Would Pres. Obama’s life be easier without Pelosi as House Speaker?
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been the subject of criticism from Republicans and some Democrats. (PHOTO CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES)
From CNN's Jack Cafferty:
Politico calls it the love affair that wasn't meant to be. They are talking about President Obama and Congressional Republicans.
Republicans are still whining about being shut out of the crafting of the stimulus bill. Just like they shut the Democrats out when they controlled Congress.
The President has been trying to smooth things over behind closed doors and even said late yesterday that he'd be willing to make changes in order to address some Republican concerns. For one thing he told Democrats to remove the money for contraception that was part of the package, which House Speaker Nancy Pelosi defended just the day before.
The GOP has been careful not to criticize the new President who everybody is in love with at the moment. Perhaps they know where to draw the line. But that doesn't mean they can't complain about Pelosi, and they are. This is not first time Madame Speaker has been the subject of criticism, and not just from Republicans. Some in her own party are less than thrilled with her. There is a quality about Nancy Pelosi that, for want of a better word, is just plain annoying.
Here’s my question to you: Would President Obama's life be easier without Nancy Pelosi as Speaker of the House?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
John from Collinsville, Illinois writes:
You betcha!
Sara writes:
Man, are you going to get creamed! A lot of people will think it is because you are turned off by 'uppity women', but I am one of those 'uppity women' and I agree with you. She is annoying and I don't know exactly why, but I do think she is an impediment to the President's agenda.
Paul from Austin, Texas writes:
I do not think so. Remember he does not want just yes people on his team and whether he likes it or not she is part of his team.
Gary from El Centro, California writes:
That would depend entirely on who might be there if she wasn't. The old saying "better the devil you know, than one you don't" comes to mind. Pelosi is politically astute enough to recognize how popular President Obama is right now and how silly she would look trying to undercut him. She will play ball.
Sandra from Texas writes:
Absolutely not. Pelosi is the only Democrat I see that has any backbone whatsoever. I remember when Nancy Pelosi was minority leader in the house and the Republicans booed her on the house floor. They gave her no respect and no voice. I personally think we would be better off today if we had a President Pelosi than a President Obama. He is the one that is starting to annoy me with all this kissy facing of Republicans.
Paul from Columbia, South Carolina writes:
Nancy Pelosi should stay. For this senior citizen, she is great for checking my reaction time. The moment she comes on TV, I see how fast I can hit the change channel button.
Mary from Atlanta, Georgia writes:
All our lives would easier.
Jim from Oakland, California writes:
Nancy annoys you? That’s great! You are a lot more fun when you are reeaaally annoyed!
@jackcafferty on Twitter
I'll say this much about Pelosi: Whenever I get a news bit on her I feel like most people do that; that she is worthless-etc.
However, whenever I see a meaningfull interview with her where she can speak in paragraphs and not sound bites she actually makes a lot of sense and has some pretty good ideas.
That said I don't if Obama's life would be easier with her gone but I don't know if it would be any better with someone else in her postion.
Not only Obama’s life but the rest of the country! We also could do without that other worthless moron, Harry Reid.
Jack everyone's life would be better without Pelosi, then again take out Harry too, while we are at it let's just clear it all and start again. Oh wait we can't do that can we...sigh.
Marcy
Mobile, AL
Hi Jack:
You should be on: "Saturday Night Live" or "The Letterman Show"
Ron San Diego
hi jack
best question of the year yes,she should just go away until Obama pass this bill,you dont need a birth control bill passed all men have to do is hang a picture of her in the bed room im shore they will be turned off.
clearwater,fl
EVERYBODY'S life would be easier without Nancy Pelosi as Speaker of the House!!!
Yes! Since Pelosi is not a part of the solution, she should get the heck out of the way.
An easy question to answer. Yes.
Jack: I think all of our lives would be better without Pelosi.
No!
I don't understand why she got the job in the first place.
She does nothing to portray the visions of the President or the Democratic party, and as far as reaching across the aisle... Forget it!
Remove Pelosi and Reed and half of Obama's problems are solved. Next require E-Verify of every entity seeking stimulus and bailout funds to insure the American middle-class gets first shot at the jobs, especially infrastructure jobs. Pelosi and Reed care more about Mexico than they do about the US.
No, she doesn't need to go. She just needs to have a sit down with the President. He will listen very carefully to whatever she has to say and then he will list all the common goals they have and explain how they can reach them in cooperation- no drama, just pure cool
Pragmatism. If she knows what's good for her, she will listen real good too.
Remove Pelosi and Reed and half of Obama's problems are solved. Next require E-Verify of every entity seeking stimulus and bailout funds to insure the American middle-class gets first shot at the jobs, especially infrastructure jobs. Pelosi and Reed care more about Mexico than they do about the US.
Dallas, Texas
Sure, let's make it easier for Obama. How about appointing Oprah as Speaker?
I don't know Jack. She seems to have the tendency to open mouth, insert foot and sometimes seems to be too impressed by her position and power.
But, believe she has the welfare of our country at heart, just needs
to listen, examine her ideas, and be agreeable to consider all viable suggestions. Know she and our President disagree on items included in package, but believe, for our sake, they will unify their ideas and do what is best. More than I can say for the republicans.
Absolutely! I have not been impressed with her since she becme speaker. It looks to me like she doesn't know the work bi-partisan either plus she doesn't seem to be able to run the House very well either.
Everybody's life would be easier. Whenever I see Pelosi, all I can think of is Cheri Oteri. Go Spartans.
Yes, I suppose so, Jack, but why stop there? Any president's life would be a lot easier without Congress at all, wouldn't it? And I can think of times when the Supreme Court has caused the sitting president no end of trouble.
Of course, maybe our lives would be a little more difficult if they weren't there. The concept is "checks and balances." If Jefferson and Madison thought the idea worthwhile, why not give it a chance?
Yes. Pelosi does not impress me. I'm not certain that she is even qualified to be in the congress let alone"Speaker." Her only qualifications for the job as far as I can see,is being wealthy and having lots of connections.
Pelosi believes she's entitled to a tiara and nothing it going ahead without her anointing. As Speaker, she's now an obstructionist. She should help the democratic agenda. She was a lap dog for Bush's last 2 years.
I do not think so. Remember he does not want just yes people on his team and weather he likes it or not she is part of his team.
I think that Pelosi and Bozo the Clown have a lot in common, in particular the heavy make up ! Obama has no choice but to endure her tenure. Does the President of the US have the power to fire the Speaker of the House ? Oprah would be the perfect replacement.
The answer is probably yes . . . but it would be made a lot easier if he didn't have to deal with obsturctionists like Boehner also. That man needs to remember the Republicans lost big time!!
All our lives would easier.
We would all do better without her as Speaker.
Everyones life would be easier without her! Both she and reed shold be done away with. maybe then something would get done. Not much but something......
Well Jack. No. Especially if they are living in two SEPARATE houses.
Yes, Pelosi is only out for herself and has made this recovery bill a joke. Millions to government cars, all terrain trails, Acorn are just a few of the spending in this bill. Obama needs to veto this bill for a true recovery bill. One that he promised and the American people can feel will help them. Pelosi will just damage the Obama's vision of America and maybe could destroy it. He better watch his back where Pelosi and Reid are concern.
All of our lives would be easier without Pelosi...
Jack, not only without Pelosi, but also with Reid and a majority of the Republican thugs who still think their ideas are relevant! Too bad all of them couldn't have been scraped in the last election.
All our lives would be better without Nancy Pelosi in Congress
Absolutely!!! She is making life hard for the country.
That would depend entirely on who might be there if she wasn't. The old saying "better the devil you know, than one you don't" comes to mind. Pelosi is politically astute enough to recognize how popular President Obama is right now and how silly she would look trying to undercut him......she will play ball.
His life would be easier. In my view, she is a complete failure as Speaker of the House. I don't see her being on the same page as Obama any time soon, so we can expect the difficulties between them to continue.
YES – SHE is a canker on the Congress AND the country.
She doesn't represent America. She has no common sense, cannot compromise, and isn't happy unless she's out in front with every camera pointed at her.
Nancy Pelosi and her "ilk" are the reason I am an Independent. I refuse to associate myself with a party that puts her in charge.
Absolutely! President Obama understands well that we're tired of the same old same old politics and pork. Nancy Pelosi doesn't get it.
Jack,
If Nancy Pelosi chose to do what was best for America, she would get out of Washington, now. Obama does not need a House Speaker who will go down in history as the Democrat who believed that contraception would save the economy. Hello?
YES........ and more money for Infrastructure and less on birth control.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is a great asset to President Obama. But she certainly has random, "Hormone Imbalance Days" that frustrate me,...?
Yes, and...
my life would be easier without Nancy Pelosi. I wouldn't have to think about frozen Botox smiles. If there is such a thing as an 'empty suit' for women, she is as empty as they get. How did this woman get where she is?
Harry in Tampa, Florida
Jack He defnitely doesn't need Pelousi,she is probably the weakest house speaker I have seen in my life,she is ther only for Pelousi and not for Obama or any one else.It might help if she would follow through with her plan she had when she first became speaker which was a40 hour work week for the jokers,then maybe somethong would get done but not under her leadership. Ron in AR
Jack,
Hard to say, it is very speculative. Pelosi was and will be irrelevant. However , for sure Obama's and all American people life will be easier without conservative republican saboteurs, terrorists and so called patriots. They failed and derailed US economy, bankrupt government and created lawlessness. The only nearsighted, and ignorants can't see how hard they work to destroy the country. They rather see mass death and destruction before change of their rotten values and bank accounts. They are only reason to justify GITMO existence and they are only potential GITMO residents, before innocent people blood stain US soil.
Zbig
Clifton Park, NY
Yes, yes, and yes. Pelosi not only doesn't get it, but she is responsible for Bush getting away with murder because she refused to allow articles of impeachment to go forward under her regime. Pelosi must go if America is to recover from years of abuse of power.
He would be better of with Pelosi and Reid. Neither one is much of a leader to get his bills passed.
Yes, obviously it would be much easier. Maybe Rahm needs to give her a training session.
Jack,
I think everyones life would be easier without Nancy Pelosi as Speaker of the House. I think President Obama would be able to do his job with a lot less stress and boondogal nonsense if she would retire, but alas I think she enjoys the TV cameras to much to go anywhere in the near future.
Judie
St. Augustine, Fl
No, I believe Nancy P. has been given a bad rap in large because alot of what she has tried to accomplish has been blocked by the former veto crazy president (bush) and his cronies (republicans). Let's give her a chance now that she has a more favorable president and house and senate to see what she is really made of.
It wouldn't make much difference who was the Speaker Of The House as the Republicans are going to find something to complain about regardless of how absurd.
From what I can tell there isn't a Republican yet indicate they realize their ideology of tax breaks for the rich and less regulation has led to the current conditions.
Bush/Cheney/McCain all publicly stated the economy was fine right up until the banks started collapsing and then and only then did they have to admit there was a small problem.
The rest of the elected Republicans including McCain are still embrassing these failed strategies and at their age and lack of compassion aren't likely to change their opinions or attitudes.
If Pelosi wasn't the problem, it would be another speaker ready to take the House limelight. Pelosi (and Reid for that matter) needs to learn that more people voted for Obama, indicating that he is the one that Americans trust to solve our problems. On these big issues, she should be repeating almost everything the president has to say. When matters are not as urgent, then she can squawk about her own agenda.
Obamas life would probably be better without several others besides Pelosi. If he really wants to reach across the isle like he says, and work with Republicans, I see several Dems that seem to be looking for payback for the last 8 years, but who knows, it might work. I doubt it though, some of the Dem's are have blood in their eye's. Politics in Washington as usual, and the voters pay for it.
I think all of our lives would be easier without Nancy Pelosi as the house speaker.
Jack, she has already proven that she has her own agenda despite the calls for bipartisanship and for all to rally around the new President. So yes, not only would President Obama's life be easier if she were out of the picture,..so would the lives of all Americans who support the new administration.
Yes not only Obama but the rest of the country;
anyone's life would be easier without her around. Democrat, Republican, you name it.
Pelosi is the scapegoat for all the ills of the previous congress and who better to be the same for all the ill willed people who want to scuttle the new president?
"Obama is having more problems with the OLD GUARD, not with Pelosi. "The old guard made GW BUsh into a "SCAPEGOAT". Now they have PEOPLE like Eric Canter from VA as a guard whom never gives an intelligent argument. Instead of trying to block regression and possibly a recession or possible depression to the economy they send ERIC CANTER to represent. He does not have the ability to give any ideas. FOR the Old Guard he is THE depression on the brain . As they say the professionals sunk the TITANIC. Eric Canter is not even a professional. Do we have to look at him any more? PLEASE, NO MORE OLD GUARD!!!
it wouldn't make a difference because he's the boss..pelosi should have been harder on the bush administation when it came to the big banks, 2 wars that is waisting taxpayers' money, and not being tough enough on certain issues..president obama is very smart but having pelosi would know more about how to get things done..pelosi can give him the votes on anything but i wish she would keep her ego out the door..
Yes Jack. Pelosi has unfortunately become as ruthlessly partisan as the Republicans she had to fend off for six years.
Of course Obama's life would be easier, but who would be her replacement? Every House Speaker I remember is always shooting their mouth off like it's a part of the job description. With Pelosi, our new president has a tough hill to climb. I get ticked though, when some accuse Pelosi of having a socialist agenda. Wasn't Obama accused of the same? People labeling someone a socialist are just well off. When you're homeless or out of a job, those folks don't care where the help comes from.
I realize that N. Pelosi is the speaker of the House, but I think that she is too Liberal for what POTUS Obama wants. He is more middle of the road than she is and wants to work WITH the other party. Whats wrong with that, trying to unify this country under ONE hat, and GET THINGS DONE with transparency. Thats what has been missing over the last 8 years. Its about time we can trust the whitehouse again.
Bob
Preston, CT
Absolutely! Let's put impeachment (of Pelosi) back on the table!
We had a change in the Presidency. Why not a change in the Speaker of the House? Her leadership or lack there of has been called into question during the last 2 years.
Gee I don't know Jack. Would the world be better off without hemorrhoids?
Heavy headed power mongering Nancy and Reid must stop media interview and go into oblivion as their partisan attitude will only hurt the country's economy irrepairably.
While he is pitching out Nancy open the door wider and pitch old Harry out too. These two people are worthless and are going to stand in his way of good sense and good moves.
Jack
Quite frankly I think he would be better off without most of those in Congress. While the President has changed Congress has not changed much in name or its thinking.
Matt
Rockford
Mr. Obama's life over the next four or eight years is not going to be easy, no matter what. The country has been left in terrible condition, and Mr. Obama is in charge of trying to fix things. And some things just don't seem fixable under any circumstance. Ms. Pelosi is playing her expected role in a separate chamber which will have to get over itself in terms of partisanship and exclusionary behavior, but even if the Legislative Branch purred like a kitten, the country still is out of fuel, at war on several fronts, is eleven trillion in the red, has a population growing out of control, is losing jobs, and seems to be in worsening straights even as you ask your questions.
absolute, Jack. She wants to be the big boss; sorry, there is only one boss, President Obama whom most of the American voted for. She is local representative and she does not represent the USA.
For all of her years in the House, what does she do to help American, except be part of the destruction of US.
.
The Speaker of the House and some Democrats need to forget their grudge against the Republicans and cut the President some slack in the name of rebuilding America. This is not the time for partisanship, just allow the President to do his job.
Vernon
Georgetown
Guyana
Every President would like a rubber stamp Speaker of the House. The American people are better off with a thorn in the side.
Absolutely Jack. Pelosi dances around the serious issues and gives away important items without getting any thing in return. Examples, the Republicians got off-shore drilling while the Democrats got zip. Bush and Cheney rode out of town without a concern over impeachment. The Speaker has said she can not get anything done without a 60 vote majority in the Senate. It's becoming her signature truth. Basically we're looking at a person who couldn't get anything done because she lacked the power. Given a clear mandate in 2006, her only accomplishment was to get a bigger airplane. Pelosi needs to heed the old saying, lead, follow, or get out of the way.
Buzz in Pleasant Hill TN
Pelosi may just end up being the Democratic Parties worst nightmare.
I really see know "leadership" qualities in her, what so ever. She also seems to want to keep the partisanship in Washington alive......which is what Obama is against.
I am beginning to think that all of our lives would be easier without Pelosi.
YES and women in general. Pelosi and Palin are two of a kind and fit in the same shoe. they are all mouth and no brain. they want to be queen and have everyone bow to them.
Yes.
Life would be better for every human on this planet without her around...
Jack, I think that Pelosi politics does not fit in with the change that the president speaks about. Speaker of the house Pelosi way of doing business is of the old school. I am now in power and it will be done my way. So many others like her fell into that same trap like Newt Gingrich. These are desperate times and we need both parties working together in order to get things done correctly. Pelosi needs to change or else needs to be replaced. I think that some of our elected officials in high places becomes so full of themselves and the power that their jobs possess, that they do not realize the image they send to the public, or else they just don't care.
ya betcha!!!!!
Absolutely! Our congress is so broken right now, a high school kid could run things better than she has. Pelosi's vision is far from realistic, if she has any at all. The real rub here is they will be getting raises for all of their "great" accomplishments over the past year. Somebody help us!
I like the idea of women in government but not that one. The bonehead statement about not impeaching Bush was not only a dereliction of her duty but carte blanche for Bush to screw us royally up to the last second of the last minute of the Nightmare On Pennsylvania Avenue.
Believe me, everyone's life would be easier without Pelosi. Can we ger rid of Reid while we're at it?
let me think a minute.................a-yup!
Is the Pope Catholic? Is Pelosi out of control? You betcha, and he needs her to step aside in the name of bi-partisanship. He won't and she won't, so he'll have to stiffen his upper lip.
Too early but going by the past – whise life would not be easier?
Todays White House Briefing was a pure political statement on the part of the W.H. spokes person. He kept saying forget about the pork/corruption just look at the bigger picture. Remines me of the old saying,
' Just smash your finger and you will forget about your toothache".
This is the same old washington run-around that has put this country, politically as well as economically, in the sewer. Don't look at the whole picture, just what "WE" polically want you to see"
I thought washington was going to change, it still has the same smell. The Speaker said the same thing.
Definitely remove her from office and take her side kick Reid too, please.
Jack, I am a former Baltimore City resident and remember Nancy Pelosi's father and brother as the mayor. If Ms. Pelosi had 10% of her fathers skills in politics she would be fantastic. President Obama's life in the Whitehouse would be a dream. I think she has let her position go to her head. She is only one vote in the house. She speaks of reaching across the aisle to the other party. All I have seen so far is opposition. I learned a long time ago to listen, sleep on it and maybe just maybe the other party has a point. Instead of our reps looking out for themselfs they should listen, sleep on it and let thier conscience be thier guide. I am tired of all the bickering going on between partys. They represent all partys not just thier own. As I said once before "Our congress needs a good dose of E-LAX. Then maybe they will have a clear head.
Let's look at Pelosi's record.
We've got a an extension of SCHIPS passed and waiting for Obama's signature. We've got the Ledbetter Equal Pay Amendment passed waiting for Obama's signature. Today the House is voting on Obama's American Recovery and Renewal Act. California is free to set its own emissions standards, which will reduce the number of cases of childhood asthma (meaning fewer applicants for SCHIPS).
As far as providing family planning for low income women. This too will save money in the long run.
The Republicans in the House are a crew of embittered racists, sexists, ideologues and religous fanatics. They gave us the current economic disaster. They have spent much of their time lying and exaggerating. They waged a hate, smear-and-fear campaign against Obama, and not they're doing the same thing against Nancy Pelosi. They have nothing constructive to offer except tax cuts for the rich – which means more money for Republican campaign contributions and more money for lobbyists.
Nancy Pelosi is getting results and that's what counts. For realm, the country would really be better off without the corporate crooks, GOP obstructionists who front for the crooks and the ignorant pundits on CNN who have invested money in defense industry contracts.
Los Angeles
Jack
Most definately however you should have added Harry Reid, thats the other member of this tag team. Both should fade away like the old soldiers they are.
Nancy Pelosi belongs into a mental institution. How can a scumbag like this represent people. She is nothing but a problem for Obama. Get rid of her.
Yes, but I'm glad she is there messing things up more and more. This is going to be so much fun watching Obama miserably fail in his job (with her help). I can't wait for what happens next in this soap opera of a government.
Yes it would be easier but then the rest of us and especially the news media wouldn't have as much fun. Mrs. Pelosi may not be the most whippy person in the world that is speaker of the house but she was elected to that job so maybe we need to ask that she be given some help and support instead of ripping her apart every chance that we get just because she's dopey.
Yes Jack, it would. And so would ours. Ditto for Harry Reid too. They passed almost everything President Bush threw at them for the last two years Why now are they so worried they're going to look like Obama's puppets if they don't show some resistance to his policies.
Yes. She's been in charge of the House for two years now and has accomplished nothing that the Democrats had hoped to do when they took over. She's much too far left of the average American and certainly has the stench of partisanship about her.
300 million + Americans' would be better off. Only her daily hairdresser, makeup person, & of course, her mirror might suffer.
What a waste of such a powerful & important possition. We could sure use the British sysyem & call for a 'no confidence' vote & send her somewhere. Maybe Ambassador to Uselesstania.
David, Las Vegas
Jack,
It certainly would be, she makes him miss Newt Gingrich's dumb political ideology...
Central Islip, N.Y.
Yes. The woman just makes things worse because she doesn't know when to shut up.
The people of the United States would be better off without Nancy Pelosi as Speaker. We don't have George W. Bush, whose approval rating was in the high 20s, low 30s. Pelosi's approval rating is in the toilet. Let's see, who'll flush.
Yes. Nancy and Harry would be better as a traveling vaudville team. Their dance routine would carry them across the country towards lala land. Nancy could twirl and Harry could pat her on the head as she goes around and around making sure she is always turning to the left. Obama would smile and say "isn't that nice, a boy and his pet." But I wish they would turn to the right once in awhile.
Jack–
Oh Lord Yes! The woman has a chronic and perhaps terminal case of foot-in-mouth syndrome. She has a high percentage of people that she offends every time that she makes a statement. Obama needs a new speaker of the house, and probably a new senate leader too.
Troy, Ohio
I wonder if she was put in a leadership role just because she is a woman, and not because of any particular skills... Kinda like a recent vice presidential nominee...
Everybody's life would be easier without Nancy Pelosi! We might actually get something done around here.
To blame any one person for either helping or hurting the current administration is simply a copy out.
It takes a collective effort to cause problems and create havoc in the political system. When leaders of a political party urge everyone to take a solid stance on a bill or an issue then it is their collective ideology that is to blame.
If memory serves me correct most Republican candidates in the last election ran on the platform of not what they would do or what they have done but rather on the need to elect them to stop the other party from having a majority.
People who voted for them based on this ridiculous campaign message are the ones to blame for what happens in both the House and the Senate.
Hmmm.... I'd also have to throw out Harry Reid and the entire lot of corporate owned congressional puppets in order to make a real difference. Pelosi is simply the mouthpiece. I would also have to throw out many Republicans in Congress who put their GOP party ahead of country. But...I guess we have to start somewhere and Pelosi is just as good as any starting point.
HD in Phoenix, AZ
Yes. Pelosi should go. She's been part of the problem. More government spending is not the answer. What effect was the stimulus last year? ZERO. Isn't that an indication of what will happen next? And $825B???
This entire issue is credit related. Pass legislation that doesn't impead SAVINGS.
And where is the Democratic party now?? They(and Pelosi) jumped up and down with praise at the supposed surplus from the Clinton administration – which was all extrapolated numbers. Then, jumped up and down in fury over the spending from the Bush administration. Now they seek to dwarf the Bush administration's spending in 1 signature! This is unbelievable.
He needs Nancy Pelosi,to push the Stimulis bill as fast as She can or people will start looking at whats in it and the public will Raise Cane,because its mostly PORK. Even Nancy(porky) Pelosi add 33 million for America Somolia,where her husband owns 17 million in the largest MFG there. Obama needs to remember he promised NO PORK. and the Stimulis bill is fuul of Pork.
Jack, nancy Pelosi like 99% of reps and sens. likes the limelight. Therefore she will do what she can to stay in it. If Pelosi were not there, some other jerk would probably do about the same type of job. What the Dems need is to be constantly reminded they are there to represent their constitutents' best interest , not some political
party's interests.
I can't answer this until you tell me who would replace her. When the Republicans aren’t calling the shots, they cry foul and claim they have no input. In reality, they have no real ideas to input. I would ask John Boehner how many real economists he has consulted with to formulate a better plan. I doubt any. He would have to look them up in the phone book which requires being able to spell economist.
Not only without Pelosi, but without ALL the major egos in Congress!
***Warning to Congress*** put your egos & ideology aside and put your country and your fellow Americans first!
I have not been impressed with Nancy Pelosi since day one. There are other women in the Senate who could help Pres. Obama with the economy, healthcare,etc. I think her main interest is her hairdo, pearls and clothes. She is not a leader.
Theresa
Central Falls
Jack, horrible as it is to say, it may just be that both Obama and Biden are both physically safer as long as Nancy Pelosi is second in line!
I think we need to give her time to let it sink in that she is now part of an overwhelming majority, before we judge. She seems to still be in defense mode.
The Republicans are whiners. They'll keep whinning until they turn red in the face. And if it doesn't work they'll like to pin one person against the other. Obama is just giving respect where it's due. I am just so disappointed he's extending it to those (Republicans) that doesn't deserve it including John McCain.
With Pelosi gone, life will be easier for everyone. When she uses the word bi-partisan I have to laugh, I am not sure she knows what that means. The day she became speaker of the House, her power hungry attitude came through like a bullet and it gets worse everyday.
Reid needs to go too, oh I forgot he doesn't work for Pres. Obama.
Jack, Thats not fair, Could you think of a few men who's presence could cause problems, Well, you should have added there names to the list as well, looks as if you don't want women to have a say in goverment at all Jack, just saying, you don't like Clinton either. It is what it is OL Boy, give us a chance, we will get it done right.
Let's put it bluntly, I am very sure that the GOP would be more than happy if Pelosi wasn't Speaker of the House, and that is because they are ideologically at odds with Madame speaker on many issues, esp. to include contraceptives.
Well, I do have a question, Jack, if you are homeless because of a home foreclosure, getting pregnant would be out of the question, right? If you lack a good job that will put food on the table, putting more mouths to feed out in the world would not be an option. Birth control would be a whole lot cheaper than welfare.
The GOP are going to simply have to get past their own special interest ideologies and start working toward helping this nation move forward. Given the fact that their special interest ideologies did nothing to help this nation in the last 8 years.
Pelosi has proved that the wrong woman can do just as poor a job at leading as the wrong man.
DON'T stop at Pelosi! Franks; Cilburne; Reid; Dodd--
All those who HELD Majority leadership roles, over the last 2 years!
Democrats must also take responsibility for LACK of action! Obama WANTED a Stimulus Bill on his desk on January 20! The leadership had since November 5, 2008; to make it happen! They, and Obama; went on vacation! But; Obama cann't stop smoking; using hhis blackberry; or CHOSING A DOG!
At this speed; the 20th century ; will look like the good old days!(World War I and II; Hitler; The Great Depression; the Cold War; etc! The GOOD OLD DAYS!
President Obama had better watch his back or keep the sharp knives acounted for. I think that both Pelosi and Reid could stab you and not blink
Even if the President's life were to be made "easier" by replacing Speaker Pelosi, who would you get to replace her ?? AND just how acceptable would that person be to the rest of the country as a whole ??? This government was designed as a series of checks and balances, and is a representive democracy. If one person, or group, had complete and total control it would be a dictatorship. I might not agree with Speaker Pelosi 100% of the time. In fact I might even think that, at times, she is a flakey as a box of wheaties. BUT, every once in a while, she is right and does a "good job" at her job...
I think President Obama's life would be easier without Ms. Pelosi. As much as I hate to admit it, we just do not need a petulant, in your face Speaker of the House. Yes, the Democrats won this election but our President wants a new kind of politics. I understand how she feels, how we all feel after the last 8 years, But someone has to be the adult, someone has to go first and mean what we say. And if it does not work the first time, or the second, then you do it again.
Come Senators – Congressment please heed the call – don't stand in the doorways – don't block up the hall – the times they are a-changin'
Pelosi and Reid have to go; somehow they forgot who is the head of their party.
Jack don't you think that we would all be better off without Pelosi? I certainly do.
Jack, with regards to the present stimulous package, here is a good idea on the tax cuts. For all those American corporations that have exported all kinds of jobs of products and services to China, India, Phillippines, and other countries throughout the entire world, stimulate them with tax cuts but rather than with 275 billion, as the package seems to be already carved by Congress but with 500 billion in exchange for the return of all those exported jobs. This would not only mitigate the short term unemployment but long term as well. Failure to accept this proposal should result in penalizing those same corporations with higher taxes and increase of the import tarifs into America.
Mario O
Roselle Park,NJ.
Easier maybe, but he needs her. He's to darn nice for his own good, wasting his time talking to the dead-enders in the losing party, almost as if they were relevant. They want desparately to see him fail and she'll keep him on his toes to avoid these poison punks.
Without Pelosi he would waste to much valuable time rying to placate the very snakes that want him, and the country to fail for thier own political futures.
Not only Obama, the whole country would be better off without a person who forgot who she works for9The American People). We have to remember tis in 2010 when it comes time to get rid of the dead weight in Congress, and there is alot of it. We need people who are truly going to represent the people and not their own adgend.
Nancy Pelosi makes it nearly impossible to get the nation’s business done because of her goofy “pie-in-the-sky” too far left ideology. She does not foster cooperation and bipartisanship as much as she drives a wedge between the two sides of the aisle. She talks about “helping the poor” but she is the first Speaker ever to have their own jet. Speaker Pelosi is more focused on her glory as opposed to the good of the nation and that is going to make Obama’s life impossible when dealing with the House.
Yes.
She needs to leave. She is a problem child and so devisive. She even infurates her own party.
Are you kidding? Everyones life would be easier without her , and other enemies of the constitution . But she had a point giving birth control to illegals and future welfare moms would cut spending and help the economy a good deal
You judge Nancy too harshly jack. If you look at the poorest of the poor, most of them have several children. Fewer unpland pregnancy`s means fewer tax dollars spent careing for them. Maybe not the right bill for this one, but definatly worth thinking about. Obama said he want`s to suround himself with adversaries. That should include the left, as well as the right.
Frankly Jack, I think she's a dangerous as Palin would have been, only this one got in. I would have given her mother free contraceptives, if it would have kept her out of politics.
Jack,
All the "big-heads" in Washington are only looking out for themselves
and their own political clout!! Pelosi is a twin to Biden; they both have
foot and mouth disease. Oh, Jack, only time will tell!
These men are just bitter because Pelosi is a woman and they don't like being bossed around. These are difficult times that demand cooperation. Congress,stop whining and do your job.
The problem for Obama is not just Pelosi and the Democrats or even John Boehner and the Republicans. The problem is the entire Congress including the Senate, which cannot begin to solve a problem without engaging in bitter partisan politics. Also, many members of Congress have been on Capitol Hill for 20, 30 and 40 years. Time for change? Yes, please!
Congress is broken and with an approval rating of about 19% they should all be fired, but of course our system doesn't allow for that. What the American people can do is demand term limits and real campaign finance reform.
We need people in Congress who truly want to do the right things to fix America, instead of spending most of their time in office raising money just to get re-elected over and over again.
America needs a new generation of leaders who won't play politics with our future.
Jack – that's unfair. In fact, there's a quality about you and Wolf and Campbell, and Lou, and a lot of others that's just plain annoying.
We have to sift thru a lot of the crap to find a bit of true news these days. Be it from our gov't or CNN -- it all just sounds like little girl gossip.
Rise above it for your own sake.
Not just his life Jack, but all of ours. I think the American people are tired of bickering and are ready for a change to happen. Pelosi and Obama, if they can work together, can definitly bring abouts the change that we need. I dont know about you Jack, but im ready for a few executives orders right about now.
Danni
Upland Ca
Probably so, as both Reid and Pelosi talk a good game and then have no follow through, and no stomach to do the things citizens are demanding like investigations and prosecutions of Bush era law breakers, or to stand up for what is right. President Obama would also be better off without the whining, irrelevant Republicans, too. They are about themselves, and not about the country, and it is getting older than old.
It's amazing how some of the same old failed policies continue to be extolled by some members of congress as the path to take for economic success. These are the same policies that gave us a $1.2 trillion deficit in 2008 and over $5 trillion deficit for the last 8 years. Of course these deficits happened after starting with a budget surplus. We have tried their plan and now it's time to try Speaker Nancy Pelosi's plan, President Obama's plan.
EVERYBODY'S life would be easier without Pelosi. I can't believe the people of San Francisco keep sending her back to Congress every two years. She is an embarrassment.
Only if the person that replaced her wasn't worse than her. We have done worse you know. People may not like her or style for whatever reason, but policy wise she is a progressive and America desperately needs to get more progressive.
Jack,
The answer is 'yes' with reservations. Nancy Pelosi represents her California district and her own passionate beliefs very well. But she is terrible in her role as Speaker of the House, (and by the way, in the line of succession as President.) She is recalcitrant and uncompromising. The role of Speaker is to coalesce ideas ... to form consensus ... to make things happen. It is not about recalcitrant insistence of her own agenda. Even a President cannot do that.
Rick, OH
Pelosi and Reid both have egos and self serving interests and are unwilling to cooperate with or participate with bipartisonship. They both enjoy the spotlight and their own self exagerrated importance. We need to replace them and everyone in congress with represetnatives who represent the people! At present our congress is inhabited with many nonrepresentatives.
I believe that Obama's life would be easier without Pelosi and Reid.
They remind me of "Bonnie and Clyde". They steal from the American people and give to the rich and give to Mexico. Gee, I wonder why the ratings of the job that Congress does is so low?
The first female Speaker of the House has her "speicial interest' groups to look after, which certainly doesn't help President Obama lesson the stranglehold the lobbyists have on Washington D.C..
Why all this hatred towards Mrs. Pelosi? She worked her way to the top and has been deeply involved in politics a lot longer than Obama. Technically, he came into her life. The world of politics is a vicious place and, love her or hate her, Mrs. Pelosi is at the top of the food chain.
Nancy doesn't understand the difference in roles. Obama was elected by a significant majority of an entire country. She was elected by a sub-set of citizens from a single state with a make up that doesn't begin to represent the compsite of America. Out of touch, out of tune, and out of ideas – it's time for her to depart the stage and take the 100 days remaining on her 100 day promise with her. Change has come and we don't need needless paper tigers standing in the way.
NO! The Republicans, according to the news coverage they get, all of a sudden know how to put the country back on track.
Where were they the last eight years?
If they had a decent idea we would not be in this mess to start with.
They had their chance and look at the mess we are in.
Some people, especially the media have SHORT memories!
What's with the "no brainers" Jack? Of course Obama would be better off without Pelosi. Hell, we'd ALL be better off without Pelosi. The last two years have proved that beyond a doubt. And while we are on the subject, when she leaves, take Harry Reid with her. They both have the same problem. At lest Pelosi has the excuse of no "Y" chromosome.
...because Dennis Hastert & Tom Delay we're full of charm and ever so accomodating...The only thing worse than a looser is a sore one.
Dear Jack,
the definition of one's being annoying can be different for every one. There is an old expression one lost but many more found!
Annoying is the republicans and anyone else who do not understand the reasons of this crisis because they do not want to change their state of mind!
I am sure that Obama's life would be easier without Pelosi. All week I have been writing to members of congress asking them to vote her out and someone else in. Ever since I read about the pork she placed in the last TARP bill that would not only benefit her state but also her husband, I lost ALL trust in her. If we are going to demand change, it must extend to both Pelosi and Reed.
Oh **** Yes! This stupid woman thinks that Millions spent on birth control is the answer to the Economy?? The Mexicans don't believe in Birth Control and it's the illegals that are flooding our ER's and schools while paying NO TAXES!
But bailing out the very Banks that stole our money and caused the meltdown seems really really wrong! Since they got the first money and the Fed cut rates to "Nothing" somehow the Banks raised interest rates on Credit Cards, so why are we giving these thieves more tax dollars.
So I guess the only way to make the banks play fair is if we're all out of work and pay no taxes! Like it said in Revelations, completely stupid stuff like this is the "false prophets" we believe in and The Beast, "Depression" ,"Will come like a thief in the night"! We have sold ourselves down that dark road and we deserve what we get!
You betcha!!
Oh, by all means, replace her with someone of substance. Just because she is the first female speaker of the house does not mean she gets a free pass. When I heard her statement that impeachment was "off the table" for the criminals recently leaving the White House, she lost the little respect that I held for her performance.
Nancy Pelosi should stay. For this senior citizen, she is great for checking my reaction time. The moment she comes on TV, I see how fast I can hit the change channel button.
Yes. The Speaker comes off a condescending most of the time. She may know how to say bipartisan, but doesn't understand how to implement. Plus, she has no "tack". Surely there must be someone else who could do the job.
Yes, apparently Nancy FORGOT just who is the president. She is another power hungey WANNABE.
Never been impressed with her. She seems very ineffective.
Pelosi is an excuse for partisanship voting not the reason for it. The truth is that the Republicans never intended to support any decision President Obama put forth. If they were true patriots they would do what is right for America regardless of Pelosi or anyone else.
Nancy Pelosi obtained her position as House Speaker through seniority and her many years as a Democratic loyalist, but these "qualities" are now the wrong thing at the wrong time. She should be replaced by someone who is less partisan and more willing to try new approaches to implement legislation. A fresh face would do wonders for the House - someone who could actually comprehend what Barack Obama is trying to do.
leave them people do their work today if lm suffer l only can say thank u to bush
I think Nancy Pelosi is an excellent leader and that she appears to get along well with President Obama. The real problem for the President is the Republicans who don't support the stimulus plan because they think it would increase the national debt too much. Also, most of them are soooo tight they only want to help the rich. It is the average American that needs help NOW. THIS IS IRONIC considering the fact the Republicans under Bush in the last 8 years have been the ones who created the mess we are now in. Have people forgotten that Bill Clinton left office with a balanced budget? Also under Bush the size of the Federal government grew considerably. If the Republicans ever hope to win in the future, they must cooperate with President Obama to pass the stimulus legislation. It appears to me that the Republican Party is on its way out because they refuse to compromise in most cases! I'm proud to be a loyal Democrat.
Yeah, Pelosi & Reid need to go & take Limbaugh & Hannity with them!
That is a Big YES.
Tx
The answer is WE ARE LUCKY TO HAVE PELOSI.
What does it take for Americans to realize that the KKK is alive and well.
Rush Limbaugh is probably a closet KKK, and so are the republican senators whom Support a CONVICT FELON DRUGGIE......
SHAME ON THIS NATION FOR EVEN MENTIONING RUSH LIMBAUGH'S NAME ON TV...THE GUY IS A FELLON, A RACIST, A FASCIST AND A SCARY BEAST.
STEVE
MISSOURI
Life would be great for President Obama without Nancy Pelosi...this current bailout has California mentality all over it.
Stimulus Package...640 pages written over night ..it's a Pelosi Wish List..it's PAY FOR PLAY.. These should individually go through the regular ways/appropriations and pass and fail on their own merit. BULL …..THE SMELL OF MENDACITY , PORK, AND PAY FOR PLAY IS IN THE AIR. I thought someone is going to go thru this line by line. Do these thru appropriation & pass or fail on their own merit…not in this bailout. Just say no to…10,000 schools (name them & how much each) -Neighborhood Stabilization (pay for play for ACORN..who & where)-The Arts & Hollywood-Washington Mall-Bailing States (Never a grant….only loans…balance every year)-Pell grants-Head start-Day Care for Military-Bike Trails-Off Road Trails-Dept Ag-Welfare & Food Stamps-money to those who don’t pay taxes-TV coupons -Smithsonian-New Green Vehicles-California wants higher emission standards so now we all have to pay more for cars.
Congress would be more effective if they stopped developing Democrat and Republican plans and trying to sell each other. They should be focused on the US as a whole and not pork for their states. They don't have a common goal or objective.
Use some of the problem solving and creative techniques that are used in industry.
Divide them up, give them a few topics to explore, lock them in a room until they all agree on the best solutions. Take these solutions and form a bill. Shouldn't take more than a day or until they get focused, serious and do some work.
Everyone's life would be easier without Pelosi. She is a mindless blob of protoplasm which would be better used as one of the condoms she wanted to give to everyone. I don't even want to think of what she might have done to get the job she has.
As replace her with who? I am sick and tired of everyone saying she is the worst thing for the situation but who would be better.. There is no winning this situation.
Hey jack not only will President Obamas life be better the entire USA willbe better. Her time is long gone she is not help full at all.
GET RID OF PELOSI
Nancy helps to remind President Obama he ran as a Democrat and not a Republician. She needs to keep reminding President Obama he is a Democrat and not a Republician. Lately he seems to be having a problem remembering which party elected him to office.
You betcha, Jack! Just the way it is, I guess
She took impeachment off the table without any explanation to the nation. Did she vote for the Patriot Act and the war in Iraq too? Anyone who did should be removed. The Republicans are acting just as childish as she is. Too many megaloegomaniacs in D.C. period.
The answer to your question is "Yes". We need bipartisanship and Obama knows that. Nancy Pelosi was great in her ability to stand up and boldly call George Bush's presidency a total failure (which I think was pretty much an accurate assessment) but now that Bush is out of there, Pelosi's liberalist lip-flapping has become obsolete. So let's get rid of her too.
Roland
St. George, UT
Absolutely not. Pelosi is the only democrat I see that has any backbone whatsoever.
I remember when Nancy Pelosi was minority leader in the house and the Republicans booed her on the house floor. They gave her no respect and no voice. I personally think we would be better off today if we had a President Pelosi than a President Obama. He is the one that is starting to annoy me with all this kissy facing of Republicans.
You bet! Pelosi is after change and exhibiting a "we won so to hell with you" attitude, which is not how Obama wants to govern. Pelosi is toxic to bipartisanship. She acts like the republicans acted!!
Better, maybe, but somebody else would come forward who will have a similar affect. She doesn't get a free pass because she's a woman, but she needs to remember, the people elected her. Enough of partisan politics that creates discord based on I'll take my marbles and won't play with you. Seems to me, Congress as a whole, needs to remember the demand America made when they elected the President. He felt the pulse of the nation, not red and blue states.
Jack
While we are debating Pelosi, could we add Harry Reid as well and really march them both out of the room. Since Prez Obama took office they very arrogantly indicated that 'I do not work for Obama" and reflected that by mouthing off about what they want to see. They need to start promoting the President's agenda and not their own. We the people still have the last say and we listen to the President. The ost their voices when Bush was in power and now seemd to have found it by mouthing off.
no i don't think it will make his stay easier. listen obama have great challenges without or with nacy there. but she has to understand he is president and she need to step back and let him work. i hope for the best for pres.barack obama and to let him know i turn 14 on january 20 2009
Well, she's definitely not a bipartisan speaker. so she's making it harder for him to change the way things are done in Washington! But at least you know where she stands. For a real change in Washington and a bipartisan Congress, it would be easier if we fired all of them and started over! No one seems to understand what bipartisanship really is! They haven't seen it in a really long time!
Yes Jack, his life would be easier but the problem with it is this. With our without Pelosi, the collective brain power of the House and Senate couldn't figure out how to shop for groceries. I guess we get what we deserve for trusting these brainless boneheads with our money, personally I don't trust them enough to let them change the channel on my TV never mind my money.
No. If she were a man we would say she has "hit a bumpy patch" and give her the benefit of the doubt. Her way isn't annoying, she is trying to help the exact decent-everyday people (that put more Democrats in office) to survive through this financial debacle that occurred on the GOP's watch. How can we even be discussing this? Let's concentrate on the Republican Party's decision to stall this economic stimulus package in January – the same one that they claimed needed to be approved in November without any stalling. Why the difference? It is President Obama! Even after he took the time to sit down with them and listen to their concerns. Even after they said he was great, they are still making it difficult and blaming Pelosi and the rest of the Dems. So, let's put the onus on Nancy Pelosi that is a good way to "wash themselves clean" of this situation. Instead of change we can believe in it is the same old "Let the Eagle Soar" from the GOP – ridiculous.
Yes. Americans are sick of Congress dragging their feet and accomplishing nothing. That ridiculous contraception spending idea – by the time those first babies are born, hopefully the economy will be back on its feet. She's thinking like a liberal, which is fine, but right now we need leaders thinking like economists and scientists. We finally got rid of one horrible ideologue, we don't need another just because she is on the other side.
I forgot Nancy Pelosi besides everything else I listed in my previous list of the Pelosi California Stimulus Package....money for STD's. is in her package ...I swear it's in there.
Pelosi honestly worried me with her defense of contraception as part of the economic stimulus package..."Too cut costs"? Are you serious? It's as if you are saying "children aren't worth having; don't have kids because its not cost effective." Is it really the governments right to do that?
I'm an '87-baby, I know the economy was rough then too but I'm sure glad my mother gave birth to me. Furthermore, despite misconceptions, most young couples put off having children until they are done college and established anyways...
It's supposed to be an economic stimulus package not a goodie bag of everything you couldn't get when 43 was in.
I have little faith in any of our politicians, the previous Bush Administration sealed that for me however, I am so tired of hearing these righteous Republicans talk about how hard they are working to find alternatives to save and stimulate the USA's economy while damning Obama's plan. I want to ask them "How did we get here in the first place, who's party politics created this mess, where were they with their Super Fix when the stuff hit the fan and why would they think their ideas would work now when they haven't worked during the last 8 years" It's the definiton of insanity, Lets keep doing the same thing and expect a different result. They are displaying about as much common sense and intelligence as their previous leader George....
Unfortunately a large number of Americans beliefs lie to the political right and have never investigated how much better off they might be if they investigated some policies to the political left.
Pelosi is a left leaning politician and something America desperately needs in their governing system.
Whenever you listen to a talking head in U.S. media they keep telling people that America is the greatest country in the world. Of course that is simply a crock as about all they are is the richest country in the world but only a few enjoy being in this category.
It's time for the news medias to show some honesty and provide the public with the world wide rankings in all the different categories and the public will know where they currently stand and what needs to be done to get their country back to being the best in the world.
Jack it's not that Rep. Pelosi makes life more difficult, it's that the republican are going to have temper tantrums no matter what unless they call the shots. Just as Gov. Schwarzenegger said about Ca. republican legislatores. Saying that it was like running a daycare the way they would rather hold the entire state hostage and run it into the ground before acting in a civil rational way. When our republican Govenor calls out the members of his own party on there childish ways, that says something.
I'm not sure who the alternative is, however I would rather have Pelosi than Shehan any day of the week.
She plays an important role to assist President Obama. The republicans are taking shoots at her because they have different views involving how to move the country forward.
Kenneth McGhee
If there were a bipartianship Congress which it isn't and hasn't been in the past, life would be easier for all including Obama. Until that happens Congress will have to put up with Pelosi's annoyance.
Jack,
Obama's life wouldn't be easier without Pelossi. It's about time that the GOP stop whining about the stimulus package and get on board. Hey, the time for old politics is over, if they really want to rebuild their party, they should hop on the "soul train."
I don't know whether or not President Obama's life would be easier without Pelosi as Speaker but the country would be better off. Her constituents should have voted her out of office last November when they had the chance. All Pelosi did when she became Speaker of the House was grease the wheels for EVERY Bush proposal to fund the illegal war in Iraq to pass in the House. She also took impeachment of Bush and Cheney "off the table" in one of her first actions as Speaker. Until the American people wake up and realize that all of these slobs are working together for the benefit of their corporate buddies and start throwing them out of office, we deserve exactly what we get from them.
Brownwood, Texas
Jack
Yes! I think the hole congress would be better off. When I listen to her talk she look and acts as if she is in a world that she dosn't know anything about. Her husband must have told her to run for congress just to get her out of the house.
Bob
this question is making me run out of heartburn pill's. UH YES !
Jack, I'm 20 years old and I feel like congress is acting like little kids! Everyone, from Nancy to Harry, and whoever else calls themselves lawmakers must unify themselves for the sake of our country (I cannot see how they are blinded by this Great Storm). It's a pretty simple task: Democrats should meet with republicans, and vice versa, and come up with an agreeable solution that is beneficial for everyone. I believe we can do it, were HUMANS! Like my mother told my sister and I, "Just quit arguing and get it done!"
ABSOLUTELY! This country has to be perplexed that this woman is in the position that she is in. President Obama would be much better off with Pelosi and Reid out of the picture. I believe the future will hold that these two will be a source of great and complex problems for our new president.
There is no doubt tthat Pelosi is not the best and brightest. I find her to be very irritating and a person who creates unnecessary problems. It would of course be much better if we had someone with Obama's temperment in charge but this is not a perfect world. It would be nice if the Republicans at least tried. I am personally convinced that they are following their grand prince of the air that Gasbag Limbaugh and all are hoping that Obama will fail. They do not seem to be bright enough to understand that they are also passengers on the bus.
All of our lives would be easier without her, Jack.
She is nothing but a pain, everytime I see her botox face I cringe!
The partisanship and "getting on the muscle" has got to stop on both sides.Pelosi comes across as arrogant when I hear her on the news.
Little Miss Rich is totally out of control!
Being as rich as she is; She has no sense of what the common man needs.
Tip O'Neill is rolling in his grave.
The whole congress would be better off without Pelosi. I don't know who has her under their spell, but you can bet it isn't Obama.
What a silly question. Things are as they are. You and I cannot even begin to imagine what they might be like if they were different. Why then even pigs might fly.
The problem with Nancy Pelosi is that she is an "old time" politician. She hasn't learned how to put what's best for most Americans and America ahead of her political agenda. Is she annoying–absolutely-but so are Eric Kantor and John Boehner. They're not exactly gaining public support for Republicans.
i think pelosi&reid should be repaced as speaker of the house and senate majority leaderand that goes for the republican leaders of the house and senate too.reid is wishey washy and pelosi isn't always a team player.i do agree with pelosi and her stance on contreception,toomany women are forced to have children they can't afford and don't want
Pelossi is OK. She at least has some good ideas.
I watched Harry Reid on Meet the Press recently. I was seriously underwhelmed. Just typical politician speak. And that was not sound bites but a full 30 mins.
When I get the feeling, as I did, that I could be doing a much better job than Reid the country is in trouble!
Nancy Pelosi doesn't mean to cause problems – she just does. She's like your well-intentioned Mom who always seems to give her opinion at exactly the wrong time. President Obama is way too classy to verbalize his frustration with the Speaker of the House. If enough people complain about her, maybe she'll get the hint that we don't need a Senate Mom.
When she took impeachment off the table, i lost all repect and confidence in her. She is a self serving entity.
Yes President Obama would be better off without Nancy Pelosi. She is a whiny and is one of the old Washington thinking people. How she got to be Majority leader is beyond me.
absolutely – she and John Boehner deserve one another, She's got the power and run amuck with it. So much for listening to our president – and all this bunk from the republicans make me sick. They are balking the stimulus package saying they have better ideas. Where were all these great ideas when they had the power – oh I forgot they were too busy lining their own pockets. Too bad we can't impeach these guys – the two obstructionist of PELOSI and BOEHNER would be gone – forever.
I think the better question is: Could the country survive with her as president if the need were to arise? She is next in line after Joe Biden in the horrible case that neither Obama nor Biden could serve.
Pelosi is definitely over her head but she can't have that much effect on Obama. We have had worse majority leaders although I can think of any well I take that back the last republican majority leader was a total airhead.
L.M.,Arizona
Jack, Obama has problems not only with that arrogant woman PELOSI but with the majority leader, The old Harry Reid.
Furthermore, Joe Biden also seems to be another big Honcho.When he talks to the media with such a preponderance, he makes Obama look like the errand boy.
The entire world would breathe a sigh of relief if Peloci would retire and let the country alone.
YES! President Obama would do wonderful without Speaker Pelosi.
She suffers from a terminal disease known as 'Foot IN Mouth" Every single time she opens her mouth, her foot ends up in it.
Pelosi is just what Obama need, someone who isnt afraid to take
on the right wingers.
It would be easier if Madam Speaker would be the speaker of the house and not the self proclaimed speaker for the people of the United States of America.
A most definate. Obama's life would be much easier if all the "OLD" diehard democrats and republicans from the congress and the senate were gone. We need open minded non party blinded people in office. Granted they all have a party, but they need to be free thinking and willing and able to put their political careers on the line when it comes to things like this ugly economic down turn we are in now. If their combined actions fix this economy they have nothing to fear...if they vote against something that suceeds or they fail they all have a lot to fear.
I find her to be annoying, too. But I'm ok with that. Her job is not to make Obama comfortable or to make Republicnas like her. If I was in her job, I can guarantee the Republicans wouldn't like me either.
I think President Obama knows how to deal with life on llfe's terms. Nancy Pelosi got her start as Speaker in a no-win Republican Congress, and we probably haven't seen her at her best yet. And, maybe in 20 years if Obama succeeds in changing Washington, a President might be able find the best people for his Cabinet among people who had never had anything to do with lobbying. Just for now, Obama is working very well with Washington as it is today.
We Democrats are currently stuck with Pelosi as the North Pole and Reid as the South Pole. See what I' saying here, Jack? They're both too polarizing. And you can throw Boehner and McConnell in that class too. Congress needs new blood for leadership.
Everyone's life would be easier without her and her mouth. Ever notice how her face lights up when a camera is pointed at her? She lives for those moments, although I don't see what it gains her. It certainly won't remove any wrinkles or make her any smarter.
It wouldn't make his life any easier. He will always have republicans looking for someone to demonize. Getting rid of the person they annointed at the evil one will do nothing since they will go on to demonize someone else after claiming victory. Seems like Reid is the next target.
His life is just going to have to be hard for a while, but then that is always the life of a leader and a consesnus builder. He must learn to navigate these waters knowing when to stroke the egos of petulant children while not giving too substantially in to absurd demands on both sides of the aisle.
He wanted a hard job and now he's got it, and there is no quick fix to make leadership easy.
The United States would be better off without Rep. Pelosi as Speaker of the House. The country is suffering, and party politics just aren't needed, but the honest, thorough, and intelligent debate to maximize the effect of the government's program.
Finally, we need a law outlawing pork barrel bribery and abuse.
There isn't a stronger word than "yes" in the english language-so i'll have to just settle for that. I predict Pelosi and Reid will be THE biggest opposition to Obama's ideas-NOT the now-impotent Republican party. They are both on a mega-power trip and want Obama to remain the "Junior Senator" they could so easily persuade in the past.
Jennifer Corridan
Sure. So would mine.
Don't most men think their life is going to be easier without a woman sticking her nose and opinion into it??
Jack I'm a Dem and that is a very big yes, and so would the rest of us be better. Can't the House elect a new speaker???
Yes.Pelosi is a major disappoinment as Speaker. She hurts Obama every day. For me, when she insisted "impeachment is off the table"
for Bush/Cheney/Rice/Rumsfeld, et al, her career was over.
Mariaelena
Brunswick,MD
Speaker Hoyer? Oh, come on Jack another white male speaker? Haven't we fouled things up enough?
Ray Kinserlow
Lubbock, Texas
I think that Nancy Pelosi is experienced enough to make a difference, give the Democrats time. I just came back from a job fair in central Florida and it looked like the soup lines from the great depression. We need all the help we can get.
Yes! I couldn't agree with you more, Jack! I think Nancy Pelosi is about two patties short of a Big Mac and her liberal-left policy positions do nothing but hurt our President's chances of getting something done.
There's only one correct answer to that question....YES!!!!!!!
Absolutely! Nancy Pelosi is one of the biggest reasons no one trusts Congress! If she had her way, it would be business as usual on the Hill. I wish America could vote on who becomes the Speaker of the House.
Everyone's life would be easier without Pelosi as majority leader. She seems to forget that Congress limps along under her leadership with a 9% approval rating (lower than Bush, I might add) and that the election of Obama is not a vindication of her alleged leadership.
She's an embarrassment.
Yes. She is stubborn and set in her ways and wants to be in the limelight. She needs to learn to share.
Jack:
I love you to death, but this question smells of a sexist witch hunt. I think a remember similiar attitudes expressed about Hilary Clinton over the amny years. Maybe the question is, "Wouldn't we all be better off with Rep. Boehner." He is much more annoying.
Would a fish walk better with legs?
Lets put it this way Jack, With friends like Nancy Pelosi President Obama doesn't need any enemies.
I think the country as a whole would be better off without House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Annoying? What about Sarah Palin? She is a woman who COMPLETELY annoyed me!!
– A WOMAN!
Jack,
What do you want. Another old white male? Get over it. She in charge and she is a woman!
MJ
Please, No Nancy? The truth is the she chaps the diapers of the petulant, Republican brats. Mommy's in charge and it drives these old guys nuts!!
Yes, defvinitely yes. But be careful what you wish for. Can you say (or rather, scream) "Speaker Kucinich"?
The Key word would be SYNERGY... either they're in sink or not.
She is about as qualified to be speaker of the house as Mccain was to be president. she is a damn joke. I put her in the same pot with Mama bear Palin, combined IQ of the two wouldn't equal a dozen donuts.
I'm glad to hear you say that Jack. I find her to be irritating too, but I wondered if it was just me.
Although Ms. Pelosi appears to be an intelligent woman, I do no think she is fit to lead the Congress of the United States. She does not command the respect of the American people and is highly political. Perhaps Arnold could find her a job in Califirnia where she belongs....
There is a quality about you, Mr. Cafferty, that is really annoying.
My 84 year old mom says Pelosi is as dumb as a box of rocks.
YES! Pelosi is a divisive figure who goes to great lengths to point out every failed Republican policy (real or imagined) in no uncertain terms. This is coming from a true "blue" Democrat by the way.
Hey Jack
She's worse than a bad day fishing. Everybodys life would be easier without Nancy Pelosi.
You betcha! (wink, wink!!)
Ruth McInerney
Samson, AL
Jack, EVERYBODY'S life would be easier without the dimwit, Pelosi. Get rid of her and the other dimwit, Reid, and we might actually accomplish something. Neither one of them could lead the way out of an open door. I have never understood how they got their positions, or how they keep them. They must have something on all the members.
Annoying because she's a woman with strong opinions, Jack? Would you be asking the same question if the speaker's name was Mr. Pelosi?
Yes, yes, yes.. dump Pelosi immediately. And I'm a Democrat. She apparently has her own agenda that cares nothing for the agenda of those who elected her. Hoyer and Reid should go as well.
I sure don't know if it would be easier if nancy was not the speaker, but I really believe Obama life would be easier if Reid was not the head of the Senate. They need someone that is stronger servin gin that postion.
Sam
WI
Jack – Right on point. As a lifelong Demo, I cannot imagine Obama's going to bring everyone together on the stimulus program or anything else when the smug Pelosi (and her annoying grin) are drinking in their 15 minutes of fame.
Would Obama be better off without Nancy as the Speaker? How can you answer that if you don't know what the alternative is? The alternative might be even more "annoying." Many men are annoyed by strong-minded women.
You bet Jack, I don't know what bird cage they got her out of but she needs to be put back. When she opens her mouth the most rediculous things come out. It's amazing.
Absolutely. Pelosi is acting like a child. With all of the problems our country is facing right now, the last thing we need is stubborn ideology and partisan warfare. Even as a college kid, her actions to me are immature. Who is the adult here? Ms. Pelosi, be nice and play with the other kids.
you just threw me a big fat softball – what a question!!!
You are not the only one who is annoyed by her sweetie/sweetie, smarmy smile/smirk. Some how she believes that by being elected from some district in the land of the fruits and nuts makes her an equal with a man who was elected by voters in 50 states (plus territories). She and Sarah both need to disappear – permanently – from public life and press coverage and they can take Harry with them!
Judi
Hilton Head Island SC
Absolutely. What President Obama needs at this point is for his alleged supporters and followers to help make his job easier and not more difficult through promoting their own agendas. House of Speaker Pelosi is more of a bulldog to me than a legislator, and if she wants to help President Obama and the American taxpayer, she'll put her distate for Republicans aside and get to work without the microphone in her face all the time or cameras flashing during a photo op.
No Jack, it wouldn't make anything easier on him. If it wasn't Pelosi then it would simply be some other old bigwig from the Democratic party.
Then you and the Republicans would simply find a new target to complain about. You lose.
James Clipp
Albany, NY
Unfortunately Ms. Pelosi & John Boehner (sp?) appear to bookends in the same set.
Do not mind if constructive criticism is stated but this continual cheap sniping is beneath the dignity of the offices they hold. GROW UP !
Yes, Americans life will be easier without Nancy Pelosi.
OMG Yes!
Annoying is an understatement.
Jack,
I thought you were better than this – like most men you are finding Nancy Pelosi "annoying" because she speaks with a woman's voice. A man would be "assertive", but a woman is "annoying'?
Jane in Colorado
YES!!! We elected only one President and she's not him!
Jack
I have news for you Jack. Not only the President, but we would ALL be better off without Ms Pislosi.
Trapper
Absolutely not, Nancy Pelosi is vital to Obama's success. If he is the captain, she is to co-pilot. I find it very comforting that we finally have two people making decisions for us that have OUR best interests in mind.
President Obamas life would be a dream without Pelosi there to muddy the waters. She's good for two things really: wasting time on bills and speeches that showcase her San Fransisco values, and wasting taxpayer money on her "hollywood" style entourage and fleet of jets that take her and her staff back and forth between California and D.C.
Would life be easier for Obama without Pelosi? Hell! It would be paradise!!
Absolutely. Nancy Pelosi is...for lack of a better analogy, one of the many Washington nutbars who rides the short bus to Capitol Hill. If there was ever anybody who does more intentional political grandstanding than Sarah Palin, Rush Limbaugh and/or everybody with a (R) in their title, it's Nancy Pelosi.
I rest my case.
I agree with many of your points about problems with the Congress. And in fact, I'm getting a little tired of the rhetoric from both sides, despite my fifty years as a radical left wing liberal dem (it's a little silly to espouse that being 64 and white haired these days).
I would love to hear more people being responsible for what they say; i.e., coming from a position that our discourses are created by what we say and to speak problems, causes only more problems. To speak having things work, will eventually cause things to work. Obama is a great example of that philosophy – judi snowed in down in southern Indiana
I think everyone's life would be easier without Nancy Pelosi as Speaker of the House. At best, she is the most partisan politician I can remember; at worst, she is a bigot and a bully to any not on the farthest left. Both Democrats and Republicans who disagree with her are insulted and ignored until she needs them again.
Jack,
Nancy Pelosi seems to be more interested in playing the role of speaker, rather than doing what is right, regardless of the costs. She is often irritating to watch and listen to. Yet, she seem to be the counterbalance to John Bayner. American politics seems to be basically adversarial anyhow. Jon in Massachuseets
We would all be better off without Pelosi and Reid in the Senate.....they are both poster material for term limits.
Jack, your propensity to rhetorical questions notwithstanding, one must temper any response to this quesiton with the counter: Who replaces Pelosi? So, the answer depends more on the second response than the first. We have too many "old timers" running Congress in both houses and the public should stop voting the dinosaurs in term after term. I wish Californians in Pelosi's district had voted for Cindy Sheehan–problem solved.
Yes ! Definitely ! Most assuredly !
Jack,
Nancy is ineffective as speaker. Witness her first 100 days. She did not deliver any meaningful legislation.
Jack, of course it would make things easier. Pelosi has her own agenda and has before Obama took office. Pelosi believes that she is in charge of the democratic party and its overall message. Obama needs to take a stand.
I wouldn't mind using a few contraceptives with Nancy Pelosi. For an older broad 'she could get it'
Jack,
Straight to the question,wouldn your life be easier without a Migraine?
John
Louisiana
I think Presiden't Obama's job would be much easier if Speaker Pelosi were not there. He's going out of his way to connect to folks on both sides of the aisle, but she goes out of her way to point her finger and place blame and bad mouth republicans. Even when I agree with her, I hate the way she expresses herself. She's very divisive and this is NOT what we need right now. I wish the Dems could find a more diplomatic speaker of the house.
Barb
Colorado Springs, CO
without a doubt! I can't believe the party can still stomch her!
Jack, Nancy Pelosi's struggles make you giggle because you are a sexist dinosaur. You and all the other men who see money for contraception and family planning and think "hoo, boy, subsidized sex!" Women see that money as health care money, and if you think otherwise, try asking the California woman who just had octoplets for her opinion! Women deserve health care money every bit as much as all those seniors getting Viagara on their Medicare Part D. And Jack, I expect to see you in the Natural History Museum some day soon. Right next to Stegosaurus.
Jean, Houston
Everyone's life would be easier without Nancy Pelosi!!!!
Without question she is now a liability to the new administration. She represents partisan politics and can only cause a lack of credibility for the new President. His life would be much easier if she were not the speaker.
Maybe I'm still a little naive with the whole election system since I'm on the younger side, but I thought we would get a new Speaker of the House when we got a new President. I'm a moderate liberal who loves Obama but Nancy Pelosi drives me insane! I think she's far too liberal and hateful toward Republicans for Obama's hope for a bipartisan term in office to be realized. She needs a replacement pronto!
Jack,
Ms. Pelosi should be clone so every and each one of the Republicans can endure her personally every day. that is the least amount of punishment they deserve after getting us where we currently are.
Thank you. Thank you. I complain about Nancy Pelosi almost daily and I am a democrat. She irritates everyone and does not meet President Obama's wish for everyone to be inclusive. She does the opposite. Time for a change. My husband says she could make a nun curse.
Also, someone needs to explain to Congress we can take them out the same way we brought Barack Obama in. There will be other elections.
Not only would President Obama be better served with a different Speaker of the House, but so would the entire nation. I wrote to my Representative and my Deomocratic Senator immediatley after election day urgin them not to support Speaker Nancy and Senator Reed. As a life long Democrat my blood pressure rises when either of them speak. Pelosi is smug and Reed is just messy looking. We Democrats must launch an effort to remove them no later then 2010.
ALL our lives would be easier without the oily Pelosi... and Reid... and Boehner and maybe even Canter. Pelosi has never shown any actual "leadership"; unless you count leading House Dems along the well-worn paths of lobbyist and pac pennies to heaven while letting Americans starve and freeze. Yes, the Republicans do it too! But that's no excuse! Pres. Obama actually wants to LEAD, has a MANDATE (UNLIKE Pelosi, whose only mandate is to sit down and shut up or go home) to lead, and is TRYING to GOVERN in trying times! Sheesh!!! Guess the 2010 elections need to be about OUSTING ALL INCUMBENTS, BOTH PARTIES!!!! Maybe THEN they'll get the true message from us
Nancy Pelosi was an idiot before. Now she's a dangerous idiot.
Michaele – Dallas, Texas
Yes. . Why does there have to be a fly in every bowl of soup??
Wouldn't all our lives be better, Jack? When will our two major parties realize that the way to effectively communicate their message to the American people is through less polarizing figures, such as Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid on the left, and John Boehner and Mitch McConnell on the right, and more centrists (perhaps Kirsten Gillibrand)?
Without a doubt, Obama's life and the lives of the American people would be much better if Pilsoi was gone. She should step down right now and take Harry Reid with her.
Yes. Everyone's life would be easier without Nancy Pelosi. She and Ann Coulter are just different sides of the same bitter, self serving coin.
YES, YES, YES and add Harry & Barney to the list.
Pelosi should've been ran out of Washington LONG ago – she does what she thinks will make her look good and I doubt she's ever read the legislation they've voted on.
The fact remains that ANYONE in Congress who votes for the crap they're pushing instead of wiping out all consumer debt is a moron. It is OUR money, therefore, WE should get. Wiping out all consumer debt would actually help US (the taxpayer) and help the banks at the same time. It's a win/win for the taxpayers and the banks.
I thought the people running our country were supposed to be smart, educated, and have a clue.....they're really only concerned with what will give them airtime and line their pockets.....Giving the taxpayers direct help doesn't help lawmakers, therefore it will never happen and China will own us within 2 years.
Sometimes the personalities involved get bigger than the issues concentrated on. This is one of those times which is why Speaker Pelosi should step aside in the name of progress.
That certainly would depend on who replaced her. But you would have to consider that since she is such a lightning rod for the right, that someone else might prove to be more able to help the President get his programs throught Congress.
we would all be better off without Nancy Pelosi, or any of the people now in the congress or house seems that a prime example of their ignorance to the trouble this country is in is voting on DTV as if that is such a priority in these times of no jobs. they should all be tried for treason.
I am a Democrat born and raised in a democratic family. I am also a female who was thrilled when Pelosi became the first female House Speaker. My adoration of this woman ended the first week she held the position. All of us would be better without Pelosi. Poor President Obama trying to convince the American people and the Republicans to pass this urgently needed stimulus package, and here she is making every effort to sabotage the bill with added pork that has nothing to do with getting our economy working again.
The simple fact that Nancy Pelosi pulled impeachment "off the table" was unforgivable. Now she's going to get the country so pissed off at Congress, and through that, President Obama will reap the damage to his relationship to the House and Senate.
Annoying and arrogant is an understatement, this from someone who was never in love with the former administration.. As a matter of fact she is almost as annoying as Newt Gingrich had been , in my opinion.
of course his life would be easier, all of our lives would be easier. she doesn't know when to keep her mouth shut. and she is tries to throw her weight around, and someone needs to let her know she is not the president, and if she keeps this up she wont be speaker come next election. she needs to be smart and let Pres. Obama do his job!
azusa california
im a republican so i dont really like obama but give the man a chance to do his job dems need a speaker who can work with both partys i mean the people are suffering for god sakes
Jack
You spent 8 years earning your living by trashing a U.S. President daily and yu were good at it. I guess for purposes of job security you need a new victim named Nancy Pelosi. As a member of the Liberal Obama Mania Media you would never have the courage to criticize Obama.
One word – Yes!
Who thought we could depend on Harry Reid, Pelosi, or even Mr. Johnny B. from Michigan.... We are letting these persons whose states are all failing miserably control this and other stimulus packages? What were we all thinking?
I have lived in both Michigan and Nevada – This country deserves their issues when people like this are running the government.
No. An emphatic no. The new president will be in need of someone who knows how to move legislation through the house in a timely manner, considering the current economic crisis. This is a characteristic that should be praised, not persecuted. Nancy Pelosi is a capable speaker whose manner of management may be misconstrued. However, the president will be in need of such a person who is as effective as Nancy Pelosi; especially one that shares his platform.
Nancy annoys you? That's great!!! You are a lot more
fun when you are reeaaally PO'd
How do we get rid of her? Please tell me who I need to contact to remove her as Speaker of the House. I am not impressed with her or her politics!
Yes Obama would be better off without her! Nancy Pelosi should step down as Speaker of the House.
I'm a lifelong Democrat and think that Nancy Pelosi is an idiot. The Democrats effectively squandered the last two years under the leadership of Nancy Peolsi & Harry Reid. President Obama would be well rid of them both!
4 billion to help Acorn and other community organizers
200 million to redo the National Mall.
Can't spend $ fast enough can we.
Nancy Pelosi reprisents her district quite well I'm sure. However, on the nation stage she is nothing but irritating, and self-serving. At best, the Dems should vote in a different speaker. At worst, President Obama needs to show her how to be more co-operative before she wastes his first 100 days.
If only we could move away from "personal politics." There is no one person that can change or fix what's wrong with our economy. It's going to take all parties in collaboration with the President to craft a solution that is best for America. It is unfair to lay the weight of this mess on the shoulders of any one person. It is divisive to do so and this puts you in the same category with Rush Limbaugh.
It's a new day in politics, whether the media pundits believe it or not.
Jack,
Yes, Both Nancy and Harry need to have a sit down with the President. They are not on the same page and are not the sharpest pencils in the the cup. The country would be better off.
Yes!!!! She colores her hair the wrong color. It should be blonde, she talks like she is an air head.
Jack, Obama's life wasn't going to be easy as soon as the economy tanked last summer. When he won the election, a hard life was guaranteed. I may be a minority, but as a former Californian, I rather like Nancy even when we disagree. She's a sharp woman who learns from her mistakes. Might there be some double-standard BS among some professional Nancy-haters? You know, like sexism or anti-California bias?
When Nancy Pelosi took over as Speaker her first concern was trying to justify a Boeing 757 to cart her and her family around. It's time to pull the 757 out of the hanger and give Nancy a ride home and leave her there.
There are a lot of things that we would have been better off without in the last eight years. If I put up with those, dealing with Nancy Pelosi is easy.
Pelosi has got be be the worst I have ever seen in this job. In addition to being totally partisan in her views, she is not intelligent and her answers betray her attempts at reasonable thought. How unfortunate we have to be saddled with such poor leadership in the Congress and now in the Whitehouse.
Speaker Pelosi has had a majority for 2 years and done nothing with it. We need someone who can produce results not excuses. Lets have a clean break with the leadership of the past.
Yes, the president's life would be easier if Pelosi was not the Speaker of the House....acually the whole Country would be better off
if Pelosi was not in Congress. I think she should be like impeachment-"off the table"!
Yes, life for the President would be a lot easier without Nancy Pelosi.
And while we're making changes, how about replacing Harry Reid, too? Terry, Peoria, Illinois
Nancy Pelosi is a menace – she is not one bit better thanTom DeLay – both are criminal in the megalomanical views of themselves and neither have any clear understanding of the American people and their needs/values. President Obama would serve the people justly if he put her in her place, quickly!
Yes, President Obama's life would be easier and more productive without Pelosi as Speaker, but even more importan my life would be easier without Pelosi in Congress
Thanks for the question, Jack,
I'm a lifelong democrat who believes that President Obama would be better off with someone who is less abrasive than Ms. Pelosi. Initially, the choice for speaker was between her and Congresswoman Jane Harmon. Ms. Harmon, in addition to being very sober and even-tempered, has vast expertise in foreign policy and military affairs. I think congress made a mistake.
Yes! I am a moderate Democrat and I have often wished that someone else were Speaker of the House.
Absolutely! FIrst woman speaker of the house and this is the way she serves her role. Please, Jack some things are just obvious.
Yes, Yes, Yes
Is Big Bird yellow.
Yes, the President's life would be much less difficult if Nancy Pelosi was not the Speaker of the House. She has done nothing to help with any of the problems and seems to be acerbic in her dealings with the membership of the House. She has done nothing that she indicated she would do when she became the Speaker.
Absolutely. Peolsi is a Democrat first. She the antithesis of the vision that Obama has for working on common ground with mutual respect.
Suzie L.
Palo Alto, CA
The Democrats have always failed to launch when it came to appointing Pelosi as House Leader. I almost lost my balance when they re-appointed her a second time. I have once again voted Democrat in the last election, but I dont know how much longer I can hold on. Mrs Pelosi must go and must do soon, while there are others that need to go, her departure would be a good start on change.
Absolutely! She not only is arrogant, but grabs power that rightfully belongs to others.
Time for both she and Reed to go; there are moderate and reasonable Democrats that would better serve both the party and the country
Yes, too extreme, divisive, uncompromising and stuck on extreme liberal policies. People want to get things done, not have a congress which is polarizing. Too bad the democratic congress does not see this.
Lou, Mt. Airy, Md
I will give you an unequivocal, Hell Yes !!!!!!!
Yes, especially now that the bigger jet she uses costs us $60,000.00 per trip. I guess the smaller jet wasn't good enough.
Jack jack Jack
Obama would be better off if he didn't have to deal with boehner and mcconnell
Yes, I agree with you Jack, Nancy Pelosi is very annoying and I find her a detriment to the Democratic Party. I really don't know how she was able to go so far with so little.
While I celebrate the installment of our first female speaker of the house, I would say she falls in line with many of our former speakers who were given to partisan rancor: Tip O'Neil (The Democrat who stood against the popular Conservative King Reagan), Jim Wright, Neute Gingrich, and that Demon Tom Daley. All these men put party above purpose.
I admire Pelosi as an example to my young neice for what a young women can hope to acheive. Truly, I believe that not only can a woman be speaker of the house, I think it is now very likely one will be president in my life time.
But she and Reid need to set aside political rancor and finger pointing and work to move our greater purpose ahead.
Pelosi = pallid Her presence lacks the verve needed at this time.
She's not horrible, but not perfect either. People are just uncomfortable with a woman in charge and get upset when she's authoritative. People would complain less if it was a man doing the exact same thing.
Yes! She reminds me of some junior high school girls who delight in snippy put downs and nasty gossip. Most outgrow this stage and become delightful young ladies.
No...I think she will be helpful to President Obama..You know Jack..I find it rather amusing that the Republicans are whining about the stimulus package..They need to shut up & support President Obama..The republicans had eight years to pass their agendas & look where it got us...They want all the tax cuts to go to the wealthy & big-business...No wonder they lost congretional seats & the general election...
The answer is No Jack. People that hate Pelosi and think she is awful is because she is working in a male driving world in Congress. She fights back and that is the reason some truly hate her. I feel she tried to do her best for the American people, yes she might be wrong on some issues, but I rather have her there fighting for me the little man, then some of those nuts in the Congress. Also Jack if Obama wants something done she is the one to get it done.
Everyone would be better off without Nancy Pelosi. The fact that the Democrat House members voted her in power makes me have deep worries about their competence.
Jack, without power hungry King Reid and Queen Pelosi, President Obama's life would be a dream and that is even with the squabbling Democrats and Republicans. Democrats squabbling among themselves and the Republicans squabbling just because the closest they can come to having an Obama in their ranks is Rush Limbaugh. hehehehe
Nancy Pelosi – The worst thing that has ever happended to congress!
I pity Pres.Obama for having to deal with her. Her ratings leave much to be desired!
Betty Lincoln
East Lyme, CT
Life would be better without Pelosi or Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. They have become ingrained in the partisan "system" and will not work for bi-partisan politics. They aren't the only ones. That group includes most of the members of both houses of Congress.
Oh my gosh, YES! I'm a liberal female, but wow, Nancy Pelosi makes me want to run screaming to the dark side. She is grating. I can't even listen to her anymore. I almost don't even care if she's trying to pass something I would otherwise support. She drives me insane.
No doubt about it! Can't help wondering if she might just be planning a coup.
ABSOLUTELY...
Republicans for Stimulus (Renewable energy, roads, bridges, etc) Not bailouts for free spending states either please.
Dear Jack,
Does a bear pooh in the forest?
No it would not. There will always be certain members of congress with deep partisan leanings who wish to promote their own agendas and grab the spotlight. In doing so they continue to sew seeds of division, not advancing the interests of the people they supposedly serve. John Boehner and his parade of Republicans had eight years of oppurtunity to get it right. Did they? Nope! Now we have a new congress and a new president and they should respect the mandate the voters provided. They couldnt lead when they had the chance so now they should get out of the way!
President Obama's life wouldn't be that much easier without Nancy Pelosi. She's like his yes-woman in the House. However, Americans in general would be infinitely better off without her.
Jack,
It's not about making Obama's life easier. His life would be a whole lot easier if there were no congress at all, but would that be best for the American people? I doubt it. Pelosi articulates a liberal viewpoint, as she has every right to do. The conservatives have plenty of spokespersons for their point of view. That's how it should be. All sides, all viewpoints get hashed out. That's how Obama gets the information he needs to make an informed decisions. Get off Pelosi's back, Jack!
Jim
Reno, Nevada
Yes! The Republicans know that losing the Reagan Democrats hurt them and that you can be a democrat and a fiscal conservative. The non job producing liberal waste that is crammed into the recovery bill needs to be cut. It is the rights job to go after Endowment for the Arts and Sex Education millions and all other waste Pelosi would wave through if left to her own devices.
I don't know if his life with be "easier" without her. But in order to be more effective, Pelosi might consider an attitude adjustment.
HE is the president and she should remember her role is in part to help him effectively promote unity.
I don't think it will matter one way or the other because when it is all said and done, Republicans and Democrats alike, all want her job. It is about the power that she wields, not her. If she were just one of many representatives no one would give her a thought.
Whomever is House Speaker would be a thorn in President Obama's side. Being third in line behind the Vice-President can be just that.
No, she is the best thing we democrats have in congress. As we use tio say about Golda Meir, Nancy Pelosy is the only man in town.
When I heard Pelosi make the comment that spending 850 billion dollars now will make life better for our children and grand-children I knew she is clueless. She is a ton of dead weight hanging on the president.
Yes . . the world would be better without Nancy Pelosi. She has made 'her team' look bad since she got the Speaker position.
Definitely! Obama would be better off w/o Pelosi. She offends people and confuses issues. She also took no steps to hold people in the Bush administration accountable for possible crimes.
Yes...I think it would. Both her her and Harry Reid are so wishy washy on all topics. They don't seem to stand for anything except their own agendas. They seem to me to be as genuine as George W. Bush and Dick Cheney!
I think Obama's life will be easier if you didn't even ask the question to begin with. To be honest, I don't think it's gonna make much of a difference. Plain and simple.
Does anyone see the link? Pelosi's daughter did her HBO special on Haggard – Now they are all back in the news again....
Absolutely. The main trouble with Pelosi is that she is too "nice". She cannot go for the throat. Perhaps it is time for her to be relegated to House of the Speaker.
I think his life would be easier without Harry Reid. I think
Nancy is just fine. Also getting rid of some of
the obstructionist Republicans, like Boehner and McConnell,
would really help a lot.
Yes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And while you are at it take Harry Reid with her. Let's send them to Yucca Mtn.
From a 53 year, former resident of Nevada
I have been praying for the day when Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid are replaced by someone with the resemblance of a backbone and with sense enough to engage the brain before they engage the mouth. They will continue to be obstacles to this president and their majority colleagues in their current positions.
Jack,
As much as we would all be better off without Nancy Pelosi, lets leave her there for a while longer so we can all watch Rush Limbaugh turn inside out!
Man, are you going to get creamed! A lot of people will think it is because you are turned off by 'uppity women', but I am one of those 'uppity women' and I agree with you. She IS annoying and I don't know exactly why, but I do think she is an impediment to the President's agenda.
Nancy Pelosi first became annoying when, in her quest to be loved and conciliatory, she took the possibility of impeaching Bush off the table. Ever since she has been increasingly smarmy with no apparent direction other than to be every Congressman's mother. Obama needs someone in the Speaker's Chair that will crack the whip on the Republicans.
Stan Schurman
Barrie, Ontario
Asking if Obama's life would be easier without Pelosi is like asking if the Pope is Catholic. Of course his life would be easier if she was demoted from the speakership. His life would be a whole lot easier without Harry Reid in the Senate as well. But he is a skilled politician and hopefully a skilled card player who can make the best of the cards he is dealt. But what Obama really needs is the line item veto as a Constitutional amendment. Then it wouldn't matter what Congress wanted to spend, he could easily eliminate the nonsense.
Not only would Pres. Obama's life be easier, but all American's lives would be easier. She's even more irritating than Gov. Palin. How dare she and the GOP leaders tell our reps. how to vote!!!!!! This is not a all for one, one for all house or senate. That's why we have so many voices in each.
No one likes her. He would do a whole lot better without her, because it is obvious she runs the whole thing. As a Republican, I would love to see her go. Give Obama a chance. Whether I like it or not, he is my President, and he is getting a lot of bad advice. Pelosi, Reid, Frank, Schumer, all think they have a puppet leader . Pres. Obama needs to show them he can do the job, and do it fairly and without all the pork they have added. Get rid of Pelosi!
She should go away becuse she's anoying? So are you, but we keep you. I don't think you would have said that about a man. Come ok Jack, you're better than that.
If Nancy Pelosi were not the Speaker, Republicans would easily find another target. If we were proposing to lose 100 Billion in Iraq, or giving Haliburton a few Billion, these guys would be all for the stimulus package - their problem is this money is going to be distributed to ordinary Americans - this is unacceptable to Republicans.
Don, WVA
Hi Jack,
When you asked the question, my first thought was Madam Speaker is annoying. Then you said the same. President Obama would be better without her and her pal Harry Reed. I know that the Republicans did the same to the the democrates when they were in power. Yet, in this challenging time for our nation, we need to think of all the people and not pet projects. The goal of this stimulus package should be to generate jobs, help the toxic morages and build up education.
Bernie
P.S.
You are absolutely wonderful!!!
I'm a dyed-in-the-wool Democrat and there's no question – YES. Can't anyone rein her in? Maybe it's time for a new "Speaker" – this one has too much to say.
Absolutely. She unnecessarily finds a way to make everything a partisan issue. Furthermore, how is $400 million in contraceptives going to boost the economy.
Yes. She projects pettiness, and partisan politics. She does not advance the image or women or the democratic party, We have the most inspiring president and the possibility most uninspiring congressional leadership in history.
I think you, jack, and the rest of the people who don't like her focus too much on her personality. Maybe its because you don't like strong women who defend their ideas. Maybe its because you don't like women in leadership roles. Maybe its because she is as stubborn as you and you hate being just like her.
My experience of Nancy Pelosi is what we call in the business world a "Yes Man" . It would benefit the county more if the speaker would have a different opinion from the president but also willing to discuss the differences and work out the plan best suited for the country.
Nick Morgan, a body language expert and communications coach believes Pelosi's 'annoyance' has a lot to do with her non-verbal communication.
"The issue with Representative Pelosi" says Nick in his blog (http://publicwords.typepad.com/nickmorgan/) "is the mis-match between the upper and lower parts of her face. When she smiles, at least in public, it doesn’t extend to her eyes. Her mouth smiles almost continually at times, and yet the eyes aren’t taking part. She should give up the fakery, and pick some important moments to be genuine."
"She’s always got her game face on, and it’s an unconvincing one. She should take lessons from President Obama, who’s 1000-megawatt smile is authentic, warming his whole face."
Nancy annoys you? That’s great!!! You are a lot more
fun when you are reeaaally annoyed!
Pelosi has been and still remains a political lightning rod polarizing the Republicans and Democrats in the House. It seems more important to her to seek revenge against the House Republicans than to follow the lead of President Obama (and the American voters) to put politics aside during these critical times.
The answer is an emphatic...YES! Pelosi is polarizing on both sides of the isle...dogmatically offensive and stubborn. Her demeanor is stiff and uncompromising. I can barely stand listening to her and let it be known...I am a democrat. Before the presidency was decided, I almost sent emails to my senators begging them to see to her replacement. It is time for her to step down and allow a new person to emerge that may help construe, communicate and cooperate with a new administration and the many new faces on Capitol Hill. In short...we need new leadership for the Speaker position!
Everyone in the House and Senate have opinons. I agree with Nancy Pelosi most of the time.
Jack, let's be honest, the Republicans can't hate President Obama so they'll hate Pelosi, if it wasn't Pelosi than they would hate whoever that guy would be. Maybe Pelosi's annoying quality is what's going push them to deal more with Obama?
What I know for sure is that the Republicans are quivering in the House and Senate hoping that when midterms come around it won't be the death knell for their party. It really is a lose/lose situation for them, Pelosi is just the most convenient person to hurl political mortars at.
No! If Speaker Pelosi was such a poor choice she wouldn't have gotten re-elected as speaker. As far as House Republicans are concerned there are only two words to describe their approach to helping President Obama ..."herbert Hoovedr"!! Money for the arts community ala F.D.R. Pork is Pork but %0 Mil for a bank we bailed out isn't. 200 mil to help refurbish ourt National Mall that millions of us walk yearly (2 mill. a week ago) is pork but corporate retreats for banks we bail out isn't. Speaker Pelosi and House Dems. removed several provisions that House Repubs. didn't like and then cry "They don't listewn to us!". To paraphrase the president, "You lost!" Suck it up!
Absolutely! She is HORRIBLE. The epitome of an elitist limousine liberal who is totally out of touch with middle America and only cares about her personal/political agenda. She obviously doesn’t care about Americans or party promises. She had 2 years to accomplish what she was elected to do and didn't accomplish a thing. Now she's blocking the new president from accomplishing his promise of bi-partisanship. She needs to go back to her ~$15-20million home high on the hill in Pacific Heights and stop pretending to care about those of us who are bearing the burden.
YES, Nancy is more trouble than she is worth!
No. What is annoying to me is the ease with which over-50 male commentators can repeatedly find a competent, articulate and strong Speaker "annoying" because, dare I say it, they find it hard to have a woman in that position. That is the long and the short of it.
No doubt about it! President Obama's job would be much easier if Speaker Pelosi stepped aside and left someone who is really interested in helping the American people step in. Ever since she was appointed to the Speakership, she has been pushing her own adjenda, which is not in the interest of the American people. For example, look at what is happening at this moment in the discussion on the new stimulus package, she is once again not listening to her own law makers, but has chosen instead to have her proposal and only her proposal brought to the House. Time for her to leave!
Nancy Pelosi is a political animal who is more concerned about constant critisim of the Replican Party then solving the challenges which face our nation. I cannot undersdtand how she became Speaker when there are so many other candidates who are so much smarter and intune with how to solve the issues today. And where was she (and Harry Reid) the past 2 years when we go into the financial downturn and military involvements which she now blames soley on the GOP. If memeory serves me correct, she and the democrats controled the house and Mr. Reid and the democrates controlled the senate. They have not been held accountable for their actions (or lack thereof) for the past several years.
Nancy hasn't seen the ball since the kickoff. Now I didn't vote for Obama, but now that he's President, I want seriously for him to be wildly successful. It's in everyone's interest. But, I worry about Nancy. Her political skills and ability have been weighed and measured and found wanting.
Wayland Coker, Ashburn, Virginia
Nancy Pelosi has become a major problem for the Democrat, as well as Harry Reid. In the last election, the American people put Congress on notice that nobody's job security was safe. WE ARE TIRED OF THE GAMES. I wish her a speedy retirement – along with Harry Reid. The Hill needs to recognize the fact that they American people have been pushed to their limit and are pushing back. In other words, if you aren't part of the solution, then you must be part of the problem and you need to get out of the way and let others lead...
NO!
If it wasn't Pelosi, Reid, or Colburn it would be another set of Democrats the Republicans would object to. Pres. Obama came to talk with them and they already decided not to listen.
Word to the Repbulicans: SUCK IT UP! YOU HAD YOU CHANCE AND WHERE ARE WE!!!
I cringe every time Nancy Pelosi opens her mouth. When will people in California wake up and send her packing? Does she really serve anyone on capital hill except herself? She 'promised' to end the excessive earmark spending and INSTEAD she wants taxpayers to pay for contraceptives? I just don't understand her or her actions.
Nancy Pelosi epitomizes so many of the things President Obama has promised to eliminate from our divisive politics. She is so full of pride and arrogance that she is unable to embrace the bi-partisanshipship the President is trying to bring about. It's time for a moderate speaker who will actively work with Republicans to bring about change and not simply gloat over and abuse the Democrat's political capital.
Geez, Jack guess you haven't recognized how irritating you are! Perhaps you should work towards comments and questions that have merit and bring value to a constructive debate. Otherwise you come off like you do so often: like a nay saying troll. We have enough of those, say something that matters or stay under the bridge.
Jack
Yes Pres. Obama's life would be easier if he would put a muzzle on Pelosi mouth she doesn't have a clue because if she did she wouldn't be defending this ridiculous package with all its PORK! and assume we don't know better.Until she is stopped I'm afraid the new President has his hands full.
I was watching CNN earlier today and saw a clip of Speaker Pelosi. In that three minute period, she pointedly slammed Republicans aproximately 7 or 8 times. For a leader in such a prominent position in an administration that strives for equality regardless of party, she seems to hold opinions that are directly contrary to those of the president. I think that every day that she is allowed to get in front of a microphone and open her mouth, she does true and lasting damage to the atmosphere that President Obama is attempting to create in Washington. In short, I think she should get "the boot".
OH yea, now, how do we do it without being arrested?
Second thought, I’ll get arrested for the betterment of the country.
Of course it would easier for President Obama !!! At the same time
get rid of the republicans!!!
NO, but I am tire of her I think the GOP don't respect Nancie but they are willing to respect Sara palin so go figure ,all pork is not bad and i'm tired of Rep Boehner as well .
Yes, but then again his life would be easier if they all went away. Of course that would not be much of a democracy. And Jack, you think She is annoying, what about those jackals in the Republican leadership. They remind me of morticians on steroids.
We have to think who would be the speeker if it was't Pelosi. Obama wouldn't want a Repulican in that position and not many Democrats would have the experience or likeability that are better than Pelosi.
Peter
Schaumburg IL
No, Obama's life would not be easier. Unless, of course, you want another speaker like maybe...Hastert, or maybe God forbit, Tom Delay! Are you kidding me? The only problem I have with Pelosi is that she rolls over for the Republicans too often, and she took impeachment off the table. Give me a break! WE WON! Get over it! The Republicans are NOT in charge any longer. Jeez, Louise, is this what the media is going to be like for the next 8 years?????
Yes!!! Ms. Pelosi is contributing to the rift between the parties. Yesterday she stated smugly that the American people voted for President Obama because we wanted to have the democrats make the decisions (paraphrased). No!! We voted for him because he wants everyone’s opinion and will not make decisions unilaterally. We voted for him because he wants the nonsense to stop!!! And the corruption end!!! We’ve had enough!!! Ms. Pelosi needs to go. She’s delaying progress.
Clifford, PA
Whether it's Pelosi or someone else, any democratic leader would receive opprobrium from republicans and the right. Let's just be thankful that she and her party are finally and rightfully in charge!
Yes, get rid of her!!! She has not held up her job 1 To defend the constitution of the United States, Instead her and Harry looked the other way While Bush and Cheney stomped all over it. They have no backbone. Remember Impeachment is off the table! That what she said, so she would not have to work. She is an elitist. Jerry Iowa
Ironic,well people get annoyed with Pelosi hmmmm
Hillary Clinton was put in the same category. How about
ban all women from entering politics or any authoritative positions
because it annoys MEN.
Absolutely, Nancy Pelosi, given her radical views, and confrontational demeanor, remains the biggest roadblock to Obamas success in bringing together the nation. Her constant denigration of individuals and views she disagrees with , served to denigrate the office of the speaker more than the targets of her wrath. Conducting herself in an honorable way, seems impossible,
Pelosi is the Democrats Palin, only worse since she has more Money & Power. Her & Reid need to take a permant vaction.
Anniston, AL
The way I see it, Pelosi is really not the root of President Obama's problems...it's all of those "over-payed Republicans" and some of the "afraid-to-do-what-the-people-need" Democrats that are causing the little people like me to suffer. It is also those big-time executives and CEO's using bailout money to buy expensive jets and wastebaskets. I am barely surviving as a former US soldier and I am so sick of hearing all of the whining everytime President Obama signs an Executive Order. Hey!!! This is why I voted and I just want them to leave the President alone, if at all possible. WE NEED THE STIMULUS, WE NEED BETTER HEALTH CARE, AND WE DEFINATELY NEEDED A PRESIDENT WITH ENOUGH GUTS TO MAKE IT HAPPEN. After all, wasn't President Obama's campaign slogan about "CHANGE" anyway?? GET OVER IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Why in the world would Pres. OBama throw her under the bus? There is no making peace with the Republican leadership. The people have spoken. Go dems!
Yep........ it is what it is.......
Don't like her.
Dear Jack,
I think he would probably be better off without Nancy Pelosi. Super rich democrats have always seemed a little wrong to me - I always get the impression that they are people who like to wag the dog.
As my mother would say, ' Nancy Pelosi outta be listening rather than speaking'. Obama and the entire country would be better off.
I think Pelosi strikes the perfect balance to Obama's calm demeanor. I like her gnarly and mocking smirk when she talks about the stimulus package. She needs to keep reminding the republicans that there's a new sheriff in town and they need to refrain from their "tax cuts" chorus they keep singing every time there's a camera in their face.
Cafferty you are so right. Nancy Pelosi is surely seeking attention. PRES OBAMA is anyday better off without her. She is both annoying and nagging.Thankyou.
Jack,
If the GOP has the grand plan for job creation where was it a few months ago, and how does Tax breaks create JOBS and Stimulate the economy IMMEDIATELY.
You asked, Would President Obama’s life be easier without Nancy Pelosi as Speaker of the House? My answer is that you could fill in other names rather than Nancy Pelosi also. Would President Obama's life be easier if "if" could float? Would America have been better off without George Bush as president for the last 8 years? Besides that, I think that Nancy Pelosi is alright.
Yes, I think Obama would have an easier time gaining the important republican support in Congress if Nancy Polosi was not the speaker of the house. If she put as much effort into working with republicans as she does against them, Congress and Bush may have actually gotten something done in the last couple years and we would not be in the mess we are in.
Are you kidding? Who wouldn't be better off without her as the Speaker. The only thing she has mastered in all her years of politicis is playing a good game of "suck up"!
From this side of the border, one cannot help but sympathize with the new President. Madame Speaker acts like a combination of Queen Elizabeth the First and Catherine the Great. If she is not careful, she will end up like Marie Antoinette.
Patricia in Halifax
YES!! Words cannot express this woman's incompetence
yes, absolutely, Pres Obama would be far better off w/ Nancy Pollisi. What is she on or smoking, Is she speaker of the house of druggise or what. How weak, shame, shame. Benedict Arnold, modesto calif
Nancy Pelosi – annoying? That's one word. There are others. Few are positive.
As a former Sanfranciscan I recall even Nancy's friends in quiet conversations called her "Crazy Nancy"! If you wonder whay nothing gets done in Congress you only need to look at its leadersjhip in both parties.
Gary
Orland California
Ms. Pelosi spent the last two years largely acting as a Republican rubber-stamp, instead of acting to represent either her constituents or the country as a whole. She certainly didn't represent the wishes of her party.
Being bi-partisan involves more than just giving the other party everything they ask for, and that's what she did. Mr. Obama understands real bi-partisanship and is working with Republicans, even if they don't like it. Mr. Obama's job would be much better if she stepped aside and eliminated this specter of the rubber-stamp Democrat so that Republicans started to understand that they can't have everything their way.
I get the impression that our new President is trying to be more middle of the road, whitch is good. Ms Pelosi is so far to the left that you can't see her. If she were to align herself more to President Obama's thinking I think she would be a little less annoying.
Not only would Obama's life be easier, so would the life of any minimally informed political junkie. I've been signing petitions to get rid of her for at least two years. I have yet to hear an original thought proceed from her fixed smiling face. She is a disgrace to the Democrats for her total lack of leadership and a boon to the Republicans, whether they like it or not! Of course, I'm sure she's a very sweet lady... I just wish she was head of our local library board in Canterbury, NH.
Sure, Obama would only have to deal with the Good Ole Boys and life would be so much easier for him, Sweetie. He and the Good Ole Bluedog Democrat Stenny Hoyer would be a marriage made in heaven for Obama.
Yes! Nancy Pelosi is like a fingernail dragging down the blackboard!
Can we retire her today? Pres. Obama doesn't need this cement block around his neck.
Disgusted Dem in Texas
ooops. In my last post I forgot to give my city and state. it is New Orleans, Louisiana.
no, she is an asset. she seems to be the only one in the house brave enough to stand up to the republicans. they continue to cry about helping main street with this stimulus bill but was so anxious to bail out wall street with no restrictions. they got us into this mess without democratic input and they still want to continue with the same old failed policies and idealism. america will not be hood-winked again!
yes everyones would be ,Except her Husbands
Absolutely! Nancy Pelosi is completely and utterly anti-thetical to President Obama's plans to change how our government goes about its business. She is toxic. Her naked determination to continue waging partisan warfare in a time of such comprehensive national crisis categorically disqualifies her from holding such a powerful, agenda-setting position in the U.S. House. President Lincoln famously told the nation and the world that "A country divided against itself cannot stand." Apparently Speaker Pelosi never got that memo. It is past time for her cede the House leadership to someone who actually understands the concept and responsibilities of leadership.
Everyone in the senate and house who does not vote for Obama's stimulus package should be removed from the senate and the house because they are all proving to be part of the problem and not the solution. They are playing ping pong with peoples lives and they need to be removed.
Obama will never achieve his goal of bipartisan politics as long as Pelosi and Reid are in leadership positions. Apparently they did not get the memo from the president or just choose to ignore Obama's message and continue to operate as business as usual. They are too obsessed with revenge and fighting Republicans and not with the job of resurecting the US economy. Where's the change we were promised during the campaign?
I somewhat agree with Connor from Chicago. At times Ms. Pelosi sounds a bit intelligent and at other times she sounds not quite as intelligent on things that matter, the same way my fourth grade granddaughter sounds when she explains the workings of government. Although I will say, my granddaughter sounds more informed at times than most of what we hear from out of Washington. Sure makes me scratch my head sometimes. I am just hoping our new President is intelligent enough and forward thinking enough to overcome any of his fellow constituents shortcomings. He will be great for our country in the long run if given the chance.
Don
Ocala, FL
Yes Jack the president would be better of without pelosi it may make his life easter, We need someone thats going to help the presdent with the trouble that we are in today, Not someone thats going to keep talking from left field.
P.S. I'm from South Windsor, CT
These are stressful times, and everyone is being asked to step up and accomplish more with less fanfare and ego. The more we all know and give our input to those WE elect, eventually they will see they are working for us.
Keep suggesting and advising good policy ideas...Pelosi will get the message with millions of input ideas forwarded to her.
Get rid of Pelosi and Reid and find people with spines to do the jobs. Somebody that knows how to investigate wrongdoing and criminal activity and prosecute to the full extent of the law! Somebody that remembers the ' nuclear option' concerning the filibuster and will remind the GOP of it and the rest of their pathetic, selfserving past! The American Electorate spoke clearly in November, let's not forget who they favored and who they are fed up with.
No, the President Obama needs Nancy Pelosi ,she maybe strong headed but has America's interest at heart. What they need to do is have a small chit chat to make sure they are on the same page. And whats wrong with different opinions? Isnt it the whole idea of "team of rivals"? The real culprits are the GOP who are trying to make a scene out of everything!!!
Jack, Pelosi like Palin just doesn't have the substance needed to be in the political arena. I watch CNN on a regular basis and I have to say every time you show her she seems "whacked out" as if she is on some
type of tranquilizer! Yes, I am a Democrat but "who" or "what" happened in our government to put such an "empty minded woman" in such a high position. Oh by the way...you now can add Caroline Kennedy to the list!
I'd say she stay. It will help remind Obama that not all his adversaries in Congress are on the other aisle. Obama is too new, too cool, too smart for the good ol' boys and girls of Washington.
Hi Jack.
I also believe that every red-blooded American would be better off without Pelosi, Reid and Feinstein!
Also, considering the chaos/ aggravation these people are capable of, I recommend the following rule for Congressional service:
"Two terms of serving the public, then you're out!" Obviously, this would remove a lot of old, tired baggage from the Legislature. Now, who do you think would vote for this legislation?
Regards to you. Great job – you're doing.
How about we get rid of Pelosi and replace her with Congressman Ron Paul. Certainly he would do more for our country then Pelosi has or will ever do. It seemed in the 2008 campaign that Congressman Paul was the Obama of the GOP underrated by his own party. He does not stick to his party's stance on issues in fact he wants America out of Iraq while the rest of his party wants us to stand our ground. Return the power of the federal government to the people and return the power that the individual states were promised in the Constitution over two hundred years ago. The question is not would the President's life be easier without Pelosi but should be 'Would the American citizens' lives be any easier with someone who isn't looking out for their own career?'
Jack, both democratic leaders in Congress are buffoons; a couple of possible alternatives: Sarah Palin: not good. Zippy the Chimp: Better.
Albus Dumbledore: Best. Obviously, the outlook is grim for Obama and the nation!
Jim McCormack
I think Obama and Pelosi richly deserve each other. Both are narcissistic and corrupt.
They couldn't wait to export abortions all over the world, at US taxpayers expense. Shame on both of them.
Sincerely, Irene Iocono
President Obama won the election on a platform of change. I think the DEM party leaders should embrace that notion and reach across the aisle to the GOP. For Pelosi and Reid, it is partisan politics as usual.
Why do you think Congress has such a low approval rating?
i thought it was just me. she makes my skin crawl (can't spell puke). her idea of birth control does have merit if applied to the failed attempt to cut medicaid rolls. this was tried in the past and the women would not show up to get the pills or whatever. before anymore money is put into medicaid someone needs to notice the amount of abuse/fraud in this program. 43 million dollars per month in louisiana alone. efforts in the past have been like putting out a forest fire with one spoon of water at a time. this entitilement program is a disgrace to our nation .
Most definitely.
I'm also sick and tired of these politicians thinking either democrat or republican ... why can they not think as one, for what's best for the USA. Do away with the "aisle" let's mix them all up and sit together as one.
Can you please confirm, if you can, if the below is true or false. I sent a fax to my Congressman, asking him, with no response.
How do you stop this kind of thing? Subject: Queen Pelosi And they want to talk about Sarah's dress. Conservatives! Are you out there? MADAME PELOSI &nbs p; Madame Pelosi wasn't happy with the small private jet that comes with the Speaker's job, no, Madame Pelosi was aggravated that this little jet had to stop to refuel, so she ordered a Big Fat 200 seat jet that could get her back
to California without stopping! She is the first Speaker of the House to EVER in the history of our country have a jet of this type to use! Many, many legislators walked by and grinned with glee as Joe informed everyone that's Nancy's Big Fat Jet costs us, the hard working American tax payers, thousands of gallons of fuel every week. Since she only works 3 days a week, this gas guzzling jet gets fueled and she flies home to California, cost to the taxpayers of about $60,000, one way! As Joe put it, 'Unfortunately we have to pay to bring her back on Monday night.' Cost to us another $60,000. Folks, that is $480,000 per month and that is an annual cost to the taxpayers of $5,760,000. No wonder she complains about the cost of this war, it might cramp her style and she is styling, on my back and yours. I think of the military families in this country doing without and this woman, who heads up the most do-nothing Congress in the history of this country, keeps fueling that jet while doing nothing. Madame Pelosi wants you and I to conserve our carbon footprint. She wants us to buy smaller cars.
YES, YES ,YES, 100's, of Billion's Times YES ! Without Pelosi and her own personal, transparent agenda's and extremely irritating mannerisms, President Obama could concentrate on his challenges and responsibilities, as our new President.
Pelosi has her "OWN" agenda and is not in line with President Obama. She is creating dissension among Democrats, which delays progress. Yes President Obama could be better off, but who would be better? The "old boy" business as usual negotiation must come to an end. "Yes, Mr. President I will stump for you if you add my pet project to the bill." Many of our politicians are nothing but lobbyist! They lobby for special projects for their states, projects for friends and their own special interest.
Then HR 1 is too large! Bills need to be smaller and address no more than two subjects. This increases transparency, expidites processing, and does not provide as many nooks and crannies for PORK!
Jack in answer to your question about Nancy Pelosi, sounds like that this is an attack on Nancy's Gender more than anything else. Everyone knows that Congress is STILL a "Boys Only" club, where the Men appear to have Uber problems taking direction from a Female Leader. No, President Obama would NOT have it any easier if Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, wasn't there. Why? Its a Political thing. Under the current Majority Democratic regime the Republicans would STILL find something to whine about. To the Republican Party I say wipe your noses and get over it! The American People need HELP! We didn't elect you to thumb your noses up at Female Politicians. We elected you to serve US and to get US out of this Mess left by the former Administration. So to Nancy I say, Speak On Sister! We've got your back.
Now that we have Barack Obama and staff in the White House and leverage in the House and Senate, we need to replace Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid with persons possessing a backbone.
NO! These grumbling republicans will find someone else to blame things on. Remember these are the same backward minded people who said that the media was the reason that Obama won the election.
They could not see that it had something to do with the candidate they has running on their ticket. No Pelosi is great. She is an excellent speaker. They are just a bunch of narrow-minded, fault finding cry babies. Someone should give them a pacifier and tell them to shut up.
Yes, Obama's and all of our lives would be easier without Nancy. She is feeble minded, inept and an unworthy successor to Tip or Newt, regardless of one's politics. She undermines people's confidence in government (not to mention Democrats), and Americans deserve better.
YESSSSSSSSSSSS!!
Obama welcomes opposing opinions, so his life would not be easier. The more pertinent question would be about Jack Cafferty. He finds her annoying as well as most other female politicians – see Hillary and Sarah Palin. Has Jack met a female politician that he doesn't dislike? Jack always finds life easier around men.
RIGHT NOW we should repeal tax cuts to the rich retroactive to 2008. If they don't want to pay up on April 15th, let them pay the following year with interest. We can hire some minimum wage folks to help out with the paperwork at the IRS.
Charlie
Jack: Yes, Mr. Obama's life would be easier without Speaker Pelosi. The nation would be better off without the Madame Speaker. Remember, The Speaker took the United States Constitution off the table when it came to impeachment of Bush or Cheney. I do not like it when the Constitution is forgotten or side stepped by elected officials. I believe the Democrats should elect another speaker when given the chance.
John from Alabama
It may actually be a blessing for President Obama to have Nancy Pelosi as Speaker. If he is perceived as reining her in periodically that could enhance his credibility with Republicans in Congress and with the general public.
Right now we need to work together to solve our many problems. I don't think she is capable or working with anyone. Of course it would be easier for Obama if he did not have this loose canon running around promoting her own agenda. She doesn't even pretend to be a team player.
President Obama, I"m sure knows in order to survive in the land of Oz (D.C.) he'll have to assure the Tin Man (Reid) that he does have a heart, the Scarecrow (McConnell) he in fact has a brain, the cowardly lion (Boehner) get some courage-you support the president you just can't let your constiuents know this; last but not least don't show Dorothy (Pelosi) how to get back home. If she talks long enough, putting her foot in her mouth will get her a 1st class trip back to Frisco!
One of the things that led me to vote for Obama in this election was not solely because I support Democrat policies, but largely because he was eager to find common ground between GOPs and Dems. This divisive mentality Pelosi has is not in the best interests of Americans. We need to be united and willing to compromise and find common ground as a people. People should come first, not parties.
Jack,
I doubt if the Whitehouse has a woodshed but one should be built so that President Obama can take Nancy Pelosi out to it for an attitude adjustment and while he is at it Harry Reid should also be invited. Those two are doing more to undermine the President's legislative programs than all of the Republicans combined. They may not work for the President but he certainly doesn't work for them. It's time that was explained to them.
Richard
Jefferson City, MO
Barack would be much better off with replacements for both Pelosi & Reid. They both have Irish memories. They forget everything except their grudges, which they have far too many of, in this new era of consideration, tolerance and respect, established by Obama's words & actions. To understand Obama, know Hawaii. It's all about Aloha – the breath of life.
As for Rush, he's been proven to be a drug addict, lier and a hypocrite. He has no credibility nor relevance. Forget the petition and don't waste the energy. Just ignore him as one would ignore any other nincompoop. Instead, spend the time reaching out to republicans, listening to them and trying to find common ground. Get it together folks!
Thanks Jack.
No! This is typical press stuff. The problem is John Banner and his narrow-minded pal Eric. This is typical Republicanism...the rich and big business first, screw the country. John McCain is too ignore of economics to be allowed any opinion. Thank god he didn't win. Ralph, Yakima, Wa
Jack, Obama's life would be much easier with out the two-faced, ambitious, arrogant, partisan, annoying, cynical, irritating, erratic, moronic, and brainless Nancy Pelosi... and while you’re at it, toss out Majority Leader Harry Reid because he is no better. And this is coming from a Democrat!
Jack, We don't need anyone in office that makes over $100K a year and is named Nancy P. and wants to tax my retirement and social security. If the Government needs more money let her take a cut in pay like I did each time the contract was up where I worked , we gave concessions in wages and benifits in 1980, 1988, 1992, 1995,2000. Do you think Nancy would be willing to give back some of her $100K plus a year??
Very doubtfull !
Thanks
Roy in West Virginia
Yes, we would ALL be better off without her as the Speaker. She's horrifically egotistical and an embarrassment to the state of California, as well as the nation. She's certainly NOT shining a positive light on women in politics and power!
Ironic,well people get annoyed with Pelosi hmmmm
It is Pelosi's turn now I guess. Hillary Clinton was put in the same category. How about ban all women from entering politics or any authoritative positions because it annoys MEN.
President Obama job is not difficult with Pelosi as speaker of the houset. He is a much better speaker than Pelosi; she is not in his class. If Obama is the speaker maybe congress rating can get to 60% or more.
Junior
Basseterre, St. Kitts
Jack, certainly life would be a great deal easier for President Obama if Nancy Pelosi was replaced by someone else as House Speaker – she is disliked by both Republicans and fellow Democrats alike! The question is: who would be best to replace her? And, CAN she replaced in any legal manner?
Everyones life would be easier is she were out of office. She does not put her brain in gear before she speaks, no pun intended
Ms. Pelosi got to where she is by political skill and intellect. She doesn't need the money and is indebted not at all. This frees her to do what she desires and not give a (xxx) what you think. For Obama she's a trump card. You'll see.
Jack,
His life would be easier; and he would be able to do his job more efficiently! However I believe our president has the capability to work against the biggest obstacles.....so he just has to dust her off his shoulders!
after reading most of these comments it looks as if every ditto head in the nation has chimed in . i hear pundits and commentators alike claiming democrats have held the majority for two years , this is disingenuous at best . they didn't have enough votes to pass squat let alone override bozos veto . now the railing on pelosi continues . what a surprise . she represents her constituency as dose bainer , lets rail on him for a while .
steve
dana point , ca.
Maybe Nancy annoys you but she is a goddess to lots of us who see her as an example of a strong Democrat with the liberal, progressive ideas we admire, and with the clout as Speaker to put them over. YOU are an annoying and jealous man. You are thinking, "How dare a woman finagle her way into the Speaker's chair?" And besides that, she looks fabulous doing it. You see, some of us are very good mind readers!
Hi Jack,
I really enjoy your commentary, I just finished reading "It is getting ugly out there". Talk about ugly, Nancy P is a concern for Obama, it makes you wonder how she became speaker of the house. I believe she is just grandstanding and her actions will not help Obama.
Jim from Alberta, Canada
Paul Rogers
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Yes! Life would be easier for the President without Nanci Pelosi to get in the way.
You can't just stop with her though, you would have to get rid of Harry Reid as well. Obama needs to reverse everything Bush has done and also fix everything that Henry Paulson has screwed up.
There never should have been bailouts for the financial sector or the auto industry, nothing good has come of it. If you really want to help the economy stop outsourcing and get jobs back in this country.
Also give everyone in this country $1,000,000 that way everyone can pay off their debts buy a house and a new car and put money back into the economy. It would do a lot more good and be better for everyone.
You have to rember that Pelosi represents unnormal people in her district. She is the fruit of the voters. That speaks for itself. Second if you get rid of half of the Democrats and replace them with Independents you got youself a good balanced Congress. CNN is good in brainwashing people, there is your challage CNN.
Go to work.
My favorite Nancy Pelosi. story...strange but true story....Contraceptives in the Pelosi California Stimulus Package....she wanted in "to cut costs" to the states.....she has 5 children. Hello...
How do you stimulate me? I am not in bankruptcy or foreclosure. Allow me to reconstruct a loan with the bank for the current depreciated value of my home, thereby reducing my monthly payments. Use the stimulus package dollars to cover the bank loss. The homeowner now has a long term savings that may be used to pay off current debt and stimulate new purchases. The bank has not lost anything. Money goes directly to the homeowner without any new bureaucracy as the bank will determine applicants qualifications based on new federal assistance guidelines.
Who gives a dam n if the Republicans don't like Nancy Pelosi. After their performance, leading this country for most of the last eight years, they have no right to complain about the present Speaker of the House. Life would be easier for President Obama if he stopped worrying about pleasing the Republicans and more about fixing the problems they caused.
no jack nanacy is the best thing going on for prs. obama' and has been since the begining. she has the courage and attitude to make sure whats not heard through him in connect with the republicans' u can be sure that she will make sure he's heard. no disrespect to mrs obama but in politics nanacy is his better haif.
I think he would be better off without her and Harry Reid!
West Virginia
Jack, Obama has a tough job on his hands. However, The American people would be a lot better off with a great number of the politicans in Congress and Senate. The democrats are whiners, the republicans are back peddling. yes, we need a speaker of the house that is for the people and not a select few. But, the word politican has hit an all time low and is no longer a person of dignity. maybe they never were, but one thing I do know for sure: Growing up a politican could be bought for $5.00 and a pint of liquor, the price sure has gotten more expensive. Now there are so many zero's connected to buying a politican, I am not sure I can count that high. Nancy Pelosi is not the problem alone, as you are aware.
I don't know about Obama's life being easy at all for the next 4 years.... however American's life would be easier without Pelosi being Speaker. Same with Sen Harry Reid as SML.
I think that Pelosi would not make it easier one way or the other. I think that even with him being in the white house to many of the GOP he is still a black man. There is no way he should be trying to smooth things over with them. they are showing no diplomacy or bipartisan and dont even care. They are nothing more it seems but a bunch of jealous insecure spoiled brats. Afro-Americans are fed up with them and feel he should overide after effortless attempts to include them . He is to good for either party. Rush Limbaugh is a disgrace but somehow i feel his thinking is the same as the GOP. Remember he did win and is the president GOP not you. It aint all about you.
If I had read all of the previous comments, I could have just said, "Me, too!" - 'bye Nancy, old girl – go home and let the rest of us live in peace.
Looking over the comments to your invitation for misogynistic diatribe, I am saddened but not surprised to find all the usual rhetorical suspects used most recently on blogs such as this to decry Hillary. Your choice of the word "annoying" speaks volume.
America and our President would be better off with out Nancy or Harry. They are birds of a feather. Though I believe many members of the H.R. and the Congress are partisan it is uncanny how Nancy's partisanship, if not full self indulgence and importance, shines through at every flip of her tongue. ( See interview with Stephanopolous(?spelling!).)
Yes.
Oh, and Jack, don't disparage the 200 million dollars for contraceptives for the poor.
I'd rather spend 200 million now, then have two or three times that amount of my tax money supporting unwanted kids on WIC, welfare, and whatever.
And as for giggiling, tsk, tsk.
Stimulus, contraceptives.
You men.
You never grow up.
But, we love you anyway.
I truly believe that he would better accomplish his goal of bringing the parties together if the speaker of the house (democrat), as well as the speaker for the Republican party removed themselves from office. People like Mitch M., and other speakers are closed minded and lack the teamwork needed to get things done.These individuals are more concern with winning an argument verses the best for the people. Thank God President Obama is no push over and is able to read between the lines. I am sure that sooner than later, he will say, "Let's stop the bickering and do what is best to deal with this problem."
Of course Obama would be better off without Pelosi, so would the country. She is a prime example of what's wrong with out government; if you stay there long enough, you rise to the top whether you're qualified or not.
No one should be surprised Congress's rating is so low, look at what happens there....NOTHING. They're even more out of touch with the people of this country than "W" was. It's not hard to imagine that they are rated lower than Bush. Gives you an idea of how inept they are.
Pelosi is a great gal. She has worked her patookas off to get where she is and she deserves our respect. That's right, R E S P E C T, just like the song. If all of us talk sweetly with her and ask her to embrace Obama's new "bi-partisanship" she might be swayed. It's hard for an old gal to forget what the GOP House did to her when they had the big stick. She's better than them. She'll come around.
I do think President Obama would be better off with out Ms.Pelosi.
She's scary !!
No!
The bill has the support of 146 eminent economists, including five Nobel Prize winners, who in a letter to Congress this week stated "The plan proposes important investments that can start to overcome the nation's damaging loss of jobs by saving or creating millions of jobs and put the United States back onto a sustainable long-term growth path."
I'll take 5 Novel Laureates over one cranky commentator anytime.
Jack, Definitely yes. She is the old politics which our president vowed to change. She only sees one side of the aisle and can not get through a speech without bashing the Republicans. If all political parties are to work together to get through the current economic crisis she needs to be seen and not heard.
Jamie Graves
No, President Obama's life would be easier without those jealous republicans in congress that just won't give up on giving him and the country a hard time because they make it about themselves. Now they are full of "ideas". Where were these ideas when they had control? I find Cantor and Bahnor a hell of a lot more annoying than Pelosi. I believe that the reason they want to come up with "ideas" for the stimulus package is because they want to call it theirs! They have some nerve!!
Evelyn
Stamford, CT
yes, he would probably be better off with someone less liberal but his biggest problem is the republicans whose only solution to any problem is tax cuts for the greedy rich many of whom caused this mess we're in.
Mr. Cafferty, As I listened to your commentary on Nancy Pelosi today, all I could think was how much easier Obama's life would be without her interference. Then I heard today's question. So obviously my answer is a resounding "Absolutely!!"
Pelosi epitomizes the two worst aspects any politician can have–she is both ignorant AND arrogant. If we truly want a country full of hope and change, we need to do some major "House"cleaning and rid Congress of such obnoxious, self-serving individuals like Nancy Pelosi. Does she even know the definition of the word
bi-partisanship???
I think her time would be much better spent working the Estee Lauder counter at Macy's. At least she's an expert at applying lip gloss!!
Probably, but who cares ! Get to work and quit trying to be the first one out the door. I've given up on my children, it's my grandchildren and their children that I am concerned about now. This may not make a lot of sense but it's time for the people we elected to do something before we all join hands in the soup line. President Obama wants to see this country stand up and be proud again.
Steve
Yes...she needs to step aside&let others who know better FINALLY lead the way! Didn't Americans vote for change last November?Maybe she didn't get the memo?She has done some under-handed things that the people don't know about!(It's like school-girl stuff from days gone by, growup will you!)Time for Some new blood!Sometimes she looks like she has no idea whats even going on, than Congressman Hoyer seems to come to her rescue!
I am an independent NJ voter who voted in favor of the sweeping change I believe Barack Obama will deliver once the Demcrats realize that changing the path the Republican Party is not a simple task. Nancy Pelosi as Speaker of the House needs to get to the truth of the matter that America along with the way we governed under the Bush Administration has got to change. Politically rushing a huge bill like this through Washington wont solve the underlining problem if Congressional leadership wont put forth legislation to uplift America before party. More discretionary spending is not the answer without transparency and accountability, it will just lead the government down the same path as the Wall Street bailout. If she were a great "Speaker", she would realize that passing a bill loaded with billions of dollars of unspecified projects will lead the Democratic party towards corrupt "K-Street" like projects.
Yes! All of us would be better off. She reminds me of a few junior high girls who delight in snippy put downs and sly innuendo. Most outgrow this stage and become delightful young ladies.
Jack – I think she's got some good ideas...
The Democrats won . It is not Pelosi's fault that the Republicans are acting childish the republicans right now are opposing the stimulus package not because of Pelosi but because they want to be the opposing party. The Democrats need to be the Authority of the Majority. Crossing the aisle is overated. Republican philisophies dont work Thats why we are in the predicament we are in
Pelosi is the lone soldier when Obama leaves us out in the cold going across the aisle. Go Nancy
Yes, it would be easier. Ms Pelosi has no concept what the plight is of the average American and is unable to contribute any beneficial ideas to President Obama. I'm a Democrat but can still see need for improvement in the party.
I am a Liberal Democrat who whole-heartedly voted for President Obama and I strongly believe that contraceptives should NOT be included in the economic stimulus package. After applying for 200 jobs over the past three months, I just accepted a position that will pay me exactly HALF of what I was making in my previous job. And, at the ripe age of 56, I may have to consider a second job just to make ends meet. HOW IN HELL WILL CONTRACEPTION HELP TO CREATE JOBS AND STIMULATE THE ECONOMY? Pelosi is way off base on this one, and what is far worse... President Obama agreed to include this ridiculous PORK in the stimulus package. WHAT IS HE THINKING?
Pelosi is painful to watch, more painful than having my fingernails yanked out one at a time.......
Yes Jack it would be easier. As an Obama supporter, I was never impressed by Pelosi. While Obama seems to be a "get it done" person, Pelosi on the other hand has done nothing since becoming Speaker as far as moving legislation. Her biggest accomplishment was making sure she had a picture taken with her grandkids. Was she ever a small town mayor in Alaska?
The President is better off with Speaker Pelosi. The alternative could be worse, much worse.
Rob – New York
Jack, Obama's life would not be easier without Pelosi as speaker of the house, by even 1 iota. As you said, they criticize Obama at their own peril. Short of the Democrats appointing Newt Gingrich as Speaker of the house, nothing will make these intellectual doorstops of the Republican party happy.
Personaly, I don't understand how the Republican's can contest anything re. the economy. When I heard over the last week that they wanted to make the Bush Tax Cuts permanent, I almost lost my lunch. They were completely in control of things for most of the last 8 years & look where we are now. And to make things worse, they insist that their policies that got us to where we are now, are the only panacea for us.
as a 71 year old demorcat she is the worst speaker of the house that i can remember outside of dennis haskert. please bring back a tip oneill clone
Let me understand this. Pelosi and Reed are the best leaders in Congress? A tax dodger as Treasury Secretary? Among others. Are you kidding? We need REAL leaders, however it appears that all that can get "elected" are career politicians (both parties). If "We the people" get another chance, maybe we should consider a USA Party. A party dedicated to the Constitution of the United States of America.
Yes, Yes, Yes. It seems to me she likes to play the game of politics more than she wants to do what is best for our country.
Pelosi needs to go. She wants to waste time going after Bush for war crimes. If you listened to Bill Clintons own Attorney Sunday morning you would see that we as a nation do not do that. This attorney said "that is what Banana Republics do" We can not go back to past administrations and prosecute. So Obama would be better of without Pelosi dragging him down. Lets look forward not backwards.
Hey Jack,
Yes, Obama's life would be easier without Pelosi as speaker, but only as long as it was John Boehner instead. And then, only for a minute or two until he was coerced into resigning in disgrace as President in order to allow a real leader - a Republican - to be President. And yes, even though true, this is also quite tongue-in-cheek!
Even if they had everything possible delivered on a silver platter, Republicans would still whine for more. It's their nature. In short, now out of power, the GOP will be contrarians simply because. It's the whiny brat syndrome: they will be as partisan as possible until people give them something just to shut them up!
I found her tone this morning devisive, and reminescent of a adolescent's explanation of who started the fight in the lunchroom at the local junior high. She was attempting to explain how the democrats had been cooperative and collaborative in making concessions to the republican interests. I thought she failed to convey this sense of bipartisan cooperation, based on healthy debate, which we all so want to see. She called them, the republicans "they", with a decidedly exasperated and defensive tone. THEY wanted this, WE gave it to them...etc. Perhaps the President needs to send a special envoy to Congress to broker a peace agreement between the "kids." Certainly, Ms. Pelosi needs to be more mindful of her tone in speaking about "them," and try to work toward pulling the rope in the same direction, instead of continuing to engage in this tug of war.
These hapless Republican CLOWNS are the ones responsible for giving us the Worst President in our history. We must realize by now, that speaking against Democrats is all the CLOWNS know how to do. They were voted out in large numbers and the ones left are like dumb fish on the shore looking for a way back into the lake, flailing about & simply pathetic. Anyone who listens to and takes seriously, the dribble from Rush Limbaugh are on the path to destruction, ah, self-distruction. Nancy Pelosi is the only one these crazies can find to criticize. The Republican Party is on self-destruct mode.
Would President Obama’s life be easier without Nancy Pelosi as Speaker of the House?
Not really; as a core democrat, Pelosi is a safe political ally at least for now, during the campaign she openly supported the Obama's positions on most issues...however, as Speaker she seems to function as an establishment advocate which might be at variance with Obama's message of change... at any rate not to worry, the President has no intention of socializing with her...BTW Jack you sound more and more republican every day...
Hey Jack , I thought Obama already had 3 women in his life telling him what to do ? Does he REALLY NEED PELOSI ? I THINK NOTTTTTTTT !
He would be light years ahead to drop her like a bad habit, after that he needs to let the world know he is the decider!
We miss the cowboy so much all ready.
Jack
I have always had a hard time with Nancy Pelosi and I am a democrat. She just irks me. I absolutely think he should have another leader. With that said i think the republican Boener is just as annoying. And Harry Reid sucks too. What happened to people like Mitchel or Tip O Neil as leaders even the Republican Hassart was professional.
It seems to me the ones that win the leadership are people who are just boring out of touch people.
Aaron
Yes. See is none to bright.
I'm pretty sure I have to go along with Cafferty to get onto the blog. I see a bunch of sheep here. Has anyone actually listened to Speaker Pelosi being interviewed? She is a humane, smart Congresswoman. I heard her interviewed on Sunday morning. If Cafferty said "go jump in the creek" I believe most of you folks would ask "how quick, Jack?"
Jack,
I agree that Nancy Pelosi is a thorn in our new President's side as well as a big pain in the ass every time she opens her big angry mouth.
Let her settle in. The female viewpoint can be useful. And stop giggling at contraceptives. Did it ever occur to you men that a poor woman, without insurance, probably on food stamps (which don't cover contraceptives), might be grateful for a free handout that could help her avoid an unwanted pregnancy which she can't afford?
Dayton OH
Good question Jack. As Speaker of the House she should be a leader of this group and frankly, from where we sit ,she does not provide the type of true leadership that this country so desperately needs. During the last two years of the Bush administration she failed to provide the leadership to live up to their Democratic campaign promises.
And, with the country in such dire economic circumstances is she still taking a large government jet to travel from Washington DC to her home in California. Those of us in the economic trenches dislike all these excessive entitlements for our members of congress in high positions.
Thanks for the opportunity,
Vigo Anderson
Nordland, Washington
Jack, maybe you need some help with your misogynistic attitude regarding powerful women – Pilosi is for women's rights, and it will be my first disappointment in Obama if he is willing to throw poor women's access to safe family planning under the bus to appease the hard Right – makes me want to have a re-count on the number of cracks in that glass ceiling.
Your fomer GOP Blunder said it best when he said he was the decider. I am sure Pres Obama would not say it like that but listen GOB Gran ole Biggots he is.
Speaker Pelosi is a very smart politician, however, the dislike for her from so many of the Republicans causes her to look incompetent.
Some of these Republicans should take a good hard look in the mirror, they have no leg to stand on in critcizing anyone. The past eight years have been a disaster and prior to that when they were in the majority of both the House and Senate and there was a Republican president they did the same things they are now criticizing the Democrats of doing. Talk about the pot calling the kettle black. Personally, I think they are just so angry over losing the election they can't see the forest for the treees.
When you have the majority crossing the aisle is irrelevant. You only want to cross the aisle when the numbers are tight. The republicans drowned out the voices of the American ppl and they're still talking.They should be made small and put into a closet and shut up while the new president does his thing. When Bush came in office you didnt hear a peep from the Democrats. The American ppl do not want a republican anything Obama needs not to forfeit this great victory he needs to stick it to them
I am an independent white woman who backs Obama and his change that he wants to bring. I find Pelosi arrogant and obnoxious. Just because the Democrats have the larger numbers, does not mean that she should say and do whatever she wants. I am also tired of the Republican leadership that keeps whining about not getting any say in the stimulus plan–if they do not get everything they want, they claim that the Democrats are picking on them. Boo! Hoo!
Absolutely! If President Obama is going to truly deliver on his promise of change, the "old school" partisan leaders must be replaced. I'm a hard-core Democrat, but Nancy Pelosi drives me crazy. She can't respond to "Good morning" without spewing anti-Republican zingers! Ability to antagonize the opposition and the "on the fence" people is NOT a desired qualification for Speaker. Nancy Pelosi needs to be replaced as Speaker, in favor of someone who plays well with others.
Nancy, Nancy, Nancy...she should return to her New Jersey corrupt roots and let the rest of the House get things done. She's the most obstructive person in Congress followed closely by Harry Reid. Without those two, President Obama could get enormous things done. I feel sorry for him, because they will bring him down to their level. What a shame.
I can only reasonably assume it would help him, without her-–but I sure as hell know I would like it better!
It won't matter who the person is...Pelosi is not the problem. Republicans are the problem... We gave them 8 years to do their best and we got nothing but misery. They all should be ashamed
As a woman, I was proud when Nancy Pelosi became the
Speaker and had high hopes that finally it would be a woman who could multi task and get some things done. But have been truly disapponted in her every since. Her best day was her first day. She is an embarrassment. A real idiot! With all of the problems that we have been having in today's economy it's people like her that are worried about covering their own neck and testing the wind politically for their own gain then to actually roll up their sleeves and get something done. Harry Reid is no real prize either! Both of them need to be replaced. Hopefully, Obama is smart enough to see through this ...I am no Republican – but I can tell you she makes me ashamed to be a Democrat.
" There is a quality about Nancy Pelosi that, for want of a better word, is just plain annoying." Perhaps it comes with the job because the same thing can be said of the leaders of the other party.
Pelosi just needs to go along with her lobbyist that got us into all this crap. Presidents can only serve two terms and its time Congress were held to the same law. ENOUGH OF PELOSI
YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! SHE NEEDS TO TAKE HER FAKE SMILE BACK TO CA.
It would not matter Pelosi or whom My friends that is what you will see for the next four years. Just because he is who he is unless we say as he did enough to the silly season.
Jack...Look what Bill Parcell did when he coachedin the NFL.He got rid of the cancer starting from the locker room and turned all those teams into winners........need I say more?
Jack, all of our lives would be better without Palosi.
Yes! Pelosi represents yesterday – political infighting and backroom politics that leads to gridlock. She led the 'do-nothing' Democratic majority Congress, almost dooming a Democrat victory this past fall.
She needs to make way for an Obama-style, modern style politician. Not a 'yes' woman, but someone who is honest, doesn't push pork and actually gets something done.
Time to go, Nancy!
Speaker Pelosie just plain turns my stomach....SHE is NOT trying out for stardom in Hollywood, twitching her lips....cutesie voice...Now if she is planning a chariety event or some such. .
I like someone who looks neat, serious and definately consentrating on the subject as well as understands what can and should be done with this job.
The thought of her being third in line for Presidency, scares the hell out of me!
No. If not her then the republicians will find another scape goat. Why don't they just stop telling us what would not work. And please don't say reduce taxes because if I pay less taxes you can bet that I will save that money for when I lose my job and go out and buy a "new car" duh!
Laurel, Maryland
Nancy Pelosi is looking out for the working men and women of this country. She knows that the New Deal created the middle class in this country in a remarkably short period of time after World War II, as Paul Krugman has pointed out. Progressives want to help Obama to create a new social contract in that same tradition, one that honors work and creates opportunity and a level playing field again. A one-time stimulus and then a return to the Clintonian-Rubin status quo won't do that.
Trickle-down economics resulted in 30 years of wage stagnation for most American and huge pre-new deal levels of income disparity. For 28 years, the economic powers-that-be have tried to take apart the New Deal and it's legacy of making capitalism work for all of us. They overturned much of the legacy of FDR, from financial regulation to labor rights. They did this by manipulating the fears of working class whites in the wake of the anti-Vietnam war movement and the revolution in rights for african-americans, women and gays, and by taking advantage of our bizarre electoral system. Since the Clinton years, they've been helped by mainstream democrats, and fought by progressive democrats like Nancy Pelosi and those further to the left, like Ralph Nader.
The question is not whether President Obama would be better off without Speaker Pelosi but the real question is would President Obama be better off without the winning Republicans who have driven this country into a ditch for the past 8 years! The answer to the latter.... HELL yes!
As an old Harry Byrd Virginia Dem who now is a Dobbs Lib get rid of her. Speaker Pelosi has no idea of what the Dem party's "CHANGE" means. She's arrogant and has had too many face lifts which obviously make her congressional decisions so liberal she wanted to add the children's death bill to the stimulus. Pres O would have a much easier time governing w/o this old style political dinosaur. It appears there are very few items that canbe done in two years. Is the water park in Flordia one of Waxman's special projects.
vr, Bob in Virginia
At least Nancy Pelosi can spell and read. GOP is still in love with dumb Sarah Palin.GOP still dont get it . There days are numbered if they keep holding up our money. GOP probably cant read the bill because they are dumb. GOP need to go back to collage . They need to take Rush Limbah salary alone . His salary alone can fix our economy.
Jack – YOU are annoying! I am not impressed with your chauvinistic, bigoted, prejudiced agreement with House Republicans that conraception isn't important enouch to be included in the stim package–how come men can get Viagra for free, but women can't get contraception for free?? Especially poor women, who really need the help–is contraception only for rich white Republican women?? EVERY president would be better off without an annoying Speaker of the House, remember Ginrich? Grow up, Jack.
The speaker of the house has to be tough . Look at what she is dealing with..A bunch of republican children , like Bochner and Cantor who are getting on TV with their petulant whining. Look at what they did for us under Bush,,,now they are whining..They need to be put to bed without supper, until they learn to behave. I know I am fed up witih them...and Nancy has to deal with them day after day...Ray for her
Yes, the "Stepford Speaker" needs to be gone.
Do I annoy you Jack!:)
Nancy Pelosi's one great accomplishment was to keep George Bush and the missions on his destructive agenda in abeyance for the last two years of his administration. For that I, Barrack Obama and the country should always be grateful.
Pelosi whined about the republicans behavior and their treatment of the democrats when they were in charge of the House and now while the democrats are in charge she returns the favor. When does it stop? No, I don't like her position in the House because one of the requirements for being a leader is being able to lead the way. Don't model your behavior after those whose behavior you don't respect, lead the way and make your behavior something to respect!
Hey Jack, seems to me he'd be better without a bunch of the old guard.