Yesterday, in an interview with USA Today Teresa Heinz (she is temporarily calling herself Heinz Kerry, but her taxes are filed as Teresa Heinz) dismissed Laura Bush's work history, saying

Well, you know, I don't know Laura Bush. But she seems to be calm, and she has a sparkle in her eye, which is good. But I don't know that she's ever had a real job — I mean, since she's been grown up.'

Polipundit cites Laura's biography, which states

Inspired by her second grade teacher, she earned a bachelor of science degree in education from Southern Methodist University in 1968. She then taught in public schools in Dallas and Houston. In 1973 she earned a master of library science degree from the University of Texas at Austin and worked as a public school librarian in Austin.

We would like to know what the NEA and AFT have to say about Teresa Heinz's contention that teacher and librarian are not real jobs.

As far as we know, Teresa's work experience is limited to being a translator for the UN, and institution not exactly known for imposing demanding standards on its employees.

UPDATE: Teresa Heinz has now apologized.

``I had forgotten that Mrs. Bush had worked as a school teacher and librarian, and there couldn't be a more important job than teaching our children. As someone who has been both a full—time mom and full—time in work force, I know we all have valuable experiences that shape who we are. I appreciate and honor Mrs. Bush's service to the country as first lady and am sincerely sorry I had not remembered her important work in the past.''

Ed Lasky, Mike Nadler, and Thomas Lifson   10 20 04