Tapper's blog post headline:
President Takes Responsibility for AIG (Not Really)
Here's what Obama said yesterday [emphasis added]:
“Washington is all in a tizzy. It's their fault, it's the Democrats' fault, it's the Republicans' fault. -- Listen, I'll take responsibility. I'm the president...”or for everyone in D.C. scrambling how to blame someone else, just go ahead and talk to me because it's my job to make sure we fix these messes, even if I don't make 'em.
So why did Tapper insert the "(Not Really)" in the headline? Because Obama also mentioned this:
We didn't grant these contracts, we've got a lot on our plate. But it is appropriate when you're in charge to make sure stuff doesn't happen like this.
Obama made two points. His administration did not grant the AIG contracts, but since he's the one now in charge he'll take responsibility. Tapper interprets that as Obama failing to take responsibility.
Note the WSJ news team had no problem reporting the story accurately:
Obama Accepts Blame for AIG Bonuses
Or AFP:
Obama Takes Responsibility for AIG Bonus fiasco
Or the DC Examiner:
Obama Takes Responsibility for AIG Misstep
Or Marketwatch:
Obama Takes Responsibility for AIG mess
Or the San Diego Union Tribune:
Obama, in Costa Mesa, Takes Blame in AIG Flap
Obama Takes Responsibility for AIG Mess