Zimmerman's Friend? Not So Much, Ex-TV Reporter Turned Defender Said
ORLANDO (CBSMiami) - A former Orlando-area TV reporter who this week became the de-facto voice for George Zimmerman, the neighborhood watch volunteer who shot and killed Trayvon Martin, now seems to be backing away from that apparently self-assumed role.
Appearing on the MSNBC program "The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell", George Oliver changed the term that had been used to describe him, without objection, during a whirlwind of national media appearances speaking up for Zimmerman.
"I'll clarify my relationship with George because the characterization has been as a close friend," Oliver said."I'm being described as a close friend because I'm the only one speaking out for him."
Oliver said his connection was more like family.
"My relationship with George is more of an older uncle. I'm old enough to be his father."
Oliver told host O'Donnell that he had never held any in-depth conversations with Zimmerman, even before the event in Sanford that led to Trayvon's death, raising questions about why he would assume the role of defender.
O'Donnell seemed puzzled by Oliver's defense, at one point saying, "You're role in this, Joe, just doesn't make sense to me."
"My role in this, I agree, just doesn't make sense," Oliver replied.
