GOP targeting Michelle Obama?
Click the Play Button to see what Jack and our viewers had to say. (PHOTO CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES)
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
The Tennessee Republican Party has set its sights on Michelle Obama – the wife of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama.
A new web video highlights her controversial comment earlier this year, saying she was proud of America "for the first time in my adult life." Obama later clarified the remark saying she meant she was proud of how Americans were engaging in the political process, and that she was always proud of her country.
Nonetheless, the GOP video replays her remark six times and mixes in commentary by people who live in Tennessee on why they're proud of America. The party says it's always been proud of this country, and it requested that state radio stations play patriotic music in honor of Michelle Obama's visit there yesterday.
The Obama campaign calls the attack "shameful”. It says that the Republican Party's "pathetic" attempts to use similar smear tactics have already failed in elections in Mississippi and Louisiana, and will fail again in November. The campaign calls on the Tennessee Republican Party to address Senator Obama directly next time, instead of going after his family.
Meanwhile, it's not the first time the GOP in Tennessee has made waves. Earlier this year, in a truly low-rent stunt, it used Barack Obama's middle name "Hussein" in a news release questioning his support of Israel and showing a photo of him wearing what it called "Muslim attire." The Republican National Committee denounced that piece of garbage.
Here’s my question to you: Is it a good strategy for Republicans to go after Michelle Obama?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Sean from Frederick, Maryland writes:
The GOP will attack anyone and anything to find any traction they can. Sad to think Michelle would be fair game. But to the GOP, there's no such thing as fair. Now if they can get Rev. Wright to perform a few gay marriages, the GOP fall strategy will be set.
Kyle writes:
It is a Pandora's Box. If they start attacking Michelle, it makes Cindy McCain free game. She is open to criticism in many areas, like supporting companies propping up the Sudanese government, not releasing her tax returns, letting her husband use her private jet to exploit a tax loophole, and her past drug addiction (real family values). The Republicans took aim at Obama's spouse, but they may have bit off more than they can chew.
Karen writes:
I have to say it is a good strategy. It's seemed to work for Obama (and everyone else, including the press) to go after Bill Clinton. I have seen the tapes of Ms. Obama making the "proud" statement and the statement about how mean this country is. Those were her words. And I, as a fairly intelligent person, believe she meant just that!
Mary from Villa Hills, Kentucky writes:
The Republicans don't have much when they have to stoop so low as to go after Obama's wife. For the last 7 1/2 years, I believe most of us would agree with her that we have not been very proud of our country because of the president, who has put us in such a mess internationally and economically.
Davio from Las Vegas writes:
The Republican machine would try to link Michelle and Barack Obama to unicorns if it would scare the American people and lead them back to the White House. First he's Muslim, then he goes to a nutty Christian church, although I don't know how he's both. And now they are going after his wife. Does Obama have a dog? Better keep it on a short leash. Soon they'll say the dog barks in Arabic.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
Going after Michelle Obama might open up a whole can of worms in the Cindy McCain department. If they are smart, they won't.
Yes, I think Obama is running the highest position in this country so voters will judge her comment. Some people will find it is very offensive to her comment.
I think its a great idea, I mean after the first serious woman candidate is eliminated, why not attack the next closest female to the election, we already know that McCain hates woman and wants to destroy Roe Vs. Wade, why not let him show how far out of touch with reality he really is. As a Democrat I think its brilliant of them to attack the lady of the group.
Obama/Clinton '08!
I live in Memphis, Tennessee, and this is typical of Tennessee Republican party. They were behind the race baiting that occurred when Harold Ford Jr. was running for Corker for US Senate a couple of years ago. Even Corker has denounced these race baiting ads -d two years late!
Funny how the Democrats picking up the R+10 congressional seat in northern Mississippi is getting their attention. I want to believe the state of Tennessee will have as much sense as northern Mississippi in the elections this year.
I look forward to turning Tennessee BLUE come November!
Go Obama – from a 58 year old white feminist! No, there are many of us who realize that true freedom and equality is voting for the best candidate, regardless of race, creed, color, sex, or any other parameter.
Has it worked for Republicans before? Yes.
Is it obvious what they are doing? Yes
Will Americans fall for it again? Possible
The republican party has destroyed this country in the last eight years. And the sad thing is that the same people who voted for the republicans last time will vote for them again because of a woman and a black man. The republicans going after Michelle Obama is not a strategy, it is a disgrace and shows how much republicans really depise the middle class, working people in this country.
I hate it when someone's remarks are deliberately taken out of context. I'm sure that every thinking adulty in American knows what Michelle Obama was trying to say. Perhaps both parties should focus more on the issues that need attention and spend less time hoping that the other "guy" says something off the cuff. I'm glad I don't have people dissecting every comment that I make.
I don't think it"s a great idea for them to go after Mrs. Obama – Mrs. McCain, who doesn't think she has to release her tax returns like everyone else, because she is apparently too rich to have to play by the rules, would seem a lot more vulnerable. And if we are going to talk about hair....
In the add thats running agienst michelle you see the exact type of racism that still exsist in america and by who,(white rual america or blue collar who barack has problem with) and the fact that the country for the most part is willing to get past those old feelings makes her and even me proud to be american becuse it is progress we can see and feel however some people still want to promote them I think we will see good prevail over evil. If we are the united states is it not time that we be united for us and all the world to see?
What a bunch of crap. GOP = Grand Old Pitifulness, this is the same old stuff that everyone is just completely sick of. If you are going to spend your time spinning words then what will get done?
Yes, I do believe that the GOP is going after Barack Obama by using snippets of Michelle Obama's words to try to scare the public from voting for a different kind of candidate. I think it is shameful and one more reason why I will be voting for change in November.
I emphatically support Barack Obama for President and will not let these underhanded and ridiculous attacks sway my opinion. Let the GOP make fools of themselves! While the Republicans are gearing up for more dirty tricks, Obama is talking about real issues and real solutions.
They better expect the same in return! I mean really....addiction to prescription drugs...not releasing tax returns....the list is a mile long...do they really want to start going there?
It is expected from the Republicans. Look at their candidate's wife. She pales in comparison to Michelle Obama. Michelle is an inteligent, strong, and well informed female that can hold her own. I am a 30 year old white female from the South and for the first time in my adult life I am proud to be an American. Look at what Obama has encouraged. Droves of young people registering to vote, encouraged by such an inspirational couple. Michelle and Barack are people I want my children to look up to, not a beer heiress and her dirty old man.
Good strategy or not, it is not an unacceptable idea. Attacks have been made again the spouses of both Hillary Clinton and John McCain so why can't attacks be made against the spouse of Barak Obama? Does the Obama campaign feel she is better than Bill Clinton or Cindy McCain?
Yes it is! Democrates were telling Hillary not to use the race care, and not to rough up Obama; are they going to tell the republicans that? No, they're not. It shows how many weak points Obama has, and how weak he will be against a republican. Obama's wife stated, prior to the elections she hated America. How did those feelings vanish so rapidly and easily? Obama didn't reject that of her, as he didn't reject his pastor and ministry for promoting hatred. Lets face it, no one hates America; they hate whites, or blacks, brown, yellow, etc. There will be no holds-bar for the republicans and there shouldn't be any for Hillary.
It's absurd, cowardly, and deceptive. In other words, typical Republican campaign strategy.
The spouse of the President of the United States has considerable influence. As such, the spouse of any candidate should be considered part of the package. Michelle Obama should be held accountable for her statements, Cindy McCain should provide her tax returns, and the Hillary Clinton should be considered as part of the dynasties of Bush, Clinton, Clinton, Bush, Bush...
They sure go after Bill Clinton, don't they? He's not running for president either.
Well, Jack, with a failing economy, a disasterous war in Iraq, unprecedented corruption and a generally bleak future, I don't see any better strategy for them to persue than one which involves distraction and frivolty.
Sure, if they want to insure a Dem victory in the fall. I cannot understand the lack of class the GOP continues to show. Truly unbelievable.
They went after Hillary when she was first lady – and the hatred of
Hillary endures – so it seems to work. The GOP should go after
Michelle Obama so when she decides to run for President later there will be lots of people, like you, Jack, who will have learned to hate her
too.
John Portelli Albany, NY
This GOP tape has been edited. Is this the "lynching party" that Bill O'Reilly was talking about when he also took her comments out of context? This is disgraceful. I heard the original comments she made and she said "really proud"...not just proud. The American people are not going to stand for these lies anymore, fear mongering, and the like. This tacky, smear campaign shows that they have nothing on Senator Obama. When in the history of presidential elections did we start going after the candidate's spouses? Senator Obama's campaign will not smear Cindy McCain.He stays above the fray. He has too much character and class. This is gutter politics at its worst. God help our country, indeed!
It is absolutely pitiful that of all the things that are going on in the world, the Tennessee GOP picks up on this statement by Michelle Obama, one that she has already admitted was mis-spoken. There are a lot of reasons to be proud to be an American...but I can guarantee you the GOP party isn't one of them. America is in crisis, more and more families are struggling to feed their families, America's hardest workers are losing their homes and having to go without vacations just so they can pay for the gas they need to get to work, and the GOP wants to focus on a statement made by the wife of a presidential candidate...WOW. Let me tell you one thing I am not proud of, and that is that I ever voted for anyone in the Republican party. That will NEVER happen again.
It just makes the GOP look weaker than it already is not to mention desperate. They cannot find any real dirt on Obama himself so go after the next best thing (Michelle) and hope he makes a mistake in his zeal to protect his family. Weak Weak Weak. They forgot the prime rule of smear politics...thee who live in glass houses cast not the first stone. This makes Cindy's tax returns, business dealings and drug abuse fair game for democratic 527's.
Sure, it's okay, if SHE was actually a candidate running for office. If the Tennessee Republican Party is too cowardly to go after the ACTUAL candidate, okay. Good luck to them, she's not exactly the weakest link in this campaign.
Lisa
San Diego, CA.
The Republicans going after Michelle Obama just shows how desparate they are. We do not need people like them leading our country. Which member of Obama's family will they smear next, the six year old or the nine year old?
No because the written transcript show that the video may have been edited to exclude certain words to make it sound worse. BUT here is my question is the America proud of its history and what it has done to the Native Americans and African Americans. We have come along way, but America is not guiltless. So why can she not make this statement when we have come so far to see that for the first time America is becoming the America that it needs to be for the people and run by the people. The government is there to make sure we are all loved and taken care of. We are all Americans and should be treated as such. THE REPUBLICANS WANT TO DEVIDE THIS COUNTRY AND I HOPE WE DO NOT LET THEM. They get off on the little people fighting while they take our money away and give it away to rich folks.
These republiniks are just gutless cowards, Jack. I also wouldn't easily dismiss the possibility of racism coming into play here. It"s becoming fairly obvious now that the republiniks, who tied their fortunes to radical fundamentalist regious cults, war mongers, and polluters, are going to be slaughtered in this election, and rightffully so. Attacks like thse are the sign of a desperate and terrified party of elitist snobs who have fed at the trough for the last eight years and contributed nothing to the country. Away with them!
Its not good strategy but it could be effective. As someone who is a public figure she's fair game but this tactic just shows the reality of what the GOP is really about. They've lost the values that lead to success, if they ever had them. They can't defends it record over the last 8 years and have gotten fat and happy at our expense. All politicians are the same, they pick an item, twist it into the mold they want, turning it on an emotional dime hoping the american people won't have the attention span to listen to the real issues which take a bit longer than 30 seconds to discuss. The strategy worked for them in 2004 so they are just going with what works. The problem is that more americans are waking up and this will backfire.
Doug
Charlotte, NC
The Republicans are only showing how weak they are by pouncing on Michelle Obama. They arent getting anywhere attacking Senator Obama, so lets go after the wife. So much for John McShame's, oops, I mean McCain's remarks about running a positive campaign.
Jack,
What do you expect they are Republicans? If they are not hating gays, Muslims and Mexicans, ignoring the poor and minorities, or trying to take away the right for a woman to choose they are trying to smear any American walking that doesn’t look or sound like a Republican. It amazes me a party that has so much hatred for other groups has the nerve to talk about anyone. Maybe she wasn't proud of her country, that doesn't mean she doesn't love it. I am a parent, I love my child, but I am not always proud of what he does. If you are proud of this country no matter what it does, you might as well put on a wool coat, follow the shepherd and say baaaaaaahhhhh . . . . . .
Here is the deal, those who are attacking Michelle in this manner are the ones who Sen. Clinton were most likely speaking off, with the exception being that they don't belong to democratics.
Maybe they will vote for Hillary during the general election (let's hope so).
Not a surprising for the GOP, they have been reaching for the life raft all year.
In response to the question:
Is it a good strategy for Republicans to go after Michelle Obama?
I think the obvious answer to this is no, for two reasons.
First, it cheapens politics; it's misleading and detracts the focus of the discussion from what it should be, the policies and plans of the candidates, to non-issues that take the forefront of so much media attention.
Second, I think Barack Obama has shown that conducting a campaign with some integrity can bring in results. I think, and hope, that people are finally tired of being treated like junior-high students and ready to be treated like adults who are interested in where this country is going rather than focusing on blunders made by the candidate or his associates.
I have been disgusted with the GOP's campaign tactics for the last eight years. If ever there was a chance I would cast a vote for the GOP, they lost that chance in the last two elections. I believe that others could be driven to the democratic party that way.
(Blue Springs, MO)
It's ultimate sleaze but it's also a good strategy for the GOP as it will be very effective in wooing back to McCain the independent swing voters and "Reagan Democrats" who have been flirting with the Dems this year. Much of the white working class Hillary vote can be swayed by this kind of obnoxious attack.
This comment proves that the Obamas as a political couple have a deep anti-american sentiiment behind their polished image. Barok's refusal to wear a flag lapel pin, his association with Revrerend wright (Mr God Damn America himself) and his comments about bitter working class Americans are frightening. A poresident can recognize their country has issues but when they are expressed in negative sardonic ways there's a Problem. if the GOP is smart they'll dig into this issue as much as possible. People dont want to hear a president or first lady that insults the country. It will mean the end for the Obama's.
It's comforting to see that the Republicans have still not learned their lesson, after their recent electoral defeats. Their desperation is getting more and more transparent, as they keep reusing Rove's playbook of smears, lies, and deceit.
They're still stuck in the past. That's fine; the rest of us are going to move on, and, with some luck and hard work, put the nation and the world on a path to a better future.
What we're hearing from the Republicans now is like the last gasp of the last dinosaur, before it fell down dead and its species became extinct. These ancient reptiles need to get out of the way: It's time for humanity to rise.
I think that this campaign will sink to a new all-time low. The Republicans know that their leadership has caused problems on all fronts-the war, the gas prices, the economy, etc.; and they think that they can win by throwing dirt at the opposition. I hope that Senator Obama and Michelle can rise above all the garbage and lead by example. Frankly, the dirt throwing makes me sick
Jack, it's politics and we all know how the game is played by all involved. The kids are the only players who should be left alone. Maybe the better question would be for CNN to find out why Obama has been anointed by the press as our new messiah. He is an inexperienced sweet talker and we have all see those people before. We can all say Bush! I for one am getting sick of the retro '60s drool by the way left liberals and CNN's playing the game with them. It's bad when FOX and O'Reilly are more fair and balanced. It was not that long ago CNN was top of the line.
I don't know if it's a good idea, but they are certainly allowed to do what they're doing. If they can batter and box Hillary around for years, then Mrs. Obama isn't off the hook. Finally, the Obama's are getting a dose of what real politics is like, and it aint pretty.
It would be fair if she were a politician or was running for office. But she's not running for office and her comments are no reflection on her husband. But that wont matter to the desperate, G.O.P. I hope Michelle never had an overdue library book, or parking ticket. G.O.P your time dsestroying this country is almost up, and you guys will get you clocks cleaned in November.
I'm an Obama supporter. That the GOP is going after Michelle Obama doesn't surprise me. Carl Rove has schooled them well, which is why they make me ashamed to be a Republican. But here's a word to the wise. Going after Michelle makes Cindy and her baggage fair game.
In a year where women are engaged in the election process more than ever. This has to be one of the dumbest ideas the GOP has come up with yet. This will rally women of all ages and ethnicities around are next president >>>GO OBama>GO
I believe GOP have no strengths to share and hence are spending all their money on any negatives they may find from Obama camp.
They are continuing to use their Political Strategy of using "Fear" and "Hatred" strategy. They cannot make the public to "Like" their own candidate, so they are doing everything to make the public to "Hate" their opposition.
The GOP ought to be ashamed of itself. It's sleezy, below-the-belt, dishonorable tactics betray just how desperate and classless the Republican Party has become. Barak Obama has raised the bar too high by now for this . It's embarrassing.
JL Waldron
Rye NH
The scary thing is people in places like West Virginia believe these type of gutter politics and their vote counts as one vote like mine. Such garbage should be punishable by law.
larry, Waldorf, MD
Congradulations on the 10 million plus page views. I'm trying to do my part, I never miss it.
My self i dont care who is running for the W.H all what i care about is
America.
and i wont vote for anybody not proud of AMERICA if you are proud of any other country go run there to be president.
i wont vote for OBAMA because of his wife only.
Well, lets just say that the republicans will go after their own mothers if they had a choice.
Hey Jack,
Its funny to see the "party of the common folk" disrespect a woman whose parents pulled themselves up by the bootstraps to enable their children to get such a great education. When her Royal Beer Highness Cindy McCain NEVER worked a day in her life because she had to....when she did start "working"....she used her charitable organization as her personal illegal Rx drug emporium because the stress of her complicty in the Keating 5 scandal. Sounds like McCain is begging for a swift boat ad about HIS wife....
Beka
The spirit of Karl Rove lives again! If they can't get Obama on anything, the GOP will use any garbage to attack his candidacy. The Republicans hope that Obama's wife will be just as useful to them as Rev. Jeremiah Wright was in March and April. It's enough to make you throw up. As if I didn't have enough reasons for vote for a Demcrat.
I don't recall any past elections where the wife of the candidate has been attacked. Why is Michelle considered fair game? I find this offensive.
Going after Michelle Obama is tacky, but that's all the GOP has. They'll constantly try to grab the headlines to keep the public minds off of the recession, the war and the bush administration or lack there of. I think they call it a "wag the dog".
Weezie, Cincinnati, Ohio
Yup!
She's gonna be big problem for him.
As a long time republican, I am on every level betrayed.
Fiscal responsibility? Nope
Keeping us Safe? Nope
Pandering? Yep
Playing the evangelical card? Yep
Small Government? Nope
Personal responsibility? Nope
Energy freedom ? Nope
Slime campaigning? Yep, Ms Obama for example
Please know Ms Obama, not all republicans are character assasins
No. It simply emphasizes how out of touch Republicans are with the real issues that are important to voters. We want to know how they are going to fix the big problems in this country- healthcare, dependence on oil, poverty, the economy. Voters could care less what Mrs. Obama meant or didn't mean.
I think that this is destined to failure like the Rev. Wright ads that were run in the special House election in Mississippi. The electorate has moved on past this issue and would like to hear some substantive discussion. If the Republicans want to continue these tactics they are doomed to failure in all levels of 2008 elections.
Jim M.
Mt. Pleasant, Michigan
First off all let me say this.....I support Obama even if I am not an american citizen.
Now about you question:
It is a good strategy for Republicans to go after Michelle Obama...Barack Obama...his dad...his mom...her dad...her mom..everybody in this world somehow they related with! And I am sure Republicans are going to do that. What you expect Jack from these dirty...stupid...and evil minded politicians.
Good strategy?...Yes. It speaks to the type of person she and her husband are. Politicians. As much as Obama wants to say he is not your typical politician...he is the same man who distanced himself from Rev. Wright..who made horrible comments about the U.S. and "chickens coming home to roost". They distanced themselves from those comments, but showed their true character when she made such comments. Face it Obama family...your politicians.
I am totally disgusted with the way the Republican party has attacked Michelle Obama and I am disgusted even further that CNN or John would give their comments air time. The sound bites that they want to exploit are cheap shots, but then again if President Bush wants to leave home and make cheap shots about Barak Obama I guess those of the party he represents feel that they might have better aim if they stay home and do it. Is the republican party so without class?
No. Attacking Mrs. Obama is simply an ad hominem attack, which implies that the Republicans are reduced to attacking the Obamas personally because they have no real arguments against Sen. Obama's policies. Thus, attacking Mrs. Obama is a sign of weakness; the Republicans should not do it if they want to have any credibility in the upcoming election.
The strategy to attack Michelle Obama by the Republicans is not a good one. These same tactics were used in Mississippi and Louisiana and failed miserably, which demonstrates how ineffective smear and fear-mongering tactics will work in this election. Someone please inform the Republicans that the American people have caught on to their Karl Rove tactics.
If they are dumb enough to go after Michelle,it only shows the stupidity that they have become accustomed to. She has nothing to do,basically,with the nomination of Barak Obama. If they want to attack her,go for it. It will only establish the ridiculous reaches that they are trying for. The GOP is dead in the water and they will stop at nothing to ressurect their assinine ideas that have no bearing whatsoever on the needs of American people.
This is the same old, same old from the Grand Old Party – throw mud around and see what sticks.
She is a strong woman and can take whatever they dish out. And, I am sure it will backfire.
How about asking about Mrs. McCain's tax returns, which she won't reveal? And, didn't she spend some time "drying out" for a medication habit?
Be careful what you do, GOP. It will come back to bite you.
Civility is what John McCain just promised. My eye.
Mrs. Obama was making a point about Americans getting so involved in the current presidential race.
I totally got what she was saying because I am 41 year old American that never engaged to the degree that I am with this presidential election. And for me it all started with emails from the Obama campaign asking me to get involved.
That's what Mrs. Obama is so proud of. Record numbers of average americans engaging in the political process because they were asked. It's absolutely awesome!
I'm a registered Independent and voted Republican for the last 2 presidential elections and I do understand why the Republicans are reacting to this. They must come up with something because so far Obama has been unstoppable. I'm convinced he is the next President of the best country on planet Earth!
Felicia Campos
Windermere, FL
Sure it's a good strategy Jack. A good strategy for Democrats. It makes the Republicans look too cowardly to fight the actual candidate. And as a side bonus it angers women and African-Americans.
Jack, great, though-provoking question. When I first read about the "attack" on Mrs. Obama, I, too, was appalled. For the Republicans to go after a presidential candidate's family, is criminal. Will they now post operatives at the school where the Obama daughters attend to spy on them and see if they miss the bell to return to class on time after recess? Un-American! It's that sickening. I vividly remember when Bush was running for president and news reports surfaced that his twin daughters were drinking up a storm and partying late into the night while attending college. Respectfully, the Democrats didn't try to make political hay of that. For the love of God, someone stop this madness and let us debate how we, as a nation, will overcome these last eight years of the Bush debacle, excuse me, presidency!
Of course. Look at Hillary's 8 years as First Lady. If Michelle is going to be in the kitchen, then she better be able to take the heat. This could backfire and be beneficial, as all things seem to when Obama gets challenged about anything. He gets a mulligan and gets to take another swing.
Attacking the wrong people seems to be the republican idealogy. It will make no difference, they are TOAST !!!!!!!!! Come on November !!!!
Only if you aren't man enough to go after her husband!
It is this gutter politics that gave us 8 years of George W. Bush. Does it work – offcourse it does, but only because the media fails to 'keep them honest' and profits from the spectacle.
Strategically, it may be a good idea to go after Michelle Obama. It fits the strategy of catering to people's ignorance by perpetuating the notion that anything but unflinching support for this country is unpatriotic. So, if they're trying to get the Stupid vote, which they ordinarily do, then they should go ahead.
Jack I don't think so. She's not the first potential first lady to have her own mind. Eleanor Roosevelt was no shrinking violet and neither was Barbara Bush. Nancy Reagan is a tough old bird and I don't remember anyone calling them names. But I say let them have at it.......you see whee that mudslinging got them in Mississippi!!!!!!
This was just another example of the GOP trying to make the election about things other than the real issues. In the past this strategy has worked, but these tactics will no longer get the job done. 2006 and the special Congressional races have proven this true. Focusing on things like the use of the word bitter and flag pins are tired tactics that no longer work.
If Michelle Obama is fair game, then so is Cindy McCain. She needs to produce her tax returns...
(andover, ma) Absolutely, not. It's hitting below the belt if you know the history of our country.
I think Obama called it exactly what it is: shameful. Attacking a candidate is one thing but his family should be given some level of respite. Given the GOP's failure to derail the democratic party by using Obama and Pelosi in recent elections, one would expect that they would have learnt a thing or two. But I guess the party is just like its leader; blustering and clueless!
A spouse of a presidental candidate is fair game. It is being done by both Republicans and Democrats alike. Hillary and now Bill Clinton have been subjected to it over the years. If Michelle Obama wants to make speeches, she should be prepared for a response. Up until now the Obamas' have been given a free pass. It appears as though they are not able to handle the pressure – better we know now than later.
Hi Jack,
If it were ok for her to say that this was the first time in her adult life that she's been proud to be an American, absolutely! I don't care how you spin this one, what she said is and was offensive to us who have been proud to be Americans for all our lives. Sounds like the ghost of Rev Wright in her comments and she should just own them!
Good strategy or not, the Republicans will do anything to smear and destroy anyone who stands in their way. They will keep doing this as long as it works, and the evidence to date is that it will work again this time around.
I can't believe that Obama's camp is so indignant about this. Chelsea Clinton is campaigning for her mother and Obama supporters have been extremely harsh on her for something her father did. Obama's wife is campaigning for him and has made some very disturbing comments about America. If he is elected, she will represent this country as it's first lady. You are damn right the GOP should be tough on her and so should concerened Democrats. I just think that she and her husband have way too many personal "anti-American" associations for Obama to be an effective president.
Hey Jack
Why did you not think it was a bad idea when Bill Clinton was attacked? OH, I remember, you were leading the charge on that one. Where is your OBAMA 08 pin that you need to wear every day since you are only a mouth piece for him?
You dont have the guts to post this, so I guess this is a waste of my time, sort of like listening to you, that is why I mute the TV when you mug shows up.
Jack,
Why is it ok to attack Chelsea Clinton but not ok to attack Michelle Obama? Is it because Michelle is BLACK? You tell me Jack.
If the Clinton Family is available for attack so are the Obama's
The GOP would be laughable if it weren't for those who fall trap to their trash tactics... What's next Repubs? That their girls stayed up past their bedtime?? Why don't you run on your own positive merits? Oops! Duh!! You don't have any!!
Oregon says Barack AND Michelle Obama 08 !!
It is the same issue as the whole none sense issue about the flag pin. GOP could play patriotic music and say they are patriotic, but are they really patriotic? While Michelle's comment may be unwise, it indeed highlights the vulnerability of GOP political strategies.
It's pathetic. The attack on Michelle is a death rattle of a dying political party. Republicans don't have the spine to go after Barack Obama, so they go after his wife. Republicans are such LOSERS.
Republican can say anything! Look at their President making such comments in a foreign land? Michelle already clearified what she meant by that comment . Saqui
Yes, but it should not be.
No!
Michelle Obama is a similtaneously strong, brilliant, articulate, humorous, impassioned, honest straightforward woman.
The fact that she happens to be the Wife of Barack Obama and black, is the only reason the GOP is going after her.
Would the GOP like the Dems, to go after Cindy McCain? Didn't she steal drugs from her own foundation, to feed her habit, and met her husband (John McCain), through and adulterous affair?
Go after Michelle Obama? Of course it isn't a good strategy. But the Republican Party is desperate, having nearly scuttled the good ship America under the stewardship of a shamefully ill-equiped crew. The Republican Party is lead by dimwits, and their inability to develop an honorable strategy demonstrates this. I might add that my Republican friends are beyond embarrassed by the party's condition.
I agree with the Republican Party, Obama does not need to be president of this country, his wife has shown her stupidity in the remarks she made. The whole thing , on the part of the Democratic Party is a farce. I'm sick and tired of seeing this guy, his wife, and his preacher on CNN. Take him off!!!
Jack, I say if the Repubs want to play dirty and go after Michelle, then that opens the door to get down-and-dirty and go after Cindy McCain and her drug addiction and theft of drugs from her own non-profit organization.
Jack,
It isnt the attack on her personally that will be effective, it is the comment she made. That will be played again and again. It will effect some people but not all.
I watch you on CNN Jack, and I realize you are so against Hillary and pro Obama it is really ridiculous. Can you tell me in all sincerity, is CNN allowed this? I used to think the media had to be impartial. Was I wrong?
I have had to quite MSNBC all together because they are just blatantly biased. Now CNN too? Where can we watch where men and WOMEN and all candidates are presented equally?
I am a white Republican in Atlanta, Georgia. If the GOP does not have anything to offer me and the American people rather than trying to miss-stating what was an honest opinion of Michelle Obama. What she felt does not in anyway, in my opinion, means that she never was proud of America.
If English language is not one of my party’s obscurities, I would command them to enlist an English man to interpret the meaning of, “for the first time in my adult life.”
Prior to Mrs. Obama becoming an adult, she was a youngster. And at that, she might have been proud of America. Let’s get serious and stop the politics of personal destruction. For this reason, I see why the American people of all works of life are embracing Obama’s idea of changing Washing and American politics. I am afraid younger Republicans are joining his call.
Jane Emmanuel
Atl.
Jack, I believe it's not only the wrong strategy, but the wrong message. For far too long, there have been many who have been (and still ARE) proud of America, yet ashamed of the political process. It has increasingly become dirty, nasty, and brings out the worst in many when it should symbolize our liberty. If the Repubs do continue this negative path, they will all but ensure an Obama presidency.
I wish I could say "no, the Republicans are shooting themselves in the foot by going after her," but the honest truth is the American public gets a large portion of their political knowledge from these clips and sound bytes. So, yes, I'm sure these ridiculous attacks will end up benefiting the Republicans at least somewhat. The question I pose is: "How much responsibility do you (and other TV news programs) take for giving so much airtime to these frivolous clips and sound bytes (i.e., Jeremiah Wright, Barack 'Hussein' Obama, etc.)?"
well it was fair for the obama camp to go after bill and chelsea so why not. just wait till the ads on her college thesis break–that ought to seal the deal for mccain. but at least you idiots (excluding lou dobbs) at cnn will get a few more months to continue drolling over obama. how you can call yourselves a news station after the completely biased coverage of this primary is beyond me. i have lost all respect for cnn (again with the exception of lou dobbs)
Jack:
Is it at all surprising that this is coming from a state where they train their children to hang nooses from their pickups and go to Jenna, Miss. in support of racism? Elvis must be embarassed.. Nathan Bedford Forest, however, would be proud.
Thats true! Cindy mccain is a drug adict!
It's a great stratergy Jack because it means the Republicans are digging a deeper hole that they can't get out of.
Can I be the one to fill it in.
Jack I just love your comments. Keep up the good work. I think the GOP going after Michelle Obama shows how worried they are for the fall elections. To attack the senator's wife is as low as they could get.
May 16th, 2008 4:12 pm ET
corrections added.
It is so sad to see racism rearing its ugly head in such a blatant way in areas where people are ignorant and undereducated. Obama is winning with educated people. To attack his wife is desperate. Mrs Obama is an elegant educated woman. We should be so lucky to have her as first lady. This election is going to show America’s true colors, so to speak. Pretty shameful and an issue that just might unite us and wake us up. This issue of ignorant mean hateful racism is about to be discussed. It is about time.
White women in Mill Valley, ca
You can't say anything positive about your own party, you tried saying negative things about Obama in House races and lost 'secure' seats, so you move on to say negative things about Obama's wife? When that doesn't work will they move on to kids and pets?
Why does any candidate have to "go after" anyone? The American voters are sick of this finger pointing method of running a campaign. I would like to see a candidate who will simply focus on what they plan to do for the country if they are elected. There are too many serious issues to waste time focusing on superficial ambush tactics. We had a candidate like that but sadly John Edwards was driven out of the campaign by a lack of media attention. When is this country going to get back on track?
let the GOP go after Michelle Obama. let them go after (the so called) pastor Wright. let them go after... jimmy carter?? heck, let them go after ME for all i care. it's clear that they have no real material to use against Barack Obama himself.
Sure it does! It significantly reduces the number, and by extension, quality of the opponents that they'll have to face for the Presidential race. Who would want to subject their family to the type of smear campaign that Hillary went through and that Michelle Obama is very likely to go through if Barak Obama becomes president?
It's a very effective strategy even if it is also very sleazy, but our politicians have proven many times over that sleaze usually wins the day in American politics.
Cowards. They are not men, they went after his wife. lol
Of course it is not a good strategy. In the heat of the moment, Ms. Obama got carried away and forgot to "walk on eggshells," as we so often do these days in politics...or in general for that matter. Our focus should be on the candidate that we feel is either qualified or not qualified for the task at hand. And a monumental task that it is. An attack on Ms. Obama weakens our position and serves absolutely no purpose on this campaign. After all, we are not choosing a first lady, but rather a President.
Poor Republicans, What's next. Trying to go after Michelle Obama. John McClain in not patriotic. Anyone who help shift thousands of jobs from American workers to the EU (Tanker Deal) is not a patriotic American. Is that patriotism or not???
With everything in love, war, and politics, all is fair game. We as human beings, have being programmed by the media, to demand such little dark secrets, regardless where they may lie. Leberals do it to Conservatives and vise versa. Do not be fooled by the hypercritical righteous-isms that are spent following a discovery. We are all in the same boat. We all have little dark secrets. Those of us who say otherwise, are in denial. Sure there will be those who say "she is being picked on because of race, gender, or anything that will draw attention away from the discovered truths, I do believe they call that the "Potomac two step."
NP
Arkansas
I would imagine it couldn't hurt, since Americans seems to have an endless appetite for down-in-the-gutter, dirty politics. As much as politicians and polls indicate that we're tired of the "politics of personal destruction" that fact is that these things work in a political campaign. The dirtier the attack the more we seem to like it. I for one go by an old rule...once you start attacking other people, it tells me you've run out of good things to say about yourself.
Swift boating a spouse - where have we sunk to? We are in 2 wars...
I guess it is if it's ok to go after the pill popping addict who steals to support her habit...Cindy McCain?
The world is suffurring from an illness no one has diagnosed; because they're too stupid and stuck on books they read and write. The illness is called evil; spelled backwards it's LIVE, and lived is DEVIL. The U.S. is acting as if racism recently simply vanished. It's acting as if beguilement vanished; as if we can now trust politicians.
probally not a good idea for the rebublicans to try to belittle michele obama unless they want to bring up mrs mccains relation to charles keating and her stealing drugs from her organization. turnabout is fair play i think.
If the rushpublicans attack Michelle Obama then Cindi McCain will be in the firing line. How will her drug addiction, "alledged" family Mafia ties, and having an affair with a married man – McBush, play out. Not well, I would think.
Wonder what Johnnie Mc Temper will do if that happens
Remember there people that are just waiting to "Rove" and Swift boat McSame.
WW Thurber
Phoenix
Jack, I live in Tenn. I am so ashamed my face is red. I got the e-mail with link to said message . I sent a e-mail straight back. . I told them that this the nasty tacky partisan politics we are all sick of.
I would like to say I am sorry to Mrs. Obama. This is a good reason we need change ASAP
Everyone I would like to say I am sorry for that nasty tacky ad. I am 100% for and voting for Sen.Obama.
Tenn GOP Shame on You!
This is what the republicans have become: a party dereft of ideas. Instead of presenting Americans with reasons why we should vote for a republican they resort to slanderous, misrepresentations of others' character. And on top of that the wife of a candidate, not the candidate himself.
Jack, we have had enough. The general election season has just started and already the republicans have compared Obama to a nazi appeaser (when Bush's administration has already held diplomacy talks with Iran, seems they really think Obama is correct), shooting at him at an NRA meeting (Huckabee pulling back the curtain revealing the real violence of thought of his party), faslely representing Obama's thoughts as his pastor's (lying and slandering is not Christian, giving benefit of the doubt, forgiving while maintaining your principles is), and racheting up fear politics (the only joker card they have left).
In complete seriousness: Senator Barack Obama represents leadership that only America can produce, strength of character, inspirational and inspiring, solid principles, and acknowledge of freedom of choice and voice. Senator Obama will keep us safe, will ask us to work to succeed in the big problems, and will unite us – even those that play fearful games.
No, it is not a good idea for the Republican's to go after Michelle Obama. However, it is typical of the way they operate. It's disgraceful and pathetic. All it does is give Democrats more clout. The hole the Republicans have dug during this administration is very deep and I pray that our country can get out of it gracefully...and soon...and with a Democrat in office in 2008.
Michelle Obama's 'adult life' comment struck me as no more than a simple, rhetorical device. Even so, I have no doubt this GOP smear will sit well in the bellies of most Republicans. After all, a great many of them still believe Barack to be a Muslim. So, yeah, it is a good strategy considering the target audience, who are apparently willing to believe just about anything. Attacking on two fronts at once, the two Obamas, will probably benefit them.
Every American should go after every anti-American, of which Michelle Obama is one. Orlando, Fl
I believe the tactic will not be helpfull this time. I remember four years ago the republicain did the same with Mrs Heinz...What a cheap shot again.. The republicain party is again full of BS...
These sorts of tactics are absolutely tasteless. Its what Americans have come to expect form Republicans. Launching direct attacks against Michelle Obama even though she isn't a politician is the kind of tactic Republicans use to avoid arguing the real issues, arguments they lose consistently. Its the reason they've been getting shellacked in elections since '06.
They wont, Michelle Obama is one tough woman. Maybe tougher than Barrack..i wouldnt want to mess with her. Keep up the good work Jack..i love you dude..
I feel that this is absurd and offensive. A low blow like this just proves that the GOP is weak and losing its grip on the american public. The GOP knows that if they focus on the issues they will definetly lose the election, so they have to resort to these types of low-rent attacks. These fear tactics are pathetic, and will not work. I hope the American people will be able to see through the smut that the republicans throw in the face of honest, sincere candidates.
As if the Republican party couldn't do any more damage to it's own why in the world would they now shoot themselves in the foot too by attacking Michelle Obama? This makes the GOP seem desperate, petty and very much like Democrats.
If thats the best the republicans can do ....have at it!! who's next?.....the kids? Give it up Mcain you are way out of touch with what really needs to be done with America!!
Dawn
Canada
It is so stupit to attack Michelle Obama....first, only idiots couldn't understand her message, second...she is not running for President? the repubblican are too afraid to lose this election, I am surprised that don't attack the little girls of Obama!
Jack what do you espect? The Republican party is so desperate to get an edge on the Democrats that they will use anything. I am an African American and I can relate to Michelle Obama's comment. They are drowning and using her comments is like their last straw.. Afterall Jeremiah Wright is all played out.
Hi Jack, Love your time on the air.
If the GOP are already in swiftboat attack mode on Michelle Obama they must be mighty scared. I wonder where Cindy and John McCains straigt talk objections to his party's attack of his opponents wife are? I'll bet if the Dems were attacking Cindy McCain John and the GOP would be in full outrage mode.
Maybe we should rename the GOP the Mudsucking Slime Party.
Lisa Mason
No, it's not a good idea. The GOP should run on success in the War in Ir-,er...no, the GOP should run on the health of the econo-,er....no, the GOP should run on the strength of the housing mark-, er....no, the GOP should run on what they've done to reduce global warm-, er...ummm....yeah, they should go after the wife of the Democratic candidate!
I do believe it is a good strategy to go after Michelle Obama......she potentially could be the first lady. Frankly I have a hard time listening to her and she just rubs me the wrong way. Sometimes I wonder with her attitude who is really running for President I have heard her talk right over B.Obama.....this is all a real mess.
Sandra in Cedar Hill, Texas
This is exactly why the republicans are going DOWN one by one
three seats lost already because of their *DIRTY* politics play book
Americans are sick and tired of it!!!!
their tactics are what is taking them down.... nasty dirty politics
Michelle Obama does not deserve thosse tactics and they will pay big time in the fall
the Bush MCSame era is*over*
One more note, have they forgotten that Ciny McCain was involved in stealing drugs for her percocet addiction habit? Among other issues. Hmmm...wrong choice of attack, in my opinion.
Hi Jack it's simple. When they have nothing to offer. They tear down someone that does. I used to vote Republican but this group has made me a shamed of being American. I actually think about selling everything I have & moving to another country. I voted for the liar Bush the first time. Nothing he promised was done. I pray for his term to end. Allen Minnesota
It's not even worthy of being called a strategy. They need to apologise for their sick effort to damage the Obama campaign. Ugly, ugly, ugly political garbage is what it amounts to!
Why go after here? I've been ashmaed of America before. Hello! Slavery! Jim Crow Laws! Katrina! Gay Marriage in California! Steriods in Baseball! The list goes on and on. I also love America. We've many great things in this country, and abroad. If people have never been embarrassed about this country then look our history.
Lucieann, Port St. Lucie, FL: I really do think this sort of attack on the wife of a presidential candidate, who may be the First Lady~is out of line~!! If I was to lower myself to the level of the Tennessee GOP, I would have to think that Cindy McCain and her theft of drugs from her charitable organization, to feed her drug addiction would be fair game as well. But knowing that these attacks on family of candidates is not only despicable, but out of line.....I would not push that issue farther~
Of course it is!
Every time the GOP exposes itself as the unscrupulous, vicious bone-heads that they are, the better is the chance that their power will diminish.
Wesley Chapel, FL
Going after the wife of an opponent is a sign you don't know how to go after the candidate themselves. That's not a position of strength, but an admission of weakness.
If might be fair for the Republicans to go after Michele Obama if the Democrats can go after Cindy McCain and her "fortune" – she has refused to disclose her tax returns and I wonder what she is hiding.
If she would keep her anti-America comments to herself, she wouldn't be a target in the first place.
I don't know if it's a good "strategy", but I feel that it's low class. Michelle is not running for President. This is the same type of "strategy" that made me leave the republican party. As many off the wall topics Bush has made from him not being inform and not knowing that gas prices were going to be raised, to the statement made yesterday in Isreal, they want to hang on another "snippet" of what Michelle said. She's not running for president....
Jack,
I watched the video. The TN GOP BLEEPED OUT the word "REALLY" before the word "proud". This changes the context of the comment. An example is "I have a REALLY large boat – I have a boat. I am REALLY sleepy. I am sleepy. I am proud. I am REALLY proud. Not only is this gutter politics, it's stupid. The video was of such poor quality I thought an elememtary child had made it. No offense elementary school children.
Sabreen
Maryland
Hello Jack. Seems to me that they are "CLUTCHING AT STRAWS"
Lou in Cary NC
Funny how we are suddenly questioning whether it is appropriate to 'go after' a presidential candidates spouse. As if Michelle Obama should be given an immunity that was not granted to a certain Democratic Presidential Nominee's spouse in the 1900s. Arguably, Michelle is as outspoken and influential in her husband's presidential bid as Hillary Rodham Clinton. Why should she be exempt from the scrutiny of the public, or her words not seen as a valuable litmus to the values of a man who may be our country's President?
she has the ear of the man who wants to be president. you bet she should be a target along with everyone else that has Obama's ear.
I'm a 55 year old moderate, politically independent, having voted for both Republican and Democratic presidential candidates. The actions of the Republican party over the last 8 years have been so underhanded, manipulative and loathsome that I approached this presidential race knowing I would vote for the Democratic candidate this year no matter who it was. I don't believe I'm unique in my feelings. So go ahead Republicans, try to smear Michelle Obama. I had the privilege of hearing her speak several months ago. She's an intelligent, warm, gracious and, yes, patriotic, individual. Be warned, Republicans. The American public is wise to your manipulations and sick of your tactics. Barack and Michelle Obama's straightforward classiness will only serve to underscore how twisted you are.
This is typical Republican sleaze, which has become their brand. Todays public is wiser and the great majority of Americans deplore this type of conduct. When we vote for president, you will see the folly of the Republicans failing to debate on the merits of the issues by going negative.
Jack, the GOP is probably going to do whatever, whenever to slow the momentum of Sen. Obama in the general election, up to and including a Clintonesque kitchen sink strategy with all the trimmings. The Dems have one great asset though, it was the GOP that gave us eight years of "Doofus."
Is there still a WHEEL left on the "STRAIGHT TALK" EXPRESS ??
More "guilt by association" politics? Even if Michelle Obama said something that was truly upsetting, which I haven't seen her do yet, do any of us always agree without our spouse?
Now that race is a prominent issue, let's just face the facts. The U.S. Mrs. Obama grew up in is not the same one that most white Americans grew up in. I am the same age as Mrs. Obama. I too, when I went to college, had my dorm mate move out because I was black. Shame on those in that ad who LIVED segregation who have ALWAYS been PROUD of this country.
I agree more with republican policies, but going after the family of a candidate is so low. Obama is fair play, but not his wife or kids. That goes to show how strong Obama is.
The GOP does not have time to go after Michelle Obama. They should be spending all their time freshening up the stinch failure reeking from the party. They must have all majored in how NOT to run a company or campaign effectively!
This is politics. When running for the President, one plays bean ball at 105mph, not kindergarten patty-cake. The wives are fair game. Michelle Obama has demonstrated, both in her choice of pastor with Barack and in her writings at Princeton, that she seems to be the more racist, anti-white bigot as compared to Barack. She seems to be more of a Marxist that he is, too.
It's unlikely that Cindy McCain has always worn white gloves, but time will tell...and tell it will.
As long as Michelle Obama is stumping for her husband, she is fair game. Also, no one has spared Chelsea or Bill Clinton so why shouldn't the same rules apply? All is fair in love and war and
presidential campaigns....thanks to the media.
It doesn't really matter if the Republicans go after Michelle Obama. Senator Obama already has enough association problems by having friendly relationships with an unrepentant terrorist who regrets not doing more against the US government, and Obama's relationship with a racist pastor who said "GD America"
Michelle's comments pale in comparison to Bill Ayers and Jeremiah Wright.
Jack,
How Republican to attack a candidates wife. Can you imagine the uproar if the Democrats attacked Cindy McCain? No wonder our country is so polarized. If Sen McCain was any kind of a gentleman he would insist this ad come down but we know he will just wink and nod like he did about the slimy add about Sen Obama. So much for a clean campaign.
It is unconscionable for the Republicans to attack Michelle Obama. She is not running for President.
How about if the shoe was on the other foot and the Democrats starting razzing Cindy McCain for her relationship with her husband, who was married to another woman in the early stages? How about if they went after Cindy McCain for stealing drugs to sustain her drug addiction? How about Cindy McCain refusing to release her income tax returns?
There's lots more to go after Cindy McCain about than there is Michelle Obama. But, you don't see the Democrats doing it.
One has to wonder why is Cindy McCain not being attacked just as Michelle Obama is being attacked? Is it because the Democrats have more class and finesse, or is it because Cindy McCain is blonde and Michelle Obama is not?
Yes, I think it's a wonderful idea. We all know that no other party is more Patriotic, than the GOP... disregard their leading members like McCain and Bush not supporting the new G.I. Bill, the unwise decision to go to war with the WRONG COUNTRY (instead of finding Bin Laden in Afganistan), and please don't count the failing Economy under Republican rule. We should really follow the GOP's example of how to be truly Patriotic... *coughs idiots*
Given they have approval ratings below used car salesmen, why not–there's not much left to loose. My view of the Republican party is that I'd be proud of this once great country all the time, if it weren't for these slime balls. At least the malignant piece of trash that the GOP has become. And why? Instead of pursuing the honorable policies and tactics of Goldwater, they have become the slash and burn party of Karl Rove.
It is not a good strategy to go after Michelle Obama. It will serve to show that there is nothing the Republicans won't do and could make them seem like bullies. She was entitled to her opinion which when dissected is no different than any other groups experiences in this country. Remeber the Japanese-Americans who were imprisoned during World War II. What do you think some of their opinions were of this country at that time and in following generations. The Media is constantly skewing a persons viewpoint and words to stock the fires and sell themselves. As an African-American in this country I can say I relate the the fact my experience in this country is different than a WASP. It is what it is and many times it is exploited for some one else's gain. Haven't we had enough of the mudslinging and isnt it about time for this "Great Nation" to truly take steps towards healing by recognizing a person is not unpatriotic because their experience in this country has not been the glorified "American Dream." Stick to the issues and leave the familiy members alone.
Yes it is fair, Jack. If it's fair to go after Bill Clinton's every word, then Michelle is fair game.
I think that it's shameful that the Republican Party is going after Michele Obama. Hopefully Americans will be intelligent enough to understand that we should be focused on the issues, not trying to read the mind of a race of people who only received freedom though the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960's. I hope that John McCain can deal with the same attacks when the media starts digging into his marital history and his wife's past as well.
After two Bush terms, all the Republicans have to offer is fear and smear. Three recent special elections have proven that isn't going to work for them. I think watching the Republicans in this election is going to be like watching the demise of the wicked witch in the Wizard of Oz: "I'm melting, I'm melting..."
Yes, she is the spouse of a candiate and up until now spouses have been fair game. Why should she be any different. She isn't nor should she be. She would be in the white house if he is nominated and what she thinks and feels is going to be important to the public, I know it is to me.
It is truly shameful to see the GOP carrying these personal ad hominem attacks on the family of Barack Obama. How low will they go? Will they start attacking Obama's children next? With the way the GOP is behaving these days, I won't be very surprised to see that.
It is also very insulting that even the religion of Obama was used repeatedly as an attack form by the GOP. How are they getting away in "accusing" him of being a Muslim, and at the same time playing the Reverend Wright card over and over again.
Finally, as a proud American and a Muslim, I do take offense with the GOP using Islam as an attack point. Just how low will they go?!
Thanks,
Hussam,
New York.
They've left themselves open for questions about Cindy'$ Beer Million$ And how about The Keating 5 ?? Let's get it all out there!
Jack, the problem here is Presidential Hopeful Elect Obama has is not with the Republican Party it should be with his wife and her comments which were neither asked for nor taken out of context by these shameful folks here in TN. I suppose we are supposed to be trying to fool ourselves when Mrs. Obama did not say what we all heard her say. If you spin it enough he could say she meant she was proud to be an American for the first time cause she was going to be her husbands V.P. in office. Then again I guess we al up or down here in HICKVILLE, TN just don't know the difference right?
POLITICALLY INCORRECT ALWAYS,
CHRIS JENKINS
Oneida TN
Yes, absolutely it's legit but may not be smart. Barack's campaign is quickly trying to define what's ok to criticize. Anything mentioned thats critical of him or his family is labeled shameful or off-limits. This guy has almost no resume, has had very few actual positions beyond "let's talk", and appears to be so sensitive (i.e. response to Bush today) I don't see how he can last. He rufuses to denounce William Ayres, he only denounced Wright after he made a fool of him (nothing new was stated). Electing him will be one of the most terrible mistakes of the 21st century. Remember the Carter years? Here we go again!
Why cant we focus on issues that really matter to the American people, we need our elected officials to address health care,the war, and the economy,these attacks really turn me off. As a former republican voter,the grand old party,aint so grand.
Mike Hetzel
El Paso, Texas
Yes it is a good strategy. Her attitudes influence and inform those of her husband. This plays to the issue of whether he has been sufficiently vetted. Look what has been done with Wright,, and his link to Obama is much more tenuous.
The adulteress Cindy McCain should respond to Michelle Obama as long as she properly establishes her bona fides.
This only proves that the republicans have absolutely nothing on Obama. During the entire primary cycle all attacks against obama have been either indirect or just outright pathetic. Plagarism, His Pastor(Who i hear is not running for president), Tony rezko, his middle name, and now his Wife.
If Michelle is going to campaign, then she is responsible for what she says, just like everyone else. No one forced her to say that, and using it is as fair as any other issue. You have no problem blasting the Cilntons for their remarks, so why the objections now? Fair is fair!!
You had better get used to this sort of attack ad if Obama is to be your nominee, this is only the beginning, and as the campaign heats up they WILL be effective! Just remember what the TN Reps did to Harold Ford in 2006 – that is the model they will use on Obama and it will work.
By the way, Hussein IS his middle name (just like Delano, Fitzgerald, Milhouse, etc.) and he DID dress up and pose for that photo. He knew he was going to run for president at that time. Just as when Duakais willingly posed for the famous “tank” photo, one has to ask, What were they thinking??????
Yes, it is a good strategy as it will encourage more Republicans to become Democrates. More misleading rehtoric, more Republicans will began to see the light! President Bush and John McCain are similar to Hitler...More than 600,000 Iraqis were murdered/executed and more than 2,000,000 Iraqis displaced because of oil. Senator McCain says we will never deploy our troops AGAIN for oil. What is different about invading Poland vs. invading Iraq. Did Senator McCain denouce President Bush for making him vote for the war/invasion into Iraq?
President Regan held diplomatic meeting with East Germany..."Tear Down This Wall"
President Bush (41) held diplomatic meetings with Russia...Ended the Cold War
President Regan " I can't recall" and Vice President Bush (41) allowed weapons to be shipped to Iran. Right Oliver North
President Bush (41), Dick Cheney, James Baker all met with Sadam Hussein OFTEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Atlanta, Georgia
Michelle Obama's semi statement was taken completely out of context and merely showed her naiviity in not realizing that everything can and would be used against her, as they will be for any of Senator Obama's supporters or Senator McCain's or Senator Clinton's etc.
Once you enter politcal life at this level you are running with the wolves and no one should be surprised that one of the wolves will try and maul another, if it can get away with it.
Jack,
This is so sad for this country...the GOP doesn't discuss issues but makes targets of all the good people in this country including their own John McCain. Their own Tucker Bounds needs to get a life and realizre the damage they are doing to America. As far as I can opinion, Michelle Obama loves this country a heck of a lot more than those that deal in foul politics. Keep at it and I will start asking about Cindy McCain's tax report.
Thanks,
Kay in Lincoln's Land!
The GOP is determined to reduce the level of political discourse in this country to screams, grunts and blows. Their (ironically) Darwinian motto is "survival of the most viscious."
In their minds this is a less-than-ideal strategy because it falls short (though not far short) of incitement to riot at her events.
Brownshirts. The lot of them.
Whether it's a good strategy in the real world depends on just how low we as a society have sunk. If we're as low as they think, it'll score points. If not, it will only exacerbate Republican bleeding at the polls.
Jack,
It didn't work in all the special elections that the republicains just loss it will not work this either the american peoples are tired of the old politics they want change.
Eric
Ohio
Jack ,
If Michelle Obama is considered fair game by the republicans smear campaign, then they shouldn't mind if Cindy McCain is targeted in releasing her tax returns. She seems to think that because she isn't a candidate she doesn't need to let the public know about her income, as did the Clintons and and the Obamas. The McCains are married. What does she have to hide. After all we haven't heard much about Cindy McCain. All we know is she follows her husband like a puppy dog and perhaps is the best dressed clothes horse in this race. Joan From Maine
The whole thing is ridiculous......if there are challenges about the real issues at hand, let's hear them! I feel confident that Barack and Michelle Obama can answer the questions, but these kinds of silly attacks are not productive and have no real relevance to this election. Who cares what his middle name is and what does this have to do with anything that defines this man?
It seems to me that everytime the Obama's say or do something controversial it's the fault of someone else, either the media's taking things out of context, the evil republican attack machine or some campaign aid who messed up.
They've already started going after Cindy McCain, so why is this such a shock? It would be better for the country if the media were as unbiased as...well, I cant think of anyone.
YES, the American public has a right to know the arrogance of a potential first lady – I find many of her comments to be outrageous and ungracious including most notably her unwillingness to commit to supporting Hillary if she is the democratic nominee and her threats and whining about the sacrifice she is making and that its 'now or never'. Compare that with a lifetime of public service from both Hillary and Bill Clinton. She is spoilt and reeks of entitlement!
The press should stop protecting Obama – stop shielding voters, give voters the facts and let them make an honest assessment. THAT is the presses responsibility in a democracy – it's not a coronation!
I'd NOT be surprised if the GOP goes after Michelle because this dirty tactic has been theirs since Geraldine Ferraro's time and Karl Rove's for the past 8 years!
Nothing is shameful to them in their blind pursuit of winning. Forgot about 2004 Ohio ballot tampering and fraud? Recent HBO documentary has clearly proven their tactics!!! Shame! Shame! Shame!
The Republican Party is like a bad car sales man right now. The American people are the customers the tricked with a bad sales pitch in 2004. Now that customer is angry about the sale but is happy its 4 year lease is up. They're really convinced that since the sales pitch worked for them in 2004, it's going to work again. Unfortunately for them, we're a smarter, wiser customer this time and won't fall for it. And this is coming from a guy who voted for George Bush twice.
Jack, I am Tennessean and carry many Republican beliefs, but this attact on Michelle shamefull and tasteless. This attach on Michelle does nothing to solve the fact that gas is almost $4 dollars a gallon or that our economy has stall. It does not thing to help our perception with the rest of the world. We need to stop twisting words and start solving problems. .
When Republicans' comments about a strong opponent don't quell a rolling momentum, which Obama clearly has going for him, it is not beneath these people (Republicans) to reach out to whatever may appear to them as a vulnerable sensitivity regardless of its personal inappropriateness. If the bulk of voters understands that personal attacks of any kind are a sign of weakening, (if not weakness), then Republicans will reap their just rewards.
The Republicans targeting Michelle Obama rather than Barack is an indicator of how hard it is to attack the 'Change Candidate'. I would suggest they stop, since it isn't as transparent as they may hope it to be.
Surer Mohamed
London, ON, Canada
The sad truth is we as a nation fall for these ridiculous political ads. Few take the time to find out the whole story, so we make decisions on something that is partially fact based. It is worked in the past so the Republicans are banking on them working now. I think it is offensive and immoral even if this is not illegal.
Not only not good strategy, but not in good taste. Which is exactly why I expect them to continue.
Watching the GOP self destruction after years of self righteousness rule would be almost sad if is wasn't so funny.
just shows how petty the republicans are. I know exactly what Michele meant. As on of four blacks in an all white school, after being subjected to punches, being spit on, name calling and other terrible things I know what she means. At the age of 11 I was tramautized. In a country where some don't want to include you as an American citizen, I know what she meant. As for Cindy McCain, she has some nerves. It went right over her head and a whole lot of others because unlike a lot of us black and white, we were not born having money. For all the good it did her. She and McCain are a disaster. No one can tell me that after spending five years in a POW camp he did not come out with mental problems. Mr. McCain probably take a lot of medication. Along with his wife. Are these the folks we want in the White House especially after Bush?????? Concerned
Duh. They are desperate. I am certain they are looking into the Obama children's kindergarten records for any indications of unpatriotic behavior.
Jack,
The Republicans don't have a strategy. They are just grasping at anything they can to keep the discussion away from the real issues. They don't dare talk about how they've ruined our economy or how poorly they've handled foreign policy. They will keep up their attacks in hopes that people will forget what a bad job they have done. It'll only work for those who would never have voted for a Democrat no matter what, but it won't work for the majority of the country.
Do I love my country, emphatically. Am I proud of my country?..... Look at the last eight years and ask yourself what we have to be proud of.
The Republicans will continue to make her and Barrack seem UnAmerican no matter what they say anyway! Xenophobia -just another fear tactic.
I would imagine anybody who even shakes hands with Barack will be a target of McCain and the Repugnants. The friend of my enemy is my enemy is obviously their train of thought.
Why bother. There is plenty to attack Barack on.
Anyone with a ounce of sense would know what Michelle Obama was saying. I think if they go after her then, sweet wealthy Cindy McCain should be fair game.
Isn't she an elitist that grew up in wealth and never in her whole life has she had anyone turn their nose up at her because she wasn't white enough or have enough money? I wonder how Mrs. McCain would handle one day in the life of one of us minorities. I bet she has never felt or heard how cruel people can be when you don't look like the "rest." Until you walk a day in a minorities shoes, you have no right to judge what others should say!!! All that money and it still can pay enough to hide your ignorance!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jack
Our next first lady, should be getting some respect. McCain's wife said she will never release her tax information. Does she have something to hide? Lets concentrate on the election and not the family of the candidates. She is not dodging sniper fire and is not getting serviced in the white house.
Moses Malalah
No, it is not a good idea. However, it's become standard GOP strategy for at least the last 20 years. In 88 they went after Kitty, in 92 and 96 they went after Hillary, in 2000, Tipper, and in 2004, Teresa.
Why would anyone expect 2008 to be different?
Yes, this tactic will certainly work with folks who are just plain ignorant and or filled with hate (for whatever reason). Negative campaigning is not targeted toward the victim, but toward folks with low self esteem, whom are already filled with seething hate looking for someone to spew on or about. This can have the effect of destroying the victim's character by transferring the negative energy of whatever ills have caused the hater's low self esteem upon the victim even though these ills have nothing to do with nor were caused by the victim. These hate filled folks generally have no idea that they are projecting their own fears and failings on an innocent victim. The evil creators of this filth are completely and acutely aware of how this works which is why they use this despicable tactic. Additionally, the so called "News media" unwisely contributes to this tactic by performing the act of spreading the filth far and wide under the phoney guise of "reporting the news". News media, especially television broadcast media should start every performance with the disclaimer that what they are about to present is just "entertainment" and should in no way be confused with reality! Thanks for listening. By the way, in this presidential campaign, it just won't work.
No one seems to mention that she said "for the first time in my life I am really proud." The word "really" changes the meaning of what was said. It says she was proud before, but now she is more proud. It cannot mean that she was never proud. Why is this word bleeped out? I think that newspeople should be accurate. I notice that many of you are not. Get the original tape and listen. Then get your 6th grade English text book and read it. As for Tennessee -they are living up to their claim to fame – being the home of the KKK. And you know what that means.
The Republicans are just disgustingly DESPERATE. They have previously tried to use this exact same tactics three different times and have been unsuccessful. As a matter of fact they have lost three long time Republican held seats.Come November their hearts are really gone be broken. And oh what a happy day it wil be Go Obama
I am a white American and I too, am FINALLY PROUD to BE an American.
Look at how we're coming together to rally around someone who will bring a change. ANY CHANGE will be BETTER than what we have in there now.
We have a Dictator for a President, and Oil Man for a Vice President and a Photo Op Queen name Con-deliza Rice.
IT'S TIME FOR CHANGE.
It's TIME TO SAVE THE PLANET.
It's time to get rid of the 'ole white men' and the Black Woman in this administration.
McCain/Romney = Bush/Cheney
YOU GO MICHELLE!!!!!!! WE'RE BEHIND YOU ALL THE WAY TO THE WHITE HOUSE.
It is not a good strategy for Republicans to go after Michelle Obama because the Republicans make themselves look silly & desperate. Michelle is indeed proud and she has stated her sentiments many times by stating, she wouldn't be where she is today if it weren't for the many opportunities and blessings of our great nation. It's desperation on the part of the GOP because they know they're not going to prevail in November. Our country is heading in a new direction, move over McCain and (Mrs. McCain – who won't release her income tax records); the "GOP" party is over and the Straight Talk Express is running out of gas!
As usual, republicains grasping at straws that have litlle or nothing to do with real issues. This and fear mongering seems to be their only strategy. Which is why so many of us agree with Michelle....But I have no doubt that our Black Jackie O. can take what ever the GOP can dish out.
Thanks, Jack
Christy.... from Knoxville, TN
Well, Michelle Obama opens herself up for controversy. To me she is a very angry woman with some kind of a chip on her shoulder and I am not really a fan of Obama and less of a fan of his wife. When Hillary was First Lady she at least had smarts and was concerned about health care and issues the the people cared about. What Michelle will do who knows...I just don't see her relating to the citizens of this country at all. So what is her problem? Bill Clinton has been smeared all over, who does she think she is? But that is part of that snooty attitude both her and Barack have, and were supposed to back off....Why?
Politics is such a dirty game – Dragging an honorable, forthright, compassionate, intelligent person like Mrs. Michelle Obama through the 'political ringer' just makes my stomach sick. I'm sick and tired of this whole "show" – let's get on with it already.. some things are just obvious, (please take a hint, Hillary, the sun has set).
Poor taste by the Tennesse Republicans, but what do you expect this is the place were the Klu Klux Klan has a strong hold and its birth place. GOP must stand for Go Option Phobia, Great Old Prejudice, and Getting Over Politically!
Just be consistent.....when the Democrats start going after Mrs McCain because of her wealth.....make sure you are equally disgusted.
Jack –
Of course going after Obama’s wife is fair game and good strategy. She has injected herself into the political arena and like any grownup needs to be held accountable for her words.
-Robert of New York
Bankrupt of ideas, the Republicans operate like drunks, clinging to straw. Any successful government, regardless of country, runs on their record. Can the republicans do that? Obviously not! So, now comes the fearmongering. A nation that was once the envy of many, has now become a shadow of itself.
Those who crafted a fraudulent message to the naieve minds, are now setting their sights on a new dimension of fearmongering, and lofty promises about victory in Iraq. Too much fluff and no substance.
Jack,
Michelle and Barack, and many of their supporters who are new to this, need to realize that they are in the big game. Anything goes and it won't be pretty. It does not serve them well for their supporters or the media to coddle them – as many of us feel has been happening for months. Just wait . . .
Susan, CT
Jack you better be careful the republicans might go after your family if you keep messing with them!!! LOL
jack the republican has been the same tactic since before i was born
and i am 49. all they do is scare people into voting for them because they cant make an argument to defend their ridiculous views. Smears and attacks work well enough to get them elected then we find how morally and intellectually bankrupt they are. Barack is like a breath air and he will not let them get away their bs like some others have.
Well the Republicans have a history of this; they went after Hillary and Chelsey and now they're operating under the same M.O. I don't recall the Democrats going after Laura and the twins, even though we all know there's plenty of ammo that could be directed at the Barbie twins.
Well Jack,
I suppose by the GOP doing that they are opening the door for attacks on the other spouses. Cindy and Bill. Would they like that? From what I have gathered in the news, Michelle Obama is an honorable, intelligent lady. By the way, I am an Obamacan.
Bagdad, Florida
Jack,
Patriotism is love of country.
Yes, I love this country even though I'm not proud of everything it has done. Just like you love your children even though you may not be proud of everything they've done.
To be proud of one's country – no matter what – isn't patriotism. It has another name – chauvinism.
Bob
Chattanooga, TN
This shows how Republicans are dry of Ideas and policies on which to base their fall campaign and therefore, they have become a loud empty tin. Rather than challenging Obama and his policies, they are challenging Michelle on non-policy issues. All policy theories that Republicans embraced for the last eight years have been nulfied by the mess we are in today and now because Republicans have no valid policy arguments, they are confined to definitions of patriotism and attacking a spouse of a candidate. How low can they go? They would rather challenge Michelle and not Obama?? This Party is DEAD!
From a political view, yes it is.
When I first saw a picture of his family, I thought that Americans would never accept a first family like that. After all, our history shows we have always defined a PERSON as someone who looks like US.
I supported Obama with my vote in the primary and at the later county convention. It would be great to be shown that I am wrong.
If they want to go after Michelle then the least they could do is release Cindy's tax records. Make no mistake Jack, the GOP only has one platform to run on this fall...FEAR! I really don't think Obama's another Kerry or Dukakis.
Michelle misspeaks, Barack misspeaks. Boy this is a family of misspeakers. They sure don't sound like White House material. Michelle Obama shouldn't be out there stumping if she can't take the heat. Look what the media did to Bill Clinton every time he opened his mouth. In one word GROW UP.
By going in this direction the Republicans are showing just how scared they are of the Democrats this fall. They have a candidate they aren't really happy with but are stuck with. They don't know how to campaign against Obama. Rev. Wright didn't work like they wanted it to so they figured they'd try attacking a family member. If this doesn't work whose next, his Grandmother, his Daughters, the Postal Worker who delivers his mail? Get over it Republicans you're desperate & scared!!!!
Dear Jack:
I do not believe such attacks are a good strategy. First off, I am clearly an Obama supporter and those that read this response will take what I have to say accordingly. However, the kind of tactics employed by the Tennessee GOP to take statements out of context is just the first volley of numerous "swift boat" ads that will bombard the American people between now and the November election, especially since Obama is now looking like the presumptive Democratic nominee.
So why is this not a good strategy? Traditional hard core constituencies will support their party's nominee regardless of the content of such ads. Neither party has a sufficient majority of registered voters to determine the election's outcome. The winner will need to appeal to both moderate and independent voters to succeed this November. John McCain was correct in asserting that the American public is tired of the Rove-style bitter partisanship that has dominated Washington politics for the past 7+ years. Americans overwhelmingly disapprove of George Bush and the direction he has taken this country and are now more inclined to listen to alternatives. All the Tennessee GOP is proving by running such ads is that the Republican Party has no other vision to offer other than attacking their opponent.
I believe Americans are craving solutions to the many difficult problems we now face and will support candidates that rise beyond the fray to offer different and creative solutions. McCain and Obama have the potential to elevate this presidential race by discussing issues that impact all Americans such as national health care, how to manage the Wars in Iraq & Afghanistan, higher energy prices, loss of home equity and the subprime mortgage crisis resulting in an apparent economic recession. These are the issues that most Americans care about, not whether the candidate wears the American flag on their sleeve or whether their church pastor has criticized U.S. domestic and foreign policy. If we are to reclaim our democracy and take responsibility for the leaders we elect, then we need to pay attention to these key issues and tune out party propaganda offered by either political party.
Why is it that Republicans run this type of race???? Democrates TRULY do no engage in the same style of politics. sure there is some slandering but nothing as consistant as what republicans do. Why is that??? Is one honestly bad (republicans) and one honestly good (Democrates)?
I think it is fair game as I stated about Chelsea Clinton. In politics these are the kinds of tactics to be expected. I do thimk that her words were taken out of context,however. It questioned her patriotism and I think that is unfair. Blacks have shown more loyalty and patriotism as anyone,but it appears that we must dot every "I" and cross every "T" or we are not considered racist and unpatriotic.
I am writting from Ann Arbor Michigan
It is not politics of the Republicans to go after personal matters such is this unless they are worried of loosing.if democrats goes after cindy McCain we might have to amend the constitution to extend the election Date so we can have enough time for all the details.lets just keep it where america benefits from Debates.
Going after Mrs. Obama at this point shows the lack of substance the Republican party has in regards to the issues everyday Americans have. But I guess Mrs. Obama's statement is more important than the economy, education, healthcare and the 100 yr war they(Republicans) want to keep us in. I agree with her statement for the first time in my adult life I'm proud to be an American, the land of the free, home of the brave. No where else in this world does this political process happens.
Obama 08
Americans are no longer dump to fall for this type mean-spirited attacks from these bunch of loosers. They have tried these types of attacks in three different states congressional seats elections and they failed. Now they have turned to Michelle. Shame to you Republicans. Your days are numbered. Whether you like it or not The Democrats now own the house and you Republicans will have to dance to our tone. Now you see how hard it is to be labeled loosers.
Simon
San Jose, CA.
Please, fellow citizens, do not judge all Tennesseans by the antics of the Tennessee Republican Party. These dim bulbs are likely alumni of the College Republicans, who lack the wit to overcome their right-wing upbringing. For years they've been ridiculed by intelligent students at campuses all over the country, including UT, my alma mater and that of 5 of my children.
It's time someone took her to task. During the course of this campaign she's gotten by with outrageous racist remarks, endless negative commentary about America, and blatant unpatriotic statements. She's a loose cannon and shoots her mouth off without any thought to diplomacy or tact.
Jack,
this is laughable! I thought the wives were off limits, at least Mrs. Mccain's tax returns are. The fact is over 80 percent of us arent proud of the country right now. The real question is why are people more concerned about this and not concerned about all of the millions of people losing their homes or the dollar starting to be comparable to the peso? I guess I should just go out and buy a flag pin for my lapel and let everyone know how great this country really is!
Republicans can go after Michelle Obama, but I believe it will be a futile chase.
I hate to say it, but there have been many times, in my ADULT life, that I have been embarrassed for my Country, i.e. the Bill Clinton/Monica Lewinsky fiasco, the bombing by two Americans in Oklahoma City, the Columbine, Virginia Tech, UNC (etc) shootings. Government officials (Spitzer, etc) that literally get caught with their pants down. We used to be viewed worldwide as a compassionate superpower, but now we are viewed as a bully. I was proud how our Country united after 9/11, but I feel we have become complacent again.
Keep in mind, that when the aforementioned events happened, they were not only televised nationally, but internationally. It's been a long time, in my ADULT life, that I have been REALLY proud of our Country. Citizens of this Country are turning out in record breaking numbers to vote and for the first time in our history, a woman or a black man has the opportunity to occupy the most powerful position in the world.
Jack, It's the race card Republican style. Not exactly a proud moment in America. Let's think of some proud moments in Amercia: The night John Lennon was murdered. No, not a proud moment. The day Reagan was shot. No, not a proud moment. I know, the Virginia Tech slaughter. No, not a proud moment. How about WACO? No, not a proud moment. Here it is. The day we went to war with Iraq.
Its a good strategy and certainly fair game. She said what she said. Period. His middle name is what it is and he did wear what he wore. Period. How can he complain when his middle name is used? More importantly, why is he ashamed of being seen in authentic tribal attire? And why should the GOP, the media, or anyone else have to apologize for simply repeating facts. Seems to me "making things up" should be off limits, but, repeating facts is fair. Seems to apply to the other candidates, but, when Obama is the one taking the heat, whoever is applying it is dubbed a racist. Amazing, this "reverse discrimination" that Obama is getting away with in this campaign, and, that the media seems to support.
Thank you for showing the CNN neutrality again, Jack. Are you and Rick Sanchez applying for a job in the Obama administration?
If they wan't do go after Michelle Obama, then Cindy McCain is fair game starting with her being required to submit her tax return. Other than her submitting her tax returns (as Michille Obama has) both spouses should be off limits.
Obama didn't return the dirty tactics by his fellow Dem. Clinton, but once it's McCain, he will fight back. It's better that politicians not playing it as voters showed they don't want it.
Of course it's good strategy for the Republicans to attack Michelle Obama. What the heck else are Republicans going to talk about? The economy? Gas prices? The two endless wars? New Orleans? The housing crisis? America's debt? Osama bin Laden? The desecration of our Constitution by our current President and his cronies? Obviously the Republicans have nothing good to say about themselves, so they're stuck with saying nothing but bad things about their opponent (and his family).
what else do they got, Jack?
This just tells you how low the Republicans will go to slander Obama and his family. It will not work in November!
Obama 08!
They really really really don't want to see a 'sista' get mad! Stand by her man, she will indeed do and with great skill. Keep being crazy and off come the ear rings and then look out.......lol
I am disappointed in both the democratic candidates and believe that in time, President Bush will prove to be one of the smartest Presidents we have had in many years. I am especially proud of him for speaking the truth in Israel. I am voting GOP – both the democratic candidates are laughable and dangerous – I can't decide in what proportion.
It's hard to attack Obama on policy until he actually articulates some policy positions. It might not be "civil", but if someone makes a public statement, it's fair game to be used by opponents. The Obama campaign showed will Bill Clinton that they have no problems attacking an opponents' spouse, so why should they be immune to it?
Many people understood the point Michelle Obama was trying to make, but ignore the underlying truth behind it. Subjugation or Marginalization? You can fool people sometimes, but you can not full all the people all the time. This is a new era of Americans match toward its call and creation. God bless America.
It looks as if the Republicans will do their best to portray Michelle Obama (and her husband) as uppity ingrates. The tactic demonstrates an extreme unwillingness to address the important issues of this election because Republicans are locked in with losing positions on most of them - the war, the economy, and health care to name a few. With recent Congressional losses in stronghold districts, these folks are already becoming desperate and from past performane we already know that they will stoop to any reprehensible tactic to divert voters. A good tactic, Jack? I think not.
After so many years of GOP gutter tactics and so many people being suckered by them, its no wonder the parties are polarized. It makes me wonder if our democracy is really great or just a little better than the alternatives. . . .
well, I have no doubts that Michelle Obama is well capable of handling this attack, and that's one reason it's not such a good idea. On the other hand, voters are tired of the drama. As far as the comment she made about being happy, I am 20 yrs old and couldn't be happier to hear the changes Obama wants to make.
Hi Jack,
The idea of targeting a candidate’s spouse illustrates how truly desperate the Republican Party has become. Should the Presidential candidate’s spouse be a target during the electoral process? Unless the spouse is involved with some seriously questionable activity, then the answer should be absolutely not.
The Republicans are showing their foolishness here. After all, John McCain’s extremely wealthy wife Cindy is unwilling to give the public access to her tax returns. What is she trying to hide? If the Republicans attempt to rip Michelle Obama to shreds, then Cindy McCain will become a fair game for the Democrats as well.
It's no small wonder why so many good people don't want to run for public office.
Rod Thornton
Oakland, California
Jack,
When will we get to the real issues and not continue to talk about gaff's. Now the GOP is goin after Obama's spouse and use her as a clear smoke screen to blind the American public from the real problems we face today. If they want a fight then they need to stand up on their own to feet and get in the ring with the person that will hit back or maybe that's the problem.
NOT THIS TIME!!!
The American Citizens of this country must realize even if they chose not to, that Michelle Obama represents to all Americans what you can do if you work hard and study hard, but in her case, she cannot and should not take anything for granted, because it is a proven fact that in this United States of America if you are black you will work harder to get where you are attempting to get. Now you good American Citizens, these are my words and not Michelle Obama's so please don't take this and expand it until I won't even recognize it.
I think it is a dangerous strategy for Republicans to go after Michelle Obama. I believe if the Republican Party go after Michelle Obama, other countries will view America in the same way they view how other women are treated in the Middle East. I have always thought that America stood unconditonally for human rights, dignity, respect, integrity, and justice for all. I guess the members and believers of the Republican Party lack all these American values.
If the Republicans stoop to this level, they must be really desparate to win in November.
Jack,
Nothing that the GOP does surprises me anymore – absolutely nothing. To hear Bush make a mockery of a state visit to denounce those who would oppose his views is absolutely disgusting. His comments and rogue actions are the reason we have been diplomatically alienated by many countries.
Regarding going after Senator Obama's wife – that is off-limits in the way that the Tennessee GOP went about it. If McCain truly meant it when he said he wanted civility, he'd think a bit and realize that HIS wife may become a target, too. Perhaps that's why we haven't seen her on the stumps with her hubby that much...?
Mrs. Obama will have to mind her words as any to-be first lady. As to those she spoke in the past, certainly the opponents will claim they should be known and analyzed. Obama campaign may not expect they are out-of-reach just because they're apparently nice guys.
Yes, I think that the media's over reaction to any negative comments against the Obama campaign just continues to show its bias. Attacking a person who makes public comments in a public arena during a very important election season is open and fair game for those who wish to criticize. We forget that if Obama were to win, this lady and her views will have the ear of the most powerful and important man on Earth.
Is the GOP "Going after" Michelle or are they examining what she thinks? Michelle has injected herself into her husband's campaign unlike John McCain's wife who has stayed in the background. When a family member does this I think they deserve the scrutiny. She made that choice.
It's no secret that liberals don't care much for the US and would prefer we were more like socialist, secular Europe. They clearly believe that taking down the white, heterosexual, christian, male makes things better for everyone else. Anything big and successful is bad. Strength of any kind is evil. Men and woman should think and act the same and "Please don't hurt us" is an acceptable foreign policy.
I think it's fair to know if this is the type of "change" Michelle and her husband have in mind.
Next thing the GOP will be claiming that Michelle Obama has weapons of mass destruction in her pocketbook. That one worked for them once before....
(Long Island, NY)
Hi Jack, The Republicans are so desperate that they think attacking Michelle Obama is a good idea. They're grasping at straws. They probably see that their candidate, John McCain is a terrible one, and has no chance of winning in November. I should know, I was, until recently a Republican. Now I'm actually an Independent, thanks to Lou Dobbs. I intend to vote for Obama, unless a good third party candidate shows up soon. I couldn't be paid to vote for McCain! I hope Obama can really unite the Country, we really need that. Thanks Jack
P.S. I am also a "former" Fox News viewer, you guys are the best!
The Republicans are desparate. they'll go after anything, anyone.
They should be desparate after Bush made a total ass of himself yesterday, once again in front of the whole world. God help us.
Michelle Obama is not immune to attacks either by the GOP or the media.
Look at what was done to Senator Clinton when her husband was running for President. The woman was villified for not being a "stay at home" wife and mother. She was attacked for being educated, a successful lawyer and for wanting to contribute her knowledge, energy and time to her husband's campaign. Mrs. Obama is no different. For those narrow-minded morons (Barbara Bush, etc.) who had the nerve to refer to Mrs. Clinton as that "B....," Michelle Obama is a perfect target.
I am from Tennessee. I am conservative. I don't like attack politics.
Tody Parry's comments. Big bump!!