“Bitter” Democratic fight
Click the play button to see what Jack and our viewers had to say.
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
Barack Obama's comments about "bitter" blue-collar voters – who cling to "guns and religion" – have exploded into a "bitter" fight between him and Hillary Clinton.
Over the weekend, Clinton pounded Obama over the remarks, calling them "elitist and divisive" and suggesting they could kill the Democrats' chances of winning the presidency in November. She says Obama's words could alienate voters in Pennsylvania and other states that will soon vote.
Obama says he expected this kind of response from Republican John McCain, but not from his Democratic rival. When it comes to Clinton, Obama says "shame on her" and mocks her outspoken support for gun rights.
Clinton has told audiences that she supports the rights of hunters, that she once shot a duck in Arkansas and that she remembers learning to shoot on summer vacations in Scranton, Pennsylvania. To which Obama says "She's talking like she's Annie Oakley. Hillary Clinton's out there like she's on the duck blind every Sunday. She's packing a six shooter. C'mon! she knows better."
Trying to turn the tables, Obama insists it is Clinton who is out of touch with the concerns of blue-collar voters, saying she has accepted campaign contributions from political action committees and drug and insurance lobbyists.
Meanwhile, after appealing to gun owners and church-goers all weekend, Clinton refused to answer a question about the last time she fired a gun, saying "We can answer that some other time” and that it's not "a relevant question in this debate." She says she went to church on Easter.
Obama spent a lot of the weekend telling reporters his remarks were accurate, but badly phrased.
Here’s my question to you: How harmful will Barack Obama's "bitter" remarks be to his candidacy?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Josh writes:
Yes, I think it will hurt him in the Pennsylvania primary, not because of what he said, but because of the way it is being spun by the political war machines of his opponents. I don’t know if there is a way for Hillary to actually win her party’s nomination and I believe this underscores why the “smart” leaders in the Democratic Party have called for her to step out of the race. She is going to serve this election up on a silver platter for John McCain.
Mary from Sarasota, Florida writes:
Jack, And this too shall pass. You've heard that old phrase and in this case it’s apt for Teflon Barack. Nothing sticks to him. People just manage to overlook his foibles while beating Hillary over the head with hers... sigh.
Sue from Emporium, Pennsylvania writes:
Jack, If you haven’t lived it, you can’t possibly understand it. With that said, Sen. Obama was spot on. We are frustrated and bitter. We don’t always feel we have a say in our economics, so we vote on gun issues, abortion etc, and turn to our religion as a way to ground us. So no, most Pennsylvania voters, who have seen their neighborhoods disappear and prices soar are not fooled by Hillary Clinton’s assertion that Sen. Obama is out of touch with hard-working Americans.
Mike from Pueblo, Colorado writes:
Americans bitter? Holding onto guns, religion, anti-immigration and anti-trade sentiment? Ouch! Could it be that some of Reverend Wright's ideology has inadvertently rubbed off on Obama during the 20 years of sermons that Obama supposedly was never around to hear?
Shirley from Weston, Florida writes:
Jack, I’m from a small town in Florida, and I can't take 4-8 years of Grandma Billary and Grandpa McCain. And no, I was not offended by Sen. Obama’s "bitter" statement, I just think he should have used the word angry. As an American, I am just that. This is foolishness... Senator Obama holds us accountable and tells us what we need to hear. Like Grandparents, Grandma Billary and Grandpa McCain tells us what we want to hear.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
It is not harmful at all. It is very healthy. He needs to fight back. Hillary is trying to win points. Shame on her.
California
Jack,
The ladies from The View played the WHOLE speech and hearing it in context there was nothing but truth in it! The problems of the struggling cities cannot be fixed by drinking with them! They have every right to be bitter as we all are over this war-they are just experiencing a deeper war than most of us–loss of jobs and our country sending work out of the country when people want to work!
At least he spoke the truth–to be called an elitist by a millionaire many times over does not resonant with me. Understand their problems–HA! Hillary understands power and will go to any length to get it!
Carol
Knoxville TN
Seattle Washington
Well Jack, it's like this. We all enjoy "freedom of speech". It's guaranteed by the constitution. What we seem to forget is that "ANYTHING you say, can AND WILL be used against you". Nowadays, anything your pastor says will be used against you. It's ok to "stand by your man", but not your preacher man.
Obama was saying that people in small towns don't vote for him because while he is talking about the critical issues facing our country, these people can be easily distracted to vote for candidates that use wedge issues, such as guns, religion, abortion, etc. So what is Hilliary response? She talks about guns and religion. His point is made by his opponent's own effort at wedge issues.
It won't hurt Obama but if Hillary keeps pushing it, the party will go down in flames.
Fox is reporting Carter & Gore are asking Hillary to step down for the good of the party. If this is true, it would be a good idea to do soon.
Billary is using the BITTER Word like the 3am call in the morning to SCARE AMERICANS. We are BITTER because unlike Billary SOMEBODY LOST a HOUSE and JOBS.
Jack this is the biggest bunch of BS I have ever seen in a campaign in my 66 years. When I heard Hillary was talking about shooting ducks and drinking boilermaker's, i got to laughing so hard I had to get up from the floor to type this. What does this have to do with the state of the country. Then the to do about Obama being out of touch and a elitist is the biggest joke. Who do they thinking their are kidding. The only person that is not considered not to be a Washington insider is the guy out of touch. By the way I live five miles past the sticks and Don't feel that Obama is a elitist.
So far Obama's words have the potential to offend but if he's the nominee I am sure the republicans will use those words against him over and over and over and over.... At least this is the type of thing they've done in the past. (Especially really annoying people like Rush Limbaugh.) I do think it was smart for Clinton to jump on these words to try to show why Obama may not be electable in the fall but if she goes too far with it, people will turn against her instead. Everyone is pretty sick of all the nitpicking but I know this the way politics has always played out. Nothing new here.
I teach first grade and these 2 are starting to sound worse than my seven year olds. Their bickering is tiresome and shallow. There is no need to respond or comment to everything your opponent says or does. I wish they would talk about how they're going to fix our wreck of a country and keep their mouths shut about everything else. But at least Obama is finally showing his true colors.
Well since there was a faith forum last night I'll sum it up like this. When Senator Obama called voters Bitter, in church we call that stepping on your toes. In other words The Truth Hurts. We are Bitter and thats putting it mild. When I go get gas here in PA I hear people cursing up a storm at the pump. So to hear people say we aren't bitter I guess if I made 109 million dollars I wouldn't be Bitter either. I think that everyone is bitter and I think all Senator Obama did was point that out. I think if you liked him you really like him for saying how we all feel. If you don't like him you use this as a lame excuse. We are bitter we are angry some of us are PISSED, at the War the Gas Prices the Economy. Get back to the issues people get off your how dare he high horses and stop lying to yourselves about how pissed off we all are.
Wake up Democrats we need to come together and focus on McCain before the party splits and we lose this election I'm bitter and I'm not alone.
Superdelegates please step in and say enough make Obama the presidential nominee Clinton the Vice presidential nominee so all the drama can stop and we can get back to the issues and get this country back on it's feet.
Senator Clinton put the kitchen sink back in the kitchen. Senator Obama stop play her game and you two get back to the issues for the people. United We Stand because it's going to take all of us.
Derek
PA.
In the battle for the reddish of the blue-staters, it seems the point of Obama's "Bitter pill" is being missed, and that is the clear fact that the GOP uses fear, guns, gay rights and religion to hoodwink voters whose interests are more supported by democrats to vote republican. Now we have Mrs. Clinton throwing back a shot to wash down that bitter pill and try to convince the red-blues that she is true blue when it comes to their vote.
Silly. Both Obama and Clinton as well as McCain are wedded to Wall Street. The test will be for any of these candidates to live up to their promises. Well, at least we know McBush-McCain will live up to his. Vote for him and there will be 4 more years of Iraq and hands off to the economy.
Alex Downs, Long Beach, CA.
My husband and I are retired and living on social security wages that were protected by the Clintons when Bill was in office. We also have been blessed by savings during our working years.
Way back in the day, we nearly lost our home due to health problems when our four children were young. We were living on our last dime until friends and family came through with food to keep body and soul together. Workers Compensation also rescued us with a living wage until my husband and I found work compatible with our health needs.
I know what it means to almost lose your home and wonder where your next meal is coming from. In all that, yes I turned to God and he came through stunningly. We now have a good life and so do our children who are now fabulous contributing citizens.
I just want to say that bitterness was never a factor in our recovery and Sen. Obama should not "preach" that message if America wants to get out of our current mess. He can't have it both ways either you preach hope or bitterness. They just don't mix.
This is a little off subject but did anyone notice that the audience on the "Compassion Forum" was seeded with Obama supporters who made their presence loudly known without any reservations. CNN and the DNC has no compassion for anyone but Obama.
Hillary was a champion on that stage in light of the coolness and hostility that's been her experience with CNN reports.
Hurt Him? If anyone is paying attention, this will be his demise.
I am bitter and most people I know are bitter about the circumstances our government has placed us in. Only Hillery and of course the trivia mongers on CNN could make something out of the word "bitter" to try to diminish Obama's momentum. CNN does us all a disservice by playing up obvious nonsense instead of promoting real dialog about the issues.
Gonzales, LA
I don't really know Jack, I guess it would depend on how the voters hear it. As for elitist and divisive suggestions by Hillary Clinton that it would kill Dems chances of winning in November – the thing that will kill the Dems chances in November is lies! lies! lies! about everything that comes out of her mouth.
This will not be a big factor in his campaign. Americans are getting tired of Hillary trying to make a big deal out of everything that comes out of Obama's mouth. A lot of people from Pennsylvania and other hardworking places have said that they are frustrated and bitter about how they are being treated by the government. I know that I am getting more frustrated and bitter every time I see her laughing off serious questions and being condescending to the public.
It is a major slam to small town America. When I told my husband about it, who is not biased toward one candidate or the other.....He was angered and sees it as on top of all the other extremely questionable things he has said and done, including not washing his hands of his minister....etc etc etc and his wife, being proud of America for the first time....."typical white people" ....and everyone is always attacking him and everyone else is a racist......except him.....It just adds fuel to the flame....But then instead of apologizing and saying that he was WRONG instead he BLAMES HILLARY AGAIN....does the guy not take credit for anything......or is he just a wet dishrag? But to turn this around and call Hillary Annie Oakley, guess what Annie Oakley was straight talking and sure of herself! He is a Fool!!!
I am not offended by those “bitter” comments. Americans are making greater sacrifices, and are working harder than ever. The American dream is becoming unattainable for two incomes household. Working class Americans are “pist” over unfair economic trade practices and loss of jobs. Americans are angry that their children cannot go to the best colleges because they cannot afford them. Americans are angry at astronomical health care costs. It is about time that a potential presidential candidate recognizes that Americans are bitter and angry over their job losses, economic deprivation, and healthcare costs.
I believe that Hilary is out of touch with Middle-America. The utter hypocrisy of Hill and Bill is shameful. Hillary, Bill and Mark Penn (ex chief campaign strategist) are the people in backroom with “closed doors” making deals with South American trade negotiators, while also receiving contributions from lobbyists, and publicly claming that they are now against NAFTA and CAFTA.
Hill and Bill really do care for Middle America–why you may ask–because they say so. Actions speak so much louder than words.
Can anybody who lends their campaign 5 million dollars without batting an eye, or who makes 109 million dollars truly understand the feelings and struggles of the working class. Oh, I guess Hill and Bill have recently claimed that they are good at making money. They are not elitist–they hang out with the voters in Harlem, NY, they often visit urban and rural areas when they are not in the election season, just to say hello to Uncle Bob, and Aunt Mary. And, once the election is complete Hill and Bill will be available for shots and beers in the local bar.
Hill and Bill should stop the name calling and political games and acknowledge that we have real problems in this country, and we need people who are genuine and unafraid to say it like it is. Please Hill and Bill-Please stop patronizing us.
Hill this is not about patriotism and flag waving moments. This is about Proud Americans who are fed up with the BS. So knock it off!
California
Jack, I am bitter I admit it. It is time for people to face the truth and if you are middle class or poor you are bitter. Bitter by the fact that oil companies are hitting record profits and we are feeling the strain at the pumps. Bitter by the fact that illegal immigrants come into this country use our education and health care for free while our kids and our health suffer. Finally we are bitter that our own elected officials are turing their backs on us every day by not making the tough decisions that America needs at this time. Bitter. Hell YEA!!!
They're letting their egos take charge... instead they need to think about what's right for the country.... and it sure ain't McCain...
I think people are judged too much over what they say. Obama clearly isn't trying to say anything derogatory towards blue collar workers because they are the base of the democratic party. On the other hand Hillary has every right to talk about how she relates better to blue collar workers than Obama.
Obama is way off base though, you don't hunt ducks with a six shooter...
Warren, Detroit
It will harm him at least for short term. However, Hillary is running the risk of overplaying this. She was alread booed earlier today in Pittsburg when she repeated her charges.
Sooner or later, people will realize who's honest and who's playing politics. Who knows, maybe Bill Clinton will say something news worthy like last week.
Jack, In the long run I think it will help rather than hurt his campaign. Although perhaps articulated awkwardly his remarks ring true for many Americans. Hillary and Johnny Macs hysteria over these comments reveal how out of touch both of them are, and once again they tag-team Obama. Do I detect the corporate elite at work?
Craig, Hiram Rapids, Oh.
It's helping Obama who looks more high-road with every idiotic attack. And, it's making Hillary's campaign look like "Theater of the Absurd." If her remarks continue downward, I fear we are only days away from her sticking her fingers in her ears and going, "Nya, nya, nya, nya-nya."
Jack,
If anyone rual or urban can be satified with 4 dollar gas, jobs going over seas, so called AMERICAN Companies, including the Internal Revenue with call centers over sea. Every time I call HP, or Vonage. I wonders how many Americans have been displaced by a goverment that cling to the idea that it does not matter how the llittle people suffer, As long as go for business. So I grab my BIBLE to keep from grabing my shot gun. I ask GOD for his forgiveness about my thoughts of what i would like to do to these companies. OBAMA is spot on in his assertions.
When either of these two talk about bullets, each seems commited to self-inflicted wounds. How much harm is measured by intent. I feel Sen. Obama did superficial damage for poorly phrasing something. On the other hand Sen. Clinton did fatal damage as she made up (lied) to further her personal goals. You can work with someone who poorly phrases themselves, but how can you trust someone who makes up history along the way?
Frank
Connellsville, PA
Considering how most middle Americans agree with Obama, at least about the "bitter" part, I imagine he'll do okay. As for politicians who make the mistake of thinking we're not...wait and see
Finally,I hope people will see Obamas true colors. I hope the Media will now halt its bias against Clinton. Though I doubt it.
As the campaign goes on you see Obama 's true nastiness come out.
Jack,
Senator Obama's remark on small town Pennsylvanians as people who "cling to guns or religion" will be his downfall. I am from small
town Pa and I feel insulted, demeaned, and hurt by his cutting remarks. Why is religion free game for these politicians in this race?
Some one with words like Obama's won't be getting my vote anytime soon.
Jack,
I think the people who are bitter about their circumstances will take offense, but these weren't the people who were going to support Obama in the first place. I believe Obama just calls it like he sees it. I don't know what is so offensive about his statement. It is probably a true statement. I can imagine that the people from Pennsylvania would be bitter after loosing so many jobs, but why kill the messenger. It was the Clintons who supported NAFTA. It was the Clintons who sent their jobs over seas. It seems fairly stupid that the Pennsylvanians stand so strongly in Clinton's corner when it was the Clintons who created this train wreck. As for Hillary Clinton, this allows her to divert the spot light from her blatant lies about Bosnia and the woman and her child who died from lack of medical care. I know she must be relieved to have something to talk about. At least Obama tells the TRUTH.
All obama tried to do was find the cause of people's problems. THats what he does when he is behind closed doors, not write up strories that never happen to then say you mispoke. I am tired of Clinton always distorting his words when she knows she has no more credibility. She made 100 million dollars with her husband, she knows middle class folks won't connect to her anymore, and her last attempt was to attack Obama as unfairly as usual. This is revolting, sad and disapointing from a Democrat. She clearly won't win my vote.
Jack
I believe is comments were harmful to a lot of people that live is small towns all across the U.S. Mr. Obama explain what he meant by his comments , but i still think that's not going to sit well with the majority of people that live in Small Town America. For one, he has no business mentioning the word religion in any of his speeches as far as I'm concern. I think he would be better off if he would let the issue die , but no he has to keep firing back , which makes it more uglier then it really is. It's to bad that John Edwards is out of this race, because with the two fighting like they are , I would believe that the so called super delicates would sway all there votes towards John Edwards.
It's finally come to this. The Founders are no doubt rolling over. When presidential candidates battle over who would willingly shread more parts of our Bill of Rights than the other guy, it's time to show them the door. When was the last time any of these goons even touched a legal firearm?
Not harmful at all, if the pathetic and grotesque Hillary campaign
continues to absurdly spin it. The Clinton's and Carville seem to
have no shame at all and hopefully Obama will actually benefit.
Hi Jack:
Any American with a modicum of common sense has to be bitter with what their government has done to them over the past 7 years. There isn't anything wrong with this as long as they remember the old adage, "Don't Get Mad–Get Even!", this November. All Obama has done is tell it like it is and the only people to take exception to his comments will be those who are looking for any excuse to vote against him.
Frank
Ontario Canada
Did Hillary switch parties? She's using the same Republican knee jerk reactions on Obama that were used on Her and Bill. She has become an official member of the "Vast Right Wing Conspiracy".
The remarks were ill considred and worst may reflect underlying feeling. But he explained and it will be a minor blip.
i think everybody's pretty much made up there mind's. if not they live in caves, Hilary just dont get it, i for one, can't comprehend how she thinks ,people, can see right through her, i have never been a hilary fan, she's miss leading, tries to change the fact's, and very self centered, maybe she should have teamed up with W, there two peas in a pod..............,
First, his comments were never intended to be public, but he is a candidate so it should be expected. It was a Huffington Post blogger who decided to make them puiblic, and added her biased slant to them with a dishonest characterisation of the middle income to upper middle income audience present. Hillary feeds on this type of mis-reporting. So, she called them wealthy. For anyone reading it or more especially listening to Obama's actual words, they will note nothing between the lines as implied by the truth stretchers and word contortionists in residence at the Clinton campain.
Keep in mind, that as long as HIllary's campain has Bill Clinton and his job-killing free trade lobbying and promoting side by side with George W. Bush.....Obama has nothing to fear. It was $800,000 you got from Colombia, right Bill? Is that your going rate for tens of thousands of Americans' jobs?
misogynic vs. bitter
Sir. Elton John called the whole country misogynic in the presence of whole Clinton trios.
Is that less elitist or condescending?
Jack-
I don't get it. The Clinton make hundreds of millions of dollars talking endlessly The potentate of some mid-east country gives millions to their Library. Bill schmoozes with Rob Reiner and Barbra Streisand, and Barack Obama is an elitist for telling the truth? What's wrong with this picture?
You can't believe a word Hillary says anymore. Obama will make a great president.....honest...straight from the shoulder...sincere. A breath of fresh air for the White House.
Verna Hensel Toronto Canada eh???
Obama is right about his asseritions. In what is going on in
America. Its time for people to wake up and face the truth about
whats really going. ... Whose Clinton kidding !!!! She's still the same self -center, power hungry, phony, politician she's always been..
If its anyone in this campaign who is elitist its Hillary Clinton..
It depends on how the media deals with it, Jack. When people read his original comment without pretext, they think nothing of it. But when the headlines read "Obama slams small-town Americans" and the other campaigns twist his comments without contest (and by the by, McCain and Clinton should be careful who they're calling "elite"), people will get a distorted story. The media should be a neutral medium, not a partisan one.
Ed,
Hillary is just plain desperate. How is that Obama is expresing his concerns for people who are suffering and they are simply calling Obama an elitest . Friday evening I filled my gas tank for $50.00 and I need to fill my tank . Hell Im bitter!
Jack,
One can only hope that it is largely a neutral effect. If a presidential candidate has to be so careful on every single comment so as not to offend anybody...well you are doomed as a nation!
I suspect most voters who are actually undecided will side with Obama on this one, since it is such an obvious truth.
Most folks must realize that Hillary Clinton preaching against elitism is a lot like the devil preaching on the wages of sin!
Thanks Jack,
Peter in Alberta-Canada
Yes, I think it will hurt him in the Pennsylvania primary, not because of what he said, but because of the way it is being spun by the political war machines of his opponents. I don’t know if there is a way for Hillary to actually win her party’s nomination and I believe this underscores why the “smart” leaders in the Democratic party have called for her to step out of the race. She is going to serve this election up on a silver platter for John McCain.
Jack,
This will hurt Hilary more than Obama. She continues to prove she will do anything including joining forces with Republicans. She must have right, because her and McCain were saying the same exact thing about Obama over the weekend, he is an elitist and yesterday she inferred Gore and Kerry were elitists. Do not worry though the former first lady worth a 109 Million dollars whose husband made 800 thousand dollars working with those in Columbia who support the trade deal she opposes is the down to earth gun and bible toting president we all have been waiting for.
Ed, DC
"This is a little off subject but did anyone notice that the audience on the "Compassion Forum" was seeded with Obama supporters who made their presence loudly known without any reservations. CNN and the DNC has no compassion for anyone but Obama".
Hillary was a champion on that stage in light of the coolness and hostility that's been her experience with Cnn reports.
Hurt Him? If anyone is payiny attention, this will be his dimise.
Ms MN, I did notice, I only hope that people are paying attention.
Jack, I’m from a small town in Florida, and I can't take 4-8 years of Grandma Billary and Grandpa McCain and NO I was not offended by Sen. Obama "bitter" statement, I just think he should have used the word ANGRY. As an American I am just that. This is FOOLISHNESS... Senator Obama holds us accountable and tells us what we NEED to hear. Like Grandparents, Grandma Billary and Grandpa McCain tells us what we WANT to hear.
I think Sen. Obama's use of the word bitter was a slight bit harsh but the reality of it is that it is true. I'm from "Not So Small Town, PA " and I'm feeling hurt, angry and frustrated about the illegal immigrant situation, gas prices, and unemployment.
As far as Senators McCain and Clinton saying that Sen. Obama is out of touch, the nerve. Senator McCain doesn't know much about the economy because HE DOESN"T CARE about the economy as it relates to the working folks, whether they are middle class or lower middle class. Senator McClain didn't even participate in the Compassion Forum, which was absolutely wonderful. He has a one track mind.....WAR!
And for HIllary, does throwing down a boiler-maker make one more in touch? When was the last time she did that? It was probably her first. At least Obama is not a hypocrite.
Jack,
Bitter comment will actually help Barack. The fact that Hillary and John Mccain are attacking Barack tells me clearly that they are out of touch with small towns in Rust Belt. Why wouldn't people be bitter if they are living in the richest country in the world and yet they cannot afford housing, healthcare have good jobs. Any politician who says that people are not bitter is not in touch with people. People are bigger, angry, hurt, down and distrustful.
I love your show and it is my only reason to watch CNN.
Jack: Where are Barack Obama's big name endorsers in his time of poltical need? You know, the Ted Kennedy's, John Kerry's, and that fine Pennsylvania Sen. Casey? This was a big time insult to anyone who has had adversity in their life. My religion gives me strength in times like these. I guess Sen. Obama sees his religion only as a means for getting facetime with his voting public. Bitter? How about mad as hell watching someone, whose list of lifetime accomplishments could hardly fill a 3×5 card, having the audacity to run for President on a platform copied from the Pied Piper child's tale. Wake up America, before you get drowned.
I am even more bitter to know that Bhillary made more than 100 million dollars during the last 8 years. And they pretend they are closer to regular people???
Of course People are bitter when they see that the Clintons will do anything to get back the White house. And trust me, she will not make it this time!
If Clinton can't see we are bitter, she is deeply out of touch.
This is actually a genuine case of "misspeaking" on Obama's part and I feel so sorry for him. With the PA democratic nomination polls just a few days away, it is likely to cost him a lot. Except of course, we discover video footage that Hillary actually did in Arkansas was to pet the duck as opposed to shooting it.
Jack, his remarks should not hurt him, it is true that most of Washington is out of touch with the American People who vote them into office then are forgotten until it is re-election time. And yes we get bitter at times, but it seems we must just get over it, because even when we vent, Washington just goes on as though we were not here.
That all depends on whether the voters of PA, NC, etc who are low income, uneducated believe what Hillary Clinton and John McCain are saying. The fact that many people who are bitter, angry, pissed believe what he said was offensive goes to show how uneducated and low income they are. They are easily manipulated.
How can you be an American Citizen in 2008 and not have something to be bitter, angry or pissed about, shall i list a few:
1. Going to war in Afghanistan and Iraq over a LIE
2. The Patriot Act- Shredded the Constituton
3. No bid Contracts for Haliburton
4. Firing of the US Attorneys
5. Torture of terror suspects
6. Illegal use of executive priviledge
7. China owning all of our homes from the mortgage crunch
8. North Korea being used as a scapregoat when China pulls there strings.
9. Iran being used as a scapegoat when Russia is pulling there strings, remember Russia sold nuclear weapons to Iran back in the Bush 1 and Clinton years.
10. Credibility on issues of human rights, global warming, etc shot to hell.
11. Losing $9B in taxpayer money in Iraq with no investigation.
12. Allowing Iraq to hold onto $Billons$ of dollars and oil that could stabilize the american economy.
13. Paying with taxpayer money to maintain a country that has the resources and money to do so on there own. They don't have the education to do it unfortunately.
14. Lead in the toys
15. Poisons in the dog/cat food
16. Urinating daily on the Constitution
17. Urinating daily on the Bill of Rights
18. Using Habeus Corpus as toilet paper
Wake up you moron Hillary and McCain supporters, Obama was stating the obvious and if you were smart enough you would know that
Jack; "and this too shall pass" you've heard that old phrase and in this case its apt for Teflon Barak.... Nothing sticks to him... people just manage to over look HIS foibles while beating Hillary over the head with hers... sigh... Mary from Sarasota, FL
Americans bitter? Holding on to guns, religion, anti-imigration and anti-trade sentiment? Ouch! Could it be that some of Reverend Wright's ideology has inadvertantly rubbed off on Obama during the 20 years of sermons that Obama supposedly was never around to hear? All of the typical white people in America, along with those possessing a modicum of common sense, are instinctively voting for any other candidate on the ballot in an attempt to avoid an election OBAMA-nation.
I suspect that it could hurt Obama due to the media bombardment of the story and that Hillary has been serving as a Republican surrogate since the Wisconsin primary. There is no doubt that controversies around Obama have spiked cable news ratings in the way missteps by Clinton or McCain have failed to do, intensifying the pile-on effect. That should be providing a moral dilemma to the media, but it appears a subject they'll happily ignore at the unfair expense of Obama in a bid to stretch this fight to Denver.
Perhaps bitter was the wrong choice of words....but he really did sum up the thoughts of many!...people can still be "proud" and yet frustrated...downhearted and yes...even bitter about the economy, job loss, foreclosures and the high cost of food and gas and for obama to say people are bitter...well i personally feel it shows he is in touch w/the american people. it's refreshing to have a candidate who speaks the truth....and i pray he continues to bring to surface the real anxieties of this nation...despite critism over his choice of words at least he's not afraid to speak out!...he's the one we need in the white house~
Jack
I think his comments are in keeping with his honest appraisal of what is going on and what needs to be addressed. I doubt that the people who are "bitter" will be offended since they will know the truth of his words. Interesting that Mccain and Hillary are accusing him of "elitism" as if they hang out down at the gin mill drinking shooters and cleaning their guns.
Most of all, Obama continues to try to point out the need to NOT have politics as usual, in other words, leave the jingo-accusations out of the dialogue, and in that respect his point is well taken as Hillary talks about shooting ducks! Good thing for her the topic isn't circumcision or we'd be hearing her reminisce about her days as a Moyle!
Hillary had the Rev. Wright story and within a couple of days shot herself in the foot with her Bosnia lie. Now she's Annie Oakley. When I heard the original quote, I understood the spirit of what he was trying to say, though awkwardly. I'm sure most Pennsylvanians and Americans in general understood it too. Most Americans are bitter with the government of McCain and Clinton and she would have done better to leave it be, but not our Hillary. Somewhere deep down she is part Republican pit bull and it keeps surfacing on her.
We are finally starting to see the REAL person. He's an elitist, egotistical, lying, hypocrytical, biggot. Let's hope this will end his campaign. Hopefully, this will get him out of national politics all together, since he really doesnt have the experience for national politics.
Bitter remarks, do we Americans even care? One of CNN's web polls today asked "does a candidates' religion/faith matter" in our decision to vote and when I clicked "Yes" the results were that 60 some percent of them said "No". I was appalled! We were a nation built on Christian principles and now we don't care anymore! Now we are looking at a man who was born muslim, took his oath of office on the kuran not the Holy Bible. The time is near. God save us all.
I think it will be harmful – he himself has said he worded it badly. These 'poorly worded statements' will be thrown back at him by the republicans. Such as 'for the first time in my adult life' and 'no, there was no meeting with the Canadians'
This is more signs of an inexperienced politician. If one were to take his statement literally.....Does he think that once their economic position has improved, they will abandon their gun ownership and religion? Hardly. These are the very swing votes he needs to win the election.
He is supposed to be the uniter.....
This whole bitter comment is a non-story as far as I'm concerned. I don't see anything wrong with the comment whatsoever. In fact I think it is the absolute truth. I've know many people for years who have voted on singular issues such as gun control, abortion, illegal immigration, taxes, and so on because they lost faith in the US Governments. So they vote based on one or two minor issues rather than the big picture. Also, this would not be a story unless the media picked it up and ran with it. The media has made this story the headlines around the same time Bill Clinton is still out there telling the same Bosnia lies as Hillary. I don't want to hear another person say the media has been unfair to Hillary. The Reverend Wright fiasco and now this are minor stories the media has made major headline stories. I sure hope the remaining voters see through this yet another petty and dirty political game. This is the exact type of politics that make me sick and just further hardens my support for Obama because I see the dirty games being played.
Jack, Obama the loser needs to accept responsibility for his dirty tactics and shortcomings. In other words, he needs to be a man
and stop blaming others. The best thing for the good of this great nation, is for Obama to drop out NOW,and support HIllary. Se is the best choice for the country to be suceesful again like it was when Bill was our greatest ever president.Obama just wants to be the first black president. that is the only thing he cares about.
I don't know about others but as far as I'm concerned Obama spoke the truth. People are bitter and they have a right to be. They are willing work hard and do their best but it isn't enough. No jobs, no options what is there left but pray to God for help. Then you see all the stories of illegal immigrants taking even the low paying jobs (since the employers don't want to pay social security and give health benefits) and of course you want to get your gun and take to the streets. He spoke the truth but people don't always like to hear the truth.
Jack, if any candidate, voter and the media does not think the voters are bitter about what this administration and the GOP have done to this country they have evidently been living on another planet or like a majority of the GOP put their party before their country. Roger, Pinewood, Mn
Maybe Barack Obama made a mistake using the word "bitter' especially in a small town where traditions and religion are so valued. It is a hard pill to shallow but the truth hurts. The word bitter means to be distasteful to accept and resentful. That is how most of the people in this country feel about the present Republican Administration. Maybe Barack Obama just made the mistake in his choice of words. In that case to error is human and to forgive is divine. I think is ashame that John McCain never showed up for the CNN Forum on Faith. I really enjoyed hearing the views of both candidates and it was very inspiring. Now the fact that McCain was unable to share his views at a faith forum made alot of people bitter.
ther's no harm in telling the truth.at least ,if he loses,he'll do it with honor and integrity,which should never be considered a complete loss.if hillary loses,it'll be because of lies,negative campaigning and fear of telling the truth.isn't it ironic, that a non-white man, may just be the most honest politician we've seen,in a 150 years,since ole' honest abe?
He has a lot of nerve painting people as hating immigrants because they have lost their jobs; taking refuge in their religion and guns, because they have lost their job. And they thought John Kerry looked down his nose.....guess Obama learned about people of this country from Pastor Wright, he certainly never lived here until he started that expensive college. Sad that the Clinton administration who pushed affirmative action so hard are being sabotaged with it,
Jack:
It's sad to say you are a hopeless republican. It is commentors like you that promote the lack of stability and respect in America. In as much as I don't appreciate the politcal posturing between Mr. Obama and Mrs Clinton. I do not appreciate TV commentor's like you encouraging it. In addition, I do not appreciate you publishing the profanity that was posted to your blog with respect to the Olympic Torch. Individuals that write such profanity is not excusable because it casts a shodow of suspicion on them. Moreover, for you to publsh it to your blog is not acceptable. It violates every ounce of morality we are supposed to be encouraging. So you disappoint me Jack.
You are a waste of time Jack..
Ron K. San Diego
Jack, As long as Hillary Clinton (The 100,000,000 woman) and John McCain (Mister I grew up in a family of Admirals, hardly poor) keep sticking him with this label, the more I believe he benefits. People are going to see who of these three grew up in the lap of luxury. He grew up in a single parent / grandparents home, who sometimes lived on food-stamps. He’s had to work hard to get where he is. He also worked with churches to help out of steel workers on the southside of Chicago who lost their jobs. I hardly think he is the Elitist here.
Mike,
Ohio
Jack – please PLEASE stop this insanity. This is a non-issue, why must the media continue to feel that they must continue with the daily construction of the mountain out of the mole hill. Do YOU really believe that this is an issue with the American voter? Please tell me this is something that your producer forced you to discuss........
Jack, who really knows, only time will tell but I’m sure that Hillary and the GOP are hoping that this will stick since nothing else has. I can only say that as for me, I understood what he was saying and what he meant and although he could have phrased it differently – what he said was absolutely true. Its time for people to stop allowing government and others tell them to be quite, just stay positive and prideful about your situation, be a good little soldier and get in line. Nothing will ever change with that attitude. Politicians are playing us, Jack
Obama is not elite, John McCain and Hillary Clinton are elites. Yes I am "bitter" and I am from the Midwest. I am still optimistic about my furture but I obviously cannot get over the fact that I have suffered thru this economic downturn. Yes all I had was my faith when I lost my entire life and slipped out the Middle Class, Yes I almost decided to cling to a gun and commit violence, however I am one of the blessed ones, Thanks for God's wonderful plan called forgiveness, however i won't forget the economic stress I have suffered for the past year and half. Hillary Clinton is playing politics with this and I will be glad if and when Obama knocks her out the race. I dont even care too much about McCain because he has made it evident that he is not for me and he does not want my vote, I dont need George Bush III in the White House.
How damaging? Maybe not at all, because there really is no choice. There are three slick choices for exactly the same old same old corporate hookers. With his wife's senior thesis being released, really quiet racist in parts. His wife's statement that for "the first time she is proud to be American" and his pastors rants, this whole "Bitter" statement enforces my belief that Obama is one slick lawyer with a well hidden agenda. The speaches roll off his tongue like a very smooth Irish Creame, but there really is something unsettling about the man. The media has not put a spotlight on Obama like it should. Hillary has had a glare on her, so has McBush. Why the pass? This is about time.
Jack, . . .Hillary has played so many phony roles in Pennsylvania that
its beginning to look like old reruns of "I love Lucy".
Jack, Pennsylvannians are bitter and angry. Poverty is prevalent there. People hunt squirrels and eat them, along with racoon stew. People also hunt deer there, not for sport, but so they can put meat in their freezer so they can feed their families. They cut wood in the forests and heat their homes with wood stoves because they can’t afford to pay the gas bill. They cling to religion because it’s their only sense of hope. The government has failed them, using immigrants as scapegoats instead of taking responsibility for their own failed policies. So no, I don’t think his comments will hurt him! Instead I think it will help him because his comments resignate with so many Pennsylvanians who are struggling to survive in this current economy!
Jack, I grew up in a small mining town similar to many in Pensyvania.
I, and many folks like myself, am bitter about the way this country has literally be sold over the last 2 decades.
Our infrastructure is disappearing as quickly as our middle class. We are spending billions every month on a war that never should have be waged. Who cannot be angry and bitter when Dick Cheney's response to a question regard the fact the most Americans don't support the war is "So?".
Speaking of bitter, Hillary Clinton and many of her supporters are bitter because of their sense of entitlement to the nomination. Have they considered the idea that people simply like Obama's message better?
Hillary has run a horrible campaign. Her antics remind peole of all the baggage the Clintons bring with them. Most people just want them to go away and enjoy all the money that they have earned from international groups that want to see a continued exodus of jobs from the US.
Pennsylvania: End the drama, vote Obama!
Jack. I see you tried to turn a slip of the tongue by Sen. Obama into yet another tirade against Hillary Clinton-shame on you for your continued blatant bias.
Jack, he's Barack Obama, your choice for POTUS, so there's nothing wrong with what he said at all..
Now will tomorrow's question be an attack on Hillary for speaking out against Obama?? Come on Jack if anyone can turn Obama's words against Hillary, its you!!
Jack, VERY!! He has tried to be the candidate that would bring all people together. The problem is he keeps using words to generalize like " Typical ", " Ordinary " and just today saying in a condisending way that Hillary is acting like Annie Oakley. Maybe Annie is a hero type to some people. He also said she was over the weekend " slinging back a shot and drinking a beer " as if to be saying this is below him. That is the problem , Obama and his wife are looking more and more like Snobs. If he truly was not he would not use these terms this way. See his real self is beginning to show and that is unfortunate. A person only speaks what is really in the heart. He is beginning to behave in a childish way by answering the concerns McCain and Clinton asked over the weekend. Did you hear her attack his bowling skills?. When asked to answer a vaild political point, Obama goes down the personal road instead of sticking to the original question. She is looking more and more Presidential to me every day. I think his constant generalizing and catogorizing and condisending tone speaks volumes!!! He will not get my vote!!! He is that Elitist. Can you people NOT see that.
I dont think that they would hurt his candidacy at all for the simple FACT I am "BITTER" with gas prices, "BITTER" about the war, and "BITTER about the route that our country is taking and has been taking. Do I turn to my religion and guns no, I focus on my kids. For candidates to come out and say I am not "BITTER" is just a lie!
I am bitter, Jack. And the longer it takes to move on to exposing the fatal inadequacies of John McCain, the more bitter I become. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel because of Obama. But I must wait until Hillary gets beaten into submission.
Obama is quite complacent. The words he slipped out is exactly how he thinks about small town hard working people. What he threw at McCain and Clinton is totally garbage. His campaign cause the country more divisive than ever.
Obama's remarks will not stick as a negative against him. He's too good at deflecting these political barbs. Out here in good ol' liberal San Francisco where the "bitterness" comments originated, we are laughing at and applauding Obama's deftly-drawn image of Hillary as Annie Oakley shooting ducks! Obama's verbal sharp shooting hits the truth in the bull's eye by exposing how ridiculous HIllary makes herself when she repeats memorized Barack-attack lines then indulges in the usual self-aggrandizing "I've done it all" babble.
Obama is his own worst ememy, both in the company he keeps and the words that he speaks. I'm sick and tired of his supporters, including you Jack, talk about his great judgement. This man has no better judgement. When push comes to shove with the super delegates he will pay. Do you really want a president with the adolescent out of control judgement running the country. Be very careful what you wish for.
Sen. Obama was putting it mildly. The fact is, americans are angry and fed up w/the current administration and politicians like Sen. Clinton who will say and/or do anything to get elected. Sen. Obama was correct in his assessment and trying to make a larger point, which is that people are being hurt by the policies of Pres. Bush and his attack dog, and V.P., Dick Cheney, and that during these hard times we turn to family, church, hobbies, and those things that get us through rough times. The fact that Sen. Clinton and Sen. McCain are using his words for political posturing is absurd. I guess you can lie to the american people, but just don't use the word bitter in your speeches. Sen. Clinton, please drop out!
It will be a minor blip, but that is all. The only person who will come out looking foolish is Clinton. For her to accuse anyone of being elitist and out of touch is a complete joke. She has been making a fool of herself all weekend.
Once again, Obama is taking what some consider bitter "lemons" and making sweet "lemonade." I think people are glad to have someone as IN touch with voters as Obama is and this will help him-much to the Clintons' dismay.
Jack: I'm far too bitter to pay any attention to this year's presidential race. Besides, Dancing With the Stars is on tonight and it's a wide open field.
Peter
East Northport, New York
you should never cataogize a group of people. that is not good. regardless of what he might of meant it came out as another way. If the person that recorded that was an Obama supporter and she got offended then there are a lot more that will be offended as well. we will have to see next Tuesday how much damage it really did.
Well, Hillary might be "Annie Oakley" this week, but, she's not the one that has shot herself in the foot. By the way, if I go to San Francisco and talk smack about Hillary, will they give me some fat checks too?
Jack
Obama's remarks are a prime example of what happena when a politician actually tells the truth. Obama reveals himself to be in touch with the real world and is vilified for it. By two elitists no less!
Barack Obama is not an elitist. He was actually just telling the truth about the working class voters and trying to be sympathetic. Unfortunately, some people would rather hear lies than address a problem and try to solve it. Senator Obama is the best hope we have for this country in a long time. He is ethical, intelligent , and consistent and passionate in doing the right thing for our country. Hillary is interested in the power of the office and will spin things anyway she needs to for her own gain. Also, I wish she could give one speech without READING her notes....She should be able to remember what she so strongly believes in without looking like she is in speech 101. ex-republican , Libertyville,Il. Voting for Barack
Hi Jack,
I think that the MSM will have another cream pie on their face one PA votes because I don't think that this 'bitter' comment will affect the voters the way the MSM seems to think it will.
Obama spoke the truth and if it hurts then it hurts. You know how it is when a person go to an AA meeting. First they have to admit that that problem exist. Only then they can fix it.
I think he channelled his mum again and that is why he understood where people are coming from. I can't say the same about Clinton and McCain.
Jack,
The only elitist, out of touch candidates here are John McCain and Hillary. If they don't think that Americans are bitter with the state of the economy and the war, then they really haven't been listening to voters. Of course when you're married to an heiress (Cindy McCain), or have made 110 million dollars over the past 8 years (Billary), you really don't have much in common with middle class America, let alone blue collar America. Barack was raised by a single mom who had to live on food stamps for a while. He's just telling it like it is, but Hillary will use anything to beat up on him.
Rene,
Manhattan Beach, California
This is just another huge amount of fodder for the attack ads that will begin the day after he is nominated. Obama may seem to survive this one right now, but the smear experts are simply waiting to be sure he is nominated. The republicans already have far more ammo on Obama than they ever had on Kerry or Dukakis, and it will be the political equivalent of Shock and Awe.
Yet most that we see here is some version of, "It won't hurt him, he will win, etc etc...". No, he won't. Many thought that Dukakis could survive the "tank" photo and the Willie Horton ads. He lost 41 states; this is going to be worse than that.
I don't think it will effect his candidacy at all. A few weeks ago everyone was wondering how Rev. Wright was going to damage Obama and now he's gaining ground in PA. Just watch in a few more weeks there will be something else that both Clinton and the media are blowing out of proportion. The thing I keep worrying about is how this minor stuff will overshadow the coverage of Hillary's problem of lying whenever she wants...but luckily Bill brings it right back in the spotlight again.
What has happened to the socially minded, innovative, idealistic,and altruistic American minds. What examples are you setting for our youth, deprived of housing, adequate food, and education? Marine officers are still trying to convince youth in Flint, Michigan and Detroit, Philadelphia, Newark, Camden, N.J., Baltimore,MD, and New Haven CT, to sign up for recruitment, since if they come back alive, and not seriously maimed, they will be given greater educational and job opportunities. Democratic candidates, the myriad of impoverished youth don't care about Obama's wife not being on America's best dressed list, or that Hillary shot a duck once in Scranton, PA. Get with it America! Many, too many walls need to be broken, before tyranny falls, and humanity can prevail!
I don't believe the 'bitter' comments will have any lasting negative effect upon Obama, but I predict a backlash on Clinton. Once again, she and McCain are singing the same tune and they dare to call Obama an elitist one week after the Clinton tax returns revealed $109 million of income over 7 years. Obama has shown he's far from an elitist time and again, from his days as a Chicago community organizer to his recent struggles paying off his student loans. The Clintons have danced with several veiled racist themes this year, and this one sounds like the familiar whisperings of 'who does that uppity [black person] think he is' with his Ivy League educated self and the gall to voice the frustrations of the masses using proper English. Why, he must be an elitist! Give me a freaking break. The first step to recovery is admitting that a problem exists and Obama has taken that first step with the only real 'Straight Talk' heard recently regarding the very real feelings and frustrations of ordinary folks when it comes to our pathetic economy.
If you read what Obama said and have lived it you WILL know exactly what he means .
You loose your job.
You dont worry about tomarrow you are to busy wondering if you survive today / your house payment not paid / forclosure papers served on you/ forclosure people are knocking on your door /people looking for a forclosure deal knocking on your door and going to back door to look in / the kids are hungary on and on and if you believe you dont turn to things you never thought of before you certainly neither lived or know nothing about what this does to a family .
You are desperate you may turn to religion,NRA ,to read your horoscope or anything that spells HOPE .
I remember going to kids school program teacher let me in free
and as the flag salute began my mind wondered where was I moving to without money,what was I feeding the kids tomarrow ,
If you never walked in these shoes try it before twisting and trashing Obama's truth comment .
i don't think they'll hurt him at all. They're nothing like the lies and inconsistencies Hillary has been splurting out and getting caught in lately.
-Giancarlos in Kingsville, TX
Tell me, Jack. What reasonable person would not be bitter after the events of the past 8 years. Let go of your political leanings for a moment, forget what any pundit has said, ignore the trivial spin fed to you on a daily basis for just one second- and listen.
Listen to what your heart tells you when you hear that gas prices are going to keep on climbing up, then go dig up the oil companies profit earnings. Listen to the leaders in Washington squabble and persist in tactless partisan pandering, then take a look at how many people lost their homes in March. Listen to the news about Bear Sterns being bailed out by the government- then go look at New Orleans.
It troubles me to no end to see pundits and politicians turn something so unflinchingly honest and real as the state of our country into some cheap talking point for a few more viewers, a few more votes.
Matt, Georgia
They could be harmful among blue-collar voters whose only source of information is the Clinton/Rendell spin machine. Hillary was watching her PA poll-lead disintegrate. She was gleeful when her staff discovered an Obama quote that she could easily misconstrue. Now, the Wellesley and Yale Law graduate who was raised in the upper-middle-class Chicago suburbs, points to the son of a single mother, who only recently paid off his student debts, as elitist! Remind me again, wasn't Hillary Clinton the candidate who spent 16 years of her adult life living as a First Lady in one mansion or another? Anyone who can't see through THIS political ploy simply isn't paying attention. Judy B. from Cape Cod
Jack,
Not in the least. If this is the best that the opposition can come up with and the media can print, I'd say he is pretty clean when it comes to the stuff that matters. I think the audiences agree, especially watching Clinton's reception last night, today, and McCain's total absence. It reminds me of the ring left behind when a used kitchen sink gets drained.
Mark from Streamwood IL.
Am bitter heck you should be too! The economy is being outsourced to India we own China so much we can't afford to criticize them over Tibet. We burn 12 Billions a month that we don't have by the way in the Iraq mess with no end in sight. Our money is worth 30% less than five years ago.
The foreclosure mess, 4000 of our kids are worms food do i forget something? Screw bitter am piss off I guess if you are a war profiteer who own stock in Halliburton time are great but for the rest of us out there it not pretty not pretty at all.
Bush admits to being closely involved in Torture and we're talking about bitter voters and Elitism. Where are our priorities? Bush should be heading for Slobodan's old Jail Cell in the Hague and I can't believe we're even noticing this crap.
Are you kidding me? As the wife of a so called "blue collar worker" I am bitter. Granted we're gainfully employed earning a six figure income but none the less I am bitter! I could only imagine the frustrations of someone who was not employed. Everytime I fill my gas tank up , open an energy bill, buy groceries, I AM BITTER! While I do agree that Senator Obama was clumsy in wording these statements, this all seems to be much ado about nothing. I would suggest that all Americans stay focused on the issues that are important.
Jack –
I think this spinning nonsense, which I had hoped you would spare us from, needs to stop. To continue to reiterate Senator Clinton's wrongful characterization of what Obama said that people who are down and out in small town America because of poverty, joblessness, lack of healthcare or homelessness cling to faith or guns or whatever gives them something positive, and she said this makes him an elitist because his remarks are bitter and out of touch is total nonsense. Someone should take a look at what the Clintons say on a daily basis to truly identify who is out of touch with what most Americans are looking for in the next leader – change, inspiration and hope. Shame on you, Jack for perpetuating these mischaracterizations and mistatements. Did Hillary make thse late at night as her excuse?
I think Obama should be praised rather than pilloried over his recent comments about bitterness. I live in a small southern city and he is on the mark – those who have been most abused by the government and the economy are the ones who are "clinging" and that is the right word, to religion, intolerance, and the Republican party.
It is sad to see the beat-up pick-up trucks in the WalMart parking lot, know that the driver is probably behind on his rent or his mortgage payment (most likely on a manufactured home) and then see an NRA bumper sticker on one side of the car and a tattered Bush/Chaney sticker on the other.
We want straight talk from our candidates, but when we get it and it doesn't set well we yell "foul." Well, if we are going to fix the mess we have created, we had better get over our sensitivity and start listening.
I don't know how they can call Obama "elitist" based on what he said is the truth. How can she say Obama is "out of touch" when what he said it pretty much on the mark. People are frustrated and are tired of elected government officials not paying attention to the needs of the American people. They line their pockets and the pockets of the already rich. Now who is out of touch...
Honestly, I haven't voted in the last 3 or 4 elections just because no one has impressed me that they would actually make any changes. Clinton and/or McCain is same old, same.
There is nothing wrong with what he said. He was right! Sen. Clinton and Sen. McCain are trying to manipulate those voters who don't know any better and it's a disgrace. It's also a disgrace how the media is blowing this whole thing out of proportion. We need a change from the same ole dirty politics, which has been predominately on the part of Sen. Clinton. Sen. Obama is what this country needs right now! Sen. Clinton thinks it's okay to lie as long as she doesn't use the word bitter. Sen. Clinton needs to take a nap.
Jack-
Clinton has lost all of my respect for her from this underhanded attack towards Obama. She was my candidate, but I will not support her any longer. She and Bill are just making a mockery of the Presidential Campaign.
People are hurting and some are bitter – I am bitter! Barack told the truth and the real sentiments of many Americans today. I have worked all my adult life to stay off of welfare and government assistance AND for the first time in 25 years – I am collecting unemployment because I was laid off from one of the Big Three Auto makers.
Clinton is the one out of touch. And, please advise her to get a grip and let it rip.
Jack, I think people are taking this too far. I do believe that "bitter" was the wrong word to say, but Obama's remarks about how people act on things like what he commented on are true. I don't see how people can get offended by the truth. But hey, sometimes the truth hurts!
I'm not bitter – I'm chafed, disgruntled, and disappointed in the staus quo and know for certain the a vote for McCain is a vote for the same, a vote for Clinton will leave me wincin' but a vote for Obama is for change we can belive in.
The bitter remarks will not be a deal breaker. Hillary speaking in general will end her run for president. Barack Obama is simply more of a natural leader. Mrs. Clinton has had enough time (too much) in politics. For the good of this nation, she needs to quit speaking to the public, and quit this race. We need real leaders, not a bunch of babys playing the blame game and pointing fingers. Work together and find solutions.
A lot of lot of people are bitter and frustrated.
We paid for this war, caused death to million soldiers and civilians; of course a lot of people are bitter.
US jobs exported, dollar value slumped, lost jobs, Washington is infested with lobbyists, of course a lot of people are bitter.
HRC and McCain are saying it somehow is not correct for religious people to be bitter.
How in the world can two candidates with over a hundred million dollars dare call anyone elitist? I find it hard to believe that Americans will actually fall for this non-issue. The reality of the situation is that if either one fails to become president I doubt you will see them in the unemployment line getting a check. This is utter non-sense and does nothing to help Americans with real issues. It will hurt only if the media continues to stir the pot.
Of course obamas remarks are going to be harmful. The republicans already have labeled him an elitist, and with losing in 2000, 2004, do we really want to lose again in 2008 and make it a trifecta?
Many people have made up their mind on obama, but clearly their mindsets are in the short term and not the general election when comments like this are just doomed for failure.
I think Hillary is grabbing anything she can to regain some of her losses, and although I'm not for either one of them, I think Obama was telling it like it is. Hillary doesn't know how to do that, so she doesn't recognize it when she hears it! I don't think it'll hurt him as much as she hopes it will.
Obama lost my vote....Regardless of what he meant, HE is WEAK against The Republican
He has a Hard time with a White Democrate Woman , Imagin him against a WHITE REPUBLICAN MAN
I still find it hard to understand what all the dust up is about. The truth is that for over two decades, democrats and republicans alike have done everything in their power to eliminate the middle class. And when the voters get angry, the politicians makes issues out of guns, religion, abortion and gays, in order to change the subject.
Why is McCain and Hillary jumping all over this, because they get to change the topic, McCain doesn't know diddly about the economy and Hillary was about to get hit with her husband being paid over 800,000.00 to talk up the free trade deal with Columbia.
Now, if you like what's been happening in our country for the last 25-30 years, then by all means, take the bait the insiders are throwing at you. Vote for Hillary or MCCain, But don't come crying two years down the road, that the government you voted for doesn't help.
I'm 60 years old and out of work for the first time in my life, because my ex-employer shipped my job off to India. I'm bitter and mad.
I realize OBama isn't speaking for everyone, but he is speaking for me.
remember back when politics SEEMED FAIR smart ass comments were pointed out because it spoke about character not any more.I remember when this first started dave calloway reb. morning show has black women with many babys to get more wellfare money.they show this to warp opinions about race in this country now notthing can be said about black candates say about any thing like God dam america
Jack, the comments will definitely hurt Obama in the general election if brought back up. At this point in the candidacy race for democrat, the Obama people like Obama, and the Hilary people like Hilary. It won't change all too much.
It won't hurt. Or at least it shouldn't, it's the truth. Something we rarely hear from either of the Clintons.
I would be surprised if its not harmful. Its not that small town America is bitter, thats me I might add, and thats not the problem. Its that he is plain wrong. We do not use those issues to complain about economics. We use economics to complain about that subject. How can this man want to be president when he clearly doesn't really know us?
Jack, should you not be retiring or doing something else? Dont you guys at CNN get tired of having your one sided bias for Obama and against Hillary Clinton? At least if we could understand the reason behind your one sided bias for Obama, the other 50% who are Hillary supporters can have a better understanding of you people...? Thoughts...??
Why should any of us be bitter? Food prices, gas prices, health care costs and everything else is rising far faster than us non-elitists can afford but then again maybe I am smoking what Bill said he never inhaled.
Matt from Rockford
I'm really bitter that you asked this question Jack.
Jack: Does the truth hurt? I am in Fontana California and I am bitter over the high cost of food, gasoline, our hospitals closing, teachers being laid off, crowed schools, bridges falling apart, road rage, and illegals committing crimes in this country without beings deported. Yep, I am bitter, and mad as hell too.
I find his remarks very harmful to his campaign. I live in small town Ohio. Yes what Obama says is stating the truth however, I don't own a gun or go to church because I'm frustrated with the way things are in my town or country. I go to church because of my faith and my own morals and values. I don't cling to those things!!! He insulted small town America plain and simple!! This man has very poor judgement to lump small town frustration with owning a gun or going to church! Big case of open mouth insert foot!!
They will hurt him, esepcailly since he is continuing his attacks in a mocking tone over nothing different than he does himself. He continues today to put down people for having a beer and a shot and gun owners by mocking Hillary for saying her father taught her how to shot a gun, and because she had a drink with supporters. He mocks her for having a television crew filming it, who is this guy? Does he not also have a television crew following him around. He has bowled, he has bad a beer in a sports bar with supporters, he has served food to supporters and done other things himself. Now he is mocking politicians themselves while he is one. He has to get his feet out of his mouth. He lied too, Hillary has not been taking millions from PACs during this campaign and maybe we should talk about his bundlers, who they work for an how much they have raised for him?
It is a "bitter" pill when we work hard and play by the rules. When we work hard and play by the rules, and save for our retirements, we expect that we will not be abandoned to live on peanuts. It should not be this way.
Whether as a result of governmental apathy or corporate greed, the system simply no longer works for average Americans who work hard and play by the rules. Too many fat cats and foreign countries are getting rich while American workers lose ground every day.
Jack,
This incident reflects more negatively on Clinton than anyone else. Once again Hillary falls into the trap of exaggerating her own experiences in an attempt to trash Obama. Her voting record reveals she is no Annie Oakley when it comes to firearms, and her toleration of Bill's peccadilloes shows that religion is not a priority. The Clinton tax returns and charitable donations to the Clinton Foundation are another indication of the distance they have traveled from any blue-collar ancestors. Shooting a duck in the once-and-distant past and hoisting a boilermaker toast do not make a multimillionaire common folk.
NO LETS NOT CALL IT BITTER LETS CALL IT A PITY PARTY POOR US POOR AMERICA POUR US ANOTHER BUDWEISER!!!!!
Whats wrong in this country can't we say the truth anymore? I am fed up of the same old poitics trying to hide the truth to not offend certain groups. Thats Hillary style of politics. Disgusting woman.
Jack I have already registered my opinion of what CNN is doing with the "bitter" comment....and frankly I believe it to be shameful. So I hardly expect to see my comment here on air. But I fell it important to reiterate...the comment was spoken as you would expect from Barack with honesty. And if the American public want less then they should vote for Hillary.
Obama is finished! He has lied his way through this campaign and he gets nasty when he gets caught! The GOP will obliterate him if he happens to fool enough voters to grab the nomination! As a lifelong Democrat, it will be a sad day when we give our nomination based on lies!
If we left it up to you ,it would be a windfall for him.He has many shortcomings none of which you will admit, tell the truth you are his biggest fan and it shows.
No, these comments will not hurt Obama, but the reaction of them will certainly hurt Hillary Clinton. The nerve to hand out "I'm not bitter" bumper stickers at a campaign stop on Saturdday! Voters ARE bitter from being left behind by multiple administrations, bitter about rising gas prices, bitter about a war where over 4000 of our brave men and women have given their lives. We're mad as hell and we're not going to take it anymore! Obama sees this and his comments, while clumsy, were right on.
Jack, they won't be at all harmful. This will be more harmful for Hillary if she drags it on and on. She was already booed during today's manufacturing forum in PA.
Paula,
Indianapolis
Sen. Obama took a walk through the meadow without checking for cows. He stepped in it. This will not go away - the other camps will not let it. His attacks have increased now on other issues (Calling Sen. Clinton "Annie Oakley" over her gun-control stance, for example).
I don't Know Jack; Hillary has been messing up with our democratic values and principles. She has been going after Obama in a very non democratic way. She is playing and toying with us democrats and we are letting her. She is only damaging her image, because due to the advanced technology, Americans are more aware of the political games played by the upper rich class.
If Obama doesn't win this nomination, I believe we will be heading for very tough times.
i don't get it. what did barack say that wasn't truthful? people are bitter...the costs of gas and food are rising. people are losing their homes. we're in a war that is bankrupting our country. there's a laundry list of problems we have. barack is the only candidate that is telling it like it is. hillary's constantly changing persona only reflects how out of touch she is...not only with the common people but with her own political party. it's time for her to get out of the race.
I think it's pretty encouraging to hear two multi-millionair white people calling a black guy eliteist!
I can't see these comments hurting Obama in the long run.
I certainly hope those comments aren't damaging. I am a Kansan, transplanted to California, so I know the elite and the small townies. I agree that what he said was accurate, but his words were poorly chosen. But, people cannot honestly believe that McCain or Clinton are coming from significantly different positions – they are just jumping on a rhetorical slip by Obama. Those slips don't happen too often, so they have to take the chance when they get it.
San Francisco, CA
in my opinion this will not hurt Obama's chances to win his party's candidacy. I am pretty well convinced that Democrates haven't a clue. If you want your life to change in your state get rid of the Democrats, which have been driving LOCAL economies into the ground. State localities have much greater impact on things such as gas prices. Look at how much you would pay for gas, electricity etc. if your local Democrats didn't rob you to fund their pet projects through excessive taxation.
Educate yourself on how your country's economy is fueled, and vote Republican!
It is just so obsurd to say that Obama is an elitist – especially when Hillary and Bill made over 109 million in the last few years and McCain's wife has millions herself. I will say that I think Barack needs to be more careful of how he phrases his words, however, it's not like his head advisor was actively lobbying for for a trade deal!!
If anything, this will anger many people against Hillary – or so I hope.
Nothing surprises me about Obama by now Jack. I was tired of hearing about him three months ago. You cannot be everything to everyone like Obama claims to be. Plain and simple...I feel he would say and do anything to be president...and if preaching the way he does against Hillary can save him some votes , then I bet he will keep right on to the bitter end.
Sincerly
Dianna
Provided the media focuses on this like they did on Hillary's exaggeration's ( not lies) it will be a major blow to Obama.
Obama is just as elitist and out of touch as Kerry in the last presidental
campaign.
Jack I have already registered my opinion of what CNN is doing with the "bitter" comment....and frankly I believe it to be shameful. So I hardly expect to see my comment here on air. But I feel it important to reiterate...the comment was spoken as you would expect from Barack with honesty. And if the American public want less then they should vote for Hillary.
Jack, anyone with a functioning frontal lobe isn't offended by these comments. I was born and raised in a small town, and I am shocked that people are making such a big stink about this.
First Obama says "Words, just words?" to tell us all how important his words are. Then he says “Now it may be that I chose my words badly. It wasn’t the first time and it won’t be the last" when he doesn't want us to pay attention to his words. Well, here are a couple of words for you: Flip Flop.
The truth hurts doesn't it?
Honestly, if the Americans are shocked and upset by these comments then maybe they should go to Europe and see how they are viewed.....
Jack,
I don't think it will be harmful unless Barrack accepts Hillary's offer to go duck hunting with her and Dick Cheney. Is it true you're on John McCain's short list?
John Robinson
Winter Haven, FL
the only bitter and lier is the Clinton. I lost my job because I had cancer.....I couldn't do anything agaist the company....how do you think I felt? super bitter........
Obama is right, he is the best because he is able to see and to say the TRUE!
I am a strong Obama supporter but unfortunately feel that his remarks damaged him–whether fairly or unfairly. And I am inclined to think unfairly. What he said is true and reflected a sensitivity toward those in small towns who are being beaten economically. But Hillary and McCain and the Republicans will falsely use the elitist tag–her with her $109 million and McCain with his $100 million. What do they know?
Jack,
If the American electorate continues to pay attention, not only will Senator Obama's remarks not hurt him, but will actually help him because they prove that he gets it. He sees that we ARE bitter and angry about our collective economic decimation and not the 'shiny, happy people holding hands' that Clinton and McCain have said that we are. They should come to Los Angeles and tell me that to my bitter face.
Obama is right...it is the height of hypocrisy that the two $100+ millionaires are calling the son of a single mother who needed to use foodstamps to feed her family 'elitist'.
This is the most interesting Election in my lifetime. The non issue becomes an issue and the graft that is done goes away with the next news headline. We never visit the storyline for any length of time.
We have people making excuses for why they do not like the Black guy. Saturday Night Live makes fun of them all.
There is never a dull moment. I read a guy’s comment that Obama is an elitist, not because of money but because of a state of mind he has!
I guess I better change my state of mind.For the first time a once poor single parent mixed black/white child is considered an Elitist? This is really interesting. It has become somewhat hilarious! I wonder will he be able to get a cab in New York?
I think to many Americans, his comments will have little to do with whether people are "bitter" but how he seems to link or justify the beliefs of those people because of bitterness - as though freedom of religion and the right to bear arms can only come from bitterness. He didn't misword anything, this was a well-prepared speech that he read. He said exactly what he meant to say and if it doesn't hurt him in the nomination, it certainly will in the general election.
As far as I am concerned Obama's "bitter" remarks will not harm his candidacy at all as I am one of the people who are "bitter."
I am "bitter" about the way George Bush has led this country to near ruins and bitter because the democrats haven't had the backbone to do anything about it since they regained power in Congress.
I'm also "bitter about the fact that the rich and affluent have made tremenous gains while the middle class has had to bear the burden.
Jack, I'm just "bitter" period.
Won't matter at all in North Carolina. No one I know would vote for Hillary.
Not at all Jack. In fact, McCain and Clinton are giving Obama a gift by making a big deal about this.
He came from a modest upbringing, was once on food stamps and was a scholarship/financial aid/student loan student. He gave up the opportunity to make millions as a Wall Street corporate attorney to go to work in a community organizing job that paid next to nothing in Chicago. He has actually spent years actually down in the streets working trying to help people.
He's shown he is truly the only one that is "in touch". His competition can't come close to understanding real people as well as Obama can.
The remark is not the biggest problem, but the "Bitter Hillary" twisting his every words is.
What's wrong with being bitter? I'm entitled.
By the way...does Hilary think that all of us middle class people drink shots and beers? I'm middle class and I drink caffeine- free diet Pepsi.
If telling the truth can hurt Obama in the election then what does this say about ourselves? It's a pity that this nonissue has been twisted by those who only wish to profit from it.
Good lord Jack!
Who is not bitter? I think this is getting really stupid.
Why be bitter...
1. Inept President
2. The world view of the U.S. keeps going down
3. Iraq war
4. Health care
5. Stagnation
6. Recession
7. Housing crisis
8. School loans
9. Education... No Child Left Behind
10. Corrupt politicians
11. Hell, you add to the unending list.
This should not hurt Obama for any thinking individual who knows the truth. Grief, now I am bitter, but I have hope.
it wont hurt him, as he is not an elitist as Hillary wants us to think, she is the elitist one. He is not John Kerry or Al Gore. Sorry to disappoint you Hillary aka Annie Oaklie
Gee,
Folks are losing their homes, their jobs and everything is becoming more expensive. Gas prices are rising and our troops are being killed, maimed and mentally abused. Of course we're bitter. That's not bad. If you become complacent with the status quo nothing changes.
Bitter and hopeful for change.
We all know you are an ardent Hillary Hater. Will you just get off her back and let up a little–you're the one spreading bitterness and hate!
Obama's comments will continue to hurt his campaign until he finally decides to retaliate with a defense of:
How can you trust as your president a person who lied about running from sniper fire in Bosnia, in order to sound like a war hero like John McCain, when in fact she was filmed being greeted with flowers?
Can you trust a person as president who is willing to lie so boldly?
Can she possibly win an election against a true war hero?? Can you trust her to tell the truth about anything that doesn't make her look good?
Personally I think its much more forgiveable for Bill to lie about sex, than it was for Hillary to lie about being under sniper fire to make herself sound brave and courageous.
Speaking as a white male working class voter, I am not the least bit insulted by Obama's comments and can honestly say that I am bitter at the way politicians have been running this country and our economy into the ground. Hillary Clinton and her campaign is trying to make a big issue out of these comments at a time when we, the voters, are wanting answers to important questions about how each of these candidates plan to get us out of Iraq and out of recession. I say lets send Hillary aka Annie Oakley out to the shooting range to show off her gun skills.
David from Kentucky
Why don't we all stop and think about what it is to be an American, it means that we have the right to believe what we want and when we want, to own firearms or to choose not to, to drink whiskey and beer or not to drink at all, it means that no matter what we are American and that alone is enough to be proud of. Clinton, McCain, Obama, all American all enough to be proud of.
The Bitter comment did not seem to stick at the Alliance For American Manufacturing Forum. If you look at the available mews clips, when she brings the subject up she is met with a combination of silence and then grumbeling from the crowd. I think this is a big media hupla that if the crowd is representive, is being over blown by you folks.
Obama had it right all along, the voters are bitter! Bitter over the economy, the collapsing housing market, gas prices, homeland security, the war in Iraq, global warming, safety of the products we buy from China, illegal immigration, so-called "free trade" agreements that send our jobs overseas, and so on. But most of all, the voters are bitter that the people we elected to fix these problems don't have any clue to fix them!
It takes a lot of nerve for Hillary and McCain to call Obama an "elitist" when Hillary has over 100 million dollars and McCain has eight houses that he lives in!
Randolph
Lexington, Kentucky
The bitter remark will help him because of the Clinton over reaction.
She has transformed into a Republican before our very eyes with the 3 gees(guns,gays and god).That does not play well with the democratic base.
Hey Hillary
Quack this!
Cam
Tampa
As a former Republican, now an Independant, I find Senator Obama's comment about people being 'bitter' is closer to the truth than Senator Clinton's remarks about her past that have been proved false. Is his tagged "elitism' actually him just being 'confident' in his views.
Don
I think Hillary Clinton is doing the partly a lot of harm. She started all this negativity. She's knows she can't win, so why is she trying to bring Obama down. Both candidates should focus on John McCain instead.
sam
Jack,
Are you freaking kidding me! I think it could be the unraveling of his campaign, Enough is enough how much longer is the media going to give Obama a free ride WILL someone in the media get a set and call this guy on the carpet! How many more CONTRAVERSIAL statements does he have to make before someone grows a set! For GODS sake just because you don’t agree with everything he says doesn’t make you a freaking raciest!!
Obama's comments remain a fact most Clinton supporters and Mcain's will not accept. its a "bitter truth". That does not have any effect on decision of hopeful Americans who are thirsty for a change.
Re: Obama's comments re working class people. We who take the right to own a gun as a serious, basic "American" right enabling us to protect ourselves (not hunt for sport); believe in God; are of the opinion that illegal immigration is destroying our country; are of the opinion that our trade policies are pretty much stupid; and don't think either of the candidates running for the presidency "get it" also probably think Hillary Clinton's remarks about shooting a gun sound just too contrived. Did her advisors not "get it" after the Bosnia episode. The people are NOT as stupid as our politicians apparently think we are.
Patsy
Now Jack
you know perfectly well that this is just another chance for Hillary to try to persude the super delegates that they should just give her the nomination. How can she call him an elitist when he's just a millionaire but she has millions she has never had to work in the real work force she 's never had to scatch to make ends meet. No that does not make him an elitist.
I believe we working American folks will see this for what it is, more politics. Here in Maine we hunt , so gun use is passed from generation to generation, not a big deal. I am not offended by Obama's remark, I get what he was trying to say. That should be the end of it. As far as he being an elitist, McCain and Clinton have more money than 99% of Americans, including Obama, so why would they say such a ridiculous thing? Get back to the issues please!!!!
I think his "bitter" comment will be great for him. After the smoke settles and the average working American turns of the News and wonders how they can pay their mortgage, gas, get a job and pay for healthcare, most will realize what he said is true. "The truth will set you free." Government stop working for the people a long time ago. "YES WE CAN, YES WE WILL."
Frankly I think that the media is having more of a heyday with this than the candidates....still I think that Obama has successfully turned it around so that the bitter ones appear to be Hillary and McCain.
By the way, there are 900 people in my town and yup, you bet, I am bitter.
I am just waiting for the stock market to crash so that my IRA will vanish as quickly as my home value and the value of the buck in my pocket and for Boeing to move offshore and my pension to evaporate. Feels like just a matter of time.
Obama could not be more right on target.
Obama supporters are trying to make it sound like Obama's remarks didn't mean anything. Believe me, they mean enough. The latest poll shows that Hillary is more likely to beat McCain. 44% are refusing to commit to Obama.
As a fence-sitting moderate voter who grew up in the small town of New Freedom, Pennsylvania i can say that Obama's remarks are dead-on and paint an accurate picture of the frustrations that exist in small-town America. That doesn't mean, however, that his remarks won't be divisive. Central PA is very sensitive to it's nickname – "Little Alabama" given by Philadelphians and Pittsburghers. True or not, these statements will definitely cause trouble for Obama.
Jack,
It doesnt matter what Obama says or how he says it. With the help of the media and every other out of touch american that worships the ground he walks on, it really doesnt matter. If it was Hillary who would have made the"bitter" comments then they would have trashed her just as they do with every single word she says.
jack senater barack obama just tell the truth and simple of somebody setup more fire so they can get away 109 milion and freetrade agreement my god are we realy that stupid, to be honest with the american people have to look back the 20th years between bush sj and bill clinton are we got better life or are we try to for sell this country!!!!!!!!!!!
Obama will now try to divert attention away from his condecending attitude toward small town America with another beautiful speech like the one he did on "Race" and hope the people will fall for that. His continuing membership in a black separatist (racist) church is much more dangerous and alarming than his silly comments about small town America but both should tell us that this is not the person we want as our President.
Vernon
Rockledge, FL
This last month has been bad for Obama in that his relatively blank slate is being filled-in by negative information, more recently by his clumsy "bitter" comment. This feeds into Clinton's claim that he's not vetted and the worry among Democrats that something bad could come out about Obama in the general election.
Barrack Obama is right on with his statements about "bitter" people. How else would you discribe disgusted, disgruntled, upset. I say """"""""bitter is a good word that is all inclusive.
And why call him elite. He is definetly not a rich snob that uses other people to have his achievements.
And he is right about "parties" we are certainly divided and we do need to change everything about the "republic".
I'm retired, small town of 20,000 in Michigan.
thank you
Up until last weekend, I honestly felt that Obama might be the right person for initiating desperately needed change for our nation. As an undecided Republican, who was actually considering the prospect of supporting Obama's campain, I no longer feel that he would be the right choice for protecting our freedoms. Is this a foreshadow of an attack on the second ammendmant, or our right to bear arms. Obama's recent comments gleen an attitude I am personally afraid to see in a potential leader of our nation.
It will be in the news for a while, but will die away. Deep down people know what he was saying, but he certainly could have worded it better.
My advice to him is to aim at the same topics consistently and stop trying to capture a particular audience. I am tired of Hillary talking as if she was one of the working class. She was no more from that class than "W". Remember she believes only the big states are worth going after, not the small electoral states. Isn't that a little arrogant?
Barack Obama has truly been a gentleman in this campaign thus far. He has had the amunition of Clinton's ongoing pattern of lies to exploit but he did not. He mispoke and clarified his words but it is painfully obvious to see that the huge deal she and her supporters are making of this is to distract from her husband resurrecting the issue of Bosnia. I hope the people of Pennslyvania can see through her lies and smoke screens.
Only harmful from those who haven’t ever lost their job with out prospects for another one in sight. . In my working life I have been unemployed for extended periods of time. Hillary, you would be surprised how negative one gets over time without a paycheck. Unemployed jaws tighten when some Yahoo says we are the richest country in the world, when their lost jobs have been exported out of the country. Bitter is too mild a word, only the mentally challenged, and those who failed English, and the media, can not understand Obama’s “ bitter” remark.
This is ridiculous! Clinton is insulting the intelligence of the people in PA . . . everyone knows what Obama meant. When my son died, I clung to my religion–and I am not ashamed or embarrassed by it! When times are tough, you cling to what you know and can rely on.
This is an obvious attempt to deflect media attention from her Bosnia trip. Although I have to admit, now that I know she is an accomplished marks-person, this is a better example of Hillary sniper fire than anything I have heard so far!
C'mon you guys, let's talk Bosnia again!!!
The elitism charge against Obama won't hurt him. It is just more of the same old political garbage. Hilliary can't help herself.
It will backfire on her at any rate.
Obama speaks truth, clumisly or not.
People aren't dumb.
We know politicians exploit religion, the 2nd amendment and immigration. All the time!
That is the uber serious rub Obama seemed to be getting at.
That people are often being distracted and insulted by politic manuevering to get their vote even though it hasn't been earned.
It's unbelievably hypocritical and horribly elitist to show such respect to this point, as Hilliary and McCain did so swiftly.
Bottom line, many people are 'bitter' about their government's critical role in their economic concerns and other serious concerns dominating their lives. In small towns and everywhere else.
Only Obama seems to know it of the choices we have.
Al Kernan
I personally don't see anything wrong with what he said. He was bascially saying that for the past 25 years people of small towns who have lost jobs over the years have been continually lied to by politicians running for office, and so they get angry, upset and bitter over those empty promises and the choose to "CLING" or a better word would be "GO TO" Religion, Guns and sometimes they get so frustrated they lash out out at Immgrants, Trade deals etc. It is the truth. Obama was telling the truth. And what he is trying to do is END the frustrations of small towns by changing washington. Anybody can see that he himself is frustrated with how people of small towns have been treated over the years.
We only hear Hillariys comments about what Sen Obama said and not what he actually said. Why does the media contribute credibility to her words when historically he has always supported socail issues. Those who have recived his message of hope contribute to his campaign 25.00 at a time. These are not the elisist in our society. These are the same people that have voted him to the lead. He is the only candidate that has not accepted money from the lobbyist. Hillary is the multi millionaire that supported NAFTA and accepts donations from lobbyist. Why doesnt the media hold up the history to negate the charges so we can get back to the business of rebuilding our nation. Isnt it interesting how often Hillary and McCain agree? Hmmm
Mr. Obama spoke the truth about people “bitterness” during hard times. This bitterness or sense of panic pushes us to find methods, work harder and find all legal ways to survive. However, he could have (wordsmith) his statement better but none of us are perfect. SINCE WE KNOW THE TRUTH, THIS WILL NOT HURT HIS CANDIDACY, regardless of how Clinton spins this.
JEFF,
this issue just highlight the fact that clinton and mccain are not very bright,if these guys can't comprehend a simple statement about how disenfranchised people felt ,then they are out of touch.how are they going to comprehend a intelligence document,it was the misinterpetation of a certain document that has caused over four thousand lives in iraq.this seems like a trend with mccain and clinton they connot comprehend .if they cant get a short sentense right how will they understand a whole report,last time i check elitist and demeaning does not have anything to do with this statement.we don't need a next dumb president
Hi Jack,
There is only one thing that we can be sure of: that the most like-able gun-slinging gal on campus is about to face another steep drop in her own popularity polls. Did you see the boos she received from her own crowd in Pittsburgh?
The audacity of Hillary to slam Barack and misconstrue his words ... and then proclaim her love for guns, a third rail that Democrats are smart to avoid, prior to shamefully and awkwardly downing a shot of Crown ... would be unfathomable if we didn't know Hillary. It is as if Henry Kissinger has performed a lobotomy on Rove and placed Bush's brain inside Hillary's skull. She will do anything to win, even if she doesn't know what is coming out of her own mouth.
Bill, Hillary, Carville, Rendell, and all of the others in Hillary's machine should be ashamed. It is not 'just tough politics,' and Hillary is not just a fighter.
Though no one wants to admit it, Samantha Powers was right in her Frankensteinian monicker. She is mean-spirited, egotistical, and incapable of truth.
Ken from Washington, DC
Obama's comment regarding the how the small towns have lost their manufacturing business to overseas sites and how it has left these towns and their residents in economic devastation is right on the money. If the small towns and their residents across America allows Hilary & Bill Clinton to prostitute them for another term in the White House, it indicates the even more how correct Senator is about the character and judgement of Bill & Hilary Clinton. In all her life, she has not had a drink with the common folk, until she decided to run for president and needed a photo op. I wonder when she gets drunk, how will she answer the phone at 3:00 a.m. and her judgement capacity.
It shouldn't. Another comment magnified by the media from a dust bunny into a tornado. But if this doesn't stop soon, I won't vote for either one of them. To Hillary and Barak. Give us some substance, some real reasons for vote for one or the other of you. Show some class. Forget the attacks. This daily exchange of vituperative barbs is ridiculous. And the media is largely to blame for these comments, whether by Barak, Bill or Hillary, getting way too much air time. The media would do well, too, to stick to the issues. This isn't Hollywood.
Hi Jack,
Very little in the end. It's a mistake for media sensationalists to underestimate the intelligence of voters no matter their class. One thing blue collar people understand despite the parsing of Obama's words to the point of the ridiculous by pundits, is that it's really the height of hypocrisy for the one hundred million dollar woman-of-the-people (yes, Hillary is just like you and me) to call Barack Obama an elitist. It's all very laughable.
How his mis-speaking plays out remains to be seen. But this clearly illustrates the distinction between 'mis-speaking' and lying. Billary, clearly and repeatedly lied about evading sniper fire, while Obama was simply less than artful in making his statement, a statement that only Obama haters and the weak-minded willfully misconstrue. What drives me crazy, is watching the media drive this story. You guys keep asking your guests 'what did Obama mean.....bitter...blah blah blah, when he himself has now repeatedly explained exactly what he meant.
Not at all. Consider the source of the Flack, Jack.
Until I heard from all the commentators what I should think about Obama's "bitter" statement, I felt what he said made good sense. But, if the media experts keep repeating it over and over, probably many people will question whether or not their judgment was correct. I, for one, believe I was right in the beginning.
Mr. Cafferty,
Hopefully Senator Obama’s “bitter” remarks will help him, AND Pennsylvanians. The Truth was told! Being “bitter” should be a call to action. Bitterness and emotion seems more likely to yield positive change than acquiescence or turning the other cheek. Those who don’t see the depth of despair are certainly unlikely to even look for a solution.
Know it won't... but what is really crazy is he is right...and to see Hillary say obama is out of touch well that is absolutly crazy did you see her in the bar with the blue collar workers over the weekend see SIPPED a shot SPIPPED she looked so out of place it was funny...I can't picture her with a gun....The Clintons have been out of touch with America for the last 15 years I just don't see how and why anybody would vote for her I think one clintion is enough for ones lifetime...........................
If America's blue collar workers aren't bitter about their deteriorating quality of life, they should be. Obama's comment will be damaging to him only if all the talking heads, the media and his political opponents manage to convince middle America that they should be insulted by someone seeking to speak the truth about what is really going on today in our country. But after seven years of almost continuous lying from our "leaders" it would be a miracle if people can still recognize, much less value, someone seeking to address real problems honestly.
I think that the electorate is much smarter than some appear to think, and will soon see that far from meaning any insult, Obama's remarks were a genuine expression of concern at the plight of the people to whom he referred. I would like to see him confront Hilliary eye to eye and ask her if she genuinely feels that he is elitist. I doubt that even she could look him in the eye and say "yes!" – Or, maybe she could!! It would be like being caught in the sniper fire.
As a native Pennsylvanian, Obama's negative comments concerning our state's citizens clinging to guns and blaming the govt for every aspect within our lives only shows the true feeling of how Obama appreciates our state.
His comments stated behind closed doors, only makes that topic more relevant,since he felt nobody would judge himself for those comments.
What are our neighbors in bordering West Virginia thinking when he decides to campaign there next? He has already informed society, we in Pennsylvania are a bunch of hicks.
Possibly, if Obama, could take that silver spoon out of his mouth and re-insert that foot into his mouth, his advisors would fell better.
If anytime our state needs to remain bitter at Obama, now is the time cause once he becomes elected it will become to late.
What Obama should have done was listen more often to his grandmother, that his ignorance.
And, the media should allow Obama to blow smoke screens upon his ignorant comments.
He must have not listened to his grandmother, but listed to his demented fundamentalist preacher for guidance.
Fair is fair in life, if he believes ourselves in Pennsylvania are gun totting hicks, people of Penna are not morons, we believe what we hear and will not permit the media and Obama to blow smoke us
Jack I am bitter, very bitter. Contrary to the nitpicking by senators McCain and Clinton, I think Obama captures what an ordinary American like you and I think about everyday when we go to work, the grocery shops, and the gas station. The fact that we don’t go to Washington in protest does not mean we are not bitter. I am bitter and its time to change the thinking of the McCain’s and Clinton’s in Washington. Another reason why he'll get my vote
The Gotcha Game going on in this growling pit of an election year, is truly shameful.
Obama is a man of great integrity, and is the only possibility I see of turning this country around to cooperative, ethical, honest, people-serving government.
I pray that the distortions and bias of the media does not harm this great opportunity for Obama to be our next leader and President.
Hillary won't bake cookies but will shoot a duck?
What was the purpose of her shooting a duck?
Did she make a headband out of the feathers?
This only gives those who weren't voting for Obama additional reason not to. Most reasonable folk understand what he was trying to say. Hillary is acting like a woman scorned, and is willing to burn the house down with her, Barack and the Democratic Party in it after swallowing the only key to the door out! Her attitude is one of "If I can't have the presidency I'll help John McCain wint it!"
Shame on you Hilliary!
Jack, I have no doubt about Senator Clinton shooting a duck, she has proven over the past many years that she sure can shoot the BULL. I do not think Senator Obamas comments will affect this election whatsoever. At a time when our country is going to hell in a hand basket this young brilliant young man is the only hope and salvation for a country that has lost its way . The fresh breath of air from Senator Obama is the only thing left to eradicate the stench in Washington D.C. America better seize the opportunity to elect this man, his type dont come along very often. DANNY in Tucker Ga
Barack Obama’s candidacy will be injured only to the extent that blue collar voters are as dumb as the Republican party thinks they are. “Elitist” is a generic epithet dreamed up by Republicans. It is meant to be applied to anyone such as Senator Obama who comes too close to identifying in plain english the core Republican strategy. The strategy is simple: In return for protection from gun control, partial birth abortion and the scourge of gay marriage, blue collar voters are simply asked to hand over their access to health care, jobs and a secure old age.
James Mathis
Reading, PA
Barack Obama's comments were not meant to be elitist and if the people that could be offended by his comments don't realize this they deserve eight more years of the same. All three of the candidates are far removed from the common man (as are all US politicians). Almost all will deny it, but they're lying. Senators are paid $160k+, with all medical covered and a decent pension. Clinton and McCain both know that Obama isn't elitist, they're just hoping that the voters aren't smart enough to see this.
I guess I don't get it...How is it that when Senator Obama makes "truthful statements" regarding America he gets raked over the coals but when Hillary Clinton makes "mis-statements", she barely gets her hands slapped, and laughed at. America needs to know the truth in today's times, even if it hurts. I do believe that Senator Obama is right when he says that Americans are "bitter" and frustrated, I totally understand where he is coming from. Senator Obama is not out of touch, he has hit the nail right on the head, he has "walked in our shoes" and understands the word "poor", and working class and small town America need to wake up and support him all the way to and through the Whitehouse. My husband and myself were raised on a "poor scale" in a small town in California, Happy Camp, California, and have worked hard all of our lives to be classified as "working class America" only to have the "powers that be" keep us down-trodden through the continually increasing costs of living, such as, our gas prices raising to a record $4.22.9 for regular unleaded and $4.55.9 for diesel which is rediculous, yes, we are bitter and frustrated over the on-going decline in our American Dream. So much for being "Happy Campers". Where does it all end? Change is on the horizon, and the light at the end of the tunnel is "Obama".
Jody and Judy Waddell
Happy Camp, California
Dear Jack, I come from a small town in southern Illinois in which my husband and I had both worked at a plant for 32 yrs. when suddenly they announced in 2004 they were moving work elsewhere. I can admit there were those same bitter feelings that Barrack is talking about amoung us 300 workers at that tool plant. He's the one that is telling it like it is and is in touch with the people that have gone through this type of situations. I most certainly turned to my faith in a very desperate way and prayed my husband and I could find work elsewhere. He knows what is going on and I really think there was nothing but truth in what he said! I've been there I know! Sue
The flap will not hurt Obama at all. Hillary is simply mischevious, just the Clintonian character of stupid mischiefs.
Remember that Hillary is A SINKING WOMAN WHO NEEDS A STRAW TO HANG ON.
She is NOT going to be the nominee as a matter of fact. She is only trying to pay her campaign DEDTS BY REMAINING IN THE CONTEST.
DO NOT VOTE FOR HILLARY BECAUSE BILL WAS SUCCESSFUL ECONOMICALLY IN HIS 8 YEARS AS PRES. BECAUSE HILLARY CONFIRMED IN HER OWN WORDS THAT SHE HAS "SUBSTANTIAL DIFFERENCES WITH MY HUSBAND".
I am not often surprised, but sadly I am often dissapointed and dissapointed I am that so many people are so ready to pick out a word and distort its meaning. Saying people are "bitter" is in no way a disparaging remark on the people it is simply an accurate description of their emotional response toward the government for yet again offering little or no help for their distress. It it long past time for people to wake up and stop following the pied pipers that are leading them down the path of confusion.
Hey Jack,
Hillary and Bill Clinton attack Barak to get the garbage off of their backs. After all just last week wasn't it discovered that Bill was collecting consulting fees from Columbia for help in a fair trade agreement? I guess Hilary and Bill's schedules are just too busy to discuss exactly what each of them stand for. Also I believe I heard that the 10million dollars the Clintons gave to charity was a trust fund under their control. What a joke they are. They are both liars and because there is finally a clean, untarnished and unpaid for government official in Barak, they just don't know how to get any leverage as the American people finally have found a reason and a person to believe in. After the autrocities the Bush administration has dealt the American people, Barak is a breath of fresh air.
If the Clinton's would get into the Whitehouse again, what would be the need for a VP? Afterall does anyone really think that Bill Clinton would step aside for a VEEP? Not in this lifetime.
Flo
"Bitter" comment, Please.
Hillary is probably lying about shooting Ducks.
If she went to church on Easter Sunday, when did she last go prior to that?????
By asserting that blue collar workers retreat to religion, guns, racism, xenophobia, and isolationism when faced with economic hardship, Obama mischaracterized them as rednecks. Despite his own admonitions against stereotyping on the basis of race, ethnicity, and gender, he is guilty of stereotyping members of a socioeconomic group as ignorant, unreflecting, and acting out their frustrations in maladaptive ways. This opens him up to charges of elitism. Elitism is an attitude. It is not about material wealth. For his supporters to scoff at the charge because of his “humble upbringing” and to counter with Clinton’s and McCain’s wealth is to miss the point. There is no relationship between the financial wealth of presidents, on the one hand, and their motivation and effectiveness in bringing about socioeconomic reform, on the other.
bitterness is what will get the presidency for obama. call it anger , tiredness, fed up, sick of,had enough of ,throw in the towel, dicouraged, it all means the same these days. lets all be honest, how do you feel when you are filling up the gas tank. bitter would be a good word. I fits how I feel, and all of the above.
Oh Jack,
Again Hillary has disappointed me. She had a chance to rise above all of this and agree with Obama, the fact that many Americans are bitter, and console people who felt that way. Instead she looked at this as an opportunity to make herself look good. Mmm, so much for the American people. I think this mess will only make people feel better about voting for Obama.
If you loose your job, will you be happy or sad/bitter?
What he said is real but because Sen Clinton is despirate, she will cling on to anything to stay alive in this race.
I don't think this is a story that CNN should be flogging but since you all need to fill the air wave with something and this is the cheapest way to fill our time with something. I think you will seat on it until something else comes up.
It will not affect senator obama, I think if Clinton continues with it, it will even help him win Penn State come tuesday.
talk to you next week
his words does bother me because what he said was so true
Speaking as a blue collar small town voter from Pennsylvania, I do feel that his remarks are very condescending when he groups together the way we "cling to guns, or religion, or antipathy to people who aren't like them, or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to express their frustrations".
His statement portrays us as bigots with a limited view on the world around us, beating our chests and lamenting our fate. This is hardly who we are.
My parents brought me up embedded in our faith and patriotism. My uncles taught me how to shoot when I was young and I did drink a shot and a beer. Does that also make me "Annie Oakley" and a 'duck hunter"?
I live in Ohio and I'm bitter about all the job lost over seas. I'm bitter about oil prices that keep going up. I'm bitter about a war we want ended. I'm bitter about the tax break for the wealthy. I'm bitter about the state of affairs of our once great country.
Hi Jack,
I just love you so for your honesty and humor with the day to day wordings that appear in our Politics today. I don't think Senator Obama's comments will hurt him during the campaign. One thing is the very important weapon used in today's Politics called "PARSING". Thank God for CNN, YouTube, and other oulets to get the entire wording from the Candidates i.e.: Senator McCain – "...being in Iraq for 100 years...", Senator Clinton – ".... had to duck from Sniper fires...", and Senator Obama – "....bitter blue-collar voters..." The words were spoken by each of them in some form, but when "PARSED" we Americans have a field day in making the Candidates say what we want them to have said and beat them up over it. I sit and laugh while watching it all – what a joke. And, you really get it too. Thanks Jack.
Irvine, CA
I think these comments will not hurt Barack. After thinking about what he has said, people will realize that – YES, they are bitter!! And...they have a right to be. I think the Pennsylvania people are smarter than that.
What really bothered me is that Hillary called a fellow Democratic candidate – an Elitist!! Obama is anything but. Hillary and Bill are the ones worth over 100 million dollars.
People are going through hard times, gas prices are high, personal depts is at a all time High, people are loosing there homes, unemployment is record braking and military family are hert by the war..... and you think people are not bitter.. bitter dosent even touch the tip of the ice
any one who thinks people are happy, and blind to whats going on in there own lives are the people who are not in touch and need to be evaluated
Hillary trying to label Barack Obama an elitist, a man who has worked for the inner city youth and marched with labor unions, and who just got done paying off his student loans is laughable. Jack, this is going to backfire in Hillary's face. She is already being booed in Pa. for calling Obama an elitist.
Bitter, if Annie Okaley and GI Joe do not this we are bitter, follow me into the voting booth as I vote for "BITTER"
The preoccupation with Obama's wording is such a waste of time. "In Touch" voters understood exactly what he was talking about. I can totally relate to his comments. Yes, those of us (regardless of geographic location) who have lost their jobs, their homes, their children to war, their self esteem, and dignity know what Obama meant. People like Hillary don't get it because they have lived an elite life. In addition, Hillary is really making herself look desperate and irrational to continue this line of attack. This man is multi-racial yet has been repeatedly identified by only one portion of who he is ethnically. Hillary sounds more and more like she belongs in the Bush campaign. Lastly, as Americans watch Hillary's style of debate it is an example of the sophisticated racism many of us have experienced all our lives from the elitist likes of Clinton and McCain.
California
Jack,
I don't think it will be harmful because despite Hillary's attempts, most people are smart enough to understand what Barack was describing.
You see, the term, "bitter" was a poor choice of words by Barack. Why? Because folks are NOT "bitter"...they're "MAD as ..."!
We're sick and tired of the "Washington Insiders" pretending to "feel our pain" yet doing nothing to correct the many issues this nation faces!
We have a disfunctional FAA, possible $4 a gallon gas, a catastraphic mortgage crisis, major unemployment and yet time is being wasted going after baseball players who they think "possiblly" used performance enhancing drugs! Our President must think he's with NASA because he seems to be on another planet!
Hillary and Bill raked in $110 since they left the White House so, I seriously doubt that they feel "our" pain.
As the saying goes, the definition of insanity is, "doing the same thing, the same way, over and over, but expecting a different result".
Barack is our best chance to stop the insanity!
Gerald from Oceanside, CA
Jack,
I can't speak for anyone else but I myself did not find it to be elitist or insulting in anyway. What I find to be condescending is the news media and Clinton campaign continually telling me I must be an well-to-do, African-American, who "doesn't need a President" because I support Obama despite the fact that I can hardly pay my bills and am the very definition of "white working class". What I find offensive is John McCain supporting a flawed war and telling me I should be upset that Obama said that some people are bitter. I'm a religious man, a working man, and can draw my own conclusions without Clinton and McCain telling me that I should be offended. Don't you think it is more patronizing for Clinton supporters and Clinton herself to say "We understand what he meant but Republicans will use it against him" (which is essentially what Bayh's point was or Clinton's in her reference to Gore and Kerry the subtext being that Republicans will be able to convince voters he is an elitist because voters are that stupid. I don't think it is elitist to talk to people like they are smart enough to think for themselves I think it is elitist to talk to people like you are as dumb as you think they are as Clinton has continually done.
People in small towns turn to their Religion and other issues when they become bitter. Hillary takes a drink.
Sen. Obama's comment about blue collar middle class citizens being bitter is"hitting the nail right on the head". I am a middle class American citizen, and dont know any of my peers who are not angry and bitter about our current status. We don't need someone who made $100+million dollars in the last seven years, telling us everything is rosy, and the streets are lined in gold. These people are the ones out of touch, and should talk to the real people who struggle to pay at the gas station, or rent, or food. We have seen jobs shipped oversees due to corrupt trade agreements, and politicians who promise the world then screw us when they get in office. I don't know anyone who lives in the real world who is not bitter and suspecious. At least Obama is trying to tell it like it is!!!
Only in America can someone who made over $100 million call someone else an elitist
It shouldn't hurt him. I'm from Rolla, Mo. where we just lost Briggs and Stratton, a major employer and ex-workers are bitter. I remember hearing that during WWII many people exercised their religion more vigorously when sons and husbands were at war. Mind you they didn't just find religion, it intensified their already existing faith.
Elitist from Hillary is like a 3foot stick calling the yardstick too long.
Does any one remember when wasn't elitist when she called her
Secret Servicemen guards names that would make a sailor blush because they would carry her packages- groceries I think. This was when her husband was in the White House with her as First Lady.
I just laugh at the controversy by those who would like to make
political Hay (sp?) over nothing. OBama was just pointing out a problem that needs change for the people. Does Hillary even know
that there is a problem other than seeing the number of unemployed on some report?
Just tired of the hype. Thanks, Joe
Hillary is using the "bitter" comment to hang the elitist title on Barack Obama. Here is my question: Why isn't anyone comparing/contrasting the lives of Barack Obama–single Mom, food stamps with John McCain–owner of eight homes, millionaire many times over. Who really is elitist?
Will it hurt Obama? No, but it is hurting Hillary.
This is not the first time the truth is coming out as bitter. Do one celebrate if he or she loses his or her job? More amd more people find solace in God in time of trouble. This guy just said the truth and the others are afraid to say, just as he gave the race speech that no other politician has dared to say. Give me a break!!!!
Mr. Cafferty, how much attention Obama for this comment is ridiculous. The media, as usual, isn't helping but instead fueling the "controversy". Of course Hillary and McCain are having a field day, although both don't have too much room to talk. Obama could've easily commented on the Bosnia story, but thankfully he's more mature than Hillary. Not to mention McCain, who anyone with even a smidge of common sense would know that he's the one ellitist out of the three. We're starting to go deeper into the "silly politics" Obama spoke of before. The candidates, except maybe Obama, and the media are beginning to act like someone my age, and I'm a freshman in highschool.
I don't think this will hurt Obama because it's completely petty and "real" people understand where he was coming from and agree with him.
This is just another example of the Clinton campaign AND the media glomming on to a story and sensationalizing it. If this is the best they can do to slam Barack then Hillary might as well just quit now.
Senator Obama is simply looking out for the average middle-class American who is being hurt by the ridiculous cost of the Iraq war. I hail from a small manufacturing city in upstate New York and know for a fact that Hillary Clinton did next to nothing for the depressed economy in upstate New York. I now live in Indiana and heard Barack Obama speak last week. He is the only candidate who will bring necessary changes to to our country and who will remember the middle class once he gets to Washington. His comments are being exploited by both the Clinton and McCain campaigns. This is called dirty politics. Clinton is the one who is bitter because she is losing.
I do not think the biased media will allow Obama's remarks to hurt him. Already, legions of apologists and "translators" have been telling us what he really meant to say. If he's such a wordsmythe, why the need for the explanations? He made rural, small town Americans sound like a bunch of gap toothed, bible thumpin', gun totin' hillbillies. Now he says people are bitter about things like illegal immigrants. Doesn't he realize he's part of that problem? His solution is to give them all licenses. This will enable them to be insured and then they can legally be hired as drivers. Driver jobs are about the only ones left in my local paper and with Obama in charge, those jobs will be gone too. When will people wake up and see him for what he is? A snake oil salesman with a wagon full of empty rhetoric, smoke and mirrors and Dr Obama's (useless) Magic Elixir.
If he is an elitist; then Hillary is a super elitist. Let's move on to the real issues.
Hopefully he will have to quit the campaign and go back to the senate for experience. I most firmly believe that the president of the United States should not be on the ballot for Rookie of the Year. So far Obama has promised everything to everyone. Now how is he going to pay for it?
When Hillary tells the audience that "the Holy Spirit was with me" she is assuming the voting public are idiots! And she has the gall to say that Barack is elitist? She has the eye lids at half mast while saying that she can't wait until the moving van pulls up to the Whitehouse and gets the Bush gear out. Give us all a break.
The word "bitter" reflects Hillary perfectly. She's bitter, because she's has lost control. She is "out of touch" as she fabricates her own truth . The problem is, Hillary truly believes her own distorted reality. And, those who question her lies are scapegoats for her anger. Her narcissistic personality demands control, power and devoted obedience. This type of dysfunction causes corporate and family chaos. It's not surprising the Clinton campaign keeps hitting self-created impasses. Competition doesn't create character .... it exposes it. Can Hillary be trusted to speak the truth without bitterness? Maybe this could be another
new beginning for her campaign!
Bitter. Maybe what need is a little bitterness like the patriots who gave us the Boston Tea Party. An election was stolen in 2000 and we did nothing. We are engaged in a war that nobody can seem to stop. Our economy is a shambles and here are questioning Senator Obama's class orientation. (h)illary has become sad and almost pitful.
Jack I think this is kind of comment that can change the rest of the
race. People will now see he speaks the truth although he needs
to sharpen his truthfull comments PS Iam bitter as hell with rep(Bush)
The last time America (actually the U. S. Supreme Court) elevated someone to the White House with even less experience than Senator Obama we got . . . George W. Bush! Perish the thought of Senator Obama as Commander In Chief.
No effect at all. Intelligent Americans, including voters in Pennsylvania ,know what he meant which is far more important than how he said it.
Contrast what he said with "snipers in Bosnia" and the it's easy to see where ther's a real problem with words.!!!!
Baracks bitter comments will not harm his campain! You have to consider that the two biggest critics of his comments are the King and Queen of mis-statements. One who has another senator wispering corrections over his shoulder and the other one ducking mortor fire that does not exist. The blantant amount of hypocricy is stunning.
Dear Jack,
Every time I see Hillary speak she goes from bad to worse. It’s now becoming more apparent that she is so desperate for someone to pick up the latest Obama statement And run with it, she just can’t help herself.
It reminds me of when I was in high school watching others giving their speeches as to why they should fill the office of Student Council President. She now is coming off arrogant, immature & disingenuous. Turn & burn Hillary before you kill the party completely.
Potentially it could harm his candidacy. John McCain said it best (when asked if he thought Obama is an elitist) that he didn’t know the man. Knowing someone involves more than listening to his words. You also have to consider his actions. and actions over time. Obama is too new for most to make a reasonable honest opinion about him What other things do we not know about Obama? Do voters really want to put an unknown as commander and chief of the biggest melting pot in the world?
Question like these may take their toll.
I am a degreed chemist who spent four out of 5 years unemployed. My husband is a degreed computer programmer laid off 6 years ago who could not even get an interview in his field. He is now a bus driver, and the pay is not enough to live on, but at least we have insurance. We were forced to live off all our retirement savings when unemployment ran out. We sold our house to avoid falling behind, and lived on the proceeds for another year. Now we rent. It's all gone. My health fell apart, largely from the stress, but we couldn't afford the copays for the doctors. Our kids had to pay our utility bills.
Faith is the core of my life, church is it's manifestation. When things fell apart, yes, I embraced the church with a vengence. When the fear set in, we bought a gun because our feeling of security was gone. It has not returned.
If Obama's oppinions about this get him in trouble, than the whole nation has the worst case of denial I have ever seen. Hillary doesn't get it, McCain doesn't get it, but they haven't been there. None of you on CNN seem to get it either. Wake up!
I dare you to publish this.
Phyllis
East Hartford, CT
I hope the voters who support this man will open their eyes to his true character and pay attention to the negative publicity he continually generates from his choice of friends to choice of words. I don't trust Obama, he is a wolf in sheeps clothing . I am a Hillary supporter, I will vote for John MCCain if the Demo's nominate Obama.
Stella, Union City , CA.
I am a redneck, Clinton always acted elete and Obama started out as if he was for all Americans, when alone with his rich buddies he has to look down on us and his true feeling was shown. He is elete and arrogant in true form and thinks he is unstoppable. WRONG!!!!
The answer is yes it will HURT!!! HE IS A TRUE POLITICIAN>
This debate is so childish. I'm not sure why the media feed into it and want to keep it alive. If things are happening to ordinary hard working people that they can't control and their government seems to be doing nothing about, and may have caused. It is normal for them to be bitter against their government and during such times they do tend to focus on the things that give them security, like their faith and their rights, like the right to bear arms. Recognition of that shows understanding. For Hillary to put her own label on something like this calling it elitism and to make it an issue, shows how desparate she really is.
This is getting very old Jack. We're so sick of hearing words being twisted and manipulated and then bolted out on some blog or something the news picks up and drills it when in fact it has much to do about nothing! It's a terrible day when one says one thing and it's being twisted, turned and misinterpeted to name a few. I find it funny that we all want accountablity for these blunders, but NOT ONE media outlet led the pressure on the Bush Administration for this war that has sent the country in a tail spin. Some things aren't worth mentioning; let's get real! Is there anything this man can say that 'won't' hurt him? Hillary has lied on numerous occassions and I do wonder; how much has that hurt here? And, let's not talk about John McCain.. is his only claim to fame is that he's a Veteran? Time out for the old; the country is showing we're ready for something new!
NONE!!! Barack Obama has enchanted the american electoral audience. There seems to be nothing that he can say or do that can hinder his chances for the White House. He is the man of steel and no one appears to have the kryptonite at hand.
He's right. Obama's right. We are bitter against our government. We've lost so much faith in the system. There have been so many lies and cover ups it's not even funny. Politics have been all about dishonest people stepping on everyone they have to, to get to the top. We're promised the moon and the stars and all we get is a small rebate check that might pay for a month of gas. We need something to hope for in this awful time of war and recession. I'm sorry but all this bickering and fighting amongst our politicians aren't going to get us anywhere. I'm actually tired of hearing them argue about things that really don't matter.
Obama has worked with and worked for those who have lost jobs, those who have lost homes, those who find themselves in financial dire striats. Obama knows that people are bitter and angry when they are afraid of their future and the future of their children. Why are his comments so difficult to comprehend by Millionaire Clintons and Mccain?. Because these two are the ones who are out of touch with the suffering of peoples.
People in America's small and big cities are not upset with Obama, they know that Obama spoke the truth, they know that Obama is on their side.
How can Hillary Clinton explain her position on the Columbia trade deal when her household made money in it. Husband Bill got $800,000 and Mark Penn got $300,0000. Hopefuly she can explain that in the debate wednesday evening.
Why wouldn't blue collar voters be bitter about the Clintons' NAFTA consequences? The fact that we all cling to the familiar, like family and church, when bitter, angry and frustrated is very human. Instead of taking responsibility for her actions that have contributed to the recession (like the expense of the war she voted for without reading the intelligence reports), does Senator Clinton think she can disguise her failures by criticizing the messenger who describes the bitterness to which her actions directly contributed?
April 14th, 2008 4:59 pm ET
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Barack Obama’s remarks about small town attitudes in Pennsylvania simply reflect what Lou Dobbs at CNN has been saying all along.
Many middle class Americans are suffering and feel angry. Anger is a mask for fear. Understandably they probably do feel bitter…. for heaven’s sake….they feel they have been sold out by our government.
People do cling to their religious faith as a source of strength to persevere through hard times. It is absurd to find fault with that. This is a tragic example of political spin.
Obama’s opponents and the media are deliberately creating discord for their own selfish interests. They are insulting the intelligence of all critical thinking persons.
Houston, Texas
It shouldn't! i'm very bitter myself! after watching these "experienced" politicians for the last 8 yrs., how much worst could it get if we just started from scratch!? they have done nothing but line the pockets of fat cats and themselves ( from the war, i might add). whilse ignoring 950 + lies, they do nothing while the constitution is being destroyed! a recent article says that even though we can petition the government for redress, they don't have to respond! i say its time for a solidarity movement in this country... withhold your tax dollars ( granted in the constitution) until this madness
stops!
I am not offended by Senator Obama's comment. I AM bitter and frustrated. I live in a mid-size city in the mid-west. I have not had a cost of living raise nor a merit raise in 7 years. Food prices are out of control and gas prices are outrages. In fact, I'm passed bitter and frustrated. I'm almost hopeless that the poor and middle class citizens will survive. Is this population control?!
Barack Obama gets it and those of us who are living it appreciate that he does no matter how hard the media and opposing politicians try to distort his vision. You and his opponents like to talk about how well he speaks but what you miss is that he listens even better. Barack Obama doesn’t just listen to the words when he is talking with people; he hears the feeling behind the words. Barack Obama doesn’t just listen to one or two sentences but the whole story. That is the reason that he is the one candidate who gives us hope that our long felt bitterness about our leaders in Washington will go away as change really happens.
Get out your map of Pennsylvania and I’ll show you where you can go to find out how much Barack Obama understands about small town working class people. He understands exactly how the guys feel in Beechies Bar in Meadowlands when they talk over a beer about the machine shop jobs being shipped overseas. He hears the bitterness. He knows where the former coal miners who meet on the street in Washington are coming from when they avoid talking about their current jobs that pay one-third the salary of their former jobs. He hears the mistrust of government. Obama knows what the college graduate from Mount Pleasant thinks about the $60,000.00 in student loan debt she is facing with her fiancé as they realize their options for the future are much smaller than they hoped. He hears the disappointment when they talk. Obama knows how the family feels about their college student who has to pay his own expenses because his parents had to close their family restaurant and now his father is fighting cancer with no disability income. He may not have heard the same stories that I have but he has listened well enough to the stories that he has heard that he knows the true underlying feelings.
Yes, Obama knows what he is talking about and he said it right. I can give you examples of people in towns from Carmichaels to Picture Rocks that tell me that Obama is right on the mark and any politician, pundit or journalist who tries to make a big deal about the words he used is just flat out wrong. Any politician, pundit or journalist who parses his words to tailor “the issue” into a misstatement is doing a hatchet job on Barack Obama and by ignoring the overall concept of his discussion is doing the same disservice to the American people that has been going on for years to the people of Western Pennsylvania.
Hillary Clinton is an old time politician who doesn’t get it. Where are the jobs she promised to Upstate New York when she ran for the U. S. Senate. Where is the healthcare reform that she and her husband promised during his first term. The reality is that she is the one person most responsible for the terrible healthcare available to small town Pennsylvanians because of her arrogance and inability to work with people. If she can’t listen to the people involved in a problem how can she listen to the people who are dependent upon the politicians they elect to solve problems for them. How can she be trusted to do what she says she will do when her husband and her number one advisor are both working for the very economic treaty that she says she is against.
Senator McClain doesn’t get it. He is a true American hero who deserves only the best because of what he endured in Viet Nam. But it’s pretty clear that his concepts of international trade are formed more by the high thread count on the Egyptian cotton sheets that his wife’s inheritance buys than by the Pennsylvania jobs lost to China, India, and Taiwan. He is more of President Bush and the elitist Neo-Cons who have no clue what working class people are going through. McClain is just a clueless about the economy as he is about the war Iraq and he has no idea what working class people are thinking.
Most of all the pundits on the cable news networks don’t get it. Some claim to be from Pennsylvania but the Mon Valley is a long way from Philadelphia. Hanging out in Amish country is a long way from Altoona, Meadville, and Brownsville. They don’t get it because they are too busy talking to listen to anyone. I am so tired of “news shows” parsing statements so they can spend hours haranguing us with their analysis of 3-4 words instead of finding out the facts behind the story and then actually discussing the real issues.
In recent weeks both Obama and Clinton have given major speeches on the economy, the war, and energy and the coverage has been miniscule. But we’ll hear endless discussion of parsed “mis-statements”!
Obama gets it. Based on the hullabaloo and the things I have heard on your show and others it is obvious that the old politicians, pundits, and journalists have no clue.
Besides Hillary and talking heads, no once seems to have noticed the remarks. Hillary has once again overplayed her hand, more a symbol of her own conceit than that of others. The Clinton campaign seems to repeatedly give definition to the term "ham-handed" in their response to events.
Knoxville, Tn.
Billy Stokes
Incredibly damaging, Mr. Cafferty. Sen. Obama knows little to nothing about life outside of his circle of friends and he was unable to charm his way out of this most recent gaffe. On a couple of related notes, Why did it take so long for this story to hit the mainstream media? Why is it that CNN and other mainstream media always seem to get "scooped" when it comes to reporting damaging Obama news? I know he seems to be a nice guy and hasn't been around long enough to build a record that anyone could actually analyze, but why are so many of our media members ready to annoint Sen. Obama?
No, i dont think it will harm him.., In my opinion he is right with his comments!
"Elitist"? ridiculous...
And if Hillary" i don't drop out, even if i can't win" Clinton goes on to attack him with his comments, it will harm her, rather than it harms him...
Mark, Manheim