[Jack Fowler]

I am the Publisher of National Review, for what that is worth, which may not be much to some here, but so be it — this is a Free Republic after all. That said, while we can be free with opinions, we can’t be free with facts.

Specifically: National Review is vigorously fighting this suit by Michael Mann. There is no plan or intention or thought of settling.

Mark Steyn has been explicit (on steynonline.com) as to what his diverging legal strategy is — he seeks an immediate trial. We at National Review seek to get this suit dismissed before there is any consideration of a trial. If at this current stage our motions and appeals fail, and this case indeed has to go to trial, then so be it — we will fight there and would very much expect to prevail there (although we expect to prevail sooner).

If you don’t mind I’d like to add, not in a direct response to this post but to some others seen here, that Mark chose to stop writing for NR. He was not “sacked.” The editor and I and others strongly encouraged him to continue writing. Mark and only Mark can speak as to why he made this decision to cease writing for NR. True, he was criticized by an editor (not THE editor) over comments Mark made in a column on the recent Duck Dynasty controversy, but that editor’s criticisms were his alone, and came with no institutional backing. Indeed, I and others strongly criticized that criticism.

Sounds like you might need a scorecard to follow this. Anyway, all that said, we look forward to a day when Mark might again write for us.

My email is jfowler@nationalreview.com if anyone seeks to verify or desires to discuss this or any matter related to NR.

[9YearLurker]

I give you a lot of credit, Jack. I remember you posting at NRO in Mark’s defense at the time of the dustup.

And here you are wading into the Wild West of Free Republic to set the record straight once again.

I wish some of your editors were a little more conservative and a little less Establishment, but I give you a lot of credit for being a stand up guy.

[houeto]

Thank you Jack for clearing up the position of NR. The answer to Chickensoup's initial question then, can only come from Mark.

FReegards,
-houeto.

[Chickensoup]

Thank you for coming in and giving us more information. We are a wonderful and motely crew and always welcome more.