CNN Memo on Candy Crowley: Obama Spoke Longer Because He "Speaks More Slowly"

CNN's worldwide VP also claimed attempts to intimidate Crowley prior to the debate

Amid harsh criticism of debate moderator Candy Crowley, CNN is looking to put a positive spin on her performance. 

On Wednesday, during an editorial meeting and in a recap memo, a copy of which was obtained by The Hollywood Reporter, CNN Worldwide executive vp and managing editor Mark Whitaker praised CNN's Crowley for doing "a superb job" during Tuesday night's presidential debate, the second face-off between President Obama and GOP candidate Mitt Romney.