Eric–

Re putting PDFs on the website. I think that is reason enough to believe CBS actually was credulous enough to believe they had the real McCoy.

All–

The issue of why CBS won’t quit is simple. If they admit they have been had, the next chapter of the story must unfold: “Who Dunnit?” It is extremely likely that the conduit for the documents was a staffer with either the DNC or Kerry, given how much coordination has been involved over the past month (McCauliffe, Estrich and Stasso all promising, in effect, “dirty tricks” to come).

If hearings are held, it’s likely Congress would subpeona lots of records, fax logs, etc. Pressure to out the leaker/forger would become intense. If the name came out the dam would burst. CBS would be lost beneath the waves and Kerry would lose 45 states. These are the stakes, and why Rather won’t quit…yet.

Some speculation, if I may.

It is my understanding that Rather’s staff is quite large. He is known as a bit of a domineering prick to work for. He is on the verge of retirement, whether it be with a bang or a yelp.

I would not be surprised to see one of his non-entity staffers sell their story to, say, Newsweek, for a million dollars. It would be a poignant, ironic and fitting ending for the two most arrogant institutions in America today.

I don’t have to tell you which those are.