Final Chapter On Brian Baird’s August 2009 "Death Threat."

March 13, 2010

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Most should recall the brouhaha over alleged death threats received by now retiring congressman, Brian Baird, the reason originally given for not holding town halls last August during recess.

Although made in August, it was not until November 11 that we were told by the Columbian’s Lou Brancaccio that the FBI had investigated the threat alleged to have been made and had just concluded it was “not credible.”

On November 10, 2009, Lou left a comment on the story of the FBI deciding to investigate the threat of, “Make sure to read Wednesday’s Columbian print edition. There is a follow to this story that took me completely by surprise, mainly because of timing. One day we report the FBI is investigating this case. The very next day….. It will only be in the print edition in the morning.”

Now, it turns out, through a FOIA request, the matter was “closed” as not credible on August 14, 2009 long before the brouhaha ever started and Baird began milking the claims.

FBI releases details about Baird threat probe

Showing just how sloppy journalism has become, also through an FOIA request, a local blogger released this information two weeks ago.

Report on my Brian Baird FBI FOIA Request

As for the so-called threat, it originated in Kansas by a man easily identified. FBI agents contacted him and realized he was just another citizen, frustrated by being ignored by Democrats.

The call was a big lot of nothing, known by Baird as he used it to shirk his responsibility to constituents.

Fortunately for Baird, he is retiring. Elsewise, challengers would be able to rip him apart over this one.

More importantly, the story shows the Columbian’s covering for a Democrat they supported, as this information should have been known long ago.

Had journalists treated Richard Nixon the same, he might have retired an honored man, instead of being forced to resign in disgrace.

Tell ’em where you saw it. Http://www.victoriataft.com