Breaking down Obama's pathetic Wright Response, Part 1
Posted 17 weeks 1 day ago byNot enough here has been written about Obama's fragging of Rev. Jeremiah Wright. His press conference was a festival of hole digging, distraction (something Obama usually decries), and ... well ... outright lies.
It was such a comprehensive display of dissembling, backpeddling, spinning and distortion of the known record, that Part 1 will be followed by many others. But here's a good start. For the sake of brevity, we'll dispatch with Obama's perfunctory excuse-making opening statement. So let's just go to the Q&A:
QUESTION: Why the change of tone from yesterday? When you spoke to us on the tarmac yesterday, you didn’t have this sense of anger and outrage.
OBAMA: Yes, I’ll be honest with you — because I hadn’t seen it yet.
QUESTION: And that was the difference you…
OBAMA: Yes.
QUESTION: You heard the reports about the AIDS comments.
OBAMA: I had not. I had not seen the transcript. What I had heard was he had given a performance, and I thought at the time that it would be sufficient simply to reiterate what I had said in Philadelphia.
Wasn't it Obama who said, "Words matter." I frankly don't know what difference is between reading and seeing when it comes comprehending the meaning or words. But Obama explains the difference.
OBAMA: Upon watching it, what became clear to me was that it was more than just him defending himself. What became clear to me was that he was presenting a worldview that contradicts who I am and what I stand for.
And what I think particularly angered me was his suggestion somehow that my previous denunciation of his remarks were somehow political posturing. Anybody who knows me and knows what I am about knows that I am about trying to bridge gaps and that I see the commonality in all people.
And so when I start hearing comments about conspiracy theories and AIDS and suggestions that somehow Minister Farrakhan has been a great voice in the 20th century, then that goes directly at who I am and what I believe this country needs.
A couple things here. Obama starts to lay the foundation here, which he reinforces later, that the things Wright said were not calmunies against the United States, but calumnies against him. Just him. And it's hard to belive that Obama only learned about Wright's affection to "Minister" Farrakhan, since Wright has a long record of coordination and love for his fellow ugly racist. We continue:
QUESTION: Senator, what do you plan to do about this right now to further distance (inaudible) and the need to do that? And what does this say about your judgment of super delegates, who are right now trying to decide which Democratic nominee is better? Your candidacy has been based on judgment. What does this say about…?
OBAMA: Well, as I said before, the person I saw yesterday was not the person that I have come to know over 20 years. I understand that I think he was pained and angered from what had happened previously during the first stage of this controversy.
I think he felt vilified and attacked, and I understand that he wanted to defend himself. I understand that he’s gone through difficult times of late and that he’s leaving his ministry after many years. And so that may account for the change.
Obama does not really answer the crux of this question, as bolded above. But I find it interesting that after once ripping Wright for coming at him, he then excuses him for coming at him — because of "what had happened previously during the first stage of his controversy."
So which is it? Is Wright justified in his anger — at Obama, at America, or at whatever Wright targets at the moment — or not? Who knows? We'll skip ahead a few sentences:
OBAMA: As I said before, this is an individual who’s built a very fine church, and a church that is well respected throughout Chicago. During the course of me attending that church, I had not heard those kinds of statements being made or those kinds of views being promoted.
And I did not vet my pastor before I decided to run for the presidency. I was a member of the church. So what I think it says is that I did not run my pastor through the paces or review every one of the sermons that he had made over the last 30 years. But I don’t think that anybody could attribute those ideas to me.
A couple of things:
How does someone build a "very fine church" that should be "well respected" by all Americans and base it on a black liberation theology that is racist and divisive to the core?
And we're to believe that Obama did not "vet" his pastor before deciding to run for the presidency? That's simply a lie. He and Wright had a conversation long ago about how he might have to distance himself from his pastor's poisonous views of America.
All this debunking comes without even bothering (yet) to cite Obama's previous damage control speech on race that was supposed to make all this go away, but only makes Obama look worse. But that's enough for now. More later. Stay tuned. This is story that will have legs for a while.
Thoughts
Submitted on May 12th, 2008
Submitted on May 15th, 2008 by AnonymousSubmitted on May 12th, 2008 by Anonymous
Black people aren't generally racist in the same terms that white people are racist.
as defined.
rac·ism noun 1. a belief or doctrine that inherent differences among the various human races determine cultural or individual achievement, usually involving the idea that one's own race is superior and has the right to rule others.
You sound Racist.
Generally we can be Prejudice either
as defined.
prej·u·dice
–noun 1. an unfavorable opinion or feeling formed beforehand or without knowledge, thought, or reason.
With black people it is we are tired of the prejudices and racism that we have faced and the new form that we continue to face. Maybe you are suffering for your grandparents genration...so be it. I'm standing up for my grandparents generation and all of the headway white people made off of the backs of blacks, mexicans, and the AMERICAN Indians. Your ancestors stole land, raped women, killed the intelligent men, enslaved the strong ones and destroyed your souls in the process. Then you have the nerve teach history like the AMERICAN INDIANS were at fault. YOU may have not commited these crimes but your soul was sold by past generations and until white people stop saying it wasn't me and ACTUALLY make amends your souls will suffer. I think your president BUSH said it well, If you aren't with us you are against us....
HEY moderator
Submitted on May 15th, 2008 by AnonymousYou a full of it. Why didn't you remove that last post!
here is your last quote "Submitted on May 2nd, 2008 by Jim Lakely
Well, anonymous. Your "scumbag" and "morons" cracks were taken down -- not by John -- but by a RedBlueAmerica moderator. We try to keep the level of discourse a little more elevated around here. Name-calling doesn't cut it as an argument.
And what you call "nonsense," most Americans call disagreements on important issues. If you don't like being challenged, maybe this site -- and a vibrant democracy -- isn't for you."
You are just a liar. You remove what you don't like.
Obama Wright
Submitted on May 12th, 2008 by AnonymousYou need to get a life Obamanite. Your prejudice towards whites is showing. Apparently you and Obama have been sharing a pew together at Trinity Church of Christ. Hope you enjoy the Black Liberation hysteria. But you're probably too stupid to know its Marxist dogma.Try reading Cone's book on Black Liberation Theology, that is if you can read!
Obama wright
Submitted on May 11th, 2008 by Anonymouswhite america need to get a life.Nobody has mentioned that the clintons pastor is a pedophile.rigt nothings gonna get said about that right.let gain up anything on the black man & his pastor.things may have been worded wrong by rev.Wright but he told nothing but the truth,which white america hate to hear.suck it up u people.
Re: Respectfulguest
Submitted on May 6th, 2008 by RespectfulguestHi Toni.. It would be much appreciated if you would fully read and comprehend what is posted before responding.
Your Post titled "Respectfulguest" is way off from the content contained in my Posts regarding this topic.
From my end only, it appears you were looking to slam someone so quick that you did not bother to fully read what they were conveying.
I have said my piece regarding this topic and plan to move on.
Take care.
To all Ron Paul was more of
Submitted on May 6th, 2008 by AnonymousTo all Ron Paul was more of my speed.
Socialism refers to the goal
Submitted on May 6th, 2008 by AnonymousSocialism refers to the goal of a socio-economic system in which property and the distribution of wealth are subject to control by the community.
Fascism is a term used to describe authoritarian nationalist political ideologies or mass movements that are concerned with notions of cultural decline or decadence and seek to achieve a millenarian national rebirth by placing the interests of the individual as subordinate to that of the nation or race and promoting cults of unity, energy and purity
Capitalism refers to an economic and social system in which the means of production are predominantly privately owned,[1][2] are operated for profit,[3] and in which investments, distribution, income, production and pricing of goods and services are determined through the operation of a market economy. It is usually considered to involve the right of individuals and corporations to trade, using money, in goods, services (including finance), labor and land.
Facism is Capitalism in decline have you heard that before?
Anyway, Toni I really don't know who you were addressing so I'll just address you. First and foremost I really don't care if you are man or woman left or right. That is irrelevant to me. Unfortunately Capitalism is not sustainable in the long run. As much as I love it. Greed is a factor.
We don't live in dangerous times anymore than we did in the 70's or whatever. We have caused our own fate as far as people hating us. sure there are extremist that have always hated us but not to this level. Most Americans are stuck in the American Pardigm. Don't get me started on that. We can't be protected by government. We can't be protected from terrorist, period. It is impossible. There are a million ways to show this. I am not let wing and I am not affiliated with Obama or the Demorcratic party. I do like Obama and I do think we need a change. You seem to think in whole parts not pieces and there ARE some good things in socialism and I know some of you will flip over on that one but it is true. Think about it. I don't want to give my tax money to some white/black lady with 4 kids living in a ghetto/trailer park anymore than you but those KIDS deserve something more than that. Also those people do contribute to Capitalism and are a vital point in our economy...just ask Wal-mart. "OUR ENEMIES ADMIRE OUR STRENGTH"? THAT IS LAUGHABLE TO THE POINT THAT WE HE AT WORK ARE HYSTERICAL. Look, yes we need to be strong of course but we also need to be humble and respected. We also need to respect and we don't. We are GOLIATH and we have met our DAVID. We and I mean America has lost its way from being admired in the world to hated and that is a significant problem. Strenth alone is not a deterent. By the way I am much more complex then you give me credit for I REPEAT I AM NOT A LEFT WING LIBERAL. I AM NOT RIGHT WING EITHER. I am about finding something better. Not rehashing the same old nonsense that has become Rep and Dem. We are moving into a new time and NEW kinds of leadership is the problem too. Man needs to elevate his consciousness so that he doesn't need leadership. MAN SHOULD DO WHAT'S RIGHT IN EVERY ASPECT WITHOUT LEADERSHIP. THAT FACT THAT WE NEED LEADERSHIP IS THE PROBLEM DON'T YOU THINK? IF IT ISN'T RAINING MAN SHOULD STOP USING WATER IN EXCESS ON HIS OWN. NOT AFTER RESTRICTION ARE PUT ON. IF GAS PRICES ARE TOO HIGH. RIDE A BIKE BECAUSE IT WON'T KILL YOU AND ACTUALLY IT WILL HELP YOU. IN FINAL LONG WINDED THOUGHT MUSLIM TERRORIST WERE ALWAYS TELLING THEIR CHILDREN THAT AMERICA WANTED TO INVADE THEIR LANDS FOR OIL. AND WHAT DID WE DO? WE GAVE THEM THE AMMO TO SAY THEY WERE RIGHT. AMERCIAN MAN-BLACK,WHITE,GREEN AND PURPLE has stopped thinking period. AMERICAN WOMAN-HAS BECOME THE AMERICAN MAN.
Respectfulguest
Submitted on May 5th, 2008 by ToniYou are either one of Obama pundits or on his staff. In any event your thinking is twisted. Your negative slant on anyone who is not a left wing liberal is typical. I am a Democrat not Republican. But I do agree with some of the positions the Republicans make on foreign and domestic issues. I look at the big picture. Not the philosophical one I wished the world could be seen as. The reality is that we live in dangerous times, there are a lot of bad people out there. It will take more than lofty words "Change" "Hope" to counteract these trying times. A weak President we do not need. Our enemies admire strength, they still hate us, but our strength is a deterant. Weakness begets failure and they will test us unmercifully. Grow up Obamnites!
especially Barack Obama!
Submitted on May 5th, 2008 by Toniespecially Barack Obama! I'll pick the lesser of evils thank you!
Obama playing America 1
Submitted on May 5th, 2008 by ToniYou apparently think I am a white male American. I am a white female American who has done her homework on Obama. Contrary to most Obama followers who are so caught up in his rhetoric/BS, they do not see the reality of Obama's convictions. Barack Obama is a Socialist. He has been a Socialist since his Hawaii days. The influence of his first mentor Frank Marshall Davis, a Black Communist. This man encouraged Obama's aspirations of political office. Yes, all candidates are game players in varying degrees, the key is to realize which one is the least detrimental to society as we perceive it. I am a 30 year voting democrat but will not vote for Obama due to his serious character judgment flaws. Hillary, I am quite aware of her baggage. And McCain, the only thing I am concerned with is his previous alliance with Kennedy-Feingold on the Amnesty matter. But he has seen the light on that subject, and hopefully he stands firm on border enforcement, and employer verification of employees. So he may be my only option. If the Democrats are so ill informed to vote Obama in as the Democratic choice for President, hoefully there are enough clear headed people out there who will bump this guy back to Chicago, so he can kiss op again to his 2nd mentor Rev. Wright. The Democratic Party has changed dramatically from the party of my grandparents and parents. It has become the puppet of the left wing crazies who have gradually convenced the public they are looking out for them. The answer is they are looking out for themselves. We do not need more government authority over us, we need less. The government has shown its ineffectiveness in taking care of us in hard times. Look at Katrina, do nothing Congress, Home Land Security as examples of government at its worse. So please spare me on the attributes of Barack Obama, this man is a charlatan!
Re: Obama is playing America I
Submitted on May 5th, 2008 by RespectfulguestOk Anonymous nothing personal all views are respected, but let's add your statement that was omitted from my post.
"I actually like what some of the Republican Party stands for."
Before this statement is made in your Post, the following is written:
"You people are hypersensitive, controlling and think you know what is best for everyone."
You are certainly entitled to your views, but what changes by stating you "actually like what some of the Republican party stands for"?
An entire base of people (Republicans) were still referred to as "morons" and "lacking good judgement" as to their thought process.
An entire segment of people, (white males) were still referred to as "afraid of change and not being honest with themselves."
Valid, debatable points are made in your posts. My point is taking an entire segment of anything and painting it with a broad brush does not help prove points. It actually hurts.
As (I guess) being one of "You people", dunder-head is preferred to moron. No offense taken on this end.
PS All Presidential
Submitted on May 5th, 2008 by AnonymousPS
All Presidential candidates are playing America don't you think?
Obama is playing America. I
Submitted on May 5th, 2008 by AnonymousObama is playing America.
I guess this is going to get real touchy in about a min. If everything you said IS true and I am not saying that it is SO what? Do you mean to tell me that every white male sitting on 100,000,000 million dollars or so, has the black man, and the Mexican, and the American Indian at the forefront of his perception? That is irresponsible thought if that is what you think. Obama is NOT perfect. Neither was Reagan. You folks just address just a small portion of my long winded blog. My blog was much more about our country than Obama. I just think white males don't want a black President much like you don't like too see a white woman with a black man. I don't think it really is the same as the racism of the 60's though and this is where the problem lies. It has become social un acceptable to outright be racist unlike the in the past. I like the fact that Obama tries to stay away from big oil and corporate ties. How about that? Maybe some of the past Pesidents warning of corporate involvement with government fell upon deaf ears! Obama is not perfect at all and no man is. I am tired of the same old thing for president. We need some new ideas and move in a new direction.
Respectfulguest
It is just classic that you ingnored that I actually like some of what the Republican party stands for.
Obama is playing America
Submitted on May 4th, 2008 by Toniam a voting Democrat of 30 years, and have done my research on Obama. He is not the unifier you apparently think he is. In his own words in his book, "Dreams of My Father", Obama said, I ceased to advertise my mother's race at the age of 12-13, when I began to suspect that by doing so I was ingratiating myself to whites. I found a solace in nursing a pervasive sense of grievance and animosity against my mother's race. There was something about him that made me wary, a little too sure of himself maybe, and white.
It remained necessary to prove which side you were on, to show your loyalty to the black masses, to strike out and name names. I never emulate white men and brown men whose fates didn't speak to my own. It was into my father's image, the black man, son of Africa, that I'd packed all the attributes I sought in myself, the attributes of Martin, Dubois, Mandela. From Obama's book, "The Audacity Of Hope". He wrote, I will stand with the Muslims should the political wind shift in a ugly direction.
So is is quite apparent that Obama thinks in terms of his Black experience, that he does not like or trust white people. He emulates Black Communists like Frank Marshall Davis, Black Liberation Theology Marxist dogma. Read James Cone's book, A Black Theology of Liberation 1970. It speaks volumes why Obama stayed in Trinity Church for 20 years. In 1996 Obama was endorsed by Chicago branch of Democratic Socialists of America, when campaigning for Senate seat. He showed up for the eulogy of Saul Mendelson,, Chicago Democrat lefty, longtime socialist activist. Obama campaigned openly for Socialist Senator Bernie Sanders, Vermont. Sanders won 2006 election, and called Obama one of the great leaders in US Senate. Obama is portraying himself as someone he is not to get elected. He rejects his white heritage to the core. And clings only to his Black heritage. He fervently believes in Black power to overthrow the white oppressor, which is at the core of Black Liberation Theology.
Re: I acutually (actually?) think using
Submitted on May 4th, 2008 by RespectfulguestUsing the word "moron" or as said "lacking good judgement" to describe the thought process of an entire Republican base across US and then making the statement "White males are afraid of change and not being honest with themselves" to describe all white males across US...
This statement in my estimation only, lacks good judgement.
As to the point Senator Obama should not need to answer Rev Wright questions at all. In my estimation, Senator Obama or any other Presidential Candidate needs to answer all questions regarding long term past associations. Shoot Senator McCain had to answer questions about a fake extra marital affair conjured up by the NY Times that never happened.
I acutually think using
Submitted on May 3rd, 2008 by AnonymousI acutually think using "moron" can describe the thought process of the republicans sometimes. See that is the problems most face with the Republicans. Look I guess you would prefer for me to say instead of moron a say lacking in good judgement which is the same thing. Whatever. The Republican party lacks good judgement in many areas. Does that satisfy everyone on this blog? You people are hypersensitive, controlling and think that you know what is best for everyone. That is a problem. I actually like some of the ideas of the Republican party and I was one at 18. I don't like the tone of the party. I don't like the self-righteous attitude. I don't think the party can tolerate other ideas. White males are afraid of change and are not being honest with themselves it may not be racism really. White males have had control over this nation for some time and why would they want to give it up. I understand that. Mr. Lakley, attacking Obama for his "pathetic Wright response" is really THE problem. Obama should not have to answer that at ALL. FIRST AND FOREMOST Obamas mother is white which makes it almost incoceivable that he is racist, again I stress almost. America is in trouble in a big way and we need to come to a higher level of understanding as to why and how to resolve these problems that we face. This isn't about black or white or even REP vs DEM what thes elections are about is AMERICA and all of the people who chose to live here. We should love and help our brothers, that IS the Christian way. We should be humble. We should respect our land...etc. America IS falling apart from the inside and all this REP vs DEM stuff only hurts. We need more than 2 parties to choose from. I can vote for the best PERSON to become president I'm not stuck being a Rep or Dem that is irresponsible behavior to just vote DEM or REP. LAST. Obama has NO responsiblity to REV. Wright. NONE.
An issue of courtesy.
Submitted on May 2nd, 2008 by MercyphotographyAnonymous
On this site, we have zero censorship of ideas. On the other hand, we do not like insults. For example the author of this blog ( Jim Lakely) ideas are pretty much opposite of mine on most issues. But we still manage to be somewhat polite and respecful of each other even..... friendly sometime.Once again, not an issue of content just one of tone.
Vibrant Democracy huh? Ok.
Submitted on May 2nd, 2008 by AnonymousVibrant Democracy huh? Ok. Where does censorship come in? It's not like I was using profane language. Anyway this too confirms my point about self-righteous. Hey moderator how about commenting on the Bush Bil laden connection that you LOVE to avoid.
Fretting and insults
Submitted on May 2nd, 2008 by Jim LakelyWell, anonymous. Your "scumbag" and "morons" cracks were taken down -- not by John -- but by a RedBlueAmerica moderator. We try to keep the level of discourse a little more elevated around here. Name-calling doesn't cut it as an argument.
And what you call "nonsense," most Americans call disagreements on important issues. If you don't like being challenged, maybe this site -- and a vibrant democracy -- isn't for you.
John 2000 Just tired of the
Submitted on May 2nd, 2008 by AnonymousJohn 2000
Just tired of the Rep. spin tired of the games between Dems & Rep. I just like how bloggers like you get those blogging muscles and talk down to people. If we were face to face I really don't think you would. Anyway, Obama is a good man. This country would serve its interests if they just got away from all this nonsense. There ARE bad white people just as there are bad black people. No one is perfect and we ALL make mistakes. I love how my first post just does not appear anymore. Wow. John you are just the example of the poor little scared man that I knew would answer. Now go run and hide. Like I said pathetic.
If you think I'm fretting
Submitted on May 2nd, 2008 by AnonymousIf you think I'm fretting you are only lying to yourself. Rep are just too narrowminded to be relevent anymore. The country has outgrown you narrowminded views.
anonymous 1 and anonymous 2
Submitted on May 2nd, 2008 by John 2000Wow. Compelling!
"Just go away" and "It won't work".
I can stay then? being independent and all?
If it won't work, then why are you fretting about it?
What about Bush's
Submitted on May 2nd, 2008 by AnonymousWhat about Bush's association with the Bin Ladens? Give me a break. What a bunch of losers the REP are. Go away. Just please go away.
Cold emotions and odd associates
Submitted on May 1st, 2008 by Jim LakelyNice of you to bring up those "snippets" from Obama's book. Of course, you will be charged with taking them out of context and intentionally distorting the makeup of Obama.
On a side note: A reader of another blog I came across this week made a good point. All these people saying that Obama's association with Rev. Wright doesn't matter in this election sure made a big deal about George W. Bush's association with "Kenny Boy" Ken Lay in the last election.
Heh.
Why Barack hides emotions and is cold
Submitted on May 1st, 2008 by John 2000From 'Dreams of My Father' :
"It was usually an effective tactic, another one of those tricks I had learned: People were satisfied so long as you were courteous and smiled and made no sudden moves. They were more than satisfied, they were relieved -- such a pleasant surprise to find a well-mannered young black man who didn't seem angry all the time."
-------and ---
"Any distinction between good and bad whites held negligible meaning."
--------------
Yes, one could argue that he was referencing times far back in his past, but he was presenting them through his older contemporary lens AND before thinking he could ever really run for President.
In any event, snippets like those do reflect very deeply seated nuances of the man.
He claims that he had never
Submitted on May 1st, 2008 by AnonymousHe claims that he had never heard any of those sermons when he was at the church?! I guess he doesn't go to church as often as people would like to think?? The fact that when Obama was going to announce his run for the presidency and instead of having the Rev be front and center and do a public blessing, he decided to keep him in the basement and do a blessing "underground"? Why is that? Who knows, as was said jokingly on The View, maybe Rev is on the republican's payroll??!! ha-ha
Church sitting
Submitted on April 30th, 2008 by Jim LakelyThis point about how long Obama went to church while Wright was pastor is key. My wife and I have moved frequently, so we have much experience visiting churches and trying them out.
If we don't like what we hear from the pulpit, we leave. If we like it -- or at least find it not offensive -- we stay. And it doesn't take many visits to make the call. Often it's just one visit.
Obama endorsed his pastor with his feet -- by not moving them for two decades. That action, or inaction, speaks way louder than what he said at his mealy-mouthed presser on Tuesday.
ITS ABOUT OBAMA'S CHARACTER
Submitted on April 30th, 2008 by AnonymousFor 20 years Obama and Mrs sat listening to Pastor Wright speeches about I hate America--Whitey and Jews.
So Pastor Wright can say what he wants to say but Obama doesn't have to listen unless he believes in the Pastor and wants to stay and listen.
This shows the true character of Obama who must be bitter inside.
Besides Obama doesn't even have the experience necessary to be PREZ. This notion of CHANGE is of no substance to elect a Prez on.
If Obama gets nominated then the democrats are as crazy as Pastor Wright.
The Rev. Wright
Submitted on April 30th, 2008 by AnonymousI don't think this issue is over, as a matter of fact Obama better hope more video's don't show up putting him in that church when the Rev. was cursing the United States of America. I don't believe the Rev. is done and the true Obama will come too light.
Re: Up to speed?
Submitted on April 30th, 2008 by Jim LakelyMore like teasing you a bit. Just having a little fun. No offense intended.
Well, if that's McCain's strategy, he sure doesn't have you fooled. So I guess that's not really an issue.
Up to speed?
Submitted on April 30th, 2008 by MercyphotographyJim,
Are you patronizing me?
Let me tell you what I want to talk about in term of " character,judgment and veracity", I want to talk about Senator McCain flip-flopping expertise on most issues.
The fact that he is pandering to voters with his "great economical" idea of dropping the gas tax not to forget his " vision " for the situation in Iraq and the middle-east.
But this is not the topic of this blog, and I need to catch up on some news....
Best.
Getting back to real issues
Submitted on April 30th, 2008 by Jim LakelyGilbert,
Did you seriously not glean the Democrats' positions on these issues during their 22 debates over the last several months? If not, you can check out their websites. Anyway, a quick refresher for you:
Higher taxes to pay for jobs programs and make-work schemes like solar panel factories and the like.
Their options are not realistic, but both are for quick retreat.
Obama says invade Pakistan unilaterally.
Higher taxes, again. No cuts in government programs.
Ok, now that you're up to speed, we can keep talking about Obama's character, judgment and veracity a little more.
How about getting back to real issues?
Submitted on April 30th, 2008 by MercyphotographyJim,
As you know, there are not lacking...what I would like the media to do is ask real questions about real problems, such as:
The recession ( or according to Pres.Bush " hard time " or " slow down") how to get out of it?
Iraq: What are the realistic options and the plans of the respective candidates either for a pull out or to stay?
Afghanistan: How to beat the Talibans?
The budget deficit....should I go on.
I knew that Falwell passed away, it doesn't change the point I was making of Sen. McCain being cozy with the lunatic fringe of the Christian right. Last time I checked Pastor Hagee was still alive...I would not go as far as saying " well "
Best.
Rev. Wright and snakeoil
Submitted on April 30th, 2008 by Jim LakelyGilbert,
A few things ...
It's possible -- common, even -- to be both. Wright fits the bill. What does it say about Obama that he has paid $40,000 over the last two years for Wright's snakeoil?
Actually, Wright has written many books, and has another one on the way. His publisher could not be more pleased. And if you think Oprah won't touch Wright ... well, I wouldn't put good money on that bet. I predict an Oprah appearance before the summer gets too hot.
We'll see about that. Yes, we're months away from November, and that is an eternity in modern politics. But the polls show that Wright has done real damage to Obama, and that just might last.
As for Falwell and Hagee ... sigh ... do we have to do this again?
No. 1: Falwell is dead. It was in the news. You might have missed it.
No. 2: Hagee is not McCain's pastor, father figure and spiritual advisor. Besides, Hagee apologized publicly for his "Katrina was punishment from God" nonsense. Still waiting for that apology from Wright.
Cheers!
Jim
Core Values Vrs Policy
Submitted on April 30th, 2008 by RespectfulguestA spin from the Obama Camp is the notion of let's get away from this trivial nonsense such as core values and past associations and move on to the real policy issues (ie economy, Iraq war, health care, immigration etc..).
The issue here is any candidate's past associations and record need scrutinized harshly before they can sufficiently move on to big picture policy items.
For Senator Obama an unprecedented 18 month love-fest from the mostly left of center media allowed the Senator to skate by without any checks and balances. Think about it, almost 18 months have passed and those outside the Obama base really do not know how to take Senator Obama at this point.
As stated in blog, unfortunately for Senator Obama the Rev Wright issue will now become even more protracted. One got the impression Rev Wright has more to share regarding his association with Senator Obama. The question is not will he share it, but when. So much for Senator Obama's free ride.
Ouch! the Oprah Card
Submitted on April 30th, 2008 by John 2000... and Obama was buying snake oil for over twenty years and suddenly found himself one day drowning in it and discovered it was carcinogenic? Cogent.
Well, okay, sure, it will drop out of the news cycle quicker than I think and 'we' can start ...
Could be.
Rev. Wright is a snake oil salesman.
Submitted on April 30th, 2008 by MercyphotographyDear Jim,
Senator Obama should have put a distance between himself and the ranting Rev. Wright earlier in the campain, that was a mistake. Is it going to compromise his bid for the White House? I don't think so.
It is clear now, that Rev. Wright is more a snake oil salesman than a raving conspiracy theory lunatic.
He is enjoying the attention of the media, not for his " cause " but for fame and may be fortune. I would not be surprise if he has a book deal in the work. One think,for sure, he will not get invited by Ophra to promote his book.
I understand why you are talking about Wright. The bad news for you, Jim, he will fade out from the news cycle quicker than you think. May be at that point we can start focusing some of our attention on Hagee and Falwell and their McCain's endorsements?
Best.