Dan Rather Great Quotations

What I hope will not change is the understanding that news needs to serve the public interest as its primary goal. That is its greatest calling, to keep freedom and independence alive, and keep it honest.

This is no big deal, but when you ask me about those specific quotes from those specific people, this is what I have to say, and it's all I have to say: That the accomplishments of these men speak for themselves. Individually and collectively, they've had some of the truly great careers in television news, at CBS or anywhere else. Since that's the way they feel, they're entitled to express their opinions. They've earned the right to voice them. Period.

This was great reporting. I think the public should know that great reporting starts with a publisher who has guts and an editor who has guts. And the role of the late Katherine Graham, who owned The Washington Post, is not to be underestimated.

No doubt the CBS Evening News will be different. Katie is a superb person, and she's a great pro. I'll be rooting for her, and I wish her well.