Tammy Pruett's Canned Quote

Reading Bush's comments regarding Tammy Pruett, one would be forgiven for assuming that the president was quoting something she had said to him personally. He certainly presented it that way.

There are few things in life more difficult than seeing a loved one go off to war. And here in Idaho, a mom named Tammy Pruett -- (applause) -- I think she's here -- (laughter) -- knows that feeling six times over. (Applause.) Tammy has four sons serving in Iraq right now with the Idaho National Guard -- Eric, Evan, Greg and Jeff. Last year, her husband Leon and another son, Eren, returned from Iraq, where they helped train Iraqi firefighters in Mosul. Tammy says this -- and I want you to hear this -- "I know that if something happens to one of the boys, they would leave this world doing what they believe, what they think is right for our country. And I guess you couldn't ask for a better way of life than giving it for something that you believe in." America lives in freedom because of families like the Pruetts. (Applause.)

But, the quote Bush used is identical to a statement that Mrs. Pruett made in a story that aired on an Idaho Falls television station on July 15.

So while this family says war is hard, for them, fighting is the right thing to do.

"I know that if something happens to one of the boys they would leave this world doing what they believe, what they think is right for our country, and I guess you couldn't ask for a better way of life then giving it for something that you believe in," says Tammy.

So, it is even worse than it first appeared. Not only is Bush trying to counter the Crawford protests with staged events like the rally in Idaho, he is shopping around for parents who are already on the record supporting the war.

He could not even be bothered, apparently, to talk to the woman face-to-face for a fresh quote! She had already said something that sounded pretty good, so he just went with that. Thank you, and good night. Back to the ranch!