CBS (CBS-A) filed a 30-page motion to dismiss the case by Dan Rather against them in New York Supreme Court.
This is the case where Rather had attempted to make it look like President Bush received "preferential treatment" during his stint in the Texas Air National Guard during the Vietnam War era. His conclusions were based upon documents that had been tampered with.
An independent panel came to the conclusion that Rather and those involved disregarded basic journalistic principles for the purpose of getting the piece on the air quicker. The panel added their "myopic zeal" is what led them to their actions. Three employees and the producer were fired, although Rather was allowed to keep his job, although he quit CBS not too long afterward, alleging he was no longer receiving any assignments.
Concerning the motion to dismiss the case, CBS said in the statement, "Today we are filing a motion to dismiss. If we are required to proceed beyond this point, we will defend the case vigorously and demonstrate that the lawsuit is wholly without merit, and that the bizarre allegations by Mr. Rather are untrue."
Lawyers for CBS added that the case isn't motivated from any wrongful actions on the part of the media company, but are an attempt by Rather to keep his name in the public eye.
Some people have expressed surprise that CBS is defending themselves here, but I agree with them in this case. There is absolutely nothing to Rather's assertions, and to pay him off would be a big mistake.
Rather sued the company and several executives for $70 million.
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