Fiasco Bush v. Gore: Bonus - Information Wars
Dec 2, 2024
Craig Waters, former public information officer for the Florida Supreme Court during the pivotal 2000 recount, shares his unique perspective on navigating chaos. He discusses the intense pressure of transforming from a private citizen to a public figure amid a politically charged atmosphere. The conversation highlights the critical role of communication and trust during the recount, shedding light on how misinformation shaped public perception. Craig also reflects on the emotional toll and media dynamics involved in managing such a historic moment.
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Conflicting Headlines
- Craig Waters, staying in Orlando, saw newspapers with conflicting headlines about the election outcome.
- Uncertain, he contacted the Associated Press for clarification before informing Chief Justice Wells.
Evolving Media Presence
- Initially, Waters informally addressed reporters outside the courthouse.
- As the situation escalated, the setup became more formal with podiums, microphones, and lights.
Opinions Speak for Themselves
- The Florida Supreme Court typically lets opinions speak for themselves.
- The scale of Bush v. Gore, with hundreds of reporters, necessitated a new approach.