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American Morning

Ask CNN: What Is Cheney's Role?

Aired December 24, 2001 - 07:46   ET

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

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

JOSEPH YORK: Hi. My name's Joseph York. I'm from Lithia Springs, Georgia and I'd like to ask CNN what has Vice President Cheney's role been during this time of crisis?

WILLIAM SCHNEIDER, CNN SENIOR POLITICAL ANALYST: The vice president has been spending a lot of time since September 11th at what his aides always describe as -- quote -- "a secure undisclosed location". Why is the president in evidence while the vice president seems to be in hiding?

The White House is protecting the continuity of government in these dangerous times. If something should happen to President Bush, they want to make sure the vice president is safe and available to take over immediately. We know that Vice President Cheney has given television interviews. He's given special speeches. We also know the vice president attends National Security Council meetings at the White House by a secure video teleconferencing. And we know that Vice President Cheney's experience and judgment have premiere standing at the White House.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

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