Mistake for some in GOP to call Democrats 'Socialists'?
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
It seems like some Republicans still haven't realized that they lost big-time last November because the American people are sick and tired of their style of politics. And here's Exhibit A: a conservative faction of the Republican National Committee wants the party to brand Democrats as Socialists.
Some RNC members argue Pres. Obama wants to restructure U.S. society upon socialist ideals.
Politico reports RNC member James Bopp, Jr. of Indiana is accusing President Obama of wanting to restructure American society along socialist ideals, saying: "Just as President Reagan's identification of the Soviet Union as the evil 'empire' galvanized opposition to Communism, we hope that the accurate depiction of the Democrats as a Socialist Party will galvanize opposition to their march to Socialism."
16 RNC members agreed to the resolution and are petitioning Chairman Michael Steele to set a special meeting to consider it. An RNC spokesman wouldn't say what Steele thinks about all this, but a memo from earlier this month suggests that while he agrees with hardliners who say the president is leading the country toward socialism, he's probably not going to make it official party policy.
And it's not just Democrats who they're after - Bopp also wanted to criticize the three Republicans who supported the stimulus package: Senators Arlen Specter, Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins. But that effort was apparently watered down - the resolution instead praises those in the party who have opposed bailouts and Democratic spending plans.
Several Republicans threw around the "socialist" label during last year's campaign; and more recently Congressman Spencer Bachus of Alabama claimed there were 17 socialists in Congress. None of this seems like the best way for the party to attract voters.
Here’s my question to you: Is it a mistake for some Republicans to try and brand Democrats as 'Socialists'?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Linda from Kentucky writes:
This is precisely why I have no faith at all in the Republican Party. They keep trying to appeal to their knuckle-dragging base. I notice Meghan McCain making the rounds, trying to yank the party back to some semblance of reason. More power to her. The rest of them are idiots.
Bruce from St. Paul, Minnesota writes:
There are multiple problems with this strategy. First, people do not associate socialism with any particular evil regime. Many don't even know what it means. Others think we could use a little socialism around here. Secondly, they are using it as a defense against healthcare reform and a more fair tax system without offering any intelligent alternative.
Reed from Washington writes:
Politically, this approach will not pay off for the GOP. It can only serve to rally a portion of the base that doesn't require it, while alienating moderate Republicans such as myself.
Kerry writes:
It is much, much worse than just the perceived "socialism." My guess is they are now headed (thanks to Obama) on a road to fascism and/or communism!
Charles from Oregon writes:
Jack, The Republicans are using the labels Socialist, Fascist, etc., to raise fear in the hearts of Americans. To them it's like cooking spaghetti: if it sticks, then it's done and ready to be used to fool the people of the U.S. Unfortunately, they're showing how trivial they are because they have no new ideas of their own.
Scott writes:
The Republicans are wrong; there are way more than 17 Socialists in Congress.
Kim from Blair, Nebraska writes:
Probably, but give 'em enough rope and they will hang themselves. I believe they almost have enough already.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
When has it been up to the Republican party to determine the political ideology of any other party other than their own, same with the Democratic party. What's the matter? We don't have enough external adversaries so we have to create internal ones? It's a wonder the US can get anything done anymore. Acting like Pollyanna or the harbinger of doom is not helping Americans, not Republicans, nor Democrats. Concerted efforts are what made America, not bickering.
I guess I don't see the problem with a socialist society .enlighten me please!What is the downside to being a socialist?
It is time to stop all name calling in Washington. Hasn't either party gotten the message that we want them to put the nation and its people first and to hell with what they consider good for the party!!
This will be a disaster for the GOP. It is bad enough playing the politics of fear by using labels designed to be emotive. It is even worse when the GOP clearly has no idea what they are talking about.
I am British and lived in several European countries. Obama is center right compared to European politicians.
I lived for 3 years in Denmark, a country many in the USA would call "socialist". It was not a bad life. What part of free universal health care, low cost efficient public transport, free adult education, free sports facilities etc. do you not like?
Of course "free" means high taxes that most Americans and I would feel is too high a price to pay. However it is a realistic choice and "socialism" should not be treated as a four letter word.
Who cares? What's wrong with socialism anyway? Are these "conservatives" going to refuse their Social Security checks? If they do fling around the socialist accusation, they had better be prepared for the FASCIST label that they so richly deserve coming their way.
Maybe some of the Democrats don't mind too much being called "Socialists" – which essentially means that government works more directly for the benefit of the common people. In this sense, the GOP indirectly takes pride to be the "Antisocial Party" which gives a damn whether the common people are struggling or not. The GOP still keeps producing propaganda that fits better in a dictatorial regime than in a democracy. Maybe they should be reminded that while currently, things looks to "socialist" to them, the past 8 years of GOP rule looked awfully
"fascist" to a lot of people.
The Republicans do not even know what they are I doubt they know the meaning of the word, No wonder they are confused they had the reins for so long doing anything they wanted no matter what it did to the country. They are complete losers, and they will realize it when the Party just falls all to pieces, just because of who they have behind them Karl Rove, Hannity, Beck, and Limbaugh. No wonder they have a hard time figuring it all out. Can you arrest these guys for being a national security threat to over throw our government elected by the people. I bet you are laughing, but with Darth Vader out there no telling what he is doing behind closed doors
Of course it's a mistake, but having no honest ideas of their own all they can do is sling mud and hope some will stick. Even most people with an IQ below 85 can see that a 3% tax hike on the wealthiest Americans, putting the rate back to where it was under Reagan is not "Socialism". The only people complaining are those few who will be affected and the crooked politicians who they have in their pockets.
I find it at least "interesting" that Republicans now label any of President Obama's initiatives to help citizens of this country as "socialist" while at the same time advocating more tax breaks, subsidies (dairy and tobacco come to mind) and deregulation for large corporations (financial institutions and petroleum companies come to mind). It seems the classic definition of; to use another term, "fascism" – the sharing of power between the state and corporations (the Krupp Arms Company in Nazi and WWI Germany come to mind). So if Democrats are "socialist", I can say with equal rectitude that Republicans are "fascist". Now, can we proceed with some problem solving?? What ever happened to the party of Dwight Eisenhower, Barry Goldwater and Everett Dirksen?
Mount Vernon, WA
YES because obviously they don't know what socialism is....
Huge mistake. America exists as well as it does based on a blend of Socialism and Capitalism (conservativness whatever the opposite of Socialism is. If GOP members who insist on the label, they should pull out of the Social Security System, Medicare and Medicaid, Unemployment payments, college tuition and on and even sending their kids to their local schools. Of course we'd have to cut out their generous congressional socialist pensions too. Taxes make our nation AND public services work for all Americans. Maybe we should just quit paying tax all together. Now you know that some dummies out there will say yeah, yeah that's right no taxes.
Wake up, like the sign says, no taxes, no services.
Didn't they learn anything from the campaign?Mccain/Palin spent their time flinging socialist and terrorist at Obama and see where it got them.We want ideas not schoolyard tactics.
Yes it is a mistake to use the term socialist against Obama. The Republicans are only highlighting the fact they are against social security, military retirement pensions, and medicar...programs that are favored by virtually everyone in the United States. Futhermore, most of the GOP don't even know what socialism means...its just a term of the day...the GOP is basically bankrupt of ideas and common decency.
The dems won by reaching across the aisle to independent and even some republican voters. They presented solutions to our problems. The republican party has done nothing but stamp their feet since they lost their majorities in congress and the presidency. If they want to be back in power any time soon, they need to realize that the american people want solutions, not childish mudslinging.
Yes it is a mistake and in a large way. As a moderate democrat I am not in favor of socialism but if we talk about socialism like it is in Canada it isn't so bad. If we talk about socialism like it is in China or Russia then that is a problem. We already have social programs and they are working. Sure we could have gone private with Social Security and how broke would that be for the Baby Boomers who just lost a ton in their 401K's?
The G no P has a lot to learn about what the majority of voters want.
No, not as long as they're willing to forgo all the "socialist" perks they now avail themselves of. You, know, Jack–things like publically funded roads, schools, fire and police depts, social security, medicare, and last, but not least, they're taxpayer funded health care.
Other than the fact that they may be rallying up the ultra conservative base, I think it is pure idiocy. If Republicans want to attract more people to the party, they need to get off the fear mongering and labeling ideology or pretty soon all they will have left is that conservative base. The number of free thinking Republicans seems to be dwindling as we speak.
Jack, it doesn’t make sense when for the past eight years the government has been giving Socialism to the top 1% in tax relief and not to the rest of us making under $250,000. McCain called this fiscally irresponsible at one time – If it was then it sure is now with the economy hurting like this. The bailout that was approved last year under Bush gives socialism to the rich and corporations again and not to any of the rest of us. Something doesn’t sound right here. This Republican madness is all about the 3% tax hike the very rich will get.
This is an old 1990 Republican scheme and it will not work. The Republicans cannot come up with new and better ideas they have the same old ideas from the past. They are stuck in the past.
No, if their intent is to drive the moderate republicans and independents to the democratic party. Then this idea will ensure their success. Marlene in Mich
Socialism: government ownership and administration of production and distribution of goods. A system where there is no private property. I see neither of these as descriptive of Democratic party platforms.However, a confluence of wealth at the top which Republicans trend toward seems a closer description of their party advocating an Oligarchy system of government: A small group exercising control for corrupt and selfish purposes.
Are you sure the Republican party isn't doing some weird kind of performance art? Why else would they be looking to reheat some McCarthyism sweetened with some nostalgia for Reagan?
I support President Obama and I think it's a great idea. If Far Right leaders can do half as good of a job trashing their own political futures as they have at trashing our country, so much the better. Instead of smearing Obama with the dreaded 'Socialism' label, they just might rebrand Socialism itself, by associating it with a popular President and a winning agenda for the American people.
When you start throwing around names without really knowing what they mean, you run a high risk of looking like a child. When the Republicans seem to be spending more time pointing fingers at people who seem to be actively trying to solve our problems instead of actually helping out or offering up ideas, its hard to see them as being relevant. Well, unless the house and senate have suddenly become a schoolyard during recess.
Let's see, now. Our government is assuming control and making leadership decisions for banks and corporations that were previously private. That's not socialism?
The actions of this past administration and the present rantings of the fringe lunatics who seem to be in control of the republican party have done more to make socialism popular than any left wing organization could ever have done. It's far more attractive than the brand of" free for all" ruinous capitalism we've been exposed to.
One wants to help the Repulicans, Jack, really. They seem so lost and only a handful of them anymore seem to really get it (like Megan McCain). Most Americans want to identify our problems, outline courses of action, debate our path forward, and implement solutions– but Republicans of late seem only able to say No and name call. Democrats are not innocent of this, to be sure. Yet in light of your question, how will it look for the Republican Party to officially adopt a policy of name-calling? How silly for even debating it? Worse yet –as outlined yesterday by David Gergen– what if they try this shameful stunt, and cannot vote successfully to peg the Dems with the scoialist label? So yes, Jack, this is as big a mistake as letting Sara Palin talk to Catie Couric without a kill switch.
HUGE Mistake! We the people aren't stupid, we know the Republicans are liars and bullies. Socialism is: When those factors of the economy best run efficiently by government are. When those factors best run by the private sector are. It does not mean what the Republicans are implying. We are not a socialist country and aren't even close to it (except passenger railroads). It's PURE HOGWASH ! I'm an MBA and socialism is as stated. Ralph, Yakima, Wa
Jack, it not only is a mistake, but it is an outright lie which will be believed by a good portion of the population out here. God bless them, but I don't understand how so many people can still believe everything they here from the RNC and some "media?" types. To make matters worse, most of those who believe all the lies spread about Democrats are the ones who need help and are being helped.
Let 'em call Democrats "Socialists", "Nazis" or whatever else their fevered imaginations conjure up. It just damages shaky Republican credibility even further. In the long run, the shriller and more venomous current Republican "leaders" become, the sooner they will be overwhelmingly rejected by the American people.
Chris in Marietta, GA
Name calling and labeling is all they have in their bag of tricks. They continue to act as if the election is still to take place. The time as come for everyone to pull in the same direction. Why not be part of the solution instead of being part of the problem?
I'm absolutely offended. The GOP is writing their obit. faster than they can blink. If dems called their party something so wrong, they would be outraged. I'm sick of all the foot stomping pettiness that is going on. That's not what I voted for
First of all I have to defend the Bush administration. The first 6 years
of his presidency , the press and the people didn't complain.
Everybody had a job and the economy was in great shape. As soon as the Democrats took control of congress (won mainly due to Iraq war) the whole economy started going down hill. Remember, overwelmingly the Democrats won because the people hated Bush and not the Republicans. I for one didn't like Bush and did not vote for him. So yes it was the Socialist Democrats that screwed this country up of the last 2 years. Now it's going to get worse because of the executive branch in power are a bunch of socialists.
Jack, all I can say is when you start making the same amount of money as the janitor, factory worker, and teacher, you going to regret asking these stupid questions. All you're doing is making things worse by stirring up negative emotions. You would have been a good PR man for Stalin. Once you start asking negative questions here about Obama and his administration, than we will all know, for real , that the honeymoon is over for Obama , and your paycheck is much lower than it was 2 years ago. .
Yes it would. If the Republicans attempt to do so, they will invite others to compare them to the National Socialists and Faciast parties of the 1930's and 40's. Bring on Social Engineering as another label of the Democrats so the Republicans can be labeled as Social Anarchists. Me, I'm sick and tired of scare and hate tactics, all the lies, spin and misinformation put out by both parties that we have had to endure since John Adams ran. Yes I'm an independent.
No-it is not. Socialist ( and Socialism)_ unfolds and developes more and more every day. And it will take the next 4 generations to pay for it. Republicans are all for helping people–but not doing all for them. In other words–allowing people to be responsible for themselves and allowing them the dignity of making their own choices. Obamamessiah and his minions want to be all to all people–and take away individual freedom in exchange for government power.
Republicans using scare tactics to persuade public opinion? Things never change...
It would not be good enough to say they disagree with the anti conservative side of the gov't, no they have to go extreme and say Dems are socialists. If that does not work, Democrats will soon be called Communists. And sad to say, those tactics do work on some of the weak-minded Americans.
Dumb idea; although most of the American public doesn't know the difference between a socialist and a communist, they equate it as the same.
Nope, not at all.
The truth hurts.
It"s only a mistake if someone gives them credence. The Republicans have been trying to do this as far back as Eisenhower that I remember. How the Democrats solution to the toxic levels of reagonimics of the last eight years equates to state ownership of means of production and distribution ( AKA Socialism) is beyond me. It is just the same old tired scare tactics they have used so many times before. On the other hand the current european style socialism seems a lot more stable than our current boom/bust cycles. Maybe we should give it a try .
Jack, Calling Democrates socialists is probaby the only truth in Washington these days! The truth is NEVER A MISTAKE!
Here's a broad question that everyone should consider:
Do you think a national media that is owned by capitalists is going to allow socialism to get a fair shake in the public square?
Of course not. I doubt this post will even get posted for that very reason. So no it is not a mistake. It's the GOP recognizing the reality of America and taking advantage of it. Socialism=evil, and the capitalist media will ablidge for their own interests.
I think this is a terrible idea. All it does is strengthen the far right in the Republican party, but it pushes away the moderates that might join if not for the methods of the party. Republicans should realize that the majority of the nation voted for Obama, and the majority still thinks he's doing a good job. Calling him a socialist, especially when he clearly isn't, only alienates people. Also, it gives the party a bad reputation by attacking the opposition with childish name calling rather than arguing the issues.
Not as far as I'm concerned. I know that the old guard American believes that socialist is a four letter word. And we won't change that attitude unless and until they all experience the benefit of social programs like the medicare, social security, interstate highways, public schools, etc. Both the "fair" enterprise system and the socialist system can work side-by-side. Some things are best done by the private sector and some things are best done by the public sector. Obviously, the private sector has failed to provide accessable and affordable healthcare in the USA.
Is it possible for the Republican Party to look more foolish than it does now? While the country is in crisis, brought about by GOP mismanagement, they're monkeying around with trying to put a label on the party of an extremely popular president. Honestly, we need a two-party system in this country. What we've got is one and a kindergarten class populated by whining, spoiled toddlers.
Here in Canada we are partly "socialist" which in no way is connected to communism and most European countries also have "socalist" programs and guess what – we enjoy freedom as much as your do. Our medicine is socialized and 74% of us claim to be very happy with our health system. Our infant mortality rate is extremely low whereas yours is high. You know what Republicas it is time you become educated on how socialism works but then of course all those business partners of yours might get angry as their bonuses could drop 2% and they might only earn 16 million dollars in one year. Americans – learn more about socialism by looking at Canada and Europe – get educated!
Probably but give 'em enough rope & they will hang themselves. I believe they almost have enough already.
Lying, ignorance and blind faith will always come back to haunt. In the last 30 years and even more so in the last 100 days, this is all the GOP has. The quality of our education system has declined, but not so much that the majority of the electorate is stupid. If these extremist right wing nuts would look outside the pandering FOX news heads and nut cases like Limbaugh, they’d see that we finally have a President that doesn’t just talk about fixing problems, but actually put’s his own sweat into fixing them.
It's not the issue of if its a mistake or not. If the government as the government nationalizes healthcare, banking, the auto industry, not to mention the welfare system we already have in place. I'm sorry but its is a bend toward socialism we won't return from. Let's not talk politics but truth.
The GOP just needs emotional names to smear on anyone who disagrees with them. For 8 years under Bush, disagreement was disloyalty.
Now the is GOP just guessing with their name-calling as they have no plan for the country, no vision for the future and no clue as the reality of the state of the nation.
It's a bigger mistake to call themselves Capitalists after the income redistribution that ocurred diring the Republican control. They've made "socialism" look much better to a lot of people.
Honestly – who care what the outdated, has-been, destroyers of our economy call democrats. Can the GOP spell socialist, has anyone of them besides W graduated an ivy league (oops bush got in and left Harvard because of his father's legacy)?
I voted republican 2000, 2004 and left that outdated, rigid, hypocrytical party in 2006 and am ashamed that I voted for them in the past.
Diane in Alabama
Yes it is a mistake because most of these same people have no clue as to what socialism is. Same with the teabaggers and their silly little picnic against taxes (which BTW went back to August 2008 during that other god awful administration). Like most republicans they are being led by their masters (limbaugh, cheney, newt boy, jindal, palin, to name a sorry few) to oblivion. They are just too darn stupid to know it.
No, its not a mistake. Lets call a spade a spade.
Niles, OH
The GOP is just making mistake after mistake and calling Democrats "socialists" is just another in a long line of tired rhetoric that this country is sick and tired of hearing! You're right, Jack. Somebody forgot to pass along the memo that the Republican party lost last year, and they actually think they are still in charge! They are just a huge irritant that self-medicating will drown out!
Jack, Let te pubs call the Democrats whatever they want. People are sick and tired of them and come the next election cycle you will see more of their sorry butts sent home. Where was all this outrage when we had a dictator for the last 8 years?
The republicans just don't get it, Jack, Last November the high turn out didn't just cause Obama to win, It also awoke millions of people who were not into politics to get into understanding politics. Now they want to attack Democrats and are ending up looking like desperate has beens, They need to go hide under the same rock that bush is hiding under right now..
Yes we should tell the truth they are Marxists!!!
Jeff Crocket in new Britain, CT
As a democrat, I really hope the GOP goes through with calling us socialists. True, Obama's policies might be leading us in that direction in some fashion, but it seems to make sense considering the recent financial meltdown and the fact that we're the only industrialized nation without a significant degree of socialism in the world.
Also, the Republicans tried this in the election, and lost BIG. When will they learn?
Jack,
They're using the labels Socialist, Fascist, etc., to raise fear in the hearts of Americans. To them it's like cooking spaghetti – if it sticks, then it's done and ready to be used to fool the people of the United States.
Unfortunately, they're showing how trivial they are because they have no new ideas of their own – unless, you want to say that recycling President Reagan's and President Hoover's ideas are new. Besides, we're tired after 8 years of Bush and need to change course – that's why we elected Barack Obama as President of the United States..
There is some risk but done correctly liberals could be redefined as socialist and the fact most liberals are Democrats, Democrats are socialists. The trick is to redefined the word socialist. Much like here in California, Arnold Schwarzenegger has redefined the term tax increases to the term increases in fees. Those who would label liberals as socialist have to correlate the similarities of the Democratic Party's agenda to current socialistic countries. If this can be done correctly I think the majority of the GOP would have to agree or buy into this tactic or strategy and collectively say it loud, say it proud, and say it repeatedly for it to stick.
The risk of course is if the majority of Americans want socialism and all the similarities that the Democratic party's agenda has to socialism.
We now do business in a global community where the competition is subsidized by their government. We must do the same in order to compete, that IS socialism. To give a no bid contract to Haliburton, that also is SOCIALISM.
No more than it would be for the Republicons (sic) to be characterized as monarchists, Or maybe National Socialists.
James Bopp, Jr.? You couldn't make this stuff up
Yes, people are tired of partianship politics on BOTH sides.
And calling the "earmark and spending bill" a stimulus bill is the same.
Republicans should concentrate on the runaway spending, leading to hyper inflation and taxes. Expose the hidden taxes like cigarettes, gas, etc. Fiscal awareness will be the talking point in 2010, unless it's national security because of an attack.
Republicans are desperate. They only want "small government" because they don't have a stranglehold over it anymore. As for socialism, is it such a bad thing? It has many good qualities that could be added to the American capitalist system to improve the life of it's citizens. I'm not saying to turn into Cuba or the Soviet Union, look more at Sweden!
If republicans keep branding democrats socialist and people see the quality of life in some places that do socialist things right... they will lose like they've never lost before.
Why exactly are the Republicans worrying anyway? No matter what label is put on our government THEY have all the money and can run things pretty well just as they always have.
I know, it would be a real pity if they had to contribute a little more to the average working man, but even if they did (under some socialist "regime") it would not make a dent in their cash supply and they would still make the rules.
The GOP continues to keep digging the pit they are in deeper. Branding themselves as the "Party of the Angry Old White Men" isn't going to win them a lot of national elections.
Not a mistake if it is true.
Washington, DC
Politically, this approach will not pay off for the GOP. It can only serve to rally a portion of the base that doesn't require it, while alienating moderate republicans such as myself.
Jack,
Yeah, it's a mistake for the GOP to brand the Dems as a socialist party. People are losing their jobs in mass numbers. There are good, honest, hardworking middle class families that are finding themselves in dismal financial situations. They need extensions on unemployment benefits, food stamps, help with paying for out of control health care costs, housing vouchers, and a whole host of other "socialist" programs. Someone needs to remind the GOP that they took an oath to uphold the Constitution. Part of that oath includes a promise to promote the general welfare of our citizens. The Republican leadership needs to wake up. Many of their constituents are out of work. Republicans can either help us now or join us in the unemployment line shortly after next election cycle.
No – if we don't let them show how stupid they are, how will we know how stupid they are?
Democrats are NOT socialists. I am a socialist. Ghandi was a socialist. Stalin was NOT a socialist. If the Republican party wants to name democrats as socialists, their party should be renamed as Fascists.
It is treason to call my CIC or my country Socialist.
This is just as idiotic as Texans wanting to seceede from the Union! This is why the Republicans lost.
My God, I hope so!
The Republicans are wrong...there are way more than 17 Socialists in Congress.
Should Republicans brand Democrats as socialists? Only if they've earned it. Look at their words, their policies, and make the decision on facts. Of course, some GOPers might find themselves in the same category.
jack, the right wingers are desperate, my best friend truly believes that the end is near, all he cares about is getting more guns etc. they just can't accept the fact that they lost!!!fear is all they have left!
Jack, it is a good idea, but only if Republicans explain exactly what socialism is and why Democrats are socialists, which indeed they are. Simply throwing the term around, though, comes off as name-calling.
Calling dems socialists is not only a mistake, it's downright silly. But what else can we expect from the GOP that is so confused and angry that they cannot figure out what they believe in anymore, so they act like junior high delinquents name calling in the boys room.
Not only is it a mistake, its downright stupidity. These people need to look of the definition of socialism before they start throwing it around. It's yet another ad hominem attack by a party desperate for something, ANYTHING, to keep the American people from realizing their outdated policies simply don't work.
no it is not. we are really heading towards socialism
Jack:
Who cares what the Republicans have to say about anything-they lost big time.
To me it sounds like the Republicans are resorting to a tactic that another famous Republican used long ago. Joseph McCarthy tried to demonize people with the label of communism. He questioned people who did not agree with him by labeling them with this epiteth. The Republicans are now resorting to this McCarthyite tactic. They are spreading rumors that members of congress are closet socialists, trying to rebrand the Democrats as Socialists, etc. This sounds pretty McCarthylike to me!
Of course it is Jack! It's the same as labeling Republicans as competent. It's a flat out lie.
are the republicans so quick to forget about their bailout with bush in office? Maybe they should think about their past before they call other's socialists. Huntington, Indiana
Not as long as those Socialists are calling Reublicans Radical Right Wing Extremists.
The whole bunch of Republicans in the Capital and their pathetic followers should be water-boarded for a prolonged period of time !
Yes, I believe the Democrats are leading us in the direction of socialism. They now control the banks, the automobile industry and next the health care industry. In addition to executive salaries. If this isn't socialism, tell me what it is. It certainly is beginning to emulate Sweden, Israel and other European countries where the Income taxes are as high as 85% of gross income. A woman aquainttance who has dual US and Swedeish citizenship needed a heart transplant. She said she would go back to Sweden and have it done free. The Swedeish authorities said yes but she would have to wait seven years for a doner. She had it done here. BOB, Tucson , AZ
Yes, it is a bad idea. Gingrich has tried to kill social security and medicare for years and where is he now?
If anyone calls Democrats socialist, then they don't know what socialist means. I don't think the Republicans want to be seen as incompetent, but if they call Democrats socialist, they clearly are.
No Jack. Republicans doing this will make for the best fund raising campaign for the Democratic Party. Everything Republicans do to hurt Democrats helps 10 fold.
Why not. The GOP can not have a debate over the issues with the Democrats because they loose on all of them. They also have no solutions to the problems the nation is facing. So why not try childish name calling its all they have left
Ian
Burlington, Vermont
Of course it's a mistake. The two words mean different things. Do these Republicans think that their supporters are ignorant? Or are they the ignorant ones?
It fits in with their vocal support of torturing prisoners of war and Dick Cheney as their keynote speaker since leaving office.
Big Mistake Jack! Especially for we "independents" who don't really care much for the extreme ends of either party. Besides calling Demos socialist is like my grandmother calling someone a Flim Flammer ( a bit old and outdated). Republicans really need to change their tune quick or face extinction.
20 years ago, the term socialists would have been too harsh and off track. Today, it's perhaps too mild a term and it's exactly correct.
Over the course of recent history the american conservatives have become more radical as the left has moved towards the center. If these comments on socialism weaken the far right and get some more moderacy in the nation so be it. Maybe then the sophism of the extremes will also decrease a bit and we can actually get something done in congress.
It is a mistake but it has a purpose. The people doing this are doing it to destroy the country as we know it. It is because they believe that it must be their way or no way. It is OK if they are not in the majority as long as they continue to have some manner of control and under Obama they do not have squat.
YES. These guys have been in their cave for far too long. They need to come out into the light. UV light is great for cleaning things up.
Jack
IF in fact, as the Republicans say, Obama is laking us toward socialism, it is far better than the previous 8 years and the downward slide to fascism,
Mike
Of course it is Jack! It’s the same as labeling Republicans as competent. It’s a flat out lie.
Dear Jack, It is political suicide for Republicans unless the people in their voting districts are stupid enough to beleive their lies. I can forsee another four years for Pres. Obama beyond his current term. Rush, O'Reilly and othersl will need to eat crow!
All of this GOP nonsense is only sour grapes. They do not care about the common people only about their own selfish aggrandizement.
The same party who began the policies they call socialism and help worsen the economic stability in this country will label who, what? With all these labels and no solutions; I understand why they are the minority.
Well, Jack, its probably better for them to call the Democrats "socialists" rather than calling them "fascists," which have they also be doing lately.
It is never advisable for for right-wing reactionaries to bandy about the term "fascist"–especially when they're only lacking the Chaplinesque mustache.
i think that it a horrible mistake because it shows the desperation that they have. they have forgotten that when someone of the other party wins, he is gonna do things that the GOP won't agree. when people protested against Bush they were called un american and now they are protesting... WOW!
Yes. It is as much a mistake for the GOP as it would be for the Democrats to call the Republicans intellectuals.
I guess republicans still don't understand what American people want,
We want the group to be open minded even if they disagree with President Obama plan.It just more mud throwing. They sound like kids give me a break.
Chris/critter
I am very much ok with the Republicans calling the Democrats socialists because it helps remind me why I left the Republican party last year due to their racism, sexism, and name further name calling, followed by their lack of responsibility during the years Bush was in office, their horribly biased ways of handling things with muscle, their love for war, not wanting to find non-aggressive ways to solve problems with other nations, and making our country look no better than the bad guys.
it is typical of both parties to resort to rhetoric rather than attempt to represent us the PEOPLE. The Demcrats call Republicans fascists and Republicans call the Demcrats socialists. Both in my opinion are corporatists and should call themselves as such.
no it isnt. the republican are aware of things we are not.
Hey Jack, It not only would be a mistake, but the proof the the Republicans are the socialists, using force & fear to get people to think like them. 1 person I can think of the did that? Hitler.
YES!!! of course its a mistake to call democrats socialists thats the same thing as calling republicans nazis
McCarthy used communism, so it's typical for the republicans.
Over the course of recent history the american conservatives have become more radical as the left has moved towards the center. If these comments on socialism weaken the far right and get some more moderacy in the nation so be it. Maybe then the sophism of the extremes will also decrease a bit and we can actually get something done in congress.
It seems to me that the Republicans have sunk to "name calling." Do they even think about such questions as whether socialism is necessarily geometrically opposed to concepts as freedom, free enterprise, or liberty? I don't think that those who engage in such name calling are even capable of such distinctions.
Not when it's true in a lot of cases. Besides, Americans are so afraid of conservatism with the last 8 years plus the left wing's branding of Conservative as equalling archane superstition, they're starting to be made to feel like behind-the-times idiots for being religious, let alone republican. Americans are starting to warm up to socialism so this won't even hurt your precious Dems.
Yes Jack, it's a wonderfulful idea. The Democrats are as "socialist" as the Republicans are "progressive".
Jack,
The Republicans are scared to death that the Obama administration is doing the exact things that will bring us back from the Republican led dimunition of our economic and leadership status in the world. The best they can come up with is to label the Dems as Socialists. They really do not have an alternative solution.
The best thing we ever did was to remove them from power!
Bob
South Carolina
O Lord, Socialists in Congress? I wish! A government that cared about the health, food and lodging of the country's inhabitants is still only a dream, but maybe creeping socialism in the legislative body could move us an inch or two closer.
A young friend of mine registered as a Socialist because, he said, it was closest to his Christian values. C'mon, Jesus, teach us how to live.
Yes, it is a mistake for the Republicans to call the Dems "socialists" or but it is not surprising. They are stuck in the past. The only tactics they know involve invoking the rhetoric of the cold war. I am surprised they don't call them commies or reds or something like that. They've been calling everyone they don't like those very things and attempting to invoke the fears of decades ago for so long without ever noticing that they are now trying to sell it all to a generation that has no fear of such things.
Fear tactics never work for long. Eventually, people realize they are being played.
Congressman Bachus' claim of 17 socialists in Congress is chillingly reminiscent of the McCarthy era. These labels are fear mongering at it's worst.
I'm confused, I thought the Democrats were supposed to be fascists. I wish the Republicans would make up their minds.
At this time in our history, with the pain of excessive "cooperation" between the Republicans and our most heinous capitalists fresh in people's minds, it would be a huge mistake on the part of the Democrats if they can't find a way to sucker the Republicans into calling them socialists.
Keith Collins
Cody, Wyoming
It is just sour grapes on the part of GOP. They just cannot accept the fact that they lost the election fair and square unlike what happened in 2000. If I were one of them, I should hide in shame considering what they had done to this country with the help of former president George W. Bush. When the wealthiest Americans got a huge tax cut, they are creating jobs but when President Obama gives tax cuts to the poor and middle class, it is socialism go figure.
Jack, I am tired Republicans labelling people who don't see things their way as un-American or Socialist. they aren't being labelled as nazis, and if they were, they would have a fit. I don't have a problem with any group showing pride, but when you have to put down others, tells me they don't really believe that what they represent can standalone.
Jack,
As someone who grew up in Alabama, I noticed at a very young age that the concencus attitude down there is "If we don't get a Republican in office, we'll get taxed to death and will have to shut our doors!" I wish I still lived in California or Michigan. At least the people that I knew in both places were more about keeping it real than keeping it about "Yeah, what Spencer said". Notice to Alabamans-PLEASE learn how to think for yourselves!
Sam
Knoxville TN
Have you ever heard of "Republican Facism". This is worse than calling Democrats "Socialist".
Haha, that nest of former College Repubiclans is showing the power of their mighty MBA degrees.
Meanwhile, back on Planet Earth, I find that every time I walk out the door of my house I suddenly become a "socialist." Imagine that.
In the effort of full disclosure, I'm an independent voter who trends socially liberal and fiscally conservative. That said, the current state of the Republican Party in 2009 is positively abysmal: the GOP has no vision, no message, and no plan for the future... at least not one that is based on anything other than partisan name-calling and finger-pointing. It's time for a new, more grown up political discourse. The American people need and deserve no less...
Of course the dems are socialists. But, Republicans are neo-nazis (see Dick Cheney and government sanctioned torture). Personally, I'll take the socialists.
The Republicans have absolutely no right branding any Democrat as a Socialist. The Republicans opened the door for the "Socialists " to take over the US Government. Socialism is a government that is contolled by business interests. The bail out proves who the real government is and the two incumbent parties are not in control.
It is a joke to call Obama a socialist. He is a Liberal full stop. We in Canada have a socialist party as do all other wester countries. We all love them. We have recieved total Medicare, better pensions, better education, social services many provinces have government auto insurance etc. These are policies we all deeply appreciate. Even when conservatives win, they are loath to roll back they programs much like Social Security in your country. Obama is no socialist but it would be better for the USA if he was.
keep on pushing that bush and cheney tortured and try to prosecute....because if we are attacked with a terriorist attack we can once and for all get rid of the democratic party.....keep on....just keep on pushing it...its in the republican's favor
There’s so much wrong with the GOP here, Jack. I’d tell you all of it but the Situation Room is only three hours long and you’d be sitting there reading until AC360.
Mount Vernon, WA
No, its not a mistake at all. Calling Obama a socialist is a very popular ideal. I'm sure the GOP will get lots of people voting for them in 2010. Let's see, there's Joe the Plumber, Victoria Jackson, and Britney Spears to name a few.
Jack,
As a proud pinko Socialist myself, I am deeply offended that the Republicans would consider calling these extremely conservative Democrats, Socialists. They are no more Socialist than you are. Keep up the good work comrade.
They can call us whatever they want. I want to go on record as saying the Republicans should be called the DEF Party (Divisive, Elitist, and Arrogant). They are nothing but a bunch of sore losers…acting no different that a toddler who does not get his or her way.
CJ, North Carolina
From a political/cynical perspective, it is a VERY good idea for the Republicans to try to brand Democrats as "Socialists", as there are lots of credulous people in this country who are easily persuaded to the most nonsensical of assertions. Such is a perverse talent that the Republicans have: to utilize the most ignorant among us as the most useful of tools.
Matt Hardison
Yukon, Oklahoma
No, it is not a mistake. Some, not all Democrats, are indeed Socialists.
I am an Independent and share the same opinion as those Republicans that feel this way.
Guess who has my vote in 2012?
The fact that the Republican party is implying the democrats are socialist is absurd. Lets look at the fact that because of large bloated corporations so respected and backed by 8 years of George Bushes Liberal spending has cost this country the worse economic times in the last century of a Free Economic and Democratic society. We all need to remember the first round of " socialist" funding was done under George Bush. Ask youself one question republicans what should Obama do with the George Bush 8 year mess. Its the equivalent of you making a mess in the white House Kitchen and telling the new maid to clean it up. Republicans are just that stiff and conservative people who seek to put the blame on someone who is actually make change. George bush started the soft socialism in this country he is to blame. Remeber he handed out the first billion dollar bailout NOT OBAMA!
I think the Republicans should call the Democrats socialists because "social" is the key word in socialist, which is something the Republicans are not, do to them being exclusive and being the party of "NO".
Republicans need to define the term socialism. Do the Republicans mean socialism is more government regulations for the financial sector so we do not destroy the world economy? Do they mean socialism is universal health-care so we do not have to file bankruptcy for a catastrophic medical event? Perhaps they mean tax cuts for the middle class so we can jump-start the economy. Do they mean an end of torture so we can regain world respect? Republicans will continue to bring in the sheep. This old goat is not buying it.
Is the public school system socialized? Are the police and fire departments socialized? It is the job of our government to protect it's citizens and their welfare. Clearly in these times our government is not doing enough to protect us from corporate american companies. Their greed is finally taking a toll on our infrastructure. Any politician who accepts money from any company is being bribed and that is against the law regardless if they want to call it lobbying.
Yes, it would be a mistake to call the democrates socialist. Number 1 because they're not and this would make them a lier, #2, It sounds like the republicans are saying they are communist or something and they are not. The republicans need to go back and look at the powers the Government has in regards to helping the American people when the economy and businesses break down. The government is to protect the people. It makes the republicans look dumb, not knowing what powers the government has when helping the American people. This will hurt tthe republicans very much.
I guess it depends on how one defines "socialist" Jack. Would the same republicans think they could curry favor with voters by denouncing social security, unemplyment insurance and a variety of other programs that are essentially insurance plans, funded by all of us? If you want to take it further, the only true capitalists are the ones who never derive a government benefit, never rely on a health care plan, live in the woods and grow their own vegetables.
Yes. I think 97% of Republicans have earned the right to remain silent! Those speaking out so much are really beginning to sound absolutely crazy. That's not just some kind of jab. They really are sounding like they're in The Twilight Zone. We thankfully all have freedom of speech, but let's consider what we're saying and the possible resulting impact.
We live in a society. Socialism basically means "For the People".
No wonder they are against it!!
Maybe we Independents and Democrats should get to call them
what they are; "Corpoate Fascists".
No it isn't Jack. It's the same calculated demonization made popular by that gang of miscreants who branded themselves as National Socialists in a time that, oddly enough, coincided with Joe McCarthy and Richard Nixon's formative years. Quite a tradition they've got there in the GOP.
The last time I checked, Socialism had to do with the distribution of goods... not services. If the Democrats are Socialists because they are trying distribute services (such as medicine, etc...) to the people... then school teachers, social welfare workers, garbage men, and pretty much anyone involved in a social service would have to be labeled socialists too. Thanks for relying on ignorance, sore-loser Republicans... but the time for that is over. Some of us have woken up and we're setting off the alarms for the rest.
The sad thing is that the people on here who don't know what true socialism is, are the idiots that will benefit from it. The other's that claim they do , really don't know because they weren't around when Russia was just a small part of the USSR. Its a shame how history has to repeat itself and even more of a shame that it will be America making the mistake of being "socialized.". Its okay to call a duck a duck...
Jack,
The GOP somehow does not realize that the negative, defiant and name calling attitude do not sit with 95% of americans who are scared for tommorrow. So when times are hard and frightening, we dont need anyone to add to it.....They seem to be tearing down this country all for the sake of politics and their own political agenda and the poor republican, independent, conservatives and liberals are not liking it. I wish they would show some agenda to help the president rebuild this country that the Bush administration wiped out.
Being a citizen of both Sweden and the United States I think we have to be aware of any social progress has to be paid for one way or the other, but it also brings a lot of positives e.g. reduced crime rate, no slums. The questions are besides roads, defense, laws etc. what else should a modern civilized society include – reasonable medical care for all, independent of your job- a pension that you and your spouse can survive on- protection and education of unemployed who wants to get back to the labor market.
Right now I am very proud that we have an extremely smart and intelligent president who has been elected on his own merits. I am very confident that whatever labels "rednecks" want to attach to him, he will do an outstanding job to address the obvious needs in our society.
Most people don't know what the word really means and it seems neither do the Republicans. You can't call someone a fascist and a socialist at the same time. At least pick a philosophy that fits Obama. Then they will as least appear to be educated. All they are showing is their ignorance and they assume all Americans are the same. One reason I am disgusted with the party. (I have been a Republican for 40 years but no longer)
Bad for Reps good for Dems. tal colson Sacramento,CA
Calling Democrats "Socialist" is as accurate and intelligent as calling Republicans "Anarchist."
WOW! Insane. So many of you people do not care about, or laugh off Socialist allegations towards both Democrats AND Republicans. None of you care that the government is commanding and controlling credit card, banking, car and life insurance companies?
Nobody cares that the government takes tens of thousands of dollars from people like me and hands it to other people?
It does not bother you that millions of lazy, over-spenders are stealing our hard-earned money?
The government has almost 4 trillion dollars and we still have homeless and hungry.
One of you try reading Animal Farm!
Socialism implies that the state owns and administers the means of production. The United States government is already socialist in different aspects; for instance, the government owns and administers the postal service. The government taxes American citizens and redistributes wealth to benefit the general public. Is this not socialism? Republicans branding democrats socialists is hypocritical, they too take part in socialist policies.
If is quacks like a duck it's a duck. They are socialist. America, you voted them in
Heather,
How is pointing out that somebody is socialist "name-calling" that is like saying it is name calling to say somebody is a capitalist.
It is a term that defines a set of beliefs, not a slander. The reason people think it is slander is because it is a failed government idea that steals liberty and hands it to the government.
Hi, Can you please explain to me why socialist is supposed to sound like communisim???
I live in Canada where health care is free for everyone and where we still have free will!!! When will you stop letting big pharmaceutical company dictate what is acceptable and whats not depending on their bottom line, NOT what's best for the people?? How many people have tried to create a fair and helpfull system just to be bought or shut up by insurance company? You want to claim the title of leader of the free world, do it, but do it fairly to all your people!!!
John, Montreal, Canada
Republicans need to figure out that We already live in a socialist democracy. The government owns the schools, roads, and post office. whats so bad about the government collecting taxes to fund programs that benefit the American people.Abraham Lincoln said it is the job of the government to do for the people what they cannot do for themselves. Millions of Americans cannot afford healthcare. Republicans only think it is acceptable to spend money on war, Maybe we should call them warmongers