[p23185]

1) there's no evidence that this is anything other than a complete and utter fabrication;

In the words of Mary Mapes regarding Rathergate, until proven false we have to assume that it is TRUE. So some lib has to offer up proof that it is a FAKE.

[ReignOfError]

In the words of Mary Mapes regarding Rathergate,

Of course, when someone's been rightly mocked, derided, and ridden out of town on the proverbial rail, the way to REALLY get her is to adopt her standards.

[RobFromGa]

UPDATE: 6:18 PM, PT 11/23/05: Call Authentic, CNN Fires Rep:

I just got off the phone with Laurie Goldberg, Senior Vice President for Public Relations with CNN. Her statement confirms the authenticity of the tape recording and reveals the actions CNN took after learning of the incident:

"A Turner switchboard operator was fired today after we were alerted to a conversation the operator had with a caller in which the operator lost his temper and expressed his personal views -- behavior that was totally inappropriate. His comments did not reflect the views of CNN. We are reaching out to the caller and expressing our deep regret to her and apologizing that she did not get the courtesy entitled to her. "