XXXXX DRUDGE REPORT XXXXX FRI FEB 13, 2004 10:38:05 ET XXXXX
KERRY ON IMUS: 'THERE'S NOTHING TO REPORT, NOTHING TO TALK ABOUT . . . NO'
Democratic presidential frontrunner John Kerry told IMUS IN THE MORNING "there is nothing to report" after a DRUDGE REPORT exclusive revealed the frantic behind-the-scenes drama surrounding a woman who recently fled the country, reportedly at the prodding of Kerry!
The nature and details of a claimed two-year relationship, beginning in the Spring of 2001, between a young woman and Kerry is at the center of serious investigations at several media outlets.
After being approached by a top news producer, the woman fled to Africa, where she remains.
"Well, there is nothing to report," Kerry told IMUS. "So there is nothing to talk about. I'm not worried about it. No."
In expanded comments later in the broadcast, Don Imus told his on-air crew that "Kerry is dead" if "something comes out."
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Unlike the Monica Lewinsky drama, which first played out publicly in this space, with audio tapes, cigar and a dress, the Kerry situation has posed a challenge to reporters investigating the claims.
"There is no lawsuit testimony this time [like Clinton with Paula Jones]," a top source said Thursday night. "It is hard to prove."
A close friend of the woman first approached a reporter late last year claiming fantastic stories -- stories that now threaten to turn the race for the presidency on its head.
Later on Friday, Kerry is scheduled to join General Wesley Clark, who, in an off-the-record conversation with a dozen reporters earlier this week, plainly stated: "Kerry will implode over an intern issue."
Reporters who witnessed Clark making the stunning comments marvel at the General's reluctance to later confirm they were spoken -- only to later endorse Kerry for the nomination!
Elsewhere, media response to the allegations varied widely.
The FRONTRUNNER details the coverage.
The television networks were quiet, although ABC News radio (2/12) mentioned the story yesterday afternoon. Meanwhile, local TV across the US reported the allegation extensively. For example, KTBS-TV Shreveport, LA (2/12, 10:00 p.m.) reported, "A bomb-shell was dropped on Senator Kerry today."
KABC-TV Los Angeles, CA (2/12, 6:00 p.m.) reported, "There's a report on the Internet from Internet gossip columnist Matt Drudge that John Kerry, the front runner, has had a problem with an intern in the past, perhaps an affair."
KDAF-TV Dallas, TX (2/12, 9:28 p.m.) referred to the story as a "bombshell rumor."
WBAL-TV Baltimore, MD (2/12, 11:11 p.m.) reported, "The Kerry camp is preparing a response."
WBTV-TV Charlotte, NC (2/12, 6:00 p.m.) reported, "Scandalous rumblings tonight inside John Kerry's campaign."
WSYX-TV Columbus, OH (2/12, 5:05 p.m.) reported, "Matt Drudge broke this bombshell on his website."
WTTE-TV Columbus, OH (2/12, 10:11 p.m.) reported, "The Democratic frontrunner -- some say he had an affair with an intern."
KRQE-TV Albuquerque, NM (2/12, 10:00 p.m.) reported, "Is John Kerry about to be caught up in a scandal?"
Various UK press outlets splashed the report on Friday.
The UK TIMES placed it on its front page -- in the lead position.
The UK SUN claims to have found the name of the woman in question, even interviewing her parents.
Developing...
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