Ohio Congresswoman says Jeff Gannon is a 'phony plant' and a 'double agent'

Kaptur Calls for investigation -- Gannon spotlighted her 'bin Laden' remark

By Steve Eder, Toledo Blade

Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D., Toledo) believes the man who helped thrust her remarks two years ago comparing Osama bin Laden to American revolutionaries into national prominence is nothing more than a "double-agent" and a "phony plant."

Jeff Gannon, a conservative reporter whose controversial access to the White House cost him his job and ignited a national firestorm, says "Gannongate" is a monumental battle between old media and new media.

Last month questions about the former Talon News and GOPUSA.com online reporter began to emerge as political opponents discredited his journalistic credentials, saying he was planted in the White House briefing room to pitch pro-GOP questions and spread propaganda.

Two years ago Mr. Gannon, born James Guckert, used his seat in the White House press room to put a national spotlight on Miss Kaptur when he asked former press secretary Ari Fleischer why the President had not commented on the "offensive remarks by Democratic Congressman Marcy Kaptur, who likened Osama Bin Laden to our founding fathers?"