Zuckerman Adds to Claim He 'Helped' Write Obama Speech

Media mogul Mort Zuckerman on Tuesday expanded on his claim that he "helped" write one of President Obama's speeches, adding that he only brought it up during a Fox News interview to demonstrate he wishes the best for the administration despite his recent criticism.

Zuckerman, who earlier this month wrote a column slamming the administration's approach to health care and the economy, on Monday told Fox News' Neil Cavuto that he was involved with writing remarks for deliver by the president.

"I voted for Obama. In fact, I helped write one of his speeches," Zuckerman said, declining to elaborate.

After the comment drew heavy attention, Zuckerman -- publisher of The New York Daily News and chairman and editor-in-chief at U.S. News and World Report -- on Tuesday posted a brief explanation on the latter website in which he appeared to stand by his claim, but said he would not discuss it any further.

"Over the years I have been asked by various public officials, including those in Washington, for my perspectives and views on numerous issues. These conversations have always been considered confidential," he wrote. "My point in noting during a recent television interview that I had once 'helped' contribute to one of Barack Obama's campaign speeches was to reflect the fact that my recent criticisms of the president came from someone who had been supportive of him, who had voted for him and whose newspaper endorsed him. I continue to hope for his and the country's success."

The White House did not respond to a request for comment. But Politico.com quoted a White House source saying neither of Obama's top speechwriters "has ever met or spoken to Mort Zuckerman."