Has Novak Fallen?

First, I must apologize for my recent absence. I had intended to update this blog at least a few times per week, but family matters and the demands of my day jobs have forced me to put things like this on hold.

Nevertheless, I am here now, so let’s get down to the nitty-gritty, shall we?

It looks like CNN has suspended commentator Robert Novak after he recited an expletive and walked off the set of “Inside Politics” today during a debate with fellow political analyst James Carville.

It’s a pity, too, because when all was said and done, CNN correspondent Ed Henry noted that he was just about to ask Novak about his role in releasing CIA operative Valerie Plame’s name to the public (see previous entries on Plame).

CNN spokeswoman Edie Emery, who has called Novak’s behavior both “inexcusable and unacceptable,” has told reporters that Novak, who is suspended indefinitely, has apologized to the news channel.

At the time of the incident, Carville and Novak were discussing the candidacy of Katherine Harris for the GOP. Harris, as you might recall, is the former Florida Secretary of State who was gained more fame for hanging chads and lavish overspending than she did for political policy.

According to Associated Press reports, Carville addressed the camera and said: “He [Novak] has got to show these right-wingers that he’s got a backbone, you know. It’s why the Wall Street Journal editorial page is watching you. Show ’em that you’re tough.”

Novak replied: “Well, I think that’s bullshit and I hate that,” Novak replied. “Just let it go.” He then walked off the set.

Could everyone’s favorite violator of the Intelligence Identities Protection Act (1982) be cracking under the pressure?

After all, even though CNN has consistently been in his corner until tonight (citing two weeks ago that they would keep him on despite an ongoing probe into his involvement in the Valerie Plame case) Novak, more than anyone else, must realize just how suspicion his silence on the matter is.

With possible fines and jail time hanging over his head, Novak is likely not in the best of emotional states right now, especially with the recent cancellation of his show, “Crossfire,” one of his few “safe” political outlets.

Novak is looking increasingly worried, as he should be.

As for the Plame ordeal itself, insiders seem to be as tight-lipped as ever, keeping the continuing to keep secret grand jury testimony from people such as White House aide Karl Rove’s former assistants.

Stay tuned. Something is bound to break eventually.