Does Gov. Rendell owe Gov. Napolitano an apology?
[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2008/images/12/03/art.napolitano.ap.jpg caption="Rendell mused that Napolitano would be perfect as the head of the Department of Homeland Security because she has 'no life.'"]
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
Ed Rendell is the governor of Pennsylvania. He's been in politics long enough that he should know you don't say stuff around an open microphone that can come back to bite you in your situation.
And if you're a male chauvinist you should be extra careful.
Yesterday Rendell was commenting on the nomination of Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano to be the head of the Department of Homeland Security. There was an open microphone nearby and we were treated to Rendell's musings that Napolitano would be perfect for the job because she has "no life." She has "no family." She can work 20 hours a day protecting the homeland.
These are the mutterings of a moron. CNN's Campbell Brown wrote a commentary in which she asked if Michael Chertoff, the current head of Homeland Security or Tom Ridge, the first head of Homeland Security were hampered in the performance of their duties by the fact that both men are married and have children.
At the same time we move forward and elect an African-American president we have the governor of Pennsylvania dragging his sexist knuckles along the ground insulting a fellow governor.
Governor Rendell did issue a clarification today during a press conference on budget reductions. Rendell said what he meant to say was that Janet Napolitano is a person who works 24-7 just like him.
Here’s my question to you: Does Ed Rendell owe Janet Napolitano an apology for saying she has “no life?”
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Lynn from Ohio writes:
Absolutely! The comments about not having a family being an asset to one’s ability to dedicate themselves to a career are ok, but to insinuate that the lack of having a family in some way translates to not having a life is ridiculous. My father-in-law is right: the guy is a total idiot!
Rachael writes:
This to me is the media blowing these comments out of proportion. Someone without family would indeed be able to devote more time to their job, correct? And that rule of thumb applies to males or females. Why do people always insist on declaring comments sexist or racist? I'm a female and I take no offense whatsoever to the statements made.
Diff from Maryland writes:
Governor Rendell is an idiot and a big mouth. I think he honestly thought he would be in the Obama Cabinet or maybe the V.P. pick. It’s sour grapes from a sour puss. He owes an apology to all working women.
Rob from Iowa writes:
Why does any politician bother to apologize? They say it because they mean it. Saying you’re sorry doesn’t change a thing.
Dick writes:
I bet if there was an open mic after news reporters finish their day, we would hear a lot worse than Rendell's attempt at humor.
Beverly from Fredricksburg, Virginia writes:
In Rendell's world, Pennsylvanians wouldn't vote for Obama and only childless women could be qualified for positions he appears not considered for. Men like him are a dying breed and God Bless them, for they know not what they know not.
Venia from Pennsylvania writes:
Rendell is my governor and, like him or hate him, he calls a spade a spade. If he says that Napolitano has no life than she needs to get one.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
Family, unfortunately has a lot to due with cabinet positions. For instance, you may have a family member who may be vulnerable to manipulation and therefore make you choose between protecting your family member or performing your duty. Family situations can also make such a time consuming, always on call position problematic.
Maybe we should now ask Pennsylvania Governor Rendell if he's less qualified by having a fmily with wife Marjorie of 37 years and son Jesse.
Ralph-Corpus Christi, Texas
Family, thats a tough call. Hard enough to be impartial without having that guilt trip.
Ideally, it should not be any part of a qualification. However, discrimination continues in many forms for all kinds of positions and not just in the more obvious forms of sex and race that tend to get the majority of the attention. The most qualified far too often do not even get considered because of biases, positive ones, as in favoritism or cronyism, as well as the negative ones from prejudices. The discrimination problem is bigger than just biases against women having family responsibilities and should be addressed so if real traction toward improvements are to be realized.
Since this is referance to Govenor Rendell's remarks about Governor Napolitano. I would say that it reflects more on Gov. Rendell's intellect, or rather lack of such, than Gov. Napolitano's abilities to perform her job...... It's called "multi-tasking" Gov', and if you want to see prime example(s) watch any single mom with a professional career.
So let me get this right, it is perfectly ok for a mother (of 5 with one having Downs Syndrome) to run for V.P., but of course that's not a busy job. But for heavens sake, don't take a cabinet position if you're a female. And to "HummerGirl" they weren't talking about family connections - it's about female discrimination. Men are never questioned whether they can handle a busy position because they have family.
Using criteria like family and religion to judge who is the best person for any particular job is ridiculous and is what seems to be a large anchor around America's neck at present.
For me personally anyone who professes to be zealously religious should be disqualified from any job requiring sound judgement as believing in some of the simple minded fairy tales they preach just indicates to me they are in dire need of therapy and incapable of rendering sound judgement.
A family scandal involving the potential appointee is significant. Beyond that, it should have nothing to do with selection.
A person should be judged on their qualification, and having a wife/husband and kids doesn't make anyone any better than someone who doesn't.
I'm single, the government has a lot to offer "families", what is the government going to do to help a single person like me struggling to make ends meet? Single people are now discriminated against for not getting married and reproducing?
Yes, Rendell should apologize, just like when the microphone caught Jesse Jackson calling Obama inappropriate words.
When are these guys going to learn???
Rendell is entitled to his view – probably right but irrelevant.
Aside from his choice of wording I see nothing wrong with what he said. As I recall Condi Rice doesn't have a family right? Furthermore someone in her position does have a lot to worry about and if she doesn't have to always consider a husband and a kid then she just may be more effective.
As long as his gaffe was caught on tape Rendell absolutely should personally and publically apologize for his comment or he'll have even more collateral damage next election than he's already caused himself by making the comment. He maybe should sign up for "sensitivity training" and make an effort to lose that attitude. I wonder if his shoe tasted good when he inserted it into his mouth.
Rendell is my governor and like him or hate him he calls a spade a spade. If he says that Napolitano has no life than she needs to get one.
In a word, yes.
no. Its all politics.
If the shoe fits…
I've only read the quote, but it looks like there's nothing wrong with what he said. From what I gather, Rendell's family consumes a considerable portion of his time. It would seem natural that to him, someone who does not have a family would have all the time he spends with his available. More time devoted to the job usually means a better job done.
If every big-mouthed politician with a massive ego apologized for every asinine thing he ever said in front of a hot mike, there'd be no time left on the evening news for covering anything else.
Rendell needs to do what they all need to do: shut up, step back out of the spotlight, and stop embarrassing their constituents.
To Gov. Napolitano: Good luck in your new position, ma'am. Please don't let your idiotic peers in government distract you from your important work.
Rendell is an idiot! I live in Pennsylvania and I have the absolute right to call him an idiot because that is what he, a complete blundering idiot!
Isn’t this the second time Rendell had something less than positive to say about Obama and his choices?
I have never seen one case where open criticism of someone helped them to improve yet we as a society do it all of the time. Our entire country needs to attend some required classes on manners, myself included. I wonder if freedom of speech means character assination through an opinion?
If he were a gentleman he would have apologized right away, and on his own without being asked to do so. To force him to apologize now would be meaningless.
There certainly is nothing sexist about the remark. In fact the same remark is made about single males much more often.
Jack,
Being from Pennsylvania. Governor Rendell owes a lot more than one person an apology.
Yes, he does. Even if she did not have a life, that is her business and not the public's.
I love it when a politico opens his/her mouth, inserts their foot and chews vigerously. Should he apologize? Maybe a little for being an insensitive jerk but the sound bite didn't seem malicious just ill considered. Even people with lives are workaholics with 16 hours days and nobody badmouths them, maybe just a wee bit.
Jack: I come from a military background and in my opinion, Gov. Rendell does not only owe an appology to Gov. Napolitano, but to women in general. Many women in the military who are career oriented must serve without a family just as Gov. N. It is hard to find a man who is willing to stay at home and raise the kids so when the choice is service or family, many women sacrifice family for the sake of mission. I know several senior officers who are single females and regularly endure comments such as Gov. Rendell's or worse, are subjected to rumors of homosexuality.
Unfortunately a woman or a man having a family or not having a family and it interferring with their job has now become irrelevant since most normal families now have both people working and in many cases on more than one job which in turn translates into none of them having a life.
They have to do this just to survive!
If Rendell was a good man and a gentleman, I would say he most certainly should apologize. It's his call to make, and it doesn't cost him a thing, maybe just the price of a phone call.
People who live by the code to never tell anyone you're sorry, are just sorry people.
No, he's entiltled to his opinion, free to say what he wants, isn't that the American way..
Gov. Rendell should apologize just because it's the civil, mannerly thing to do. It doesn't really matter if he feels what he said was accurate or not.
Hmmm, I smell the green monster. Yes, he should apologize.
Ray Kinserlow
Lubbock, Texas
Apart from the political incorrectness of it, he actually pointed to a characteristic that will probably help her be successful–as her two predecessors were not.
If he was a Republican, his apology would be demanded.
Rendell still owes Obama an apology for playing the race card in the Primaries.
I think it was more offensive that he said she had no life, than no family. It was by no means a sexist remark, but an implication that she would be some sort of workaholic. People really need to grow up and stop looking for inflammatory statements around every corner.
Isn't anyone getting tired of all of this petty bickering! Let Rendell make an apolotgy or not. If we really going to get that upset every time a politician says something stupid George W. would have had only one term of office and the rest of government might be more efficient
Jack: Was not a statement a gentleman would say to a woman, but I think it is more like the "pot calling the kettle black." He should apologize, but then his apology would be a moot point–and after the fact.
Yes.
But, shouldn't we be worried that Gov. Napolitano isn't married? Maybe she does something nefarious in her spare time?
I'm kidding – it is truly awful how we treat people who are single in our society – not only do we gossip about their lives, but our tax laws penalize them for being single too. I wish Gov. N the best.
Unless her family are like the "Bundy's" on Married with Children" it's none of Rendell"s business.
I live in Arizona and she is governor of my state. She is the one that owes us an apology. She did a horrible job at trying to solve illegal immigration that our Sheriff is the one trying to do something. I dont agree with what Sheriff Joe is doing but at least he is doing something about illegal immigration. i dont know what Obama was thinking choosing her to be Secretary of Homeland Security. She cant even handle the Southern border of her own state how is she going to handle all borders and prevent terrorist threats?
Dan
Goodyear, Arizona
Political correctness has gone too far. These are adults and politicians. They have gotten where they are by pushing their weight around and insulting their competition. Get over it!
Up to today I had a high regard for Ed Rendell.Today he showed himself up to be just another sexist bigot. Whether he apologizes or not is irrelevent. He has shown his true colors. I guess he thought Hillary had a life when he suppported her.
Rendell is rude and disrespectful, and I thought all of the "mud-slinging" was over. Is this because Gov Napolitano is a female?
Rendell isn't even worth the news!
Apology for what? Expressing his opinion that she would have plenty time because of not having a family to fulfill the obligations of the job. All you dummy out there get real. I heard worse about Obama these last 19 months and who came out and ask where are the apologies?
Instead of an apology, he could make a statement about what he's learned from the experience about the biases women face in the work world. The point is not apologies, but insights gained from the experience.
Gov.Rendell must really be jealous or he wants media coverage as you are giveing him. Janet looks to me a very good choice and Gov. Randell is looking for a life!
Jack,
In Rendell's world, Pennslyvanians wouldn't vote for Obama and only childless women could be qualified for positions he appears not considered for. Men like him are a dying breed and God Bless them, for they know not what they know not.
no ...i see nothing wrong with what he said. I don't believe that it was malicious . He was just stating that the job itself requires alot of time and it is best suited for someone with no other obligation like family w/children. Everyone is just too sensitive.
Yay Obama
Oh brother...........who cares? There is enough drama in the world.
No, because it's true. Most of them have no life, life for them comes after the public service is over. And usually it is a nice comfortable life.
No he doesn't owe her an apology. He was giving a pretty apt description of the kind of jobs ALL of the Cabinet members have – If they start out with a life, they soon give up much of it. That's why Emanuel waited a few days before agreeing to be Chief of Staff. He knows that he won't be seeing his wife and kids much. Someone described Rendell's remark as sexist and rude – I think it was neither. It was factual.
Have you seen Ed Rendell? My guess is this was a case of the kettle calling the pot black. Get a life yourself, Ed.
Hi Jack,
I am writing from the great white North in London Ontario Canada, I am a lowly provincial civil servant and I got a good laugh out of Governor Rendell's remark. He in my experience was merely expressing the primary recruitment criteria for all levels of management – in my department at the least! Not having a life or at least subordinating your life to the needs of the Employer is key to getting ahead in these parts!
To those who feel this is gender issue get over yourselves!!
When are these idiots going to learn to keep their traps shut? Sure he needs to apologize. He said she didn't have a life because she has no kids – what a Neanderthal.
To be politically correct he probably should apologize. Afterall, its none of his business what goes on or not in an appointee's personal life – last time I checked it's not illegal to be single or not have children.
Gov. Rendell's statement is not as bad as what Palin said over and over about Mr. Obama for months. Should she ask for forgiveness?
I don't condone what he said; it was a sexist comment. On another note, I have friends who live in AZ and they tell me basically the same as what Dan from Goodyear AZ said. I totally support Barack Obama, but I am surprised he picked her to head Homeland Security.
No sexism because the same thing could be said about a man without family, he has no life that may draw his attention away from a difficult job! Nevertheless, i'd rather have someone in office who has something to lose as much as I do if they fail, the security of their family!
Jack
Ed may have been better served with taking a wording cue from the GEICO gecko who had a major slip of the lips with the 3 lady golfers portrayed on a GEICO commericial; it was a nice 'save' the gecko readily said next after his gaffe about "older driver'
I can't believe we are having this discussion in this day and age. The suffragettes are turning over in their graves.
Gov. Rendell is an idiot and a big mouth. I think he honestly thought he would be in the Obama Cabinet or maybe the VP pick. Its sour grapes from a sour puss. He owes an apology to all working women.
He does not owe her an apology. He has the right to express his opinion. The Democrats shouldn't be bothered with petty issues like this. They should be planning on how they are going to ruin the country in the next 4 years. That is what will happen.
Let the late night comics sort this one out, Jack.
Jack....He should apologise....Do you hear anyone saying Ed Randell does not have a life because he runs his mouth too much...Only a person without a life would know who else does'nt......Then again, he is a politician....Do we really expect any kind of decorum from them.....???
Virgin Islands
Of course he does. Not only has he offended a fellow Governor, but he's also offended a member of Obama's cabinet. Let not get off on the wrong foot now. These next four years can be good for the Democrats, so as long as they don't self-destruct.
if it hurt her, Yes he does.
Janet Napolitano is a seasoned politician. I'm sure she knows that worse things have been said about her and that she has a pretty tough skin. She probably doesn't expect an apology but Rendell, who has been caught with his foot in his mouth before, should strongly consider it.
Janet will need all the time she can muster for her new job. Her personal life (or no life) is her business. Let's forget the talking and get on with some positive answers to our numerous problems.
Jack,
Why does it matter.All these politicians have be doing in the past couple of years is opening their mouth wide and at the end pout that they are sorry.This will not bring jobs back or restore the confidence in the american economy. Let us talk about real issues.
Wichita, KS.
More than that, he owes the rest of us an apology for having the nerve to think we'd be interested in his opinion of anyone at all.
Does Ed Rendell owe Janet Napolitano an apology for saying she has “no life?”
Yes, Ed Rendell owes Janet Napolitano an apology for his comments.
Would he have said that about Sarah Palin? I think not!
Jenna
Roseville CA
Oh bother. Rendell owes an apology for existing to the entire world.
Well, does she?
Brownwood, Texas
Yes. he should apologise even though I do not believe it is sexism which campell brown has ruled out.
Jack,
Yes. What an unprofessional statement that Gov. Rendell said. It was totally uncalled for!
Daniel Ambrose,
Atlanta, GA
On the contrary, Janet Napolitano owes Ed Rendell a thankyou note for praising her as being perfect for the job of leading our Department of Homeland Security. As a young woman who also has "no life" and works 19 to 20 hour days, I would consider such a comment as a complement and recognition of my dedication and work ethic. Believe it or not, having "no life" makes you successful and upwardly mobile. Having a life, on the other hand, means you are not focused, have no ambition, are not qualified for any professional position of relevance, you don't work very hard and nobody respects you...in short, you're a loser and nobody needs you.
No way. He was merely making a true statement. The job is such that it requires someone who can devote many hours and that is all he was saying. These microphones used by the news media have done nothing but intrude where they do not belong. Hard for anyone to say anything anymore without some news bug listening. Listen to many private conversations and you would be able to convict most people of some crime.
Yes! It should never be too late or too embarrassing for one to show common courtesy in the form of an apology.
The superior person is modest in their speech, but exceeds in their actions!
Steve,
Laguna Niguel, CA
Hi Jack,
I suppose we all know what Gov. Rendell meant but he should obviously have expressed himself in a more collegial manner. It never ceases to amaze me how some of the supposedly best and the brightest still utter such ill-advised comments despite being surrounded by microphones (dead or alive) on a regular basis. Maybe he should apologize to Gov. Palin about the "genius" comment. I guess he thought he might as well get his fully quota in by the end of the year. Perhaps someone should get him a copy of 'The Death of Common Sense' as a stocking stuffer. If he doesn't like the book he can just stuff the sock in his mouth and the problem will be solved.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Jack,
Yes, he does, but not for being a sexist. His comment might as easily have been made in reference to a male with no family. In fact, such remarks in reference to men are not unusual in many professional settings. His remark was just a foolish and insensitive one for a politician. That is what he needs to apologize for.
Jim
Reno, Nevada
NO! He was saying she was PERFECT for her position. There are many like her with limited ties, who can CONCENTRATE their time and efforts where needed.
Yes he should, once a woman called me boreing, i have never gotten over it. Boo Hoo!
It is a bad joke which has been made by many people in many professions; he just got caught on candid camera. Heck, I am a childless 25 year old man; the same thing could be, and probably has been, said about me. As far as an apology goes, I don't know that it's necessary; she is obviously an accomplished woman who likely wasn't even slightly phased by the comment.
Rendell is an idiot. Isn't it nice that he keeps opening his mouth to remind us of that fact? I wouldn't want someone to forget and give him a job where he'd have to do something worthwhile. Oh look– he HASN'T been offered a job...
Well, he could have said "It's like lipstick on a pig," Jack – then where would we be????
Jack!!!!
Are you kidding me??? Politics is a dirty business and in politics
no body owes apology to anyone.
Rendell has never had manners or class. He will never advance any further in politics, mostly because of his personality. He comes across as a smart-you-know-what.
Yes, of course, he should apologize. It seems Napalitano's career is moving along faster than Rendell's. Maybe he's just jealous and using his own family as an excuse.
Yes he should. keep those comments to yourself.
He should unless he wants to look like a jerk, which by saying that statement he has already achieved doing.
Tacky is as tacky does. An apology from Rendell would be a nice gesture, but it would not unspeak the original words. We should be thankful that Rendell was not offered the position, and that Napolitano was. She has a great life ahead of her, and that's what counts.
Mike – Pueblo, CO
No. He has no idea what her life is like and the fact that it was heard on a "hot mic" just makes HIM look foolish. That should be the end of it.
Oh come now! Rendell MUST take "Homeland Security" to mean Janet's personal home being in order, with no scandals, no intrigue, and no drama, thereby making her home secure and making her eminently qualified for Homeland Security! That's a second grader's best version, isn't it?
I don't know, Jack. what do you think?
.If he believes she has no life and that is what he said then he owns her nothing. If he does not think what he said is right then he owns her an apology. As one professional to another, he should never said such a thing in public so from a professional point of view he owns her an apology. After that he should check into a hospital and tell the doctors that his jaw is broken and needs to be wired shut.
When kids say "Get a Life", it is meant as in insult. It was a hurtful statement and he should indeed apologize.
Big mouth Ed owes a lot of people an apology. Gov. Napolitano has to wait in line.
It's kind of like the popular kid that is talking about the smart girl that only studies all the time. Ed does owe Governor Napolitano an apology.
I'm a single woman in my mid 30's, and have no children. You won't believe the looks I get from people, like something's wrong with me. It's no one's business to talk about you, whether you have a family or not. Comments like that can be hurtful, even if it came out wrong, and one didn't mean it to sound that way. Really, why would it be an issue if she's single, and why point it out? I think he should apologize if he hasn't yet done so.
Jack, in all honesty though, this is a double-edge sword. People will still make comments, or give opinions whether you have a family or not...just take a look at Palin, she's a perfect example.
Why does any politician bother to apologize? They say it because they mean it. Saying you're sorry doesn't change a thing.
I don't see what is sexist about it. Rendell is just a loudmouth, that's all.
Absolutely. Anytime a politician makes comments such as his, they should own up to it and take responsibility. In a time of "change," comments like his don't exactly give us Democrats are a very good starting block to our new administration, rather point out America has many strides left to go before we reach equality here.
Joshua Stevens
Rapid City, SD
Good ole Ed. He may have to adopt a new middle name. Ed Sarah Rendell. Who is it out there that keeps turning on these microphones anyway? It must be a GOP plot......
Whereas it is probably fair to say that most of us regular Cafferty File contributors don't have a life, I'm not so sure about the requirements for the Homeland Security position. Perhaps Governor Rendell was referring to previous directors who appeared to be barely alive - I believe it was "code blue". Anyway, he made a stupid remark and should apologize to her.
Absolutely! It continues to amaze me how people constantly put their foot in their mouth.......Hello people, think before you speak!!!
Not that I'm a fan of Rendell's, but does she have a life?
The comment does not make him sexist. People that interpret it to be sexist are the ones that are sexist. If they were having coffee together and he said it to her, she would probably laugh.
He should apologize. What was there to gain for him making a remark like that?
The apology should be made in private. The subject should then be dropped.
Rich Green
San Clemente, Cal.
I don't see what the big deal is here, frankly. I don't consider myself a traditionalist in any way shape or form, but as a woman I have to think honestly: when anything was wrong as a child, I called my mother, not my father. I still do to this day. There are more family concerns in regards to women, and that's natural, not sexist. Do I think he should have considered his wording a bit better? Yes, clearly, but I don't think that gives us the right to brazenly stamp a "Sexist" label on his forehead.
Ed Rendell is an idiot, and that's exactly why he has not been offered a position. Jealous and envious idiot I should add.
Is she hurt? If no, who cares. If yes, then he needs to explain himself to her.
I think we should lighten up and not turn every comment into a political debate or moral discussion. I'm a professional and a wife and mother - sometimes being all three is an asset and sometimes it's a drain. In the end, it all works out. I didn't take offense to the comment by the Gov and I don't see it as a sexist comment.
Now we see what the women have to deal with in politics. Shame shame.
He owes an apology to ALL working women.
I don't think it's sexist but it was very rude. How would he like someone to say that about him? He also made an awful remark about blacks during the primaries, so I guess he's an equal opportunity nitwit.
Yes, of course Gov. Rendell owes Gov. Napolitano an apology. Then he needs to look at himself in the mirror and ask himself why he uttered such stupidity in the first place. Open mic or not, such comments smack of ignorance, selfishness, and jealousy. Let's also take note that President-elect Obama has not asked Gov. Rendell to serve in his administration. Something tells me he won't either.
I really would be careful if I were him. Tomorrow is not promised and something could happen to his family. I'm sure Janet has a family who loves her and I hate it when people talk about others. It's not sexist, it's just WRONG.
Shame on Ed Rendell!
He was a big Hillary supporter and they all accused Obama's supporters of being sexist!
Hypocrisy!
By the way, Janet is better looking than you, Ed.
He has probably already apologized in private and it is not our business what they say to each other.
He's a good politician, but he's really rough around the edges. He's not polished at all. He reminds me of a modern day Nixon who is intimidated by intellectuals, expecially when they're female or minorities.
I like the guy, but he needs to take diversity training.
Hey Rendell, show some brotherly love.
What makes Rendell's life more substanative than Janet's? He's a moron.
I do not think he owes an apology because what he said is not derogatory. If "have no life" means not involved in a lot of activities out side of work either alone or with a family, then a lot of us " have no life."
I know people with families who "have no life."
I believe we all need to work on developing a better balance between work and personal life.
He helped Barack win, now he has to help Barack govern. Comments like that are not good for the team that promotes diversity and hope.
Where's the love Rendell?
I like Rendell and Janet. Don't hate, celebrate. Can we all just get along.
What good is an apology? At this point it would be just more air out of a windbag.
Yes,he owes her one. what does he know of her life? I think its better that she doesn't have too many significant others to text,call and help through problems.That might make her the BEST person for the job.Go Obama.Who does he think he is??I think he should be made to apologize publicly .
Its one of my favorite jokes about my life (or lack thereof)...
He owes her an apology if it offended her. If she laughed at it, there's no harm and lets move on.
Aren't we overly touchy these days?
Give me a break. It's not all that tactful but can you honestly sit there and say you haven't said something worse about someone in the last week.
She looks tough i am sure she can take it...
Ed should proudly come out and apologize. This is reminiscent of Jesse Jackson's comment about Barrack. At this moment in time we don't need careless comments like this one.
Ed is a good guy but loose comments like this one are not welcome
Governor Napolitano would be the right pick for the job because somebody with a track record of getting things right says she is the best. It has nothing to do with Governor Rendell.
He can apologize if he wants to. He's probably had lots of practice and is good at it.
Dan in Goodyear:
How can Janet fix illegal immigration in Arizona when she has to spend so much time protecting us from our insane Republican legislature? As Governor, she can only do so much and most of her time is occupied vetoing the garbage they send her. I think she has done a fine job with the employer sanctions law, improving the security of our driver's licenses and IDs and sending our national guard (what few brigades are not deployed to Iraq) to assist with border security. Please stop misleading people about Janet's performance as governor.
I bet if there was an open mike after news reporters finish their day we would hear a lot worse than Rendell's attempt at humor.
Yes. Mr. Rendell should apologise.
Yes she does deserve an apology but it should be a real. With no cameras around
If Rendell was in the NFL he would be fined and suspended as he should be by having to resign. He is a disgrace to his elected office and has been for a long time. This is 2008 not pre women's rights era.
I don't know, Jack, should he apologize for saying it, or because the media caught him saying it? After such a large gasp by the media, the apology wouldn't seem very sincere at this point but he probably will just for appearances sake.
Rendell aside, I would hope for the sake of our country and future women cabinet members that the nominated Secretary of Homeland Security has thicker skin than to let this upset her.
I don't think he does, but I can pretty much promise he will.
Maybe Ed Rendell could hook up and run with Sarah Palin in 2012...he's a male chauvinist pig and she's a pig with lipstick!!
Yes, Mr. Rendell should apologize. He should not have been having the conversation at all in a public setting. I am pretty sure the Arizona governor weighed all the costs and rewards before taking the position. It is really maddening to think that because she does not have a family she does not have a life. Who says a person has to have a family in order to have life?
There is one thing that American politicians can not be accused of, and that is have too much common sense.
Yes. & roses –
ABSOLUTELY!!
Gov. Rendell needs to keep his mouth shut...he was totally out of line with his comments.
Yes ... absolutely!
he owes her the same apology the media nad democrats owe Gov Palin
Honestly, anything from his mouth wouldn't matter. An apology from him would be just a way to get back into political correctness.
He is just jealous of her, and I am sure she hasn't given him two thoughts.
Absolutely.
She may not have a "exciting LIfe" but its hers. Perhaps the governor of PA should offer to be a border guard in Arizona for a week. A piece of humble pie would be appropriate.
You bet yer sweet bippie!
He definitely owes her an apology!! How can you say something like that?!? I think this guy is just bitter and jealous of her new position!
Yes he does. He could say something like–"sorry I said you have no life, I have no brain"
yes
Absolutely, yes. I wonder, would he have said that if it were a man who wasn't married? My guess is no. Look, I am from PA and love Ed Rendell but that's just unfortunate.
Nah. He should just take her out to dinner. That would be akin to giving her a life, right?
'These are the mutterings of a moron'
Mr. Cafferty, you rule!
Of course he owes her an apology. What he said was extremely insulting not just to the governor, but to all women.
NO – he does NOT.
It was NOT a sexist comment, it was TRUTHFUL one. We need someone in Homeland Security to protect us 24×7. We are in desperate and trying times and it's only a matter of time before something happens that makes the India bombings, Spain and 9/11 look like peanuts.
I want a Homeland Security Director to be someone that makes that position their life. My tax dollars go to paying her to keep me and my family safe.
I'm with you Jack – there's no shortage of morons. Rendell is just one more ignoramus.
No. He shouldn't apologize.
It wouldn't be sincere. What he owes her is his resignation.
He doesn't deserve a leadership position anywhere in this country.
You're right Jack. A moron.
Wow - you would think in today's politically correct environment, Governor Rendell would know better, but apparently not. Yes, an apology at the least; a swift kick in the ass would be more appropriate.
The Fact that someone could say something so evil and hurtful makes me sick, Maybe she doesnt have a family but Janet Napolitano is more of a human being that that evil sludge will ever be and I can sleep well at night believing that.
ABSOLUTELY! What a great way to start off a new era by having idiots like this bring up issues that have no bearing on her ability to do the job. While a number of us work long hours, regardless of having families or not, we all have a "life" outside of work.
Janet Napolitano has "no life?" Maybe, maybe not, but one thing is certain: Ed Rendell has no class.
-Pittsburgh, PA
Absolutely! But what's said is said and 1000 apologies from him certainly won't change his own mind... a sexist is a sexist is a sexist!
Yes, Rendell should ask his wife to send an apology to Governor Janet Napolitano. He can fax the request from his doghouse.
Rendell should be ashamed of himself. As a Pennsylvanian this is embarrassing to both me and my wife and as teachers in the Commonwealth what kind of example is this for our students. Ed, this is the 21st Century... wake up!
Of course, you would think that people in such high positions would let go of the high school style insults.
Politicians lives are considered an open mic.
Rendell should have known better than to say something like that even if his mic was off.
He should most definitely apologize to Napolitano
It's a question of fact. Does she have a life or not? You should ask her, or ask someone who will answer honestly on her behalf.
Yes. He absolutely needs to appologize for his remarks.
thats exactly it when we try to get over all the negitivity for our country someone like gov rendell just shows us that we have a long way to go way to go gov rendell
YES, he does. The statement that he made was unkind and unintelligible. He sure should apologize and asp.
As a govenor he is a waste, and an idiot. He owes here a huge apology, but he won't mean it and she will know that.
His time is coming – what a dope.
That was a disgusting statement. He should both publicly and personally apologize. He is a disgrace to public office.
I feel disgusted by those personal attacks in politics more everyday. People should talke about things policticians can offer for them and not what politicans do or do not do in their free time. Maybe Gov. Rendell is way to jealous or so. But he has to show some respect for the efforts done and efforts to come by Goc Napolitano.
This is absurd; however, it dosen't surprise me. He should apologize publicly and quickly. Things like this always happen for a reason and I hope he will learn his leason from this. If he really felt this way, he should of have waited until he got home to say it. The federal govt. is full of this 'old school' culture and it is indeed time for a change.
Hi Jack,
Yes and No. He owes her an apology for saying she had no life. I am sure that is a slip of the tongue. However, he is right in saying that because of her marital status, she would be able to put in more time at the job; Secretary Rice is a perfect example. By the way, people should be allowed to be honest; many of us also feel the same way but just wouldn't say it.
I guess some idiots just don't learn. Yes, by all means the idiot owes her an apology. By apologizing he will show at least he has some shame and is man enough to admit he's wrong. If we are lucky, men like him will learn from this.
No, because it wouldn't mean anything. He has shown himself to be the kind of person whose opinions one doesn't regard, anyway.
No. I think at some time we have all made a comment about a co-worker "having no life". It is more of a reference to how doggedly some people focus on work and not on other things. If anything it could be construed as a compliment. Get over it. Enough with the sensitivity training.
Gov. Rendell does not owe Gov. Napolitano an apology. He was simply stating a fact. Women who are single without a family and men who are single without a family can devote more time to their jobs. He never said their was anything wrong with Go. Napolitano, he was just explaining to a colleague why he supported her.
NO !!!!....
What good would an apology do? Rendell has shown that he is an insenitive creep. How unkind to fault a person for not being married and having a family. It's men like Rendell who make women like Gov. Napolitano and me happy to be single.
Napolitano should offer her condolences to Rendell that he has to live with his own misogerny and bigotry. How easily it came out!! How is it back in the 20th century, Governor Rendell?
With all that extra time she would probably also be a better Governor than Ed Rendel, so he should get down on his knees and apologize.
So what if she doesn't have a family? If she did, is he saying she wouldn't be able to balance the two? I did some reading up on her and she sounds like the right person for the job. For crying out loud give her a break!
Gov. Napolitano certainly 'has a life' and a fine one at that! She's a remarkable human being. Perhaps Gov. Rendell might apologize for his ill use of the English language and lack of specificity, word meaning and distinction. My personal recommendation though: 'hush Gov. Rendell.....no one asked for your opinion'.
He doesn't owe her an apology. He spoke just how he felt. He allowed the world to note just how rude and ignorant he thinks, so why should he apologize for telling the truth about how he felt?
If he did apologize it would be to appease the outsiders. He wouldn't really be apologizing for his statement but apologizing for not being aware of his surroundings.
Of course he should apoligizes to Gov Napolitano. I am a big fan of her . He sould be ashamed of himself.
Ed Rendell was just making a joke, it was just pure ridicule of a political decision; are our politicans not allowed to have a little humor in their lives. We need to stop being so extra sensitive about things and Rendell doesn't owe Gov. Napolitano an apology. I support the womens suffrage. Pennsauken, New Jersey
Gov. Rendell owes everyone within earshot an apology. These so called of the mike comments are ugly and should not be done. I am not sure these morons who speak out this way about others are really quite aware of them being heard. Give the selected women a break and try to be happy for her instead of being just plain jealous and stupid as well. Good Luck Gov. Napolitano. Keep up the great work. You are among the finest team ever assembled, by President Elect Obama. God Bless all of you.
He owes Napolitano an apology, without question. BUt it is refreshing to see a female who, unlike Sarah Palin, is not toting a bunch of brats all across the country. And expecting the country to foot the bill. And, putting her knocked up kid in the spotlight.
No! Because boys will be boys and democrats will be democrats.
in africa where i come from,we have a problem of having ill equiped leaders,most of them illiterate.thus i am in shock,that a governor in the leading democracy in the world could sound so iliterate.sad to hear this comment,and he needs to be on his knees in apology.
portharcourt,NIGERIA
He should apolizige. Lets face it, he was acting like a spoiled kid!
No, being single does mean working extreme hours if you are committed and passionate about your job simply because, you can. The problem is that ambitious married folks will never recognize your extra efforts and time put into the office as a positive and will back stab you as much as possible in order to keep up with you. No apoligies needed, if Janet P is as strong as they say she is, she will do the job in 15 hours a day, still have a life, and tell Mr Randell with a smile, he needs to spend more time at the office in order to keep up with her and/or her accomplishments.
Ed Rendell owes Governor Napolitano an apology for his rude remarks. This display of unprofessionalism in a high profile professional position displays this country's lack of requirements in our politicians. I hope that the change we are anticipating in this country's future also comes with more competent politicians.
Yes Ed Rendell owe Janet Napolitano an apology for saying she has “no life?” And who is he to say what others do with their life. Maybe he is upset with his own??
I like Ed Rendell, as a politician, even though he does sometimes tend to say slightly moronic things. Equating a person with no family to having no life is an ignorant concept. I, myself, have no immediate family within 2,000 miles of me and yet I still live a very busy life with numerous activities. Family or no family I don't think either is a relevant qualification for a homeland security director. I think Ed Rendell should apologize and it might be a good idea for him to stay away from microphones unless using one. Or, better yet, keep his insulting comments to himself.
Rendell clearly doesn't have a clue about "having a life" for Gov. Napolitano and should not make such rash statements on it. Yes, he owes an apology to her and publicly too, so it comes across to other hard working women.
Jack,
It's one thing to imply that not having kids to raise means you might have more time and effort to dedicate to your job. It's entirely another to say that not having kids to raise means you have no life. We never say as a society that men without kids have no life, that's a claim we only ever ascribe to women without kids. And for that, Rendell should apologize. And while he's at it, he should wake up and smell the 21st century!
Lauren
Campbell, CA
I don't see the sexism in his statement. The same can be said for a man. Men have families too...Anyone with a family would carefully consider the pros and cons of a job that would demand sacrifices from his or her family. This is yet another example of how overly sensistive we have become.
He should apolizige. That comment was uneccessary!
As someone posted earlier, he has a right to his personal views. However, that does not mean he has to make those views public.
Absolutely.
What else can I add?
You said it best.
Yes, Gov. Rendell should apologize, because had Janet Napolitano been James Napolitano, it's not as likely that he would have brought up the same subject. Not much is made out of single men taking Cabinet posts, and to be honest, I doubt most of us could tell you whether Eric Holder, Jim Jones, or Robert Gates are married. This only seems to be a subject when single women, such as Gov. Napolitano or Condi Rice, are placed in these important roles.