CNN.com - Transcripts

Transcript Providers

Return to Transcripts main page

American Morning

Hurricane Charley Growing in Power; Interview With Candace Gingrich; Scott Peterson Trial

Aired August 13, 2004 - 8:59 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.

BILL HEMMER, CNN ANCHOR: Just about 9:00 here in New York. Heidi Collins, Bill Hemmer with you today. Soledad is home resting.
And we are watching Charley again coming up the Florida coast. And as you can see it on the videotape, the storm already crashing into Key West, moving steadily toward the mainland. In a moment, we'll take you live to Florida and check out the latest conditions and what we are learning about Charley. Stay tuned for that.

HEIDI COLLINS, CNN ANCHOR: Unbelievable imagery there.

Also, more on New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey's resignation and revelation of an extramarital affair with another man. How is the gay and lesbian community reacting to this? We're going to talk with activist Candace Gingrich about that.

HEMMER: Also, the latest in the Scott Peterson trial. Amber Frey testifying again yesterday. Jurors hearing more of her phone conversations with Peterson. We'll play some of those tapes for you, including Frey's conversation with Peterson. We'll talk to former San Mateo County prosecutor Dean Johnson about that.

Jack Cafferty is at home, enjoying one last day of freedom. He's back here on Monday.

COLLINS: Because this is a jail.

HEMMER: That's right. Toure's back with the "Question of the Day" in a few moments.

COLLINS: We'll get to that in just a little while.

Meanwhile, though, Hurricane Charley growing in power as it swirls toward the Florida coast. Here now is the latest.

Charley's winds have increased to 110 miles an hour, nearly a Category Three storm. And it is expected to strengthen. The hurricane is expected to make landfall near Tampa Bay about 8:00 tonight. That would be the eye of the storm, to be clear. And almost two million tourists and residents are now being asked to evacuate the area and seek higher ground.

We do have several reports this morning. Chad Myers is in Tampa Bay. Ed Lavandera at an evacuation shelter in Dunedin. And Rob Marciano at the CNN Weather Center. We begin this morning, though, with Chad. Chad, hi.

CHAD MYERS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: Good morning, Heidi.

Take a look at this. Take a look at this line. This line right here came off of that boat back there. Or you make call it a ship, whatever you want.

It's one of those -- one of those Sun cruise ships. You know, you go out there on the ocean and you can gamble on the whole thing. So we are talking millions and millions of dollars here in Tampa Bay.

You know, we're also looking at these smaller vessels, too, obviously privately owned boats here. This is at least worth, what, $250,000. A big tuna (ph) tower on top.

And all these folks are doing the best they can. They're tying it down. But the water and the dock that I'm standing on is only four feet from there, from down at the water level.

We're talking a storm surge between 12 and 18 feet possibly if it's a direct hit, which is the forecast. So we're talking that the water's going to be 10 feet over my head, with waves on top of that.

Where do these boats go? They go up, because they float. But where the lines go after that, it's going to be very, very difficult.

Talking to the mayor earlier. She's ready to go with this. The entire area, Tampa Bay, almost one-third of everybody in the Tampa Bay region -- it's three million people -- almost one-third of them forced to evacuate, mandatory evacuations.

And, in fact, the place that we're standing is also mandatory evacuations. And at 10:00 they're shutting the power off. They don't want any power on when the water starts to comes up, because obviously water and electricity don't mix very well.

Heidi, back to you.

COLLINS: That is for sure. All right, Chad. Stay safe down there. We appreciate it very much.

And now to Dunedin, Florida. That's how you say it, Dunedin. Ed Lavandera is standing by now with the very latest from there -- Ed.

ED LAVANDERA, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Well, you know, emergency crews along the ground have been working very long hours throughout the night, and even last night, trying to get people to head into evacuation shelters.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: This is the Clearwater Police Department. Hurricane Charley is approaching the Tampa Bay area. A mandatory evacuation has been issued for all mobile home parks, low-lying coastal areas in Clearwater Island, including this neighborhood. (END VIDEO CLIP)

LAVANDERA: That's the way it works, as emergency crews have been going neighborhood by neighborhood, instructing people as to what areas have been evacuated. If you have evacuation and you don't have anywhere to go inland, we are about a mile away from the water here. This is one of the 49 shelters that have been set up across the state.

Many of these folks either live in mobile homes, or low-lying areas, or have creeks or rivers that run by their homes, or live on the coastal front areas. And those are the homes that are going to be the most affected. So they come here. It's a long, boring wait, but at least it's safe -- Heidi.

COLLINS: Yes, that's for sure, too. All right. Ed Lavandera, from Dunedin, Florida, thanks so much for that.

I want to turn it over now to Rob Marciano, standing by with some great looking maps behind you. Rob, tell us what's happening now.

ROB MARCIANO, CNN METEOROLOGIST: Well, some interesting things happening as far as traffic is concerned. We have some high resolution up-to-date maps for you.

The bridges out of Anna Maria Island and --Key Boat Key (ph) there have been closed. So that's not so much of an issue. But from St. Pete's over to Tampa, we're still flowing at 40 miles an hour or better. Now, these bridges could be closed later on today if winds get over 40 miles an hour.

All flights right now are moving, but at 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time we're looking at a cancellation of all flights, and that airport's going to be shut down. And here's why.

Here's TrueView Radar. It is a three dimensional level two radar. We showed you this earlier in the program. And you go west of Key West, right now about 75 miles just offshore is where this thing is.

The latest advisory, as of 9:00, have not strengthened this thing. But you can see -- you can see the eye wall here. Even some oranges showing up there.

So it is scheduled to strengthen as it continues to head over these warm waters. And it will head into Tampa Bay, or just to the north and west. Still scheduled to do that sometime 6:00 to 9:00 tonight.

And when that happens, that's when that storm surge is going to happen. And that's when we're going to look at some big problems.

Could even affect Orlando, at least the western parts of Orlando. Will affect probably the D.C. area as far as rains. Possibly some flooding rains across the Carolinas later on tonight. Really over the weekend, this is going to affect millions of people. You go west of there, and it's really looking good, especially the West Coast -- 91 in Portland and 75 expected in Los Angeles.

Heidi, back over to you.

COLLINS: All right. Rob Marciano, thanks so much for that.

MARCIANO: You bet.

HEMMER: About five minutes past the hour. This political bombshell in New Jersey late yesterday afternoon. With his wife by his side, New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey made an announcement that stunned everyone.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GOV. JIM MCGREEVEY (D), NEW JERSEY: At a point in every person's life, one has to look deeply into the mirror of one's soul and decide one's unique truth in the world. Not as we may want to see it, or hope to see it, but as it is. And so my truth is that I am a gay American.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

HEMMER: So, then, what can Governor McGreevey expect now? Candace Gingrich was out and fighting for gay rights, while her brother, Republican Newt Gingrich, was speaker of the House. She's live in D.C. with us this morning.

Good morning to you there. Thanks for your time today. As you're watching and listening to this yesterday, what was your reaction?

CANDACE GINGRICH, HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN: Well, I was -- you know, I felt very, very strongly for Governor McGreevey. Having spoken with so many other gay Americans who had been on their own coming out journey, being able to really identify with, you know, feeling different, feeling as if you had to deny a part of yourself, and then finally being able to acknowledge that part, to be able to say, I am a gay American, it was very moving.

HEMMER: Also, with his wife, what did you consider on her behalf?

GINGRICH: Well, you know, I think, again, his story isn't that different from other Americans who maybe don't realize that they are gay until later in life, don't acknowledge or are able to accept that they're gay until later in life, maybe after a marriage, maybe after having children. And I think that it was very, very powerful to see her standing there. And I knew it was -- it was a decision that they had come to, to be there together, probably after a lot of struggle.

HEMMER: And he talked about this extramarital affair that we anticipate we're going to hear a lot more of, maybe today even. Listen to how he addressed that.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP) MCGREEVEY: It makes little difference that as governor I am gay. In fact, having the ability to truthfully set forth my identity might have enabled me to be more forthright in fulfilling and discharging my constitutional obligations.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

HEMMER: Candace, are you able at this point to reflect on how this announcement will impact the image of gays in America, either in public life or in private life? How do we then take in this information, allow it to settle in, and think about it for the next week or so?

GINGRICH: I'm not sure how -- how it's going to -- to affect people. I mean, I think that Governor McGreevey is absolutely right, that being gay is not a barrier to doing any -- shouldn't be a barrier to doing anything in our country, whether it's serving as an elected official -- I mean, obviously there are openly gay and lesbian people serving in most levels of government in our country. But that, you know, his decision to come out, and to be open about that, was a journey for him that he arrived at after, you know, a lot of struggle. And I think there are a lot of Americans, gay and those who just know someone who's gay and care about them, who can really understand what he went through.

HEMMER: On the flip side of all this, we're hearing reports that a sexual harassment suit will be leveled at some point against him. Was this a preemptive strike yesterday against that?

GINGRICH: You know, I can't say. I can't say.

You know, I think the struggle even to make the announcement yesterday was -- was -- and the way that he was able to do it was very eloquent, very courageous. And whatever comes, you know, will come.

HEMMER: Candace Gingrich in D.C., thank you for sharing with us.

GINGRICH: Thank you, Bill.

HEMMER: All right -- Heidi.

COLLINS: The president and first lady sat down with Larry King for an exclusive interview last night. Larry asked Mr. Bush about his response when he first heard of the attacks on September 11. Senator Kerry recently criticized Bush for continuing to read to a classroom of children on that fateful day.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GEORGE W. BUSH, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: I had just been told by Andrew Card that America was under attack. And I was collecting my thoughts. And I was sitting with a bunch of young kids. And I made the decision there that we would let this part of the program finish, and then I would calmly step -- stand up and thank the teacher and thank the children and go about -- go take care of business. And I think what's important is how I reacted when I realized America was under attack. It didn't take me long to figure out we were at war. It didn't take me long to develop a plan that would go after al Qaeda. We went into action very quickly.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

COLLINS: The Kerry campaign immediately issued a response to the Bushes' appearance on "LARRY KING LIVE," reading in part, "The president's spent an hour on TV and didn't talk about jobs or his plans to get the economy going. It's the latest proof that this president is completely out of touch with the priorities of this country and has no plan to turn things around."

Ten minutes past the hour now. Time for a look at some of today's other news and Carol Costello.

Hi, Carol.

CAROL COSTELLO, CNN ANCHOR: Hi, Heidi. Thank you.

Thousands of Muqtada al-Sadr supporters are staging an angry protest, demanding an end to the violence in Najaf. American and Iraqi forces there are clashing with fighters loyal to the radical cleric. The protesters are also demanding the resignation of several Iraqi government members. Also, a new hostage, a British journalist identified as James Brandon, was abducted last night in the southern city of Basra.

The Bush administration's tax cuts are reportedly costing the middle class. A new study shows federal tax rates for the wealthiest percent of Americans has dropped, while taxpayers of middle class incomes, between $51,000 and $75,000 a year, saw their taxes go up. The report by the Congressional Budget Office is set to come out today. It is cited this morning in "The Washington Post."

In California, a legal ruling sparks protests as gay and lesbian couples take to the streets. Rallies were organized after the California Supreme Court nullified nearly 4,000 same-sex marriages. The court ruled unanimously that San Francisco's mayor exceeded his authority when issuing marriage licenses to gay and lesbian couples.

And in Athens, Greece, for the first time, the Acropolis will be accessible to wheelchair users. A new lift will enable disabled people to get a close-up look at the 2,500-year-old monument. The site was previously inaccessible due to the steep hill and large steps. But no more, as you can see.

Back to you, Bill.

HEMMER: And it's going to be a great backdrop of that Acropolis, just sitting up there on that hill throughout the entire games. Thank you, Carol.

More testimony yesterday in the Scott Peterson murder trial. Court is dark today. They'll resume on Monday. But these tape recordings reveal insight into Peterson's relationship with his ex- mistress, Amber Frey.

Earlier today on AMERICAN MORNING I talked with the former San Mateo County prosecutor, Dean Johnson, about the tapes and the testimony. Listen to some of those tapes now and part of that conversation.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

AMBER FREY, HAD AFFAIR WITH SCOTT PETERSON: Yeah, and I deserve to understand an explanation of why you told me you lost your wife and this was the first holidays you would spend without her. That was December 9 you told me this. And now all of a sudden your wife's missing? Are you kidding me?

SCOTT PETERSON, DEFENDANT: I did. I -- I -- I -- I don't know what to say.

FREY: I think an explanation would be a start.

PETERSON: I know you absolutely deserve an explanation.

FREY: Yes, I do. I do.

PETERSON: And I want to give you one.

FREY: I'm listening.

PETERSON: I -- I can't now. I mean, you don't understand.

HEMMER: Dean, what was Scott's demeanor during this?

DEAN JOHNSON, FMR. SAN MATEO COUNTY PROSECUTOR: Well, I think the key word is "evasive." The jury is going home for this -- for this long weekend with two words ringing in their ears: coincidence and evasion.

Scott Peterson has moved in on this -- has -- or Amber Frey moved in on Scott Peterson like a prosecutor going after a cross- examination. And she was very successful in a lot of ways. But there are three questions that she kept asking time after time, and Scott Peterson would not answer.

The first one we just heard. You know, you told me, Scott, on December the 9 that your wife was going missing, and you were going to spend the holidays alone. That came true on December the 24th. You're telling me this is just a coincidence?

The other question, Scott, yes or no, did you love your wife? I can't explain that, Amber. I can't answer that.

And the third question, Scott, was the baby yours? Can't explain that. Can't answer that. You don't know everything.

By the way, we know that Conner was Scott's child. But he can't answer that simple question. And the jury is now looking at him, and they identify with Amber. They say, you know what, Scott, an explanation would be a good start.

HEMMER: Dean, she pressed him a little further in that same conversation, back to the tapes now.

FREY: So why is it you have such a hard time with the truth?

PETERSON: I don't think I do. But I lied to you. And I hate myself for that.

FREY: You didn't think you knew you lied to me?

PETERSON: No, no, no. I have always told you the truth.

FREY: Oh, really?

PETERSON: No. With exceptions, obviously.

FREY: Truth with exceptions, huh? That's a new one for my book.

HEMMER: I asked about how Scott was responding in court. What were the jurors doing during this, Dean?

JOHNSON: Well, you know, I watched the jury's language very closely. They've been bored through a lot of this case. But they're now looking at Scott Peterson with disdain.

They don't like the fact that he wormed his way into Amber Frey's heart and into her little daughter's heart. They don't like the fact that he's lied. And they're saying, you know what? Amber Frey couldn't force you to explain all of these facts. But we want to hear an explanation.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

HEMMER: Again, Dean Johnson. Dean Johnson earlier here on AMERICAN MORNING. The jurors will hear more of those conversations on Monday and Tuesday, when court resumes there in California.

COLLINS: Still to come, the latest on Hurricane Charley. Two million people now have been told to get out of the path of the storm. We're going to have a live report coming your way just ahead.

HEMMER: Also, some very special kids at a summer camp under the stars. We'll have the story in our "Extra Effort" segment today.

COLLINS: Plus, Scott Peterson and Amber Frey in their own words. A former prosecutor talks about the courtroom drama ahead on AMERICAN MORNING.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

HEMMER: The southern-most point on the continental U.S., the lower 48, anyway. That's Key West, Florida, and this is what the scene looked like about two hours ago as Charley brushed by the Keys. Key West being the critical point for this storm. Gusts up to about 50 miles an hour. But we do anticipate the outer bands of that storm working its way toward the eye later tonight, moving toward Tampa, Florida, with gusts exceeding 110 miles an hour. It may gain in strength and move even beyond that. So we will watch that throughout the morning.

In the meantime, what's happening in Florida? Colonel Mitch Perryman commands a Florida National Guard unit. He's in Tampa to talk about it.

Colonel, good morning to you.

COL. MITCH PERRYMAN, FLORIDA NATIONAL GUARD: Good morning.

HEMMER: Can you tell us how many people have listened to the evacuation warnings?

PERRYMAN: You know, I don't have the exact numbers. The Guard is not actively involved with the evacuation. That's being handled by the civilian authorities right now. But I believe our numbers are up to about half of the population in the area has heeded the warnings.

HEMMER: Wow. We heard about 800,000, maybe as many as a million. So if half have heeded, that puts it at about 500,000 based on what you're saying. What are the duties for the National Guard? How can you help in this storm?

PERRYMAN: Well, we're currently standing up our forces in -- in different locations around the state, so that if we're needed by the civilian authorities, we'll be able to provide them with humanitarian relief, also security, augmentation for law enforcement, search and rescue, some communication and logistical support.

HEMMER: And Colonel, how many are involved in that on the National Guard side?

PERRYMAN: Well, currently, yesterday and throughout today, we were bringing in approximately 1,500 soldiers and airmen into our facilities to stand by for any missions that may come to us.

HEMMER: Curious to know, in the state of Florida, the war on terror, how many men do you have serving -- men and women -- overseas at this point?

PERRYMAN: We've got approximately 2,000 soldiers and airmen that are still mobilized for the global war on terrorism.

HEMMER: Have you suffered casualties as well?

PERRYMAN: Yes. The Florida Guard has lost five soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan.

HEMMER: Well, we remember them today. And I wish you the best of luck going forward today.

PERRYMAN: Thank you. HEMMER: Mitch Perryman, the colonel down there, the Florida National Guard, watching and waiting, as we all are, from Tampa, Florida.

Thank you, Colonel.

Break here in a moment. Iraq wins a stunner in Athens. We'll tell you about that after a break.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

COLLINS: Toure is here now, and the "Question of the Day" once again.

TOURE, "ROLLING STONE" MAGAZINE: Yes. Back for a little more.

New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey's stunning announcement yesterday that he's gay reminds us, though -- reminds us that there are gay Americans in all walks of life, but very few openly gay Americans in national politics.

We're wondering today what the future holds, when will the hegemony of white men over the Oval Office end? Be a political prognosticator. Tell us who will be president first, a gay American, a black person or a woman? Some interesting answers.

Matt says, "Colin Powell will be the first black president of the United States. But he may run into a slight problem with Hillary Clinton running against him."

Robert from Tacoma, Washington, says the opposite. "I think a woman will be president before a black person. And I don't think a gay person will ever be voted into the White House."

Quite dire from Robert.

Joyce, from Newburyport, "A woman will be a president. A gay or black president would never be accepted by most of America because of the extra baggage they bring with them because of special interest groups."

Which is kind of strange, because all politicians are quite close with special interest groups. So...

And Paul from Hellertown, Pennsylvania, "The true test of the American character will be when a gay person, black person or woman is elected and the only question asked prior to the election is, 'Who cares?'"

HEMMER: Love to see that Colin Powell-Hillary Clinton race, huh?

TOURE: Yes. That would be great.

HEMMER: That would be a doozy, what, 2008?

TOURE: Yes, yes, yes. HEMMER: Good question, Toure.

COLLINS: 2008, is that what you're projecting?

HEMMER: No. I don't make predictions because I'm always wrong.

From Athens, Greece, quickly take a look at this. Iraq soccer team in the games for the first time in about a dozen years. They absolutely pulled off a stunner.

TOURE: Unbelievable.

HEMMER: They beat the heavily-favored team out of Portugal, 4-2 the final. That's a preliminary match-up.

A stunning upset for the team from Iraq. And we will see now how the storyline plays out, because we are told back in Baghdad, Basra, people pouring out of the coffee houses, the tea houses, and watching this game.

You know, under Saddam Hussein, they took huge pride in (UNINTELLIGIBLE) ability. I mean, the whole branch of government under Uday was in charge of that. And you know that country has an enormous amount of pride in what they can produce on the field.

COLLINS: And they suffered the consequences, too.

HEMMER: Yes. Very true.

(CROSSTALK)

TOURE: But just the way that soccer teams represent the national character in most other countries outside of America. Like, for them to win a soccer match like that is like...

HEMMER: Very true. Yes, that's right. Now, what if they win another one?

TOURE: Oh, forget about it.

HEMMER: I think you're actually going to become a fan.

TOURE: Of the Iraq team, baby.

COLLINS: Of Iraqi soccer. Yes, you go.

All right. Still to come this morning, the weekend is finally here, in case you didn't know. Time now for some "90-Second Pop."

The material girl shocks concert organizers with her backstage wish list. And why isn't Fantasia Barrino getting as much radio play as the idols before her?

Stay with us on AMERICAN MORNING.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK) COLLINS: Just about half past the hour now. We're going to have the opening bell coming your way in just a moment.

But right now, all eyes are on Florida and Hurricane Charley this morning. That storm already crashed into Key West. It's expected to slam into Tampa later on tonight. We're going to go to Key West, though, in just a moment.

HEMMER: Also, new poll numbers out as some key battleground states showing one of the candidates pulling ahead. Bill Schneider has the numbers in a moment.

We have the numbers now, too, on Wall Street. Opening bell on a Friday. The Dow off about 123 points yesterday, starting today at 9814, and a strong show of support down there on Wall Street today.

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

Aired August 13, 2004 - 8:59 ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
BILL HEMMER, CNN ANCHOR: Just about 9:00 here in New York. Heidi Collins, Bill Hemmer with you today. Soledad is home resting.
And we are watching Charley again coming up the Florida coast. And as you can see it on the videotape, the storm already crashing into Key West, moving steadily toward the mainland. In a moment, we'll take you live to Florida and check out the latest conditions and what we are learning about Charley. Stay tuned for that.

HEIDI COLLINS, CNN ANCHOR: Unbelievable imagery there.

Also, more on New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey's resignation and revelation of an extramarital affair with another man. How is the gay and lesbian community reacting to this? We're going to talk with activist Candace Gingrich about that.

HEMMER: Also, the latest in the Scott Peterson trial. Amber Frey testifying again yesterday. Jurors hearing more of her phone conversations with Peterson. We'll play some of those tapes for you, including Frey's conversation with Peterson. We'll talk to former San Mateo County prosecutor Dean Johnson about that.

Jack Cafferty is at home, enjoying one last day of freedom. He's back here on Monday.

COLLINS: Because this is a jail.

HEMMER: That's right. Toure's back with the "Question of the Day" in a few moments.

COLLINS: We'll get to that in just a little while.

Meanwhile, though, Hurricane Charley growing in power as it swirls toward the Florida coast. Here now is the latest.

Charley's winds have increased to 110 miles an hour, nearly a Category Three storm. And it is expected to strengthen. The hurricane is expected to make landfall near Tampa Bay about 8:00 tonight. That would be the eye of the storm, to be clear. And almost two million tourists and residents are now being asked to evacuate the area and seek higher ground.

We do have several reports this morning. Chad Myers is in Tampa Bay. Ed Lavandera at an evacuation shelter in Dunedin. And Rob Marciano at the CNN Weather Center. We begin this morning, though, with Chad. Chad, hi.

CHAD MYERS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: Good morning, Heidi.

Take a look at this. Take a look at this line. This line right here came off of that boat back there. Or you make call it a ship, whatever you want.

It's one of those -- one of those Sun cruise ships. You know, you go out there on the ocean and you can gamble on the whole thing. So we are talking millions and millions of dollars here in Tampa Bay.

You know, we're also looking at these smaller vessels, too, obviously privately owned boats here. This is at least worth, what, $250,000. A big tuna (ph) tower on top.

And all these folks are doing the best they can. They're tying it down. But the water and the dock that I'm standing on is only four feet from there, from down at the water level.

We're talking a storm surge between 12 and 18 feet possibly if it's a direct hit, which is the forecast. So we're talking that the water's going to be 10 feet over my head, with waves on top of that.

Where do these boats go? They go up, because they float. But where the lines go after that, it's going to be very, very difficult.

Talking to the mayor earlier. She's ready to go with this. The entire area, Tampa Bay, almost one-third of everybody in the Tampa Bay region -- it's three million people -- almost one-third of them forced to evacuate, mandatory evacuations.

And, in fact, the place that we're standing is also mandatory evacuations. And at 10:00 they're shutting the power off. They don't want any power on when the water starts to comes up, because obviously water and electricity don't mix very well.

Heidi, back to you.

COLLINS: That is for sure. All right, Chad. Stay safe down there. We appreciate it very much.

And now to Dunedin, Florida. That's how you say it, Dunedin. Ed Lavandera is standing by now with the very latest from there -- Ed.

ED LAVANDERA, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Well, you know, emergency crews along the ground have been working very long hours throughout the night, and even last night, trying to get people to head into evacuation shelters.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: This is the Clearwater Police Department. Hurricane Charley is approaching the Tampa Bay area. A mandatory evacuation has been issued for all mobile home parks, low-lying coastal areas in Clearwater Island, including this neighborhood. (END VIDEO CLIP)

LAVANDERA: That's the way it works, as emergency crews have been going neighborhood by neighborhood, instructing people as to what areas have been evacuated. If you have evacuation and you don't have anywhere to go inland, we are about a mile away from the water here. This is one of the 49 shelters that have been set up across the state.

Many of these folks either live in mobile homes, or low-lying areas, or have creeks or rivers that run by their homes, or live on the coastal front areas. And those are the homes that are going to be the most affected. So they come here. It's a long, boring wait, but at least it's safe -- Heidi.

COLLINS: Yes, that's for sure, too. All right. Ed Lavandera, from Dunedin, Florida, thanks so much for that.

I want to turn it over now to Rob Marciano, standing by with some great looking maps behind you. Rob, tell us what's happening now.

ROB MARCIANO, CNN METEOROLOGIST: Well, some interesting things happening as far as traffic is concerned. We have some high resolution up-to-date maps for you.

The bridges out of Anna Maria Island and --Key Boat Key (ph) there have been closed. So that's not so much of an issue. But from St. Pete's over to Tampa, we're still flowing at 40 miles an hour or better. Now, these bridges could be closed later on today if winds get over 40 miles an hour.

All flights right now are moving, but at 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time we're looking at a cancellation of all flights, and that airport's going to be shut down. And here's why.

Here's TrueView Radar. It is a three dimensional level two radar. We showed you this earlier in the program. And you go west of Key West, right now about 75 miles just offshore is where this thing is.

The latest advisory, as of 9:00, have not strengthened this thing. But you can see -- you can see the eye wall here. Even some oranges showing up there.

So it is scheduled to strengthen as it continues to head over these warm waters. And it will head into Tampa Bay, or just to the north and west. Still scheduled to do that sometime 6:00 to 9:00 tonight.

And when that happens, that's when that storm surge is going to happen. And that's when we're going to look at some big problems.

Could even affect Orlando, at least the western parts of Orlando. Will affect probably the D.C. area as far as rains. Possibly some flooding rains across the Carolinas later on tonight. Really over the weekend, this is going to affect millions of people. You go west of there, and it's really looking good, especially the West Coast -- 91 in Portland and 75 expected in Los Angeles.

Heidi, back over to you.

COLLINS: All right. Rob Marciano, thanks so much for that.

MARCIANO: You bet.

HEMMER: About five minutes past the hour. This political bombshell in New Jersey late yesterday afternoon. With his wife by his side, New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey made an announcement that stunned everyone.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GOV. JIM MCGREEVEY (D), NEW JERSEY: At a point in every person's life, one has to look deeply into the mirror of one's soul and decide one's unique truth in the world. Not as we may want to see it, or hope to see it, but as it is. And so my truth is that I am a gay American.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

HEMMER: So, then, what can Governor McGreevey expect now? Candace Gingrich was out and fighting for gay rights, while her brother, Republican Newt Gingrich, was speaker of the House. She's live in D.C. with us this morning.

Good morning to you there. Thanks for your time today. As you're watching and listening to this yesterday, what was your reaction?

CANDACE GINGRICH, HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN: Well, I was -- you know, I felt very, very strongly for Governor McGreevey. Having spoken with so many other gay Americans who had been on their own coming out journey, being able to really identify with, you know, feeling different, feeling as if you had to deny a part of yourself, and then finally being able to acknowledge that part, to be able to say, I am a gay American, it was very moving.

HEMMER: Also, with his wife, what did you consider on her behalf?

GINGRICH: Well, you know, I think, again, his story isn't that different from other Americans who maybe don't realize that they are gay until later in life, don't acknowledge or are able to accept that they're gay until later in life, maybe after a marriage, maybe after having children. And I think that it was very, very powerful to see her standing there. And I knew it was -- it was a decision that they had come to, to be there together, probably after a lot of struggle.

HEMMER: And he talked about this extramarital affair that we anticipate we're going to hear a lot more of, maybe today even. Listen to how he addressed that.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP) MCGREEVEY: It makes little difference that as governor I am gay. In fact, having the ability to truthfully set forth my identity might have enabled me to be more forthright in fulfilling and discharging my constitutional obligations.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

HEMMER: Candace, are you able at this point to reflect on how this announcement will impact the image of gays in America, either in public life or in private life? How do we then take in this information, allow it to settle in, and think about it for the next week or so?

GINGRICH: I'm not sure how -- how it's going to -- to affect people. I mean, I think that Governor McGreevey is absolutely right, that being gay is not a barrier to doing any -- shouldn't be a barrier to doing anything in our country, whether it's serving as an elected official -- I mean, obviously there are openly gay and lesbian people serving in most levels of government in our country. But that, you know, his decision to come out, and to be open about that, was a journey for him that he arrived at after, you know, a lot of struggle. And I think there are a lot of Americans, gay and those who just know someone who's gay and care about them, who can really understand what he went through.

HEMMER: On the flip side of all this, we're hearing reports that a sexual harassment suit will be leveled at some point against him. Was this a preemptive strike yesterday against that?

GINGRICH: You know, I can't say. I can't say.

You know, I think the struggle even to make the announcement yesterday was -- was -- and the way that he was able to do it was very eloquent, very courageous. And whatever comes, you know, will come.

HEMMER: Candace Gingrich in D.C., thank you for sharing with us.

GINGRICH: Thank you, Bill.

HEMMER: All right -- Heidi.

COLLINS: The president and first lady sat down with Larry King for an exclusive interview last night. Larry asked Mr. Bush about his response when he first heard of the attacks on September 11. Senator Kerry recently criticized Bush for continuing to read to a classroom of children on that fateful day.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GEORGE W. BUSH, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: I had just been told by Andrew Card that America was under attack. And I was collecting my thoughts. And I was sitting with a bunch of young kids. And I made the decision there that we would let this part of the program finish, and then I would calmly step -- stand up and thank the teacher and thank the children and go about -- go take care of business. And I think what's important is how I reacted when I realized America was under attack. It didn't take me long to figure out we were at war. It didn't take me long to develop a plan that would go after al Qaeda. We went into action very quickly.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

COLLINS: The Kerry campaign immediately issued a response to the Bushes' appearance on "LARRY KING LIVE," reading in part, "The president's spent an hour on TV and didn't talk about jobs or his plans to get the economy going. It's the latest proof that this president is completely out of touch with the priorities of this country and has no plan to turn things around."

Ten minutes past the hour now. Time for a look at some of today's other news and Carol Costello.

Hi, Carol.

CAROL COSTELLO, CNN ANCHOR: Hi, Heidi. Thank you.

Thousands of Muqtada al-Sadr supporters are staging an angry protest, demanding an end to the violence in Najaf. American and Iraqi forces there are clashing with fighters loyal to the radical cleric. The protesters are also demanding the resignation of several Iraqi government members. Also, a new hostage, a British journalist identified as James Brandon, was abducted last night in the southern city of Basra.

The Bush administration's tax cuts are reportedly costing the middle class. A new study shows federal tax rates for the wealthiest percent of Americans has dropped, while taxpayers of middle class incomes, between $51,000 and $75,000 a year, saw their taxes go up. The report by the Congressional Budget Office is set to come out today. It is cited this morning in "The Washington Post."

In California, a legal ruling sparks protests as gay and lesbian couples take to the streets. Rallies were organized after the California Supreme Court nullified nearly 4,000 same-sex marriages. The court ruled unanimously that San Francisco's mayor exceeded his authority when issuing marriage licenses to gay and lesbian couples.

And in Athens, Greece, for the first time, the Acropolis will be accessible to wheelchair users. A new lift will enable disabled people to get a close-up look at the 2,500-year-old monument. The site was previously inaccessible due to the steep hill and large steps. But no more, as you can see.

Back to you, Bill.

HEMMER: And it's going to be a great backdrop of that Acropolis, just sitting up there on that hill throughout the entire games. Thank you, Carol.

More testimony yesterday in the Scott Peterson murder trial. Court is dark today. They'll resume on Monday. But these tape recordings reveal insight into Peterson's relationship with his ex- mistress, Amber Frey.

Earlier today on AMERICAN MORNING I talked with the former San Mateo County prosecutor, Dean Johnson, about the tapes and the testimony. Listen to some of those tapes now and part of that conversation.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

AMBER FREY, HAD AFFAIR WITH SCOTT PETERSON: Yeah, and I deserve to understand an explanation of why you told me you lost your wife and this was the first holidays you would spend without her. That was December 9 you told me this. And now all of a sudden your wife's missing? Are you kidding me?

SCOTT PETERSON, DEFENDANT: I did. I -- I -- I -- I don't know what to say.

FREY: I think an explanation would be a start.

PETERSON: I know you absolutely deserve an explanation.

FREY: Yes, I do. I do.

PETERSON: And I want to give you one.

FREY: I'm listening.

PETERSON: I -- I can't now. I mean, you don't understand.

HEMMER: Dean, what was Scott's demeanor during this?

DEAN JOHNSON, FMR. SAN MATEO COUNTY PROSECUTOR: Well, I think the key word is "evasive." The jury is going home for this -- for this long weekend with two words ringing in their ears: coincidence and evasion.

Scott Peterson has moved in on this -- has -- or Amber Frey moved in on Scott Peterson like a prosecutor going after a cross- examination. And she was very successful in a lot of ways. But there are three questions that she kept asking time after time, and Scott Peterson would not answer.

The first one we just heard. You know, you told me, Scott, on December the 9 that your wife was going missing, and you were going to spend the holidays alone. That came true on December the 24th. You're telling me this is just a coincidence?

The other question, Scott, yes or no, did you love your wife? I can't explain that, Amber. I can't answer that.

And the third question, Scott, was the baby yours? Can't explain that. Can't answer that. You don't know everything.

By the way, we know that Conner was Scott's child. But he can't answer that simple question. And the jury is now looking at him, and they identify with Amber. They say, you know what, Scott, an explanation would be a good start.

HEMMER: Dean, she pressed him a little further in that same conversation, back to the tapes now.

FREY: So why is it you have such a hard time with the truth?

PETERSON: I don't think I do. But I lied to you. And I hate myself for that.

FREY: You didn't think you knew you lied to me?

PETERSON: No, no, no. I have always told you the truth.

FREY: Oh, really?

PETERSON: No. With exceptions, obviously.

FREY: Truth with exceptions, huh? That's a new one for my book.

HEMMER: I asked about how Scott was responding in court. What were the jurors doing during this, Dean?

JOHNSON: Well, you know, I watched the jury's language very closely. They've been bored through a lot of this case. But they're now looking at Scott Peterson with disdain.

They don't like the fact that he wormed his way into Amber Frey's heart and into her little daughter's heart. They don't like the fact that he's lied. And they're saying, you know what? Amber Frey couldn't force you to explain all of these facts. But we want to hear an explanation.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

HEMMER: Again, Dean Johnson. Dean Johnson earlier here on AMERICAN MORNING. The jurors will hear more of those conversations on Monday and Tuesday, when court resumes there in California.

COLLINS: Still to come, the latest on Hurricane Charley. Two million people now have been told to get out of the path of the storm. We're going to have a live report coming your way just ahead.

HEMMER: Also, some very special kids at a summer camp under the stars. We'll have the story in our "Extra Effort" segment today.

COLLINS: Plus, Scott Peterson and Amber Frey in their own words. A former prosecutor talks about the courtroom drama ahead on AMERICAN MORNING.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

HEMMER: The southern-most point on the continental U.S., the lower 48, anyway. That's Key West, Florida, and this is what the scene looked like about two hours ago as Charley brushed by the Keys. Key West being the critical point for this storm. Gusts up to about 50 miles an hour. But we do anticipate the outer bands of that storm working its way toward the eye later tonight, moving toward Tampa, Florida, with gusts exceeding 110 miles an hour. It may gain in strength and move even beyond that. So we will watch that throughout the morning.

In the meantime, what's happening in Florida? Colonel Mitch Perryman commands a Florida National Guard unit. He's in Tampa to talk about it.

Colonel, good morning to you.

COL. MITCH PERRYMAN, FLORIDA NATIONAL GUARD: Good morning.

HEMMER: Can you tell us how many people have listened to the evacuation warnings?

PERRYMAN: You know, I don't have the exact numbers. The Guard is not actively involved with the evacuation. That's being handled by the civilian authorities right now. But I believe our numbers are up to about half of the population in the area has heeded the warnings.

HEMMER: Wow. We heard about 800,000, maybe as many as a million. So if half have heeded, that puts it at about 500,000 based on what you're saying. What are the duties for the National Guard? How can you help in this storm?

PERRYMAN: Well, we're currently standing up our forces in -- in different locations around the state, so that if we're needed by the civilian authorities, we'll be able to provide them with humanitarian relief, also security, augmentation for law enforcement, search and rescue, some communication and logistical support.

HEMMER: And Colonel, how many are involved in that on the National Guard side?

PERRYMAN: Well, currently, yesterday and throughout today, we were bringing in approximately 1,500 soldiers and airmen into our facilities to stand by for any missions that may come to us.

HEMMER: Curious to know, in the state of Florida, the war on terror, how many men do you have serving -- men and women -- overseas at this point?

PERRYMAN: We've got approximately 2,000 soldiers and airmen that are still mobilized for the global war on terrorism.

HEMMER: Have you suffered casualties as well?

PERRYMAN: Yes. The Florida Guard has lost five soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan.

HEMMER: Well, we remember them today. And I wish you the best of luck going forward today.

PERRYMAN: Thank you. HEMMER: Mitch Perryman, the colonel down there, the Florida National Guard, watching and waiting, as we all are, from Tampa, Florida.

Thank you, Colonel.

Break here in a moment. Iraq wins a stunner in Athens. We'll tell you about that after a break.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

COLLINS: Toure is here now, and the "Question of the Day" once again.

TOURE, "ROLLING STONE" MAGAZINE: Yes. Back for a little more.

New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey's stunning announcement yesterday that he's gay reminds us, though -- reminds us that there are gay Americans in all walks of life, but very few openly gay Americans in national politics.

We're wondering today what the future holds, when will the hegemony of white men over the Oval Office end? Be a political prognosticator. Tell us who will be president first, a gay American, a black person or a woman? Some interesting answers.

Matt says, "Colin Powell will be the first black president of the United States. But he may run into a slight problem with Hillary Clinton running against him."

Robert from Tacoma, Washington, says the opposite. "I think a woman will be president before a black person. And I don't think a gay person will ever be voted into the White House."

Quite dire from Robert.

Joyce, from Newburyport, "A woman will be a president. A gay or black president would never be accepted by most of America because of the extra baggage they bring with them because of special interest groups."

Which is kind of strange, because all politicians are quite close with special interest groups. So...

And Paul from Hellertown, Pennsylvania, "The true test of the American character will be when a gay person, black person or woman is elected and the only question asked prior to the election is, 'Who cares?'"

HEMMER: Love to see that Colin Powell-Hillary Clinton race, huh?

TOURE: Yes. That would be great.

HEMMER: That would be a doozy, what, 2008?

TOURE: Yes, yes, yes. HEMMER: Good question, Toure.

COLLINS: 2008, is that what you're projecting?

HEMMER: No. I don't make predictions because I'm always wrong.

From Athens, Greece, quickly take a look at this. Iraq soccer team in the games for the first time in about a dozen years. They absolutely pulled off a stunner.

TOURE: Unbelievable.

HEMMER: They beat the heavily-favored team out of Portugal, 4-2 the final. That's a preliminary match-up.

A stunning upset for the team from Iraq. And we will see now how the storyline plays out, because we are told back in Baghdad, Basra, people pouring out of the coffee houses, the tea houses, and watching this game.

You know, under Saddam Hussein, they took huge pride in (UNINTELLIGIBLE) ability. I mean, the whole branch of government under Uday was in charge of that. And you know that country has an enormous amount of pride in what they can produce on the field.

COLLINS: And they suffered the consequences, too.

HEMMER: Yes. Very true.

(CROSSTALK)

TOURE: But just the way that soccer teams represent the national character in most other countries outside of America. Like, for them to win a soccer match like that is like...

HEMMER: Very true. Yes, that's right. Now, what if they win another one?

TOURE: Oh, forget about it.

HEMMER: I think you're actually going to become a fan.

TOURE: Of the Iraq team, baby.

COLLINS: Of Iraqi soccer. Yes, you go.

All right. Still to come this morning, the weekend is finally here, in case you didn't know. Time now for some "90-Second Pop."

The material girl shocks concert organizers with her backstage wish list. And why isn't Fantasia Barrino getting as much radio play as the idols before her?

Stay with us on AMERICAN MORNING.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK) COLLINS: Just about half past the hour now. We're going to have the opening bell coming your way in just a moment.

But right now, all eyes are on Florida and Hurricane Charley this morning. That storm already crashed into Key West. It's expected to slam into Tampa later on tonight. We're going to go to Key West, though, in just a moment.

HEMMER: Also, new poll numbers out as some key battleground states showing one of the candidates pulling ahead. Bill Schneider has the numbers in a moment.

We have the numbers now, too, on Wall Street. Opening bell on a Friday. The Dow off about 123 points yesterday, starting today at 9814, and a strong show of support down there on Wall Street today.

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