Andy Card with President George W. Bush
One event in particular was brought up several times during the interview, concerning his role in informing Bush of the terrorist attacks on 9/11. “America,” Card famously whispered into Bush’s ear at an elementary school, “is under attack.”
When Card was informed of the second plane crash, he immediately believed Osama bin Laden was behind it. Card took charge, calling in the F.B.I. and several other sources he knew the President would want to contact as soon as he was done reading to the children at Booker Elementary School.
Asked about what roles he had in informing the President on vital matters, Card explained that,“the main job of the Chief of Staff is to tell the President everything he needs to know — not everything he wants.”
Card went on to discuss his personal relationship with Bush, and how they had to put a momentary hold on their relationship as friends when he was chosen as Chief of Staff.
Toward the end of the interview, Card revealed that — as Chief of Staff — he knew things even the President wasn’t aware of. He related this to threats to the U.S., and how in day-to-day life, there are constantly potential threats looming that never even reach the eyes and ears of the public.
Terrifying.
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