Morning Show Summary for September 29, 2008

Network shows gave heavy coverage to financial rescue bill and Friday's debate.

On NBC's "Today," Romney said McCain had a significant role in shaping the rescue bill. Predicted Gov. Palin will be able to "hold her own" against Biden, citing her debate experience in Alaska.

Sen. Dodd discussed the rescue package, sought to tamp down the importance of Thursday's VP debate.

On CBS' "Early Show," Sens. Dodd and Gregg discussed the financial rescue deal.

Report looked at Palin "raising eyebrows" in the wake of her interview with Katie Couric, including clip of "Saturday Night Live."

Harry Smith interviewed Palin's parents in Wasilla in a positive report, including many childhood and family photos. Her father said of the "SNL" spoof-- "I thought it was kind of cute. Tina Fey did a good job." Her mother said of Palin: "I hope the world gets to know the real person, who is a remarkable girl."

On ABC's "Good Morning America," report looked at concerns about Palin's readiness for Thursday's debate and for the vice presidency.

Stephanopoulos said of Palin "she's become a problem for Sen. McCain, no question about it." Cited polling numbers, concern among conservatives and "buzz." Gave Obama a win for the first debate, citing polling numbers.

Sen. Dodd discussed the bailout bill.

On MSNBC's "Morning Joe," Sen. Dodd said "presidential politics hurt" the bailout bill last week by slowing the process down. "That scene in the White House was nothing more than theater... and most Republicans and Democrats believe that."

Romney said the financial rescue is not a bailout, as it may turn a profit. "It's a win-win for the government" if the market stabilizes. Called for the McCain camp to "let Sarah Palin be Sarah Palin" and allow her to do more interviews. Said she was tapped because she's a maverick and a reformer, not a foreign policy expert.

Obama strategist Gibbs said Palin has done well in her previous debates, which "isn't something that's foreign to her." Said Obama "commanded that stage" Friday, disagreed with suggestion that Obama should be more "visceral" in debates.

On "Fox and Friends," McCain aide Pfotenhauer said McCain "very quietly behind the scenes" worked toward the financial package, then went straight to Friday's debate. " "No debate camp for him in Florida, he didn't need it." Said Couric offered Palin "a series of trap-door questions" and called Couric "one tough reporter."

Also on "Fox," Obama aide Gibbs insisted that the mother of a fallen solider Obama referenced during the debate asked him to wear a bracelet in her son's memory. Exchange grew heated after Gibbs accused the hosts of "making stuff up."

On CNN's "American Morning" Rep. Blunt said the rescue bill is "a workout" rather than a bailout-- "taxpayers shouldn't lose a single penny when this works itself out over a number of years."

Also, Sen. Dodd.