As we told you--President Gerald Ford passed away last night. This morning friends and family are remembering the nation’s 38th president. On CNBC’s “Squawk Box” the team talked more about his life and his legacy.
Leo Hindery,, Managing Partner at Intermedia Partners said Gerald Ford will be remembered for one single moment in history, taking over as Commander-in-Chief after the Watergate scandal had torn the nation apart. (You might remember the now famous quote -- "Our long national nightmare is over." Those were Gerald Ford’s words as he replaced Richard Nixon.)
CNBC’s Chief Washington Correspondent John Harwood talked more about Ford's political impact. He said echoes from the Ford Presidency resonate with the nation today. Both Donald Rumsfeld and Dick Cheney were part of President Ford’s team. (Vice President Dick Cheney served as Ford's chief of staff, while just departed Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld served Ford in the same job )
On a similar note, CNBC’s Senior Economics Reporter Steve Liesman reminded the panel that Gerald Ford appointed Alan Greenspan to the role of Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisors.
The panel also remembered the lighter side of Gerald Ford. He accepted with humor--comedian Chevy Chase's parody of him--which began after Ford stumbled off Air Force One. Ironically Gerald Ford was a great athlete. He was a a football star at The University of Michigan and had offers from the Detroit Lions and The Green Bay Packers to play pro-ball, but decided to get his law degree instead.
Meanwhile, the markets are preparing to honor President Ford. Traditionally the markets close for a President’s funeral. We’ll keep you posted.
