woman who some people celebrate her because she speaks her mind, but some people say that she is actually hurting John Kerry. Which one is it?
WATSON: Well, I think we'll know as time goes by. Remember, a key block this time around -- last time we talked about soccer moms. This time a lot of people are talking about single women, and also single mothers. And a lot of people may look to Teresa Heinz-Kerry and say, ah, she's too outspoken. But others may say, in fact, I kind of like someone who's confident enough to say what she thinks.
She's an older woman, married to a younger man. She's older than John Kerry by five years. She's wealthier than him, which is also a big change in the times since John F. Kennedy, for example. And so it we'll wait to see whether or not she ends up being an asset.
The accent could also play for better or for worse in certain places. Some people may say, hey, she sounds a little bit like Ingrid Bergman. It sounds kind of nice. Other people may say, hmm, you know, she doesn't quite sound like us here in the heartland.
So, I think she's going to be an interesting person to watch, not just today, but over the next 100 days.
KAGAN: Absolutely. Carlos Watson, you're heading up to Boston, I think. Aren't you?
WATSON: I am. I am. It's going to get better and warmer.
KAGAN: OK. The party is starting. Don't miss.
WATSON: I won't.
KAGAN: Thank you so much.
WATSON: Take care. Good to see you.
KAGAN: Good to have you with us.
And don't miss the party there at home. Stay with CNN for extensive coverage of today's DNC. "SPECIAL CONVENTION EDITION" of "ANDERSON COOPER 360" will kick off our prime time lineup. That's 7:00 Eastern/4:00 Pacific. Followed by an "AMERICA VOTES SPECIAL" with Wolf Blitzer. Then "LARRY KING LIVE," live from the Fleet Center, site of the convention. That's the usually time, 9:00 Eastern/6:00 Pacific.
John Kerry officially makes his pitch as the Democratic presidential nominee this week. Last night, well, let's just hope for him he keeps his day job. Making an different pitch of a different kind. Could that be a sign of things to come? Not the kind of bounce he's looking for.
Kerry's campaign adviser Tad Devine joins me for a look at the challenges the Democrats face.
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MICHAEL MOORE, FILMMAKER, "FAHRENHEIT 9/11": Nice to meet you. Very nice to meet you.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Yes.
MOORE: Do you have kids?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Yes.
MOORE: Is there any way we can get them to enlist?
(END VIDEO CLIP)
KAGAN: Later, Michael Moore's "Fahrenheit 9/11" hits a milestone, as he takes his message to the Democratic National Convention. Hear from him a little bit later on CNN LIVE TODAY.
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KAGAN: I want to update you on a situation we're following out of the Florida Keys. This truck was just hanging by its one rear wheel. They've brought a crane in to help remove that truck. And it looks like they're making progress. Because just an hour ago, you saw it hanging by the one rear wheel. But the problem, besides the truck's problem, of course, is that the -- this is the main road going -- U.S. 1, going in and out of the Florida keys.
That is going to remain shut down, according to officials, at least until early afternoon. Once they remove the truck, then they need to go back and check the integrity of the bridge before they say it's OK for folks to travel on that. So we'll continue to follow that situation out of the Florida Keys.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
UNIDENTIFIED MALE (voice-over): He's going to get the nomination. He's throwing out the ceremonial first pitch to a veteran of the war in Afghanistan.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
KAGAN: OK. So Pedro Martinez is not shaking in his boots, let's just say.
Meanwhile, Senator John Kerry taking the pitch before the hometown crowd at the Boston Red Sox fans. His surprise appearance was greeted with both cheers and boos. And more with a few heckles, after he bounced his pitch past a soldier who took part in the photo op. The soldier was recognized for his many decorations he received for his service in Afghanistan.
More on John Kerry. John Kerry's in Florida. Supposed to speak at Cape Canaveral later today. We are standing by for live coverage of his town hall meeting from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Actually, something went wrong though, on his way to a speech. We'll tell you more about that just ahead.
While we're waiting, our Gerri Willis has tips on making some sweet profits in a sour market.
Gerri, good morning.
GERRI WILLIS, CNNFN PERSONAL FINANCE EDITOR: Hey, Daryn. Good to see you. The markets going nowhere fast. What can you do to help your 401(k)? We'll tell you about it when CNN LIVE TODAY continues. .
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KAGAN: Well, the Dow, you might say, lost its grip on 10,000 on Friday. The NASDAQ closed at its lowest level since October of last year. But before you start tinkering with the 401(k), CNNfn personal financial editor Gerri Willis says hold on. Hold on. Top folve tip -- "Top Five Tips" for winning in a stagnant market.
I had kind of a stagnant mouth today coming back off of vacation.
(LAUGHTER)
KAGAN: So bear with me, Ger.
WILLIS: Ah, Daryn, you're perfect, as always.
KAGAN: Thank you.
WILLIS: Tip No. 1: don't disengage from this market. I know it's -- you want to just pull out right? You want to stop putting money in your 401(k), because you're tired of seeing it go down the drain. Think again. Your money is the only thing that's going to give you returns in a market like this right now. So think about continuing to put money in.
Also, make sure you get that free company match. If you don't put money in, you don't get that money. And remember, your money is pre-taxed. So you're getting that added incentive of 20 to 30 percent more, because you're not paying tax -- Daryn.
KAGAN: All right. Extreme makeovers. They are popular with those popular plastic surgery shows on television, but don't apply them to your 401(k).
WILLIS: Yes. You know, people get so upset, they either want to take their money out or they want to change absolutely everything they're doing. Both ideas are bad. Here's why. If you make some kind of rash decision on the basis of emotion, you'll probably make a bad one. And you'll do something that people typically do. You'll market time. Or you'll decide, hey, I'm going to put everything in this one investment that's really working for me right now. Both ideas are bad -- Daryn.
KAGAN: How about dividends, the magic word? WILLIS: Well, maybe you can get paid. If you're not seeing stocks go up, your funds are going nowhere; at least you can get dividends. There are a couple of mutual funds you might want to take a look at here. They were recommended to us by Morningstar. Vanguard-Windsor too. American Funds, Washington Mutual, two really good funds that pay dividends. So you get income even if your stocks aren't going up.
KAGAN: And cut the fat. We're not talking a diet segment here. We're talking the 401(k).
WILLIS: No. When markets aren't going anywhere, every little quarter point counts. Right? That means you want to pay very low expenses on your mutual funds. Take a look at the expense ratio. Daryn, if you have a stock fund, you should be paying less than 1 percent. Bond funds, even less, 0.75 percent or less. It's always a good idea to pay attention to expenses. But when the market's going south, it's even more important.
KAGAN: And finally, something that if you can afford it, why not just hire some good help.
WILLIS: Well, and you probably can afford it. Particularly if you're paying attention to the expenses. Target Maturity Funds are also sometimes called Life Cycle Funds. They do all the asset allocation for you.
So if you're worried about getting that allocation right, particularly in strange times like these, where the markets are sort of all over the place, this is an option that will take the burden off of you. You won't have to make the heavy lifting decisions. You can turn it over to somebody else.
And they're called again Target Maturity Funds. Take a look at them. Make sure the fees aren't too expensive. And don't panic -- Daryn.
KAGAN: Don't panic. We will not live in fear.
Thank you for that. Gerri Willis in New York City, thank you.
WILLIS: Thank you.
Much more in politics ahead. John Kerry chairs a town hall meeting in Florida before heading to the Democratic National Convention. We're standing by for live coverage of that.
And heating up things for the Democrats, Michael Moore makes an appearance at the convention. Hear what he says about the Democrats moving to win back the White House.
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