Report: NBC’s Washington Bureau Against Anchor Williams’ Return
The bureau, which is critical to the network’s operation, told NBC News President Deborah Turness that they oppose Williams’ potential return because they believe his reporting mistake involving a 2003 Iraq War report has severely damaged NBC’s credibility.
The D.C. bureau reportedly addressed the issue sternly with Turness during a meeting in February. However, the details of that meeting have been revealed only recently, theWashington Post reported Thursday.
In January, Williams broadcast a retrospective report that involved his coverage of the Iraq War in 2003. As part of the story, Williams claimed that a helicopter he was riding in took on enemy fire. Examination of his 12-year-old report and statements from military personnel who traveled with Williams during the incident revealed that the reporter’s chopper had not been shot at.
Some who are critical of Williams’ mistake believe the anchorman embellished the truth in an attempt to liven up the story. But Williams has said the error was an honest mistake concerning events that occurred more than a decade ago.
NBC News suspended Williams from his duties anchoring the Nightly News for six months and began looking into other reports filed by Williams to determine if there are any other errors.
Following the suspension, NBC News solicited feedback from its employees in New York and Washington. The Post reported that one person in attendance at the Washington meeting described the discussion as a “bloodbath” against Williams.
Two employees who spoke out against Williams during the meeting are network Washington correspondents, the Post report said.
Such internal discontent about Williams’ mistake could be problematic for the anchor if he wishes to return to his duties — particularly because those in the D.C. bureau must work closely with Williams on a daily basis.
However, the meetings were conducted in February, when the scandal first occurred. It is possible that some who spoke at the meetings might feel somewhat differently now.
Williams’ suspension is up in August, but the network has not yet determined whether he will return to the anchor desk. Advertising analysts have said that decision may come within the next three weeks.
Lester Holt has been filling in for Williams since February.
