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Richard Piatt ReportingStrong reassurance or political opportunity? Utahns react differently to the President's prime time appearance tonight.
On a day when there is still more bad news from Iraq, people are looking for reassurance from their President. Here in Utah some feel like they got it. Others don't feel like they got enough of it. And some still feel no different than before.
Like a lot of Utahns, Jason Wilde is busy, but takes time to watch the speech while his wife works upstairs. He's looking for leadership from his President. He feels like he got it when the President committed the US to Iraq long-term.
Jason Wilde, George W. Bush Supporter: "That's a difficult thing for a president to say I think. War is difficult all around, and especially when we're seeing casualties at this level."
But a few miles away at the Luke household, they're not so convinced--one reason they say they support John Kerry.
Karyn Luke, John Kerry Supporter: "I'm torn because I do think we had a responsibility to help the people of Iraq. But I do have questions."
Husband and father Charlie thinks this Q-and -A for the President is overdue.
Charlie Luke, John Kerry Supporter: "It's time really that President Bush is straightforward with the American people, and is able to articulate what the administration is doing in Iraq."
In Murray, the Solomon household is among those which contributed to the President's win four years ago. There is still overwhelming confidence in his administration.
John Solomon, George W. Bush Supporter: "I think if he were going to be political about it, he'd be talking about some of the attacks he's received. He's not talking about that."
Wendy Solomon, George W. Bush Supporter: "I think he's been a really great leader. I loved the fact that he's so resolute tonight."
At the same time, there are lingering questions---even among Bush supporters---about HOW the President plans to stabilize Iraq, and about how long that may take.
