I think that is, indeed, the problem that I have with this. These lies (or, at most, "1/4 truths") are circulated over the airways and/or press and the dumb, impressionable sheeple recite this as if they are clued in on some secret, an impulse that appeals to the basest of human desires: to be part of something exclusive.
Ironically, I remember watching one of the (gag) Chris Matthew's shows that had Bill Maher on it (it was one of those college tours). Of all people that would come to the defense of the Bush Administration, even he blew out of the water some whacko leftist in the audience that started spewing this same story, as well as other mantras of the left. Believe me, I am not holding up Bill Maher as the example of brilliance, but if even this guy can get it, why can't everyone else?