FishPoolDC: Our Insider’s Notes from Yesterday’s Press Briefing

YouTube, ITube, WeAllTube: On the heels of Obama’s Supreme Court nominee announcement this morning, Press Secretary Robert Gibbs fielded questions on a controversial YouTube video in which Sonia Sotomayor says the “Court of Appeals is where policy is made.” A visibly irritated RG charged that the comment was out of context, exchanging barbs with AURN’s April Ryan to the point where he defended, “I’m simply joining you in the richness of the dialogue that we’re having.” Asked if he was concerned about the impact the video would have in this ‘YouTube era,’ the spokesman shot back, “even if I can’t convince some people in this room,” most people will understand the full context of her remarks. Ouch, Robert. Ouch.

All Clear?: If it’s an Obama nominee, the tax question is inevitable.
The question first came literally from front and center in the room as Helen Thomas drew laughter for the straightforward, “Did she pay her taxes?” Gibbs offered the mysterious, “I have not seen anything on that.” Later, when the question was repeated, Gibbs went further: “I think she’s been fully vetted and we’re confident.” No word yet on what happened in between those two questions to solidify his faith….

Ringer Redux: Cell phone violator du jour was NPR’s Mara Liasson, who pointed out that she should get a free pass, as it was her first time breaking the otherwise entirely peaceful (ha!) Brady briefing room.
“We won’t use precedent in this case,” Gibbs assured her.

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