CNN

The magic is only over when we give in to our most cynical natures. When we stop believing in the future and start looking back to the past for solutions, then America will inspire no one. America does what we do best when we dream of a better tomorrow and build it. Learn for the past, live in the present and hope for the future.

No. And there is no 'magic' to what this country is all about, and what this country stands for, and what this country has proven since the dawn of the US. The US has faced difficult situations before, both economically and foreign-policy wise, and we survived and became better for the challenge. This time is no different. The French would just love to see us fall, but they should not hold their collective breathes. And by the way, who listens to the French anyway? Seriously?

Not with the current Bush & Chenney administration
Not with Clintons back to WH
McCain or Obama might. Obama gets a lot of supporters and adminers from aboard.

Clean the America first then the image will be earased .. slowly.

Only a Democrat as president can repair our reputation abroad. Nobody on this planet will trust any words or deeds that come from an extension of the Bush administration in the form of John McCain.
In fact, McCain has already blown his foreign policy credibility by his so-called 'violence-free' stroll through Bagdad, and later singing "Bomb bomb bomb bomb bomb Iran" for the whole world to hear.

The image of the US abroad has been hurt severely by Geo. Bush. But in time, by demonstrating a more reasonable stance on global issues, the image of the US can be repaired. Certainly there are those in the world who will never view the US as anything but evil, but any efforts to sway them from rigid and hate-based opinions will be largely useless.

JACK; I don't believe it can be done with McCain!

Chuck OH

Yes. As long as we, as Americans, unite to focus on the principles which led to our former greatness. Although we have often fallen short of our ideals, we were often forgiven since we strove to set a good example of doing what is decent and correct in the world. I would like to know we are the good guys again.

Without a doubt our image is badly damaged overseas. We retain much power but the current administration has abused that power and misrepresented the majority of Americans. The 'magic' need not be over, however. We can begin to rebuild our image by first admitting our sins of arrogance and greed. With that acknowledgement we need to formulate a completely different approach to our relationships with other nations with a tone of respect, humility, and genuine interest in the well-being of all peoples, not just those who satisfy our insatiable desires. When we embrace our foundational beliefs in the dignity of all human beings and use our excesses to build up others rather than destroy them, we can regain a place as a respected people in the world.

Hi Jack:

What "MAGIC" is he referring to? Is he going to Disneyland?

Ron K. San Diego

Yes if Hillary is elected. If McCain gets in it will be awful. I am not sure Obama has even been to other countries other than the US and Indonesia. Wonder what his travel map would look like on facebook – just a thought....

Hillary is the only hope for a more peaceful world.

The U.S. can indeed repair its image abroad so long as i) George Bush Jr. becomes politically mute after leaving office and ii) a George Bush foreign policy clone (aka: John McCain) is not elected in November. All the Canadians I know 'forgave' Americans for voting in George Jr. for his first term. How could they have ever possibly imagined what a disaster his administration would be! After he thumbed his nose condescendingly at and misled the international community about WMD intelligence, it was loathe to help HIM advance HIS agenda in Afghanistan and Iraq. With George Bush Jr. out of office and the country returned to the American people, the international community will breathe a gigantic sigh of relief and reach out to join hands with an old friend again. Amen to the close of the Dark Ages!

Unless we reinvest in ourselves, the magic may very well be over. We have to invest in education and infrastructure, and be self-sufficient in energy. We have to rebuild the country for the future.

Jack, to be honest, I don't think there ever has been any magic. And that's good, because any ignorant and irrational views based on some "superior", nationalist ideology have in the past always harmed a country, multiple countries or even the entire world in general. You've got to keep it real and down to earth. Only then will you be able to approach and dissect any threats or problems with the graciousness and rationalism that is necessary to solve them – and exactly those two characteristics are what distinguishes a country as a great one.

Thomas
The Netherlands

Here in Switzerland, there is little respect left for America, especially because of, for example, human rights violations like when Bush vetoed the no torture legislation passed by both houses–which I read in our local paper here in Bern, this morning, but didn't see on CNN last night-are American's really being kept in the dark? My neighbors ask me all the time "why don't the American people do something?

Our image can definitely be repaired with the right leadership. Obama understands that whatever issue a foreign leader and/or the citizens of that country have with the United States, it must be addressed face to face with the people who misunderstand us. Anyone who has ever had a tarnished or strained personal or business relationship knows the power of an openminded, ego free conversation expressing each others sincere thoughts and perspective on the situation. Name one successful marraige that hasn't included this kind of conversation after an argument or misunderstanding that included some form of silent treatment.

Yes Jack, we can regain our status.

America is and always will be the World incapsulate, the World in future.
I know from my travels to 19 countries that we are admired, though our leadership does not always live up to our ideals.
Most people can separate a people from it's leaders.

That will change when we have a leader that leads via communication and negotiation, not via threats and bald self interest.

Americans, do to our multi national makeup have such a keen instinct of what is Human, beyond culture, so called race, or gender, and this gift needs only to match our internal and foreign policy for us to reach our full potential !

George W. Bush accomplished two major feats. He made Americans sick of Republicans, and he made the rest of the world sick of Americans.

Once he's gone, we should be able to slowly go back to normal, when only the terrorists hated us.

No, France foreign minister is wrong having not been right since over through the Bourbons, and placing Napoleon in charge. This allowed the US to purchases Louisiana and expands west.

Jack, I see his point. We're bogged down in an unnecessary war that is bleeding us dry in blood and treasure while increasing the number of terrorists. Taxes were cut while spending increased, ballooning our national debt from $5.7 trillion to $9.1 trillion, causing the dollar to plunge to record lows, which increases our cost of oil. It's possible the majic could return once Bush and Cheney are out of office.

Ed Reed
Port Aransas, TX

The magic will be back when France needs are help again, and they will. How they forget WW1 and WWll!

What magic is France's foreign minister is talking about. Nobody takes France seriously anyway since they are the weakest country in Europe. This magic ended the instant the Bush regime started its illegal war in Iraq. But France's foreign minister is right about one thing, it will take generations to undo the damage that George W. Bush's arrogance and incompetence has been inflicted on the world.

I think all we have to do is be open and tell the truth for a change what ever happen to letting the chipps fall where they may. The Bush adminstration though everyone was dumb and would believe all the BS they put out.

'Fraid so, Jack. McCain will almost certainly be the next President (legitimately elected this time), and will follow the catastrophic bush/cheney course. By 2012 we will have lost most or all our national credibility, respect and moral leadership, not that there is much of that left right now.

We and the world have paid an unbearably high price for allowing GWB to steal the electoral votes of Florida in 2000. I hope that everyone responsible for that is happy now.

He's right as long as we continue our current policies. More and more of the world dislikes us not because of our wealth or freedom, it's because of our policies. In fact, our policies have not only hurt our image, but ourselves directly. We're not as rich, prosperous, or free as we were. If anything, to improve image, we should change policy and work to improve our own freedom and prosperity, then share that image with the rest of the world.

yes but it can be salvaged after bush only if mccain isnt elected since he wants to be 4 more years of bush. i dont see why everyone doesnt agree with obama to talk to both are enemies and friends. are enemies dont dislike americans, they dislike bush and his bully tactics.

Jack
First of all why are we listening to a comment by a foreign minister from a second rate country that is quick to critisize us on every move we make. You know the old saying " people in glass houses "

What magic? This country has been in decline for a long time, it's just that the Bush administration has ignored it. Like a modern day Nero, George Bush fiddles while America burns. It took four more years of Bush for the American people to finally get it, but they get it now ( funny, I just don't see as many "W" bumper stickers as I used to). We want the magic to come back, and we find it in inspirational people like Barack Obama. Let's hope America gets it, and hopefully the magic will return in November.

I don't take too much stock in what France says anyway since the chickens ran when we "needed" them. However, I don't think it was "magic" in as much as it was crediability which the Bush administration has ruined with consistent lying. No one wants to trust a liar and no one wants to be friends with them either. The only friends we do have is the waining support of the UK and smaller countries such as Georgia.

Ken-Bennettsville, SC

He is Absolutely right. Last century was the pinacle of U.S. power in the world. U.S had everything; power, prosperity, innovassion and respect. It all started to change starting with our cowboy president, Bush. Now its downturn for U.S. I don't believe anyone can really save this divided country from slipping into the grave.

Nuwan from Houston, Texas

He just may be right. Google "the world according to oil" world map with countries sized according to oil reserves. The US is a tiny little country. It is logical that industrial economies close to energy sources will have a significant economic advantage and will grow the fastest. Our foray into the Middle East is a desperate last attempt to gain control of at least some of those oil resources so that we may market energy to Asia, the world's next great potential growth market where lots of money stands to be made. That is all this administration is concerned about; they could give a damn about us. They've already pulled the plug; we're just swirling around waiting to get sucked down the drain. Hey maybe that's the sound Ross Perot was talking about.

Jack, I really don't care what France thinks about the US, and I never have. The magic was over for France centuries ago, the world looks at France in less than a spectacular light, and France is attmpting to lessen the US relevance on the World Stage to better its own standing. Nice try, Froggie!

After reading the full text of his comments, I think he hit the nail on the head.

I think the magic is lost, as we are seen as weak and growing weaker.

Until we return to the values that made us strong, the magic will be elusive.

Harry
Carlisle, Ky

It was bound to happen sooner or later. The French may actually be right this time. However, I will keep their military record in mind as I enjoy my laugh at them. Did you know the only time the French won a war was when the Americans were on their side? The only exception was the French Revolution; but then again both sides were French.

I think we're very tarnished because of George Bush. Our country is judged by its leadership. It will take a long time to gain the respect we have lost. An unnecessary war, holding prisoners with no legal rights, torture, no negotiations with our enemies, lies and corruption in the name of Homeland Security, the list goes on. But guess what, if you polish long enough, the tarnish can be removed. There may still be a silver lining... It takes someone that will unite our country and represent us with honesty and integrity. Maybe then we won't have to answer that phone at 3 a.m. I'm all about "Change".

No way, I have lived overseas half of my adult life. Even in countries that support us we try to dominate them. We would have to change too much to change our image as the Ugly Americans.

He has a point. We can't vote our way out of this one.

Is George Bush planning on invading France?
Then we could Press One for English
Press Two for Spanish
Press Three for French
Press the Trigger for Magic
Jerry
Roselle, Illinois

The “magic” died in 2000 – he, as most foreigners, know more about the US than we as its citizens do. We can’t see the graft for the corruption.

Yes, and we can all thank George W. Bush. Right now, he's champing at the bit to invade Iran and it wouldn't surprise me if he did just that during his last 90 days in office. If he gets out of office without escalating the war further, it'll be a miracle. The mess he leaves will take decades to undo. McCain will make the situation worse since he supports Bush's policies and wants to bomb, bomb, bomb Iran. The Dems better get their act together now for the good of the country because if they regain the White House, it's going to take years to regain our standing in the world while trying to repair the damage Bush W. has done.

Our relationships with our allies can be improved – but don't forget that anti-Americanism amongst our friends the French existed before the Bush administration and the Iraq debacle. That same animosity, though magnified by ham-fisted foreign policy, will unfortunately survive the Bush dynasty. Which is odd, when you consider the number of brave young Americans who died to liberate France.

No. The United States might be suffering from casual curses, but the US magic is alive and well. We still have our pleasant illusions to deal with our harsh realities. The United States is surely better off with a dish of illusion and a hearty appetite for life, than a feast of reality and indigestion; right Prime Minster?

The magic was over the day Bush unilaterally went into Iraq, it will take a new administration and years to fix the damage Bush has caused. We are also financially ruined, so those who claimed to be our friend will run to the next superpower that has money to give to them. China, for one. They are building their military and financial empire off of our money, through our governments' loans and unfair trade that our so-called reps are doing nothing to fix.

The American people are stupid to allow the fraud, waste, abuse and corruption to continue.

I believe France is absolutely correct. Bush has alienated most of the arab countries, stuck the European allies with billions of bad mortgage debt, put up walls and barriers to every attempt at peace. He is wiping out the American middle-class jobs and taxing your grandchildren for his war while enriching the robber barons and the Oil kings(his political base) . The "American Era" is over, it seems like your only best friend is Communist China who keeps your Dollar Stores supplied. It is a shame to see it go though, it was a great social democracy experiment that failed because of the power of one man and the cowardliness of the thousands who refused to stand up to him.

Philip Toronto Canada

.

Take away our nuclear capabilities and we are a third world nation. The government has neglected its people and the infrastructure that once impressed the rest of people on earth. Our own government has sold out the past, present and future of this once great nation. I want to personally thank all the greedy corporations and greedy politicians that brought this about. Now they can wallpaper their offices with worthless dollars. I grew up Amish so at least I know what to expect when the depression comes back. Sure will miss the electricity and this internet.

Central Square NY
The image of the U.S. has been tarnished badly, and it may never be completely healed. Now our treasury is depleted, and that is what many countries want from us anyway. It will take at least a generation to gain back the trust we used to enjoy. And it will take two generations or more to replenish our treasury.

Absolutely yes we can. We have an opportunity to demonstrate why our constitution, our system of government, and our people are the best in the world. This very year we can demonstrate to the world that in The United States of America we do not have to endure a bloody coup to throw out the trash and correct our mistakes. We the people get to choose the kind of government we will have and if one must come up with something kind to say about the current administration, they have invigorated the voting public and we are paying closer attention and participating like never before. Our democracy and our country are on the verge of becoming better than we have ever been before because participation of it's citizenry is the very definition of democracy.

Of course we can. We have just made the wrong choices when picking our leaders, which in case we didn't know yet, just happen to be making the choices for us when it comes to our international policy. I do remenber the comments we heard form abroad in 2004 when we chose Bush for a second term, and you know what, they where mostly right. I hope we listen this time and pick Obama in 2008. Everybody around the world seem to like him. We even like him here at home. Easy fix, isn't it?

Can the USA repair its tarnished image (tarnished???, wow) abroad?

Given a few years of non-bush leadership, perhaps.

Given a few years of reality-based instead of faith-based economics, perhaps.

Given a few years of non-corruption, cooperation, and intellilgence in Congress, perhaps.

Until then, my friend, France (and China and etc etc) is correct – there is no magic left at all. It will take reallity and hard work. And lack of bush.

No! The magic is about to start again once the two "bozo type clowns" are out of office in 2009. The two chicken hawks (meaning Bush and Cheney) have certainly created major problems throughout the world, but it is now obvious that we as a nation should be able to gain the respect of at least some of these countries. By the way, respect is not gained through fear. It is obtained through understanding, tolerance, compassion, humility, and cooperation. It's going to take a while since the present administration has worked so long and hard to defile everything a democracy is supposed to stand for.

In my travels overseas, I have always found the locals inhabitants to be very fond of the American people but they really have a beef with our government and I have to say that I totally agree with them.

Scott
Queen Creek, AZ

The best way for the US to repair it's image abroad is to elect a leader that is not the same ol', same ol'. Bring in a new face, with new ideas and who possesees a logical approach to solving problems based on reason, fact and sound judgement. A leader that stands for change and hope and belief in a brighter future that can and will be shaped by the American people. A leader who's face alone will symbolize to the rest of the world that bigotry and ignorance no longer play apart in how Americans elect a leader. A leader for the common man that will re-establish the "We" in the opening lines of our Consitution. A leader that will fight for the people of this nation and individuals all across the world, not just for more revenue in his own pocket. Wolf Man & Jack, you guys RULE! Keep fightin' the good fight!

Sarkozy is talking about image? Since he's been in office – he was going through a divorce, dating, and getting married again, and not to mention, going on his honeymoon.

I'm actually surprised he noticed anything going on in the world to make any observations at all!

And no, the magic isn't over, we'll repair our image, as soon as these guys are gone.

Did we ever really have any magic? If we try to set a country back on its feet, we are viewed as 'meddling'. If we do nothing, we are not 'compassionate'. And since when did we give a rats reverb what France thinks? I'm sure glad McCain has this sewn up, because the last thing we need is Obama or Hillary messing things up worse than they are.

If our future includes, bloated federal entitlement programs, increased federal debt, reduced production of exportable goods, and a population that is more concerned with their personal desires than the needs of the country, then the answer is a resounding YES. Just start forwarding your tax payments to Beijing.

I think renaming "Freedom Fries" back to French Fries and the Air Force's 35 billion dollar contribution, I mean contract, to EADS should help repair some of that image.

Our political race is a joke, our economy is in the toilet, illegal immigration is rampant, our government can agree on anything, and Jack, you ask if their is a problem. Take a day off and watch CNN. Our "magic has gone the way of the rabit in the hat...... it has disapeared.

Yes we can! That should give you a hint Jack. We need a President Obama who has an inclusive and affirmative message and a willingness to talk to our enemies as well as our friends to help us regain our international standing. We need a president who doesn't believe that carrot and stick diplomacy really works where it clearly hasn't worked all that well in the past.

the "magic" for the U.S. has been over for a long time going back to the complete stupidity of the Viet Nam War. we looked like the aggressor bask then and the world started to turn away from us.

John Kay of Steppenwolf has a great line in his song "Monster" written in the 1960's

"we don't know how to mind our own business
'cause the whole world has to be just like us
now we are fighting a war there
now matter who's the winner
we can't pay the cost"

as long as we are perceived as the "World Police" who will interfere with any country we disagree with us, our political standing with the rest of the world will be low.

The magic has yet to be performed. On Inauguration Day, we'll all say 'poof' to George W. Bush.

We can restore our prestige if we elect Bomb,Bomb,Iran McCain. Who is going to trust a Bush clone.

ELECT OBAMA AND THE GOODWILL WILL BE BACK!

Certainly we can. It takes some time. Do good & noble things at home & abroad. This is nothing new, we have done it before.
Ram
CA

Yes, Jack. Plain and simple, he's dead on.

I do think that our image is severely damaged around the world and unless we as a nation decide to look at ourselves and truthfully identify our failings which will require us to be honest with ourselves and make the corrections very soon, I think the magic will be over.

We cannot be the policemen of the world and state high ideals for others, when we cannot do the same internally to our nation. We have lost so many of our own freedoms in the last few years, approved torture techniques and feel as if we can still tell people how they should do things.

The people in our nation need to hold our elected official accountable for their actions (which we have allowed) and get back to the Constitution as Ron Paul has demanded. This would be the first step in 'Getting the Magic Back'.

Jack, superpowers don't worry about repairing their images. They do what they want for their own reasons. The smaller countries either benefit or get hurt depending on how the world superpowers dance around each other. The other superpowers did not want to dance with us in Iraq. There really is nothing to repair as far as the other superpowers are concerned. All they care about is that there is no vacuum of leadership from the U.S. The other superpowers don't care about repairing their images and they don't expect it of the U.S., just as long as the U.S. does not totally isolate itself.

YES JACK!!!! The French Foreign Minister is correct!!! The U.S. lost it's magic the day we invaded Iraq.
Patricia
Palmdale, Ca.
P.S. See Jack, I'm watching you.... Must be because I realllllllly like you....

Jack, it is unfortuante, but yes he is partly correct. What I do not agree with is that our image will never be the same. I strongly believe that under the right leadership, guidance, that can change. Our government needs to change the way it does business with other countries as well as the way we approach them. We as a people or nation may not always agree with the way other governments function or conduct business, but that is no reason to diminish them or call them to task. Reality there are things in this country that could use some serious changing and there are things in other countries that need some serious changing. However, we as America (our government) has absolutely no right to force feed our beliefs and ideals on any other country. Greatness is not measured by strength or belief; however is is measured by your ability to welcome and accept others and their beliefs. It is also measured by your ability to work throught and around your differences and develope a dialogue and stand that works in the best interest of both countries. Entering into a negotiation with with no conditions or set demands, only allows each party to listen, hear and speak with an openness that has a greater potential of success than one that is closed to preset conditions and full of demands.

Jack,

Let's stop pushing millions in support to those who think we've lost our magic. Let's remind them that we haven't lost our wallet and that it's the biggest one in the world. I bet they "make nice" pretty darn quick.

I am from an Arabic country, lived in France and now in the US. For me, there is no such thing as the ‘US magic is over’. The US has the power to get things done. We have seen all these 8years that these things can be actually bad (war, torture, state quo in Israel Palestine conflict ...) and no other country has done anything to stop or counterpart that. It certainly has the power now to get GOOD things done for the world if the proper president is chosen. The world will look to the US again if the new president gives signs of change and no sign of hesitation to do the right things while respecting the cultural differences.

That depends upon who the next President is. It is not difficult for a decent, honest person to do the right, moral thing. As Obama is the only candidate that has remained consistent, faithful to his word and has chosen to take the higher road in his campaign, he has the best chance of restoring our reputation and Kouchner is wrong. If McCain or Clinton win, then Kouchner is right on the money.

The damage can be repaired with a new direction...That will only happen if the U.S. elects the right person...YES WE CAN...Sound familiar...

I don't know about over. Certainly the worldwide support we experienced in the fall of 2001 has all but evaporated. But it is not beyond all help. What will not help is not a potential warmonger like our current executive. That rules out McCain. Despite her minor involvements in a handful of events on the world stage Hillary Clinton is not going to be the one to improve the American image abroad. What we need is a President who is truly a man of the world. Barack Obama not only has the most diverse personal heritage, he is the only one to speak loudly and often about meeting with not just our supposed allies, but our supposed enemies. He is the only candidate that truly exemplifies JFK's statement that we should not negotiate out of fear and never fear to negotiate.

john Adams, one of our founding fathers said, 'democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts, and murders itself. There is never a democracy that did not commit suicide.' Many signs point to this...low voter turnout...a government so bloated it is too slow to respond to the needs of its people...widespread distrust of politicians. Yet we keep patting ourselves on the back and pushing our democracy on other nations. We are still a young nation in the eyes of the world. We probably look like a know it all whipper snapper to them, who is quite ready to be knocked down a few pegs.

Wishful thinking on France's part. America's image is tarnished so we have to polish it up! We need a diplomat in the White House not a Bully. Clinton or Obama will be able to start to repair our global reputation. It's going to take a while to earn the respect of the world again but I am certain it can and will be done. The only impediment I can see – a McSame Presidency. In that case, the Chinese may be residing at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. by 2012.

The Bush Administration has wiped out any magic that we may have had and nothing will change until we get the war happy Republicans out of office. I fear for our future if McCain gets elected. Vote in Obama and let's get on with the cleaning up of America. I would hate to think my 3 year old granddaughter and 1 year old grandson will one day still be fighting this insane war.

That remark infuriates me! France really did "lose its magic" when Hitler marched in during the early part of world war II and stole the "magic" from the French people. But, instead of the U.S. sitting on its hands we went over and helped give the French their country back. And guess what? We have only gotten insults from the French ever since. Next time, let them save their own butts!

The world is watching our election process right now. McCain would be 4 more Bush years which will drag us down even further,if that's possible. Clinton is becoming scary on many fronts and I doubt she can convince the world her administration would be much of a change from the current one. Obama is the one the world is watching and feel he will work to restore our tarnished image. It took 8 years to destroy our standing in the world and it will take many more then that to bring it back. It's going to be a long, long road.

It's not what we want to hear, but very likely it's true. People should give this considerable thought, because it's coming from an objective friend who's not encumbered by running for office here. If we keep making election choices based on what we want to hear as opposed to reality the spiral wil get very fast and very steep.

France’s foreign minister says “the magic is over” for the U.S. Is he right?

I can see the perspective but that statement generalizes and bundles all of the American people into one stereotype.

There's plenty of people with a worldview living in the U.S. that want to move the country forward, we're just being bogged down by idealogs.

We'll work through it and come back stronger and bring the "hope" back into the common reference of America.

Yes anf France shouldf know because theirs was over a long time ago. If we get rid of the unrair trade treaties and the Iraq war, we may be able to bring it back.

I live a months abroad every year and the world does dislike us!

This is why I believe Obama is the one candidate that has the ability to lead us and repair our image in world. He has an open mind, a vision that is different from the others.
I think it is a positive to sit with our enemies face to face and lay down our beliefs man to man, at least one time, of course when the time is appropriate. Honestly, our foreign policy so far has not worked so let's be open minded and try a different approach. And the fact that he has a multicultural background and his name may just be an asset for this country! He will represent a brand new face for America!
I believe there is a better day ahead for us.

Jack,

The magic is gone. We lost the wand a long time ago.

Tim
Nocona, Texas

The French foreign minister didn't think the "magic" was so over when the French company "Airbus" snatched the big defense contract right out from under Boeing's nose, with help from the French government and the Airbus lobbyists, some of whom are now working for McCain who made it all possible. Magic? Is that what they are calling insider politics these days?

The magic is on hold, it is, however, time to strengthen our democracy with a real leader and get rid of the politicians. We must also disembowel ourselves of the relationship with Israel and our politicians that have pledged their allegiance to Israel. The World has spoken time and time again. Our support for such a rogue evil nation must end.

Yes we can get it back, so long as we don't vote for another "manchurian" Puppet. so long as America isn't gullable enough to be Bamaboozled by the one who is really doing the Bamboozling . Remember what Bush Promised us? Change!! he inspired hope in us, well we certainly got the change part didn't we.

Obama wants us to move our war from Iraq to Afghanistan that will sink any HOPE of getting any "magic" back for sure.

Bill Clinton is well liked everywhere he did a lot for this country in the middle east and it will take a Clinton to bring the magic back that Bush lost for the USA so i say vote for Hillary and we get Two Clintons for the price of one!

Like every thing else in Bush#43 presidentcy it will come as a big suprise, even though it's been hitting us on the side of the head for the past seven years? The "Mighty French Fries",are finally right!!! Earl Provincetown,Mass.

Ever since Michael Eisner left and Bob Iger succeeded him, I think they're getting back on track rather well... bringing the storytelling magic back to the hearts of every little boy and girl. Wait... Huh? What were we talking about again?

It will take hard work to restore the United States' image. Our goal should be to restore more than an image. We must work to restore all our democracy has stood for as a champion for human rights, a leader in making a cleaner and healthier world, a beacon of the free spirit, and a strong defender of free nations... to name a few. The next leader of the United States must be strong and have a vision and yes, experience. This election is so important and I call upon all to focus on the issues and the work that needs to be done.

Pat S
Warner Robins GA

TOUCHE'

Yes. Real power like communism and huge chunk of planet being involved in it is a threat that could unite countries. Two dozens of crazies from a desert cannot.

Jack,

No one is rankled more by the Bush administration than me but at this junture we can't all just point the finger at him, afterall WE ELECTED HIM! Why? Because over the years we've become fat, selfish, and indifferent. But wait, there's hope! We still have a chance to turn the ship around, but it's going to take more than just selecting a new captain. It's going to take a recommitment to the political process, a recommitment to our communities, hardwork, and above all SACRAFICES. Now, who is the one of the three remaining candidates who can convincingly ask people to make sacrafices and mobilize them in a constructive direction? I think you know the answer to that question, Jack.

France is wrong. But it's not so long ago that France was the most powerful country in the world. We, however, are at risk. Our government is trashing our economy and infrastructure, for the interests of the few. At the end its our fault for electing them.

The magic is far from over for America if we focus on the basics needed for our nation. That starts with waking up from the game-playing politics and finally focusing on America's future and survival in a global economy.

I know this can best be done with the brilliant leadership of Barack Obama. As we are at a crossroad while in a crisis mode, Obama has focused on turning this nation around. By creating economic opportunities, finally establishing affordable health care, which in turn will also help make American companies more globally competive, investing in Research and Development, and making education in America a number one top priority.

We have to make a choice to move forward, or continue to falter. It is a shame we educate 60% of engineering students who are foreign students in our universities. Yet our own American students either can't make it there academically or financially. We are competing against India and now China in this global future. It is time to wake up. And as America reinvests in itself, we will continue with the magic. All nations follow the magic of America, even France. We Americans simply need to remember that "together" is what makes us strong. We must work for and trust in Change.

Jack, the Iraq war is only the most visible manifestation of the Bush policies. The actions of the WTO and a miriad of "free trade" agreements have had consequences all over the globe. Although its under the radar in the U.S., the underhanded tipping of the scales for the benefit of a few multinational corporations wreaks havoc among small economies. There is more resentment than we are aware of or understand. We are told that we are advancing the cause of freedom. "freedom is on the march". Well something is on the march, but I dont think it is freedom. If we were told the truth about what we are doing in foreign countries, or even why we are in Iraq, we might understand what became of the magic.

Yes,and not just for France. As a Viet Vet I was horrified at the ease and speed with which we jumped into another stupid, immoral war. Perhaps we need a Constitutional amendment which limits the alacrity with which our politicians can screw the country over, or perhaps one with a death toll limit which cannot be exceeded without a referendum of the people.

No doubt about it... What we used to have, we built by leading-by-example... Since the decay of the moral fiber of this country, we don't deserve to be the envy of other countries... Our politicians can't keep their pants zipped; Bush's first contact with Putin, it was leaked that he called Putin "crazy legs".. Bush didn't even know WHY he was on this latest trip to the Middle-East...

We need leaders with good morals and common sense, but I don't see it happening any time soon...

Sadly he is right. Even sadder this is a friend that is saying this. At one time in the past when the US spoke people listened. Today we look like zealots forcing our will on others.

We started a war based on lies and the promise that the people would welcome democracy. We were promised it would make us safer.

We are in debt, we are not safer, our economy is in the tank, the middle class is in a downward spiral out of the middle class, the dollar is devalued a little bit each day and we beat the drums of war still.

We have as much to repair at home as we do abroad. We have a choice between business as usual or change. Will be stay set in our ways or will be dig deep inside for that moral courage to embrace change? That is the question that has to be answered before we can look at any repairing.

He is close to being right. This is what happens when you have special interest groups running your country. Not counting having George Bush at the helm for eight years. We have lost our respect around the world more than any other time in are history even counting the paper tiger days. We need to get it back and bring our troops home from where they are not wanted.

Why don't the French all speak German? Because of America. Your welcome Mr. French Foreign Mininster. Now hush up.

I would remind the french that even the phoenix rises from the ashes!!

I think Bernard Kouchner is correct. For the past seven years we have had a self centered moron in the white house who has caused untold damage to our reputation in the world. It will take years to restore what W has squandered.

Yup, not that you can use France as an indicator. They(France) only seem to like us when they've been invaded or at war with someone. Does France like anybody.....................Oui, Oui, they like the French.

This is one of the reasons I support Obama. We need more diplomacy worldwide to repair our image.More War McCain and Hillary still don't seem to grasp how damaged our image is. I like French toast more than Freedom toast..... it's sweeter and more delicious. C'est la vie....

As soon as we are rid of George Bush and get our act together- i think we will see an upturn of our fortunes. The problem is with Bush and his administration. Ask this question- in 5 years.

There certainly was a magic, fuelled by the continuous bashing of the US by West European media over the past decades, and known by the public to be wrong. Certain events over the past decade or so seem to have confirmed the arrogant-and-corrupt image that the average West European has been inoculated with over the past few decades by the TV, radio and newspapers, and the past admiration has been replaced by anger and contempt. This is the place to mention that in Eastern Europe the magic and admiration seem to be all intact.
The Presidential elections could have a big role in changing the image America has abroad, if the successful candidate will appear as honest and fighting corruption and if his/her foreign policies will appear to promote peace and dialog in a non-arrogant manner.

The hypocrisy that is the current Foreign Policy of the United States is apparent to everyone except the American people. When we support oppresive regimes (the Saudi Royals) and dictators that overthrew democratically elected governments (Musharraf) then attempt to promote democracy with their neighbors destroys any kind of credibility we have.

Yes he is, the Great Decider and his bunch of idiots have just about destroyed the image of the United States. Castro has more going for him then does Bush. Bush and Chaney have earned the title of Dumb and Dumber all over the world and they only have themselves to blame. Lousy foreign policy, stupid decisions on everything has let to what people think of them.

Nope the magic is not totally gone. The LOST fourth season and the McNuggets are still good.

Eddie, Quebec City

The fat lady has not yet sung. Is the magic over? I think not. We only need a new magician capeable of bringing the crowd to a standing ovation. One presidential candidate is capeable of doing just that. This candidate has proven that ability often this political season by bringing 1,000s of admiring fans into a frenzy of excited approval. This candidate is not a white haired old man nor a whining former first lady.

Yes. C'est vrai.

Until this country changes its policy of policing the globe and assuming its agenda is superior to all other nations it will have no magic. Our government has inivertantly labeled us as a ignorant and hippocritical group of people. We once championed change and our own citizens now our government is deathly afraid of change and suppresses its population. "By the people for the people" thats what i was taught, do we need to open Dick Cheneys man-sized safe to find the constitution? What happened to it? Our government has desperately failed us and china looks to take are previous spot thanks to them. MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

Well, no... I guess the funnier issue is that the French Minister believes in magic. il est un bouffon!

Jack,
As long as the United States remains at the bottom of every trade deal, as long as we continue to sell American technology and give away jobs to the lowest bidder. While we allow millions of illegal foreign aliens to march in American streets in protest of our government as we invade other countries because we want to spread our way of thinking, oh and while we're at it, take some oil. As long as America's interior continues to crumble while the people are slowly forgotten we will never be the greatest nation on earth. We will no longer be the model of excellence the rest of the world envies. The next President has alot to do but it can be done. We just can't afford to elect the same old politics that have gotten us here.

I hope the word spreads that the U.S. is not the place to go.
Maybe we can slow down some of the immigration here.
We complain of over -crowding, loss of open and wildlife areas, and shortages of water while we bring in more immigrants than the rest of the world combined. Then we have the illegal immigrants on top of that using our schools, hospitals, and entitlements.
Maybe France will become the choice to more people seeking the promised land.
Gary D Rhodes
Spokane. Wa.

What did the most damage to our image or "magic" is George Bus's disregard for the views of our allies and the rules and procedures that the international community put in place to deal with differences and disputes. Do you remember George Bush's remark to the interantional community "you are either with us or against us"?

Now we have another canidate that doesn't care for procedures and rules. By facilitating a revote or worse sitting the delegates accoring to an uncontested election is a sham. Hillary Clinton has advocated since "day one" of the FL election that she would fight to seat the delegates...what message is she sending to the world?

She feels somehow that she is above rules or agreements if they no longer server her purpose.

Only McCain or Obama have any hope of restoring our image in the world and it is going to take time and new policies from a president with INTEGRITY.
Keith – TX

Electing Barak Obama would say a lot. A president with his history and with his eloquence would help restore the US as the place were anyone with skill and inteligence can succeed and indeed even become president..

Yes, we have lost our magic, and it happened a long time ago. The world hates us for going into nations telling them to live like us, they are afraid to talk to us because they know we advocate torture, and they laugh at us when our policies have proceeded to bring our once prosperous economy to a halt! It's gotten to the point where I don't think we'll ever get that magic back, unless we make some serious changes to our government which seems to have forgotten what the Constitution said about who's really in charge!

History is a cycle. Each culture has gained prominence only to pass it on to another. Greeks, Romans, Macedonians, Chinese, Spanish, French, British, Americans and so on. I hope that our magic is not lost ... but perhaps our position is rocky and if it is our time to pass it on to another culture, that transition was only hastened by the policies and attitude of President George Bush's administration.

I hate to think what it will take to regain the trust to all of (EUROPE)Bush and Cheney have put us so far in hate by the other countrys,We might never gain their trust again.

Jack,
Yes, the magic is over. It has been over for several years. Traveling in Europe one hears: "we like Americans but we hate your government".
Now our diminished dollar makes travel to Europe very expensive so they will meet fewer of us.
Bill, Texas

Yes but temporarily. If the next president takes the time to practise some democracy and be honest with the American people, if he/she uses some judgment and intelligence before jumping into another war, if he/she loses the arrogance of the present white house, then other countries will regain their respect for the United States and Americans will once again be able to travel abroad without having to lie and say they are Canadians.

Bush/Cheney have lost just about all of our friends, as someone who has lived for many years in Europe I know that the American people are not hated, just the government.If we were to elect Obama, that would go a long way to showing them that we are ready for change, also that we are a country where the color of a person's skin is not important.

NO Jack if we lost our magic we wouldn't be having such a close Democratic race who garnish tons of dedicated supporters on both sides. The bickering will stop, we will have a new Pres. and still be the greatest country to live in.

Inflation, skyrocketing energy costs, a falling dollar, rising unemployment, and an economy in recession.... the magic may not be over, but I think the smoke and mirrors are losing their effect.

We will not have the country we once had until we become a self-reliant nation, free of foreign oil, trade, money and did I mention oil! I don't see that happening!

Sherrie – New Jersey

Hey Jack . He better hope we still have some magic. We are the only reason he isn't speaking German right now. The French don't have a spine and shouldn't be mouthing off. They should bow there heads in shame after the way they laid down against the Germans. Can any body remember when they have showed any class when it matters. Jim Fl.

France, for a change, has this one exactly right. The war in Iraq has only stimulated recruiting amongst extreme Muslim factions. Our country now has the reputation of being a world bully. Our economy is sinking by the day. What's next, the peso will out perfom the dollar? When will Americans wake up and realize that staying out of unnecessary wars, and keeping our nose out of everyone's business might actually be good for our country.

Jack,
I live in the very same state that put us in this mess in 2000. Yes, the very "then Harris" who gave Pres Bush the Oval Office I am sure has done worse than Eliot Spitzer current tangles, the only difference she did not get caught and the rest of the counrty got Screwed.

French foreign minister Bernard Kouchner is wrong. USA can easily regain its good standing in the world if more accommodating foreign policy is followed. The people of the word love USA and its people although some dspise our foreign policy these days. The problem is not with USA per se but our foreign policy, particularly since our military intervention in Iraq.

In his eyes he’s right; however, he is seeing the U.S. through his own blinders. The U.S. is a whole lot bigger with many, many more moving parts then Mr. Kouchner is willing to see.

Tarnished? Without a doubt it is. Is the Magic over? Not by a long shot.

Yes, it there ever was magic; bush and cheney have destroyed our country and those "spineless Democrats" won't do anything about it.

Mary
Asheville NC

At this time Jack, he is right. "The Magic" was the integrity and conviction of the US to a nobler World for everybody. The Magic of the US was and is our ability to weather the storm of all conflicts and disasters and not loose our humanity. We have allowed ourselves to become petty whiners while living as if prosperity were a birthright not a reward for hard work and cooperation. Now it appears that we can't even run our own elections. Make no mistake, America, The World is watching....some laughing...some shaking thier heads in disgust. Our shame should challenge us to all the best things America stands for.

Jack:

No. If communism and the Berlin Wall can fall, so can the U.S. image abroad be repaired.

Jack,
Yes we have lost our Magic, we are no longer the country we
were back in the the good old days, as my Mom would say.
We were Proud, we were honored by other countries, but now
they jeer, burn our flags, and kill our citizens. This should tell
everyone something.
It is time we get the Magic back, Bring America back to America,
employee our citizens, honor what made us great! "We the
people"! Want our magic back!

French foreign minister Bernard Kouchner says that, "the magic is over" for the United States. Its sad to say that it is almost partly true, as a result of the many happenings of the past years. I applaud our status as a "superpower," but if such a high and mighty status is not well managed, 'the Brobdingnagian Superpower may come crumbling down. America needs Change in leadership. I see Obama restoring our dignity and status amongst the community of nations. But can we give him a chance?

ELECT OBAMA AND THE GOODWILL WILL BE BACK!

The truth really is revealed once you are abroad. Where once a local was thrilled to hear that you were traveling to their country, now it only results in shame on your part. People are (or should) feel embarrassed to admit they are Americans.
Of course that could be the result of the ever weakening dollar. No one likes a cheap tourist.

I don't know from "magic," but things have surely changed. Wouldn't it have been truly historic, truly visionary, had our response to 9/11 been to corral all those many nations that were sympathetic to us then into a new collaboration for peace, instead of going it essentially alone and declaring "war" on Terror? The last 8 years would have been a shining moment in US and world history, instead of the moment when the world figured out that having even only one remaining superpower was one too many.

Jack,
It is really getting ugly out there, but America is a resilant nation, and the magic is not out, but the flame is low. We do have work to do to build our image on the world stage, but we have always had to shine brighter than any other nation. Even from one of our strongest supporters in France, they don't have room to talk, not France anyway.

I'd say the French foreign minister is expressing his own preference for the next U.S. president. Barak Obama is the only candidate that can be accused of practicing magic. If he can restore half the good will that Bush and Cheney squandered I won't mind it is called witchcraft.

If we can pry Hillary Clinton's hands off "the ring", we'll at least have a chance.

U.S. magic over? Depends on what kind of magic we're talking about.
I know in the US, people who burn our flag dont wear masks. Now tell me, why are those who burn our flag in other countries afraid to show their face? There's some kind of magic going on there that tells the world they're ashamed of what theyr'e doing. They're living in fear in their own homeland. Other than that, Bernard Kouchner might be right.
Bush has not only tarnished the United States abroad, but on his on homeland as well. NO mask on my face.

Jack, I don't know that there has ever been magic, but our image has certainly been tarnished by George Bush and his cowboy mentality. It may take quite some time for that image to become what it was before the invasion of Iraq. We had the respect of almost all nations, and now we are more of a laughing stock.
We can only hope that whomever wins this next election does something to start repairing the damage done. It would be nice to go abroad and not be conceived as the "Ugly American".

Hi Jack, Im from Ireland and this presidential race has me addicted to all the news coverage, Yes i belive America's image has been tarnished in the world, but i think the fight on terror is a worthy cause and fight and i think the world appreciates that fight america has taken on, but Iraq has just turned into a mess for the ameriacn image in the world. I know president Bush is most likely the least popular president ever but i dont just blame him i feel Cheney and Rumsfield pushed it more for the war in Iraq but the buck stops with pres Bush after all. As this campaign goes on i have heard the word change alot and i think America needs Barack Obama to be the next president to CHANGE the image of Ameriaca in the world. America needs someone to the change the views of the world towards the Ameriac. and that can be only Barack Obama.............

Inflation, skyrocketing energy costs, rising unemployment, a falling dollar, an economy in recession... the magic may not be over, but the smoke and mirrors aren't working as well as they used to.

Nope, the clowns still got some time left in office. Although he may be running out of tricks,.. how many more oil rich countries are left to accuse of having weapons of mass destruction anyway. Oh and by the way Jack, do you know how the president's surgery went? I heard he was having his brain cleaned out and had the colonosopy this morning.

Phill D from Weeki Wachee, Fl

The magic has taken a vacation.

The Barack Obama MOVEMENT will bring it back.

It may not matter as, within the next 50 years, US relevance in the world will have significantly diminished, as other major economic & military powers compete with the US for influence. Other large trading blocs will also reduce the USA's economic importance, and its military might will be worth little, if abused as it has been with Bush.

France is right Jack, our "magic" was once based on change and self reliance. And now we have the same 2 parties bickering back and forth over such trivial things like steriod use and what earmarks are going on the newest bill, not national issues, while other nations have 4-5 parties coming together and making a difference for their people. Now we are totally dependent on foriegn oil and investment. What happened Jack that is a better question? Is it the single minded politicians that we elect? We must take this nation back and give it the "magic" and the time is now or it will not be back around for a very long time. The people made the "magic" once before and can do it again!

Jack,

The day the US Supreme Court overruled the popular vote in the Presidential election of 2000 is the day the rest of the world saw we were no better than any other country. The people of Russia love us, but not our politics, which is heading in the direction of control by big business in a two-class society. When I see jobs leaving in favor of profits for the wealthy I see an America that may not be able to overcome its fall. The price of diesel is now more than $4.26 in Binghamton, NY; yet, my understanding is that it takes less cost for the oil companies to manufacture than gasoline. I seem to remember the argument against our buying prescription drugs from Canada was that the US Pharmaceutical Companies could not guarantee the quality. Now ... our military contracts, such as the Air Force Tanker are
being awarded to foreign countries (oops, I meant the politically correct foreign companies: ). Jack, the only answer is to find a leader and support him as John Edwards advocated to combat the existing two class structure.

The French are the last country that should be talking about us in The United States. They have never won a war, we have bailed them out with money and our peoples blood several times. Their new president is a total joke and so are most of them.

Jack,

There hasn't been "magic" for many of us in the US for the past 8 years. Our economy, the war in Iraq, our borders, infrastructure, health care, education, social services,...what's left? This bonehead has not only ruined our reputation around the world, he's let our country go to hell. The mind boggling gap between the very rich and the very poor is atrocious. Gone are the days of the middle class and the "American Dream" I heard Hillary going on about the American dream this morning, on CNN, in fact...she was a product of the American dream. Goes to show how out of touch she is with the electorate. The American dream, to many of us, is a fantasy!

Chad
Bloomington, IN

Ask this question in 5 years, when China own's us.

America's image has no doubt been tarnished in the shadow of the current administration, but we will bounce back. Many nations have been ruled by oppressive and corrupt governments in the past, but have vindicated themselves through new leadership. I am sure Germany was written off by many in the 1940s and look at them now. Time heals just about anything.

Under the current administration? Yes. That's why I'm shocked that more people don't share the view that those who now inhabit the Whitehouse should be impeached/indicted, tried, found guilty & executed for treason, fraud against the U.S., at least 4,000 counts negligent homicide, and lying to Congress.

The french have always hated the United States so I would say no we haven't lost our magic, but yes we are on a low because Bush easyn't the smartest guy out there... What we need in this country is change from that 20 years of Bush and Clinton rule and the only person that can bring that change is Barack Obama. So I can't wait till he becomes president!!!

I hope he is wrong, but really think he is right on the mark. Thanks to the current President Bush and his cowboy-my way or the highway mentality, we have been speeding down hill with little hope of changing the direction. His unwillingness to see beyond his "few trusted advisors" has done more damage to this country than can be fixed easily. We are governed by idiots.

The French are world leaders in every aspect and if they say we've lost it then we should capitulate and turn out the lights.

Are you kidding me Jack? Who gives a rip what the damn French think??

Everyone is laughing at the USA, France, Osama, you name it, and I feel ashamed at what things have come to.

We've lost what the country was founded on because of our fear over national security. Think about how this war and how our president's reactions to the war impact our laws. Wire and email tapping? No due process? No warrants for arrest? Saying we don't torture then vetoing a bill that would ban water boarding?

We might as well be a dictatorship. What ever happened to the Constitution and the Bill of Rights? I guess when it comes to policy and propoganda history is nothing more than that – history!!!!

Obama and France are going to get along swimmingly. They are of the same opinion.

Memo to Obama: God "BLESS" America

The magic is long gone. Not even Shaq could bring it back.

France , the first nation to surrender in every war on record.
who gives a rats ass about them.
stop there foreign aide and then watch them squeal.

bowling green, mo.

Jack, I don't see why the French Foreign Minister would say America has lost it's magic, when French based Airbus/EADS just received a huge contract, worth Billions of Dollars, to build our Air Force's next generation refueling tanker. If we've lost our magic, then let's rescind the tanker contract and award it, to an American company like Boeing. Jack, why in the hell are foreign countries building our military aircraft , in the first place.

Why is it so difficult to gear the American Economy to building Iraq into a paradise; one which all American's would wish to move to; with such things accomplished everyone would want to be invaded by America, and would go into debt to allow it.

Jack, the damage that the Bush administration has done in the world is atrocious. Some folks in America may not care what the French think but it is not only the French but a lot of our allies. It will take years to fix and I think the best person to fix it is Obama!

i suppose a french guy would know. considering how the french have lost their own 'magic' for quite some time now, who better to know than someone who's in the same boat.

As usual France & Europe are 100% right. Are magic is all gone thanks to
King Bush & Darth Cheney.

Is this seriously the best discussion topic you have Cafferty? How about asking us about Admiral Fallon's resignation. I think the commander of American forces in the Middle East is a little bit more important than how France currently views the United States.

Ask the nation their thoughts of Admiral Fallon retiring yesterday because the immense frustration he has with the Bush Administration and their neglect to follow his advice on avoiding war with Iran.

Jack, I have traveled all over Europe and in the Middle East. I have asked people what they think of Americans. The response is always the same–Americans are good, Mr Bush is not so good! I really have to agree with them...This administration has acted like an arrogant bully. That is why Sen. Obama must win this election.

For those of you who discount other countries because of their size or preseved insignficance, just remember that we may well be in those shoes soon with the rise of China and their partnership with Russia. Wonder how you will feel then!

The French minister is right. It sure would take a hard work to repair the reputation of our country. Bush has damaged it so badly that it will take some years to fix. He even brainwashed us to think negatively about France because France had some reservations about the US invading Iraq. He claimed France was not a good friend. He was either too stubborn or ignorant to accept constructive criticism. At one time, some of his egg head followers started calling French fries Freedom fries. . Where is the freedom? your phone gets tapped under the disguise that he's looking for Osama terrorists. The opinion of Europeans and other nations about USA is so low that it is pathetic.
I am confident that Obama or Clinton will repair the damage.

Hi, JacK!
Some of the people on this blog critisize the foreign minister's comment by stating that France is a 'second-class country.' What do these people think the United States has become? We carry second-class status in many of other countries' eyes – 8 years under Bush, 4-8 more years under another possible 'Bush' administration. Some criticize Senator Obama and his foreign relations policies. However, as a Senator Obama supporter from the day he entered the race, and as a white, female, senior citizen, educated voter, I believe Senator Obama is the only candidate who can repair the rifes caused by Bush-Cheney.

Just the way the media has behaved in these primaries the likes of which we've never seen before, ya he's right, a falling dollar and a falling economy. It was time to have real proffessional wih real experience take over the country, but it won't happen with all the hate the media has injected in the electoral process, this will make the USA fall from a super power to a banckrupt system which will never regain it's statis. United Europe will soon be calling the shots. China is becoming stronger than ever, even lending the USA money, building up its army and are now capable of shooting satilites out in space and Russia is becoming a super power again, Moscow has become the richest city in the world. Think and vote wisely

Have you just realized that the U.S is not popular around the world anymore. That's been the case for 15years now.

Denver, Co

The only one that doesn't know this is President Bush.... My feeling the only one that will be able to fix this mess is Hillary Clinton!!! McCain will just keep on doing what Bush is doing... Obama all he says he will pull out... But not how he would do it... At least Hillary said how she would do it... The World knows the Clintons better than Obama...

Close but no cigar.

Hopefully President Bush’s successor will restore some of America’s image, but to state that America’s image “will never be as it was before” is pure speculation. Our future image and supremacy is in our own hands.

Sure, it might take another act of dominance that our military exhibited in WWI and WWII Europe to restore our image but it will also take something other than military might.

Diplomacy, information dominance, smart economics and military prudence will improve our future image and supremacy. Sometimes the pen is mightier than the sword and that time is now.

Let’s vote for a level-headed, diplomatic candidate (regardless of race or gender) who knows that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure: one who won’t shoot first and clean up the mess later.

Greg
Leavenworth, Kansas

The truth is painful.
George Bush has done more damage to the United States, domestically and internationally, than any other president.
A McCain presidency would likely not change the negative perception of America in the world. A Clinton presidency would have some positive potential. An Obama presidency would have the greatest potential for a restoration of our reputation around the world. He is fresh and young, with a calm and cool approach to problems, he's not a product of Washington D.C., and if he can deliver on only some of his proposals, we will all be better off.

Right now there is no magic in our perception over here of the USA -but i STRONGLY BELIEVE that it can be brought back by President Obama, and only by him.

It was over on December 11, 2000 when Gore lost the election.

yes spitzer should face criminal charges and also be disbarred as anyone else would be this man held a political office and we need to show the voters that this abuse of power will not be tolerated or condoned maryann michigan

Yes We have lost our "magic" within the U.S. Now almost every country know our business and how to work it to their advantage. Do you blame them?

He's right. It well takes years to recover from the ignorance, dishonesty, and immaturity of George W. Bush. I do not see anybody capable of doing the job. The War was not only a failure but destroyed our relations worldwide. The future is not bright. There is no John Kennedy. There is no Ronald Reagon. There is no Eisenhower. There is no Bill Clinton. We are headed down the toilet. Rick, Yakima, Wa.

Jack...will it really matter if we let Hillary Clinton steal the nomination away from the majority vote of the American people? We will be sending the message that we are a racist country that has learned nothing in the last 200 years. Repair any relations? Focus on the dmeocrates would remain on that subject long after the balloons have burst at the convention.

The magic is not over until we choose to end it, Jack.

If we continue with the same type of administration as we have now, then the answer is yes. George Bush "ripped his drawers" in front of the whole world and left the rest of us to flap in the wind and deal with the embarrassment. But I am a positive person who believes that anything in possible. And we have two real possiblities in the Democratic nominees to repair the damage and create a new picture.

mary
Ithaca, NY

Let me Quote someone "YES WE CAN". We need more young people in office. We need more public servants and less professional policticians. We need to reinvent democracry from the bottom up.

Calvin Darden Raleigh, NC

Jack
as long as we have Bush,Clinton in office I THINK SO, it's time to get the magic back Obama is our only hope.

America's magic is lost, but not permanently. After 8 years of horrific foreign relations, and a war that nobody supported in the first place and noone wants to continue, and allowing the world's most robust economy to slide to near depression levels of course any magic there is left is well hidden. I believe a new president that is seen as a breath of fresh air, that will completely break from the errors of the past and blaze a new future for this country will restore the magic of America to the world – but more importantly, to us here in America that feel it has been lost as well.

Steve DA – East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania

Jack, the magic of the United States is not over. Much of the world shares the American rating of George W Bush and realize that he was the one that had gotten us into this mess in the first place. Magic historically has always been restored, Germany has earned respect after Hitler, Japan has earned respect after WW II, Russia has earned respect after Stalin, and Cuba shall earn respect after the Castros.

Jack, time will heal all wounds, and once the United States introduces the world to a new President, be it an African American male or a woman, the world will truly see that Americans desire change enough to make history. Once the new President shows they are a world team mate and not a world bully, we will shine again as never before.

It will never be like before. If the US wants to show the world that they are different, that not everyone thinks like Bush, and that they do want to join the rest of the world, they better elect Obama. I don't see how electing McCain or Clinton tells the world "we are back, we are different, and ready to be friends again"

Want to see some U.S. magic? Pull the Air Force tanker deal from Air Bus.

There will be always people in the world that will hate us no matter what the US does.

truer words have never been spoken!

I don't know if it will never be the same, but as our people are getting fatter, stupider and behaving worse every day. I hope what replaces this little nation is better, and I don't see how it couldn't be.

jack, i am a cold war vet, i was extended because of the building of the wall in berlin. iwas proud to serve a country that took a stand against the aggression of the soviets. i had read "the ugly american" and tried not to be an example of that culture. it is obvious to me that our current president and his administration did not read that book or perhaps did not understand it if they did. i've had a view that the french could be arrogant but our leaders have now one upped them. i have never felt the french were stupid though and may even be right this time. if anyone is stupid it our current government.

Abso-stinking-lutley...

Jack,

What magic?

Jose
Boca Raton

We've lost our magic for now, thanks to the reckless policies of the Bush administration. Can the U.S. get its groove back? Yes, but only if we elect a Democrat to the White House and put a Democratic Congress in place with the Democratic President. Barack Obama is the person that can get us started on the right path.

I do'nt really think that America Lost its magic, itis just we made alot of bad dissections under the leader of President Bush. But, we might get our magic back but it will not be the same as it was before.

I would consider the source and as France is certainly an expert on what it is like to go from being a major world power to being largely irrelevant, I think the words should be heeded.

French foreign minister Bernard Kouchner may be right about the US image but to me "French" Fries will never taste the same either.

Here we are again with France trying to act like the are the pulse of American's. All France needs now is a little push from yhe right terriost group and the first call they will make is to that magical country called the US.. Who needs indise groups to set us on the correct path again, just wait for France to set the record straight and everyone will be just fine.

Jack he is spot on about American. The Bush and Clinton Administration has cut the legs off America. We will never again be a country of Americans but one of Immigrants who just want to live here but not be Americans.

France eats frog legs and they're worried about our magic, ok, how much do they want? military contracts? aid?

With democrats in office every country will get more aid and good feelings will come our way again. Sure we might not get great health insurance like the french but if they are ever attacked, they'll be calling for our 'magic' in a flash!!!

Maybe france can be a little more optimistic and show confidence towards us to pep us up as we're in malaise at the moment as we are well aware of our image under Bush!!!

What ingrates! Without us, they would be speaking german. Anyway, who cares about what the french think

France lost many "Magic" oil contracts with Iraq when the US invaded, keep that in mind when the rhetoric starts flying from France. They are still hurting from that. Sure, our image is tarnished, but not irreparable.

Jack

I don't think that your magic is gone entirely....more temporarily tarnished......we still have a great respect for our neighbour and friend but your reputation has been greatly diminished by the Clinton and Bush years....Clinton for his mindless indiscretions and the Bushes for their war mongering and innability to comprehend complex world issues. Barack Obama in our opinion is a great leader along the lines of Kennedy or Trudeau and there is great optimism in our country that he will restore the luster and shine to the American dream and restore the U.S. to its former greatness. We wish him well and hope that he will overcome the gutterlike tactics of the Clinton machine and the swift boat subversives.

William
Winnipeg

Oui!!

The magic of being a beacon of reason and diplomacy has been replaced by smoke and mirrors. The Arrogant Bastard has run the country down to his own level of medieval morality, anti-scientism, and adolescent bravado. Although I am supporting Senator Obama, the Republicans should really be REQUIRED to take the presidency to fix what they broke (Are you available, Colin Powell?). The Bush diaspora in foreign relations is nearly matched by the economic disaster of the Bush recession.

The "magic" can be ignited if the new President is a democrat. Unfortunately, John McAain will ditto the Bush policy. The only way to do this is to have, as Obama suggests, an open dialogue with the world and specifically the Muslim community/leaders. Another invasion or another war will create a huge fiasco, and the world will never trust us. But reaching out to the world, understanding the issues, the way President Carter did, will be vital to ignite a lasting magic. I am praying that this is what Obama means when he suggests an outreach program.

First let me say that I watch the situation room just to see you. You are like a breth of FRESH air. Yes I feel that the U.S has lost it's magic. We are like playground bullies, wanting everyone to be afraid of us. We had no business in Iraq but yet were there. Was Bin Laden in Iraq, NO, but as has always been in this administration it's the Bush.