Does it hurt GOP when right-wing critics call Sotomayor a racist?
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
The national dialogue just doesn't seem to get any gentler. Right-wing conservatives like Newt Gingrich and Rush Limbaugh are now out calling Judge Sonia Sotomayor a "racist."[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2009/images/05/28/art.gingrich052809.gi.jpg caption="Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich is among several prominent Republicans who have called Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor a 'racist.'"]
They are pointing to comments that the Supreme Court nominee made in 2001, when she said, "a wise Latina woman with the richness of her experience would more often than not reach a better conclusion than a white male who hasn't lived that life.".
Gingrich goes so far as to say that a white racist male nominee would be forced to withdraw and so, too, should a racist Latina.
The White House is pushing back, saying it's important for anyone in this debate to be "exceedingly careful" in how they describe different aspects of the confirmation process. And Hispanic leaders warn that critics risk alienating Latinos if they appear to be judging Sotomayor before she can even defend herself; nominees traditionally don't say anything publicly ahead of their confirmation hearings.
As Ed Rollins writes on CNN.com, the battle for the heart and soul of the Republican Party has now spilled over into this Supreme Court confirmation debate. He says critics who have been unable to attack President Obama think they can smear him with his court pick. But Rollins says there can be no debate over Sotomayor's qualifications, and warns Republicans that this confirmation "is not the battle to be waged and it won't be won."
Here’s my question to you: Does it hurt the GOP when Newt Gingrich and Rush Limbaugh call Judge Sonia Sotomayor a "racist"?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Ron from Pennsylvania writes:
Jack, As a former Republican, I wake up every day and wonder how much more damage GOP politicians, pundits and radio talk show hosts can do to their party. Amazingly, every day they find new ways to look dumber, more out of touch, and more extremist in their views.
Pat from Florida writes:
Your questions are so obviously pointed, Jack. There is nothing wrong with questioning the nominee's intentions. The Supreme Court is our final defense against increasing attacks on our liberty. You and Sotomayor could benefit from a little impartiality.
John writes:
Obama has pulled one from George Bush senior's playbook. Clarence Thomas is on the far right, and yet because he is black, the left couldn't fight hard to stop his nomination. Sonia Sotomayor is too moderate/liberal for the right, and yet because she is Latina, opposing her is fraught with danger. The real question is: why pick her now? The balance of the court is not on the table.
JW from Sacramento, California writes:
The Republican senators are going to attack. That's what the Republicans have become – that's all they are now. Let them have at it, and let the American people see what they are and judge them for what they have become: the party that's in the pocket of Southern, right-wing Christians and corporate interests.
Martin from Shoreline, Washington writes:
No. What hurts is that no one is calling her a sexist as well. Racism and sexism are not about using the "n-word" or the "b-word". It is about thinking your race or gender is superior. Sotomayor clearly thinks she is superior as a woman and a Latina.
James writes:
Republicans are really struggling. If Mother Theresa were still alive and a Democrat nominated her for humanitarian of the year, I have no doubt there would be Republican opposition. They are a ship run aground and their tired passengers are trying to survive on red herring.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
I hope it does! Is this really all they can come up with to complain about her? IPathetic.
Allison,
Vancouver, B.C
What she was trying to say was that until you've been poor and lived with discrimination in a white dominated society, you CANNOT know what that feels like. Of course she's going to have more insight and understanding with regard to decisions made on these kinds of issues. She said it in a clumsy way but alluding that she is a mean spirited racist is playing dirty politics–something Male White Republicans excel at. Keep it up GOP....the time is coming with Hispanics will be the majority vote in this country and the LAST party they will favor will be Republicans. Keep it up and get what you deserve. (written by a white male)
No, It does not hurt the GOP. The statement that Sotomayor made is racist, and to make this 'go away' she needs to admit that her statement was wrong.
When you hold the White House, Senate and House of Reps., you can't hide behind the usualy Politically Correct curtain, you have to answer for your mistakes, and this is one of those times.
I don't think you could do anything that can further hurt the GOP. It reveals how closed-minded and archaic the party has become. Diversity is like kryptonite to the GOP.
Jack, I think we should just leave the GOP alone as they seem
to be shooting themselves in the foot very well without any help
from the rest of the sane people in the country.
I am sick and tired of politicians who dodge issues. Calling someone a "racist" (especially a minority of the largest growing population in the US) is inflammatory. The wonderment at watching the GOP embarrass themselves is gone. Waiting for them to do the next stupid thing is not entertaining. You can only slow down to see so many car wrecks before it gets tiring. These comments are not even coming from elected officials, or deciding members of the Republican Party. They are coming from private citizens. Although this will never happen, wouldn't it be nice if they would just go away? Let FOX cover this nonsense, These people hate being ignored more than anything. It is time to start doing just that.
Thank you Mr. Cafferty.
Jack, It appears all the republican right wing fringe can do is attack. This attack policy does not provide the country or the republican party any benefits. Newt, Cheany, Rush, Michelle and Ann, should really put their energies toward a constructive solution to this nations problems. They are no help to anyone, any political party or any country. Jack
One can certainly hope so.
I find it odd that overt racists like Limbaugh who regularly attack Hispanics with disgusting terms and unsubstantiated claims would even venture into this territory.
It is also weird for the Republicans to be challenging her intelligence after championing George W. Bush for 8 years. They didn't have any problem with him being a moron!
Perhaps my problem is trying to apply logic to anything that comes out of the right-wing extremists. That's probably it.
All people should be treated equal. We have to ask the question....If a white male or an African American, or a Latino make the same comment that Sonia Sotomayor made..........do we treat the person equally? Unfortunately, the record speaks for itself. It is bias and politics working towards a divided country. Very Unfortunate.
Edmond, OK
Yea, because all they do is attack and complain... I used to think I was a Republican, but they complain to much for me. I like a can do attitude and they dont have it..
YES! The Republican Party have become Guileful Outlandish Phonies. There is nothing, absolutely NOTHING they are honest about. I would be completely ashamed to be affiliated with these treasonous lunatics.
Jack,
The Republicans are hedging their bets by having has-beens like Gingrich, Rove and Buchanan attack the appointment. No one within the GOP with serious aspiration of election or re-election would come out so forcefully. It is political suicide, but the Right are lemmings anyway, what do you expect, Sotomayor just represents their cliff.
If she's a racist, why should there be negative consequences for saying so? Fighting racism is no longer a noble cause?
No, because she is a racist
San Antonio, TX
Jack,
Will somebody please tap Newt and Rush on their shoulders and ask for their shovels back. Tell them the hole is big enough.
Fred Rossiter
Jack –
I am a life long Republican ... these last two years are making me wonder "WHY?"
Why Are the only activities that my GOP can do these days is to be negative and nasty?
The GOP sure isn't winning folks over with kindness and respect ... and they may possibly drop further in numbers. My loyalty is being tested by all of the trashtalking that leads nowhere fast. What ever happened to acting respectively and working intelligently to work towards earning the people's respect?
At this rate, the GOP doesn't even deserve to be a party!
Yes it hurts the GOP, like almost everything else their leaders have been saying of late. They are so out of tune with the majority of Americans that it's almost comic. They are an anachronism. Personally I think it's time for a new party, perhaps called Republicrats that will capture the hearts and minds of the huge group who are turned off by the conservative wing of the GOP and find the Democrats a bit too liberal.
Sotomayer a racist?
Consider the sources: a washed up deposed senator and a radio comedian on oxycontin.
Rollins is correct. The GOP focus on Sotomayor reflects the bankrupt nature of the party right now. They have boxed themselves in and are unable to truly refelct on their real problems.
So, go after the Puerto Rican lady; now that is real smart !
The GOP is living in the past and has not adapted to the new, real America.
To bad, they could have things to offer....but refuse to adapt and thus....well, so in the past, that is were they stay....!
A Latina woman, or any woman for that matter, has probably been discriminated against at some time in her life. I, even as a white woman, had been discriminated against several times in my life so I know the feeling. I would guess that most white American men have not had the "experience" of discrimination against them. Women, especially minority women, have to be able to be "wise" with the richness of their experience in their dealings with others that white men just do not seem to understand. I must side with the statement given by Judge Sotomayor. She is NOT a racist, but a realist and if Newt Gingrich would just stop and think about it he would back off. Conservative Republicans STILL do not get it!!
Yeah, it hurts Republicans. Sotomayor's remarks in questin were not racist, they are a statement of reasonable fact. The American people understand that and they see the desperation in the Republicans' attack on Sotomayor. Republicans will have to tone down their outrageous rhetoric if they ever want to be relevant. But that's not likely to happen, so they 're probably out of the picture for some time until a new, more reasonable Republican party emerges.
Oh please continue smearing Obama's pick for the Supreme court.
Please, donot listen to Colon Powell. Only listen to Chenee and Rush– please, please, pretty please.
yorktown va
The assaults on Sotomayor's character will not only hurt the republican party, but it will cement hispanic voters to democratic party. Obama set up a spider's net and the republican party will get caught into it.
Of course this hurts the Republican party and the right wing extremists that have taken it over. I've been a Republican all my life and still am, but Rush Limbaugh, Dick Cheney, and Newt Gingrich DO NOT SPEAK FOR ME! Every time this bunch opens their mouths they cost the Republican part more votes in coming elections.
The GOP,seemed to have forgotten that former President the lst George Bush was the one who began the process for Sonia Sotomayor, was she racist then, where were all the desenting voices then? where was Newt and and the rest?
Hi Jack:
This is just more poison spilling from the bowels of the Republican hate machine. It will be viewed by most right minded people for exactly what it is. The neo-cons are sore losers who repeatedly lied to the American people and created one debacle after another. America is still reeling from the consequences of their pig headed ineptitude. They were voted out of office as a result.
Now they want to make as much trouble for the current administration as they possibly can. They are doing their best to block all significant progress and they don’t have a single fresh idea to offer. The future of the country does not matter to them. They only care about holding on to power. Well I have news for them. They are clinging to the mast of a sinking ship. It surprises me that people still listen to these dead end losers from Bizzaro world.
All The Best
Loren West
This shows the party for what they are: a bunch of old white rich men without a clue as to what the normal working person goes through on a daily basis. The problem for the Republican party is that there are not enough old white rich men to win a major (or any other kind of election). And as far as the racist thing, remember when Rush's services were "no longer needed" for making a racist statement about Phillies Donovan McNabb on a sports network talk show? The have no credibility and no clue!
I guess people arent getting the fact that there is more to that speech that just that part. Talk about spin...
Even though they might not be, calling a minority a racist as a white male makes one sound like a white supremacist. So yes, it is hurting them.
Woolwich, Maine: I would like to know what the full context of the statement was made on? If she was responding to comments concerning the life of a Latino, I see absolutely no problem with her comments. Either way, the comment about the knowledge of a Latino regarding Latino lifestyle is a factual statement. For the GOP to be leading out with the statement of RACISM, is totally absurd. They are reaching for anything they can to get the media to talk about the GOP. This is getting out of hand. They are becoming quite pathetic!
What hurts the GOP most is their insistence on opening their mouths to speak.
Schenectady, NY
Whenever Sotomayor opponents quote her 2001 statement, they leave out the most important phrase: "I would hope, ..." Hope is not belief. There's a huge distinction there. Let's not forget it.
That said, I'm enjoying the spectacle as members of the GOP tangle themselves up by misrepresenting Sotomayor.
Jack,
I think the general public should see or hear the full content of statement(s) as they were said to assure they were not taken out of context. We all know how media sources like to twist a few sentences to their liking.
As a republican I'd have no qualms with her on the bench. But I think someone needs to clear the air before I myself can make a decent opinion.
It shure dose.I hope they keep it up.
These comments vividly illustrate the rotten, white privilege, exclusionary non-values of those who say and embrace them.
Here we have an extraordinarily accomplished, educated, human being who has faced and overcome about every obstacle iminaginable. We should be cheering her on, certainly asking legitimate questions, but no, these fools choose vile, foul fabrication and mud to sling at her.
I wouldn't stand for this behavior from a 2 year old.
These comments should also motivate anyone who ever fell for the 'big tent' baloney put out by the GOP to head for exits, in a hurry.
Visceral, emotion-triggering words are the GOP's only tool: "socialism", "appease the terrorists", "coastal elite", "flag pin", and the daddy of them all, "9/11".
There's no way the GOP didn't have the bullet points to be parroted all ready passed around in-house for the top dozen possible candidates.
The GOP is only shooting themselves in the foot by attempting this blatant falsity. Did they not think that anyone would realize that the quote they're referring to has been taken out of context and twisted around for their own political agenda. Sorry, but the days of the good ol' boys club has ended. If they had any common sense, they'd realize that they have more in common with Sotomayor than they even realize. But that's because they only see what they want to see, not the heart of the matter nor what's good for this nation.
Absolutely--Ed Rollin's comments were right on the spot and civility would be nice to re-introduce to politicians of both parties.
Extremists like you sight won't win in either party-but I think it's time for mutual respect---unfortunately we must introduce it because those disk jockeys masquerading as talk show hosts don't have the knowledge, commitment or decency to display such behavior.
I don't think that's what the founding fathers thought as they developed the freedoms we have.
No, calling Sotomayor a racist does not hurt the GOP, since the few people left that pay any attention to them would agree, and are themselves racists.
Considering the GOP is the party of hate and has always been generous with name calling those that oppose their views, I don't see how they could lower themselves any lower on the political food chain. One of the reasons I left the party was their cowardice in labeling others while refusing to deal openly and honestly with their Democratic counteparts. Gingrich and Limbaugh are absolute baffoons!! They should wear the label with honor!!
Unfortunately, it probably depends on one's race. That's the crux of the issue, and were it not for Judge Sotomayor's race (and possibly gender), this would be a cut and dry issue of racism. As Gingrich noted, would a white male be given a free pass if he suggested a "wise Caucasian man" would more often than not reach a better conclusion than a "Mexican woman" (note the semantic shift as well). Absolutely not. Why, then, the double standard?
She has a compelling story, impressive credentials, and may indeed reach the high court. But this comment, coupled with the taped footage regarding "where policy is made" and her 2nd amendment stance aren't going to help her cause.
Most Americans, Democrat and Republican alike, will spot the charge of racism for what it is: a vulgar effort to score cheap political advantage over Judge Sotomayor's inelegantly worded but obviously correct observation that a Latina woman is going to bring to the bench a perspective that is vastly different from that of the historically white male court.
I am a conservative Republican and I think Newt Gingrich should have refrained from the "racist" comment regarding Judge Sotomayor. Name-calling won't help and only kindles rancor between the parties.
On the other hand, when Senator Schumer bloviates that Republicans oppose Sotomayor "at their peril" how is that much different? He's essentially saying that legitimate questioning and vetting of this nominee will be done only with the political hammer of the left, or of the Hispanic community, hanging over ones' head.
Maybe that's how it works in New York politics, but this is for a seat on the United States Supreme Court.
Some of Judge Sotomayor's rulings (and certainly her flippant, barely-disguised judicial activist winkings at Berkeley, or her comment about wise Latina women making better decisions from the bench than some white male) were thoughtless and ill-advised. She does not appear to be a good listener. She appears volatile. She clearly sees herself as a crusader. These are legitimate considerations in assessing a nominee to a life seat on the Court of Final Resort in this Republic. If she has an agenda, we need to know about it.
Time to back off the alarmist attacks on "right wingers" (basically anybody to the left of Evan Bayh or Sam Nunn) and let the process work out, with full disclosure and openness.
How could it possibly help?
That's what I would like to know.
This is a classic GOP play: Strip a comment of its context, then manufacture a controversy by distributing the talking points to the PR wing at Fox, who faithfully blast the 'fair and balanced truth' from the rooftops.
The sad thing is, there may be a valid point to discuss here – Has Sotomayor displayed a pattern of decisions or public remarks that could reasonably lead one to the conclusion that she holds and espouses racist viewpoints?
I don't know the answer to that question. I suspect not, but the die is cast. The right have predictably gone on the attack in predictably shrill manner, and now the wingnuts from the left will help the ones from the right drown out any real debate we might have had on the subject.
I for one am sick of all the manufactured controversy when there are so many ACTUAL PROBLEMS facing our country.
Sounds like the proverbial pots calling the kettle black to me,
Jack. Sotomayor sounds like an extremely qualified jurist and when Limbaugh and Gingrich cherry-pick lines from her judicial opinions and spew thier fear based rhetoric to curry favor with the extreme right wing of the GOP they do nothing except reiterate the notion that they are part of a Party devoid of new Ideas.
It shure dose. I hope they keep it up!
Once, not so long ago, I was a staunch Republican; I idolized Ronald Reagan and the message he carried forth. Now I watch in total disbelief and I must admit, morbid curiosity as the GOP continues to implode. What is best for the country no longer matters to them, or at least they don't act like it does. What seems to matter most is discrediting the current administration by any means available. This current attack upon Sonia Sotomayor is unwarranted and will do nothing but continue to damage the GOP. The once great party is like watching a train wreck; you know it going to end badly but you cannot take your eyes off the action. Pay attention GOP: America needs a viable opposition party with a vision for America. Get one or get gone. We're all very tired of watching you whine.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
jack:
no!! it helps ensure that reasonable people will see the gop for what it is currently-an out of the mainstream, inconsequential political voice in the wilderness. for the good of the nation, it would be nice if they mend the error of their ways, and get back to their historical roots. honest discourse and debate is one of the core of the strengths of this country.
GOP! Stop all these cheap popularities. I think it is high time they sight tight and put their house inorder instead of all these unwarranted accusation.
It shouldn't hurt the GOP, because what Newt said is true.
This whole empathy thing, or in Obamas' own words "some people need a hand up" is totally obsence for judges. Judging is interpretating the law, all being equal under it, not making policy or playing favorites.
You bet it does! It just helps to dig the hole the Repubs dug for themselves deeper. Yay!
Of course it hurts. This is that slash and burn strategy that has alienated millions of Republicans like me. I voted for a Democrat for President for the first time in my 59 year old life and no longer consider myself a Republican.
Yes, it does hurt the GOP, which is more than 80% white male and carries a tarnished image as a party that barely tolerates women and minorities (even with Steele at the helm of the RNC, his skin color does not help their cause, and many view it as a feeble response to Obama as first African-American president and head of the Democratic Party).
Limbaugh and Gingrich and now their supporters continue to take Sotomayor's comments out of context. It is also important to note that more than half of this country can identify more with Sotomayor's comments, taken out of context or not.
The GOP and it's various "leaders" have been so shrill in the last 6-12 months that they just turn people off - except their base. The GOP can never become a national party again if it only panders to its base.
It seems as if the GOP are doing their utmost to continually dig the hole around themselves bigger and bigger. Instead of bashing the other party maybe one should actually bring about new legislation and work for the change that is needed rather than just sit there and be grumpy old man.
No I dont think it hurts the core GOP, It may in fact help the GOP grass roots members to learn to listen to the few moderate R's that remain becasue so many moderates R's have been activley driven from the party over the past 8 years by Red blood Hard Conservatives ...
Sure Jack, make this about bashing Republicans instead of the fact that Ms. Sonomayor has made reverse racists comments, has made activist comments about law being made in the courts and the fact that Obama picked her because she is Hispanic. But no that wouldnt fit your liberal agenda of bashing and bringing down the GOP. Truth in reporting be damned.
It sure does. Right now, and for the foreseeable future, the Party of "No!" has to consider every word and every action in the context of whether the average voter will see it as reinforcing the party's highly negative image. Of course, that won't deter the Newt. He's trying desperately to maintain his public profile so he emerges as a Presidential candidate in 2011. It won't deter Rush either, because his ratings are tied to the inflammatory nature of his comments.
Absolutely not. A national tax to fix our deficit? How about good old fashioned budgeting first?
Jace
Kansas
Put yourself in the shoes of the Latinos; they have been waiting for this for over 20 years. Along comes the GOP Reps and try to kill this nomination by inflicting their racist agenda out of hate for the black President. Would you as a Latino reconsider your vote for the GOP in the coming years? I would, and the answer is I would not vote for them no matter what the situation. So I do believe this will hurt the party.
Well done President Obama; you are always two steps ahead of the GOP. that is the power of education. Wake up America; there is room for the educated at the top.
Jack,
If valuing your heritage and using the sum of your life experiences to make decisions are now considered a form of racism, then Rush Limbaugh and Newt Gingrich are conservative racists of the highest degree. Every comment those men make is a result of their heritage and their life experiences - which means they have been hard-core conservative Republican racists since birth.
Dan from Louisville, KY
Oh my gosh!
"When I get a case about discrimination, I have to think about people in my own family who suffered discrimination because of their ethnic background or because of religion or because of gender. And I do take that into account."
Of source, this was said by Samuel Alito during HIS confirmation hearing. while Gingrich was in power. And it was okay because he was
male?
Italian?
Catholic?
Good Ol Boy?
Jack!
When Sonia Sotomayor says things like "policy is made" at the appeals court, she sticks her foot in her mouth Biden-style. She is dead wrong.
When she says that a "wise Latina woman" can make "better decisions than a white male", the public had better get wise too. If she supports La Raza, then she is a racist. They are a racist organization.
Rory M.
Jack,
Apparently it didn't hurt the Democrats as they did essentially the same thing over the past several years.
Blair Janis,
South Jordan, Utah
You mean "What's left of the GOP"?
A portion of the GOP, unfortunately represented by Rush Limbaugh, Newt Gingrich and Dick Cheney are digging themselves into a hole without an exit strategy. They represent a minority whose policies made the majority of the American people repudiate them and their policies. Unfortunately, because of their righteous ideology, they cannot recognize this fact, and will continue to become less and less relevant.
This will benefit the Democrats and hurt the GOP in the short term. That is not good for America, because it eliminates sound dialogue between two equal parties.
I think it does hurt the GOP. Their comments are rude, extremist, and bitter.
It would be a big mistake for the GOP to take on Sotomayor. But that's ok go ahead. Keep Newt Gingrich and Limbaugh talking. They just keep digging themselves & the GOP further into the hole.
Let me see! It takes a RACIST to KNOW a Racist.
Is there any wonder that the small number of minorities in the RNC have emotional left. The UGLY truth about the RNC has always been known, but now it is in FULL bloom.
Jack, I do not think it will hurt the GOP when Newt and Rush say those types of things because the only people left in the GOP are the ones that would agree with comments like that.
I honestly don't believe that conserative attacks against Sotomayor will hurt the Republican party as very few Latinos support the Republican party in the first place. Moreover, not expressing their true feelings and going along with the pick will not garner the Republicans any good feelings from Latinos – they will still vote Democratic regardless. I think they should express their true beliefs, whatever they may be. This is the United States, afterall.
In a few words . . ."Yes."
This is pathetic! Is this what the GOP has become, a party of "NO" and a party of "race" baiting? I feel sorry for the people who are life long Republicans who they no longer represent. Instead of the elephant they should change their mascot to the Woolly Mammoth, they are both extinct!
Most people see what that comment is all about: it's a simplification of Sotomayor's remarks which, although not stated as well as they should have been by Sotomayor, recognize that different perspectives from life experience bring different perspectives as to the meaning, extent and scope of Constitutional and statutory ptovisions. Calling Sotomayor a racist hurts Gingrich and Limbaugh more than the GOP as a party, since the party base accepts them regardless of a particular comment or perspective. But it does hurt the GOP in that it alienates independents and moderates who then turn to their only real alternative-the Democrats.
It’s not hurting them; it’s destroying them. If they keep panding to their hateful base, they’ll be gone in a few years. Couldn’t happen to a nicer bunch, I say (sarcastically).
The brouhaha on her 2001 remark is pure hypocrisy because when Sam Alito was questioned by Republican Coburn on his immigrant past, Alito answered very similarly to Sotomayor. When asked about immigrant discrimination he said that he would 'have to remember the discrimination that his family has witnessed' when judging those cases. People in glass houses shouldn't throw stones!
Two fat cats calling Sotomayor racist? The GOP has already alienated almost 70% of the Latino vote. I guess a little more won't hurt right?
No, Newt Gingrich is not hurting the GOP by stating that Sotomayor's comment is racist. The Merriam-Websters definition of racist is:
a belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race. Give me a break–at what point are we going to be done swinging the pendulum so far left? Are the democrats/left blind? That comment is ABSOLUTELY laced in everyway in a racist manner by stating that a Latina would be better suited to make judgement than a white male.
Come on and wake up AMERICA!!!
The GOP are stretching this a bit too much. Have they ask as to the content of the statement, because if this was said regarding an issue that deals with Hispanic woman, than another hispanic woman can better relate than a white man can. Rush and Gingrich calling Sotomayor 'Racist", that's a laugh, that Rush is the biggest (literally) racist I've ever heard.
I think that this is a political minefield for the the Republican Senators and Republican Party in general. If they push too hard on Judge Sonia Sotomayor, Republican Party will truly become a regional party. .
Jack - It hurts the GOP everytime anyone of these guys says anything!
Jack:
At this point is there anything left of the GOP that can be hurt?
Did I hear this correctly? The good old boys called someone a racist, other than themselves, Wow! 40 years ago, the only sound advice I would have had for Sotomayor is to avoid any dark roads. What a different a day makes.
Yes, it will hurt the GOP if they conitnue the negative and divisive attacks. They should look at her credentials and qualifications. Also, the GOP should stop using the word "racist" to describe her. They should elaborate and tell the American public why she is not qualifed to be in the Supereme Court. Telling us that she is a racist and a liberal without explaining why she is not qualified doesn't help their cause. All the name calling that the GOP is doing will backfire on them and they will be the one's labeled racist and bigots.
No, Jack, it doesn't hurt the GOP...if it's true.
–Stephen
Panama City, Florida
I continue to be aghast at the GOP's ineptness at dealing with President Obama. Republicans screaming "racism" only highlights their own abysmal record on race and class. It's astounding that rich white male elitists like Limbaugh and Gingrich who have made their names by dividing and conquering can now try to dress themselves as latter-day Rosa Parks. And it's further proof that moderates are no longer welcome in the party of Grand Old Propaganda.
Yes Jack, it does hurt them and they are doing a swell job. The Republican Party as we knew it is now down to 5 members, Newt, Rush, Ann, Dick, and Sarah and there are only 4 chairs left. Check back tomorrow to see who Rush has kicked out.
Limbaugh has less relevance when Republicans are the majority party. Defending Bush is not as good for Rush as attacking Obama. The only headlines Limbaugh made during the Bush years dealt with his drug addiction.
Limbaugh's self-interest (ratings and ego) should be suspect when attempting to influence Republican party policy. What's good for Rush isn't necessarily good for the party.
Taking one quote of of thousands is only going to make them look even more desperate. Her appointment is going to happen and the fight against it will only backlash when it comes to the future of gaining Latin Voters. I am not sorry for the dimise of the Republicans because of their lack of tact and there never ending negitive campain.
HAHAHA Liberal spin is awesome, I also like her comment that appeal court judges job is to set policy. That concerns me far more than being dumb enough to think she is any smarter than anyone else. Me thinks her position has gone to her head.
Don't worry liberals, after 4 maybe 8 years of you guys spending our country into further debt, unemployment and soon high inflation. The free thinking people will again realize you can't spend money you don't have and vote in a true conservative. It's time for politicians to quit spending our money like it's theirs. Or keep voting for liberals and tell your kids to get a second job.
Jack,
Remember the old saying, "It takes one to know one"?
There's your answer.
Jack, I don't think that anybody can really be suprised by the things that Rush and Newt say any more, we've just become numb to it all. But yes, this will hurt them, if only to add further to the distance many hispanics and women have already put between them and the GOP. Oh, and this will, without a doubt, come back and bite Newt when he tries to become the next republican presidential canidate for 2012.
I don’t know why it still amazes me that people have a difficult time with intelligent dialogue. I’m a white upper middle class male who wouldn’t have a clue as to what it’s like living in the heart of a gang neighborhood in Los Angeles.
Where’s the story here ? How about our representatives grow up and do the job we sent them to Washington to do !
Absolutely – lying hurts everyone. I'm sure this judge with impeccable qualifications got where she is by being a racist. Reverse racism is even faulty terminology. I'm with a bogger from yesterday who posted that he thinks Rush and Newt and Hannity must be on the Dems payroll because their outrageous divisive comments would be impossible to be perceived as helping attract anyone to their soon to be Party of None.
One comment taken out of context and now she's a racist?
Jack, the GOP calling Judge Sonia Sotomayor a racist is like calling Dick Cheney a dove, or Rush Limbaugh empathetic, or Newt Gingrich self-aware, or Michael Steele hip, or Rick Perry a constitutional scholar.... well, you get the idea.
Jack,
Why didn't we hear this when Fredo Gonzales was nominated and confirmed under the Bush administration. Now we are hearing this woman is a racist and that she promotes discrimanation aganist White males. The GOP is commiting political suicide. They along with Rush are claiming to be victims of racism. This is very sad and troubling.
PERFECT – this way we will get rid of the Republicans once and for all.
Off the record: How dumb can you get! These guys can't even tell the time of the day and yet they want to run this country!
How can you hurt the worst bunch of people in the country?
Of course it hurts them. They are unfortunately becoming a narrower party than ever. They will soon be regulated to only the Southern States and a anglo caucasian population. They are angering women, hispanics and just about any demographic which does not encompass the Christian Relgious Extreme Right. Let them do it and they will pass into obscurity sooner rather than later. They seem bent of self destruction. I say good riddance if this is all they have to offer.
Jack, honest Americans already know...the real racists are folks like Rush and Newt. These guys offer nothing constructive, they just spew vitriol and hate. No wonder the Republican Party has disintegrated into a smoldering pile of boring, angry old white men.
I sincerely doubt that Judge Sotomayer is a racist. But if she was racist, it would serve these arrogant, supercilious, envious buffoons right to get a taste of the medicine they and other priviliged white males have been dishing-out to women for centuries. Not only are these men ignorant, but they are totally out-of-step where the changes in our country's population are concerned. Hooray for diversity! These chaps and others like them are going to be left in the wake of progress, as the populace is rapidly getting insight into the manner in which these envious, power-hungry "white males" seek to bring down anything good that someone more capable and intelligent tries to initiate for the US. Again, hooray for diversity!!!! Down with the nay-sayers and spoilers!
If you simply switch the "latina female" and "white male" in Sotomayor's quote, everyone would consider it blatantly racist. So you tell me Jack, can only white males be racist?
Most definitely.- Republicans should go back to reconstructing their party after President Bush destroyed what the party stood for.-
Anytime Newt and Rush open their mouth along with Mccain hurts
the Republican Party.
They need to lick their wounds and go sit in a corner until the storm
blows over.
While Rush and Newt are going overboard, you HAVE to admit that if a conservative nominee had said the same thing (or something similar) YOU sir would be outraged and thrown a similar tantrum. What was your stance when Estrada was nominated for a lower court?
Calling Sotomayor racist are like the Christians that think they're the victims. When almost everyone in power's experience and background is as a white man, a different experience is welcome.
The Republicans will come across as racist to most people except their base, especially considering they already have a reputation for being completely backwards on racial issues, thanks to the likes of former Senator Helms.
Yes. Everyone knows only white men can be racist. (Sorry Jack, that makes you a racist.)
Jack, it hurts not just the GOP, but all Americans when Newt Gingrich and Rush Limbaugh open their mouths on any topic.
Tad
Indiana
It should, though among the die-hard Republicans it may not. After all, they listen to, and quote Rush Limbaugh. But WHY don't any of you professional journalists ask for other evidence that she is racist? Any other evidence? One other piece of evidence or racist statement?
Do we characterize someone as racist because of one statement? Should we? Sounds like she made a comment suggesting that white men can't bring some things to bear on issues that a hispanic woman can. I agree with her.
At worst - a racist comment - not a racist person.
The Elephants are grasping at straws...........GO SONIA... I am a 76 yr old white republican (sometimes) from the midwest
No more than it hurts then anytime Newt speaks. The Republican party refuses to participate in any bi-partisan discussion and continues to insist that they "know best" on every topic, no matter how many times this has proven to be false. I hope America has finally realized that just because the Republicans tell you theirs doesn't stink, we should believe our noses.
I've just been watching CNN since April 2008 when I retired and it seems that everything that Rush Limbaugh and Newt Gingrick do or say hurts and makes the GOP look like big bullies! bah humbug!
racial hatred by anyone is unaceptable, unless you are a democrat
from South Jersey.
Yes, I thin kthe Republicans need to tread very carefully. We have a very qualified nominee and much of what I've heard shows some two-faced quality of the party. Decades ago, Republicans made much of the humble background and race of Clarence Thomas, yet now they say that Sotomayor's background is not worth mentioning and they lash out at comments sh'es made, that others have said too. To say that one's background informs one's judgment, and YES, might lead one to a better decision because of life experience is not radical but very supportable.
I fear that the party is shooting itself in the foot or worse
What, you mean "THE POT CALLING THE KETTLE BLACK"?
If we called Newt and Rush "village idiots," could that be considered racist ... or calling a spade a spade?
Paul
Philadelphia, PA
Of course it hurts the G"nO"P but it's something they do to keep pandering to their shrinking base. Judge Sotomayor has achieved great success in her academic life and in the judicial world and that's what the focus of conversation should be – her qualifications. This small but vocal group within the republican party is doing irreparable harm to the party with their consistently negative tone regardless of the topic of discussion.
Not when it is true!
It probably will hurt the Republicans. But that statement is, in fact, racist... in as much as, had an equivalent statement been made by a white man, he would be asked to withdraw.
Gee, isn't that like Ma Kettle calling Pa Kettle black?
New York City
Any attack by the "party of no" only hurts their integrity. I have yet to see any attack this year that has not been politically motivated. People want to see people WORKING TOWARD solutions instead of just mouthing how "bad" decisions are for the country. IF they are soooooo bad...work to fix it. It is always easier to sit back and point fingers...then you are never accountable for anything. Sound familiar?
yes she is racist but arn't we all
I can't help but say to myself, Isn't that the pot calling the kettle black! Don't these republicans have anything better to do.
There are no Rebublicans, only weasels.
Newt and Rush calling someone a racist !!! My grandmother would have said that is like "the pot calling the kettle black". If anyone is a racist it is the two of them
Jack, please understand I deplore both the Republicans you've mentioned and I hate racism. Will this charge hurt the Republican Party? Yes. But that has nothing to do with whether or not she's a racist anymore than it shields affirmative action supporters from the charge.
I'm just going to say, "No, not a bit. Keep it up!" Then, I will go back to munching my popcorn while watching conservatives further devolve into masochism and self-parody.
-Heather
Beaumont, TX
Yes, it hurts the GOP. They should growing thier party. This is a fight Republicans can't win.
Being a true democrat I just love Newt and Rush! Every time one of them puts there foot in there mouth which by the way is constantly since they lost in november it solidifies the democratic party's strength.
Truly sore loosers without direction or a plan to try and regroup the GOP.Says alot about the party following these two losers!
We mustn't forget Cheney's rhetoric either.I refer to them as the "three stooges"!
First lets at the scource of the comments.
Rush Limbaugh; An image of a man whose brain has been fried in drugs. Once drugs damage the brain there is no recovery. Just watch his actions.
Newt Gingritch : POED because he lost his seat in government. Now he trying to atone himself in the hearts of his fellow soreheads so he may be able to try to regain his seat.
These two men (?) are a disgrace to our country.
The Republicans are telling it like it is in response to Judge Sotomayor's ethnic and gender jingoism. She's a divisive figure and liberals as well as conservatives have good reason to question her nomination.
Does it hurt the GOP when Newt Gingrich and Rush Limbaugh call Judge Sonia Sotomayor a “racist”? Can a one legged duck swim in a circle?
Reg
Atlanta
Comments like this made by Limbaugh and Gingrich not only have a negative effect on the GOP; they also have a negative effect on Americans. When right-wing nut-jobs like Limbaugh accuse people, in this case Sottomayor, of being racist, they set a bad example for all Americans. In order for us to move away from the days of racial and gender discrimination, we must stop a debate that has been over for 30, 40 years. It appears that Rush Limbaugh doesn't want to move on and wants to stay put right where he is.
Should not hurt the GOP at all. Those statements coming from "Racist White Men." Lets start worshiping principles instead of people.
It should hurt them Jack. It seems that those who call Judge Sonia Sotomayor a “racist”, are most likely racist themselves. As for Rush and Newt, they give a whole new meaning to calling the kettle black.
As a southern, straight, white, male, non-believer, I can't see Judge Sotomayor making a decision in my favor regardless of the facts in the case.
Jack ... why is everyone harping on a snippet of the larger statement. Last night on MSNBC, Ken Olberman read the entire statement surrounding this snippet which gives it an entirely different meaning. It was a revelation. Out of context is, as always, very dangerous.
The republican party is in such desperate straights that they are attacking anyone and everyone they can in a futile attempt to find a topic in which to win at least one victory since the presidential election. I identified myself as a republican before the election but the party so disgusted me that I became a democrat.
I don't know if it hurts as much as doesn't help them. These attacks appeal to the base that wants to have a fight with liberals. I don't see how motivating 20% of the electorate that is going to vote for them regardless will help them win back seats in the House or Senate in '10.
I'd post a comment but you never post comments that aren't of a biased, liberal slant, it seems.
I've pointed out that no one seemed to think it hurt the Democrats when they attacked Clarence Thomas and the Hispanic candidates George Bush nominated, but you never posted that.
Does it hurt the GOP when Newt & Rush call Sotomayor a racist? I'm a Republican and it hurts this particluar GOP-er when either of them open their mouths on ANY topic, let alone a Supreme Court judgeship.
Two things, if reversed the media would be all over how wrong it was to say what she said compairing her judgement against a white man... Second if it walks like a duck and talks like a duck, its not AFLAC, Jack.
I believe their will be more republicans switch parties because of theses right wing hit men.
Why is the far right taking it upon themselves to speak for their divided party? Where are the GOP moderates and others in the party? Why aren't they speaking up for themselves and instead allowing a RADIO TALK SHOW HOST to assume himself the mouthpiece for their party?
It's no secret that the GOP is divided and instead of talk show hosts and has beens, it's time to hear from more informed voices that don't jump on a sound bite without taking the rest of what she said in context. I should hope the GOP has better to offer than those two clowns.
I was never a Bush supporter, but I never wished he would fail because that meant my country would fail. Limbaugh has repeatedly said that he hopes that Obama FAILS! If our President fails, so do we and so does he as a responsible conduit of news and opinion...which he never has been.
Hi Jack,
These right wing extremists/propagandists are examples of the pot calling the kettle black when they make such accusations.
These nattering nabobs of negativism will doom their party to irrellevance.
It is past time to extricate politics from the slime and to restore some measure of civility and respect.
Sadly, we know this wont happen because raising money is more important to these poor excuses for statesmen.
Dicky Neely
Corpus Christi, Tx.
The Republicans have lost their minds. They are acting like Ashley Todd, in that they have slashed Sotomayor's name on their cheek and they're hoping you will believe their fake story about psychotic minorities.
In this case Newt is correct. Those comments would derail any anglo saxton candidate. therefore it should derail this or any candidate. Same level playing field, please.
I believe anyone deserves their day in court. Let's wait and see what the nominee has to say when questioned by the Congressional committee and stop all the hateful accusations and ridiculous statements until the nominee has a fair chance.
By Merriam-Websters definition racist is: a belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race.
So all of you that don't think it is a racist statement–educate yourselves .
It hurts the Republican Party anything Newt or Rush speak!
I am a 67-year-old Republican who hasn’t voted for a republican in the last 3 elections and have no plans to vote for a republican again.
So Rush and Newt objected to the nominee? That's predictable. What would truly alarm me is if they didn't......
Jack,
What has these guys all wild up in their britches is that they and many like them are terrified. They are losing their power in an obviously changing nation. We have a Bi Racial & black family in the White House, a black AG, and hopefully a Latina Judge.
Mr. Obama, good on you! For your next pick have them be either: An Asian, Indian, or better yet, a Native American.
Keep Crying, Rush!
Anything which hurts the right wing republican fascists benefits the vast majority of the American People. US conservatism needs to go away forever. If the Democrats go to far, I'll vote for the Greens.
its unfortunate but the dirty secret in the latin community is there is alot of racism in it. She makes no distintion in her comments about white men. Is she talking about white jews, white catholics, a specific group of white men that she works with? are all white men evil and bad and undeserving of positions of power, and simply being a latina woman makes your more qualified for the job? she made a broad racial statement as a public figure and that is to bad for her. normally for the past 4 years i would side with the democrates but not this time
I don't think now is the time for the GOP to even open their mouths. I hope they have a bottle of mouthwash handy to wash away the smell of their feet.
The dismissive manner in which Judge Sotomayer's court handles the New Haven firefighters suit disturbs me. The Supreme Court needs justices that will leave their "gut checks" at home and base their decisions on constitutional merit.
Looking at the state of the USA resulting from 6 years of the GOP controlling EVERY branch of government, it's hard to believe a Republican will be elected to office again in my lifetime, but is there any discourse in America anymore? I mean aside from the dead-end American Republicans, does anyone take what Republicans like Gingrich, Limbaugh, Coulter, Hannity, or Dick Morris say seriously? Their party is a joke, which matches their opinions.
Sotomayer believes that judges "make policy", which is a direct contradiction from our constitution, and she also believes that latina women (born in new jersey, very latina indeed) can make better decisions than white males.
Liberals are reverse racists, always have been, always will be.
I wonder if sotomayor has attended any of The Race/La Raza meetings lately? Can anyone imagine what would happen if Bush appointed a white man who belonged to a group called The Race?
The truth should never hurt. A racist comment is just that. But when the opposing side begins it's spin, it will be the Republicans who will be "labeled" as racist.
The comment is open to critcism. Labeling her a racist, however, is a bit extreme. I think not having any clear message, a deviation from their own stated principles and years of derisive politics surrounding social issues is what continues to really hurt the Grand Old (emphasis on OLD) Party
Las Cruces, NM
Jack first thing you have to do is read the complete statement made by Sotomayor not just a sound bite. If you continue to read the next two lines you will understand what she was saying. Or you can just join in with the other angry white guys who are willing to manipulate any statement to progess their message of hate of anyone who does not fit the model traits chosen by Adolf Hitler
I think Obama's pick is great. Running a smear campaign on someone so well qualified just tells me the republicans do not care about her qualifications, they just want to smear her. They started runiing her down before Obama's annoucement was even over. Rush is certainly no expert on the law!
Dona Devine, Las Cruces, New Mexico
Of course if hurts the GOP to label Ms. Sotamayor as a racist. It's typical, however, of what usually happens to anyone who dares be outside the Christian Right where the GOP is concerned. Everyone else is just wrong, no matter what, in their minds.
They are not, nor ever will be, interested in the concerns or interests of non-white, non-Christians. That is the exclusionary nature of their party.
I hope they continue to attack Judge Sotamayor aggressively so it becomes even more obvious that the party of racism, intolerance and exclusion is the Republicans. No wonder people are running away from the party as fast as possible.
The Republicans are flaling in the grip of death now. they know the Democrats are gaining massive ground, and the split in the republican party doesn't help either. This Sotomayor thing is just a last ditch effort, and it's hurting more than helping. We all know she just meant she has different experiences that white men, not that she's better than them. The Republicans are just showing their desperate incompetence.
This nominee also does not feel that the 2nd ammendment right to bear arms is a "fundamental right"? Really, then what the heck is a constitutional right anyway?
Every person in this country was raised differently hence you'll have different views from every person. I applaude her for stating a fact that in some situation she will have better insight into certian things. I am a white male and didn't get offended at all with her comment. The band wagon some GOP members jumped on saying that that makes her a racist is pathetic. It saddens me as an American to think that some people look up to these shortsighted and inflammatory people. Dare I say that these comments show that Gingrich, Limbaugh, and the GOP are in themselves racist for trying to stir up the ethnic pot that is America?
This is ridiculoius. If Sotomayor is a racist, then Obama is a racist too. He picked her. The GOP is trying their best to reduce their numbers to nill. If they keep it up the next Senate will be a 70 to 30% Democrat majority. They AND Cheney should go to their corners and shut the hell up!
It's easy to take words out of context and re-interpret them to reach a the conclusion that suits your agenda. Does any sane person really believe she her remarks were intending to insult white males?
The truth is the RushNewtCheney faction of the GOP will seek to skewer any nomimee the President puts forth simply because he did so. If a Republican, like Bush Sr. who first made her a federal judge, nominated her, everything would fine.
Yes, it does hurt the GOP to attack Sotomayor in a such a manner. It's as if they've discovered a new box of shovels with which to dig themselves into an even deeper hole. Guess they're going for three in a row...lost elections, that is.
Jack, Obama was still elected even though he was considered racist because he was part of a church congregation that had a racist preacher in the pulpit. Gingrich and Limbaugh need to crawl back under their rocks. This is another example of how out of touch the GOP and the the right wingers are.
Kevin
Warren, MI
Whine whine whine! I hope it hurts the Republicans as they thrive on sound bites rather than listen to a full context of a speech. I suppose they did the same with the Constitution and Bill of Rights..."Congress shall make no law ......." instead of reading the entire First Amendment.
Sort of makes you shudder, doesn't it?
It really shows the lack of vision that the republicans or any person has to call Sotomayor racist for feeling that she has something different to offer having lived her life as a latina in america. What is racist about that? I'm an educated african-american, and I can certainly tell you that my life experiences and perspectives are way different than an educated caucasian in american. That's called reality, not racism.
What did she say that's not true. It would be different if she wasn't qualified. But at the same token, there are plenty of white men that received promotion in society that weren't as qualified as women of the same race, or as an ethnic minority. But no one says they're playing the race card. Pure hypocrisy!
Being of Puerto Rican decent myself I totally agree with Sonia Sotomayor's comment and do not find it to be racist. For to many years white men with poor or no experience have been promoted forward and minorities with richness of experience have been denied that access just because of skin color.
Yes, it does hurt the GOP to fo after "Maria" Sotoamayor. I am looking for a constructuve argument against her confirmation. All they can find is that stupid "policy" quote and reverse racism? Next, they will go after her diabetes. C'mon GOP grow a pair before it is too late!
Jack,
The GOP have been hurting and destroying theirselves daily, so more radical remarks just add fuel to the fire.
They have ignored American's disgust and lack of support for their negativity, obstruction
and support these spokespeople to do their dirty work for them.
Calling honorable people racists is mild for them.
I believe it does hurt them with Hispanics. I'm not Hispanic, but it looks like desperate grasping at straws to get something/anything to attack Obama over.
The recent comments about Judge Sotomayor from the Republican "leadership" have been enough to gag a maggot. It appears the Far Right will continue their devisive attacks until the party finally drops off the radar.
Absolutely! All the GOP appears to be capable of doing is slinging mud ad democrats.
Pretty soon, there will be a Purity Examination for anyone wanting to be a Republican.
Are we all missing the point of Sotomayor's comment on Hispanic woman vs. white male, etc.? She said "I WOULD HOPE THAT a Hispanic woman would make a better decision, etc.......not that she was certain that would happen, just that she hoped so. The Republicans can only grasp at straws and misrepresent statements from the Obama camp in any instances and I am totally disgusted with the conservative right on the racist charges again Sotomayor. The "old boy" (racist) network is still at work and trying to make people believe that there is reverse racism at work here–no, it is the same old racism trying to fool those ignorant enough to believe it.
Sandra in Atlanta
Come on this is Newt" the man while crucifying Bill Clinton with his Monica Lewinski scandal" by his own admission was having an affair at the same time.
Jack-
Rush and Newt calling Sotomoyor a "racist" is both insulting and demeaning to a highly qualified and well educated nominee. I am afraid there is no tactic too low for the GOP these days.
When she said that it hurt me because our Supreme Court is suppose to be un-bias about everything including about race issues. All I know is with Obama the candidate would be African American or any other minority group
Judge Sotomayor obviously is not a racist. Newt Gingrich and (especialy) Rush Limbaugh are idiots and anyone who listens to them are idiots as well.
I think it all comes back to context...if a white male is more apt to understand a certain area or issue, then of course the advice of a white male is more prudent. You dont go asking a white guy where is what is on the corner of compton and alemeda" for instance.
Just as you dont ask a black guy from watts whats the daily special in trader joes..lets face it the worlds are a little different. I dont expect john roberts to know about racism, just as you dont expect sotomayer to know about life in southern mississippi..the white area's.
That doesnt mean that just because the worlds are different they should remain so, it's just that there are areas of expertise which exist in the racial backgrounds that are unique. These things make us americans, that we have them but are not bound completely unto them. Now if John roberts knows about the racial inequalities in the south still, then he could speak unto them, but I doubt he does. Just an example on my point.
What kind of logic would justify branding someone a racist on that kind of remark. It is obvious republicans don't reason, they simply react. They know their base is intellectually challenged so they just spew out their 'signal reaction' words like racist, socialist ,fascist muslim etc.and watch their monkies dance. I will say they have mastered the manipulation process of uneducated and fearful people, who don't know where capitalism started, what socialism is the different types of Democracy, what our forefathers thought about religeon and the political process and on and on. It scares me how many Republicans let someone else do their thinking for them.
They will attack because their followers will back them. I think it will probably whip up more fear and add to their base. I think a certain number of cruel, jealous and fearful people will always back people like Limbaugh, Hannity et al, no matter what the cause, so yes they will continue to attack, add to their base and they won't be hurt at all.
Having heard Judge Alito's confirmation hearing statement about his immigrant parents' experience and how he brings that with him to the bench, it seems hypocritical to me that Limbaugh and Gingrich are hypocrites for not calling him an Italian white racist. This is all very dirty politics and the Republicans are wondering why there's a mass exodus from the party of "no" and hate.
Gingrich and Limbaugh are obviously a plot by the Democrats to totally destroy the Republican party.
Jim, Craig, CO
Why wouldn't a person who has had a wide range of experiences be a better judge than someone who has primarily lived a life with no discrimination or obstacles to overcome? That's just plain common sense. I don't see that as a racist comment at all and the fact that the Republicans do (or pretend they do for the media attention they're getting) is absolutely revolting! How much more out of touch can these people get?
Ms Sotomayer was describing not only Latina women but Arican American and Caucasian women who have raised themselves up from poverty using their brains and their determination. White men have always enjoyed all the power in this country are now some of them are afraid they're losing that power to women and will do or say anthing to put a stop to it.
Sexist is as ugly a word as racist.
Susan
Macedon, New York
That bozo Rush better be careful about calling ANYONE a racist! I recall that a few years ago Rush got his wish to be part of the Monday Night Football commentary team. The Philadelphia Eagles and Donovan McNabb were on the agenda.
At one point Rush spat out, "This guy is terrible! There's only one reason that he's a quarterback in the NFL–he's black!"
Well, Rush, McNabb may be a member of the NFL Hall of Fame one day, whereas you belong in the Hall of Shame!
Mike Vice
Angels Camp, CA 95222
While I'm quite happy to recognize Mr. Limbaugh's credentials as a racist, I find it interesting that he can't recognize people who are not. Then again, maybe his social circle doesn't contain non-racists.
Seriously, the cure for this idiotic whine is simple: read the rest of what she said.
Is this like the publishers that tried to get their books banned in Boston to improve sales?
Yes it does hurt the party when we know that all receive talking points each and everyday. That is why on 21% of the electorate identify themselves as republicans.
Of course it hurts them Jack...just look at who they have as their mouth pieces...Newt (a deposed Speaker) and Rush (a drug addicted radio nut with a High School education)..wow...I hope the Latino communities around the nation REMEMBER this and VOTE straight Democratic Tickets next year!!!!
Allen, Texas
I consider the source....don't Newt needs to reflect on his past...and Rush needs to be unemployed for a while....
Yes. I'm a Democrat and it still pains me to see these idiots go on TV and run their mouths and hurt their party. There are many level headed republicans out there that are going to be pushed even further away from their party because they don't want to be identified with these guys. All I can say is, pull a Spencer.
Unfortunately, Jack, that comment was racist. As much as I would love to see more diverity on the Supreme Court, this particular choice makes me nervous.
Newt and Rush are two grumpy old men that time has passed by, as are the rest of the Republican Party base.
Of course not. Republicans think they are invincible. They can say or do nothing wrong. That's why they are where they are.
Sotomayor said nothing more than the fact that no one cannot fully understand something that they have not experienced, no matter what color they are. She was being specific to the Latino community, but she was expressing a principle, which can apply to any race.
As long as the new Frick and Frack of Republicanism continue to make public pratfalls, such as calling Judge Sotomayor a "racist", the Party will continue to be the kind of slapstick entertainment that will keep it from ever being taken too seriously. Gingrich and Limbaugh are making it easier and easier to be a front row Democrat and I have been a long-time registered "other".
Stockton, CA
The attacks will likely minimally hurt the GOP.
But the next question is: what was she intending to say? The way her quote reads, she appears biased. What will be her response when asked to explain these comments? We won't know until she is properly vetted.
Lets hope the left-wingers allow the process of vetting to even occur-even if they feel she should get a free pass to he highest court in the land.
I don't think it hurts. It's a legitimate question.
We're talking about a woman who didn't just talk about her own experience, but a woman who explicitly hopes that her experience, her culture, her physiology as a woman will bring her to a better decision than a white male.
Her use of the word "better" could be interpreted as saying that a white male cannot transcend his position and make a decision that (quoting her quote of Judge Cedarbaum) "achieves a greater degree of fairness and integrity based on the reason of law." And isn't this the whole definition of racism?? The denial of someone's ability and potential because of their race and thus (to quote her) the "experience, physiological, and cultural differences" that come with it??? Everyone talks about how she said "who hasn't lived that life"... but let's be honest. How many white males could live a Latina life?
Guys like Gingrich and Limbaugh have every right to call this as it is. She is a racist nor is she qualified to be on the Supreme Court. If she was a white male, she wouldn't of even been nominated.
Saying that, she is going to get confirmed and there is nothing the Republican Senators can do about it. It's best they keep quiet and get out of the way of this truck.
Just when you think that the Republican Party is at its lowest point, it digs deeper. Not too surprising though. This falls along the same lines of calling President Obama a terrorist, using the Sarah Palin and Michael Steele gimmicks, and numerous other ridiculous antics. Truly pathetic.
From what I hear about Sotomayer, she is a racist or call it reverse discriminatuion since she is a minority for now. The Democrats have what I call adouble standard. They can call a Republican nominee a racist like they did with Clarence Thomas and Bourke. They are quick to cry foul when Republicans call a Democrat nominee racist!!!!
Real Republicans nned to listen to Ed Rollins and Rush and Newt need to shut up, but they won't. Every time either of them or Cheney open their mouth they damage the GOP. What losers.
Yes it hurts them. This is the party that did nothing but drive our economy into the ground for the previous 8 years, and when the country overwhelmingly voted them out what do they do to restore their party...they spend all of their time trashing the new administration and nothing to help the country get out of the mess they created. The statements from Rush and Newt are just par for the course. The GOP has nothing new to say, no fresh ideas of how to turn this country around, and in the face of all this they continue with the same old tired message that has their parties numbers dwindling.
I wrote a long statement about this issue, and I erased it. I'll make it short and simple. The GOP has picked a fight they cannot possibly win. Their position will only alienated them further. (Who in the hell is leading this party anyway??) Sotomayor will be confirmed as the 1st Hispanic woman on the Supreme Court. Everyone new Obama would mix things up......the American people have spoken. It is time for things to change in this country, and the GOP refuses to accept the inevitable. "The world is changing.........America is changing.......but the GOP is not......RIP." Old habits die hard.
The comments of the GOP are just more of the same, but I hope they help any poor fools who are still listening to them see exactly what the GOP has to offer. They call her a racist for making comments similar to those that white male justices have made (Scalia, for one), that her experience and position in the world has given her perspective. Then, some GOP members have the good sense to claim that her preference for 'hispanic' food may somehow influence her decisions. Where is the real racisim here? It seems obvious to me.
When the GOP wants the public to accept someone (an appointee, congressman, mayor, justice) then they ask us to look at them as whole human beings. When they oppose someone, they expect that all political officials should be total neutrals who are without fault. If we accept that standard, than none of the GOP should be in office.
Dear Jack, Absolutely!!!!!!!!!!! It makes them look like the "racists"! This makes me sick! The RNC is just digging a deeper hole for their party! In the RNC need to find relevance, they're further destroying whatever semblance of sanity that they have left. I resent it when talking heads take an excerpt of a statement;then spin it to try to poison someone's reputation! Thinking Americans will not buy into this bigotry and racism!
Well Jack it sure doesn't help them. The GOP is desperately trying to expand its base after the 2008 election only attracted core lifelong members. If the Republican party wants to reach out, like the Democratic party did, they can't be so aggressive. That means keeping conservative wing-nuts like Newt Gingrich and Rush Limbaugh out of the spotlight (an impossible task) and allowing healthy debate over whether or not Judge Sotomayor should join the Supreme Court.
There is nothing the republican party can do to lower my opinon of them. It is as low as it can get.
I am a Hispanic male, pro-life, Catholic, Republican raised by a latino female, ( my mother) and married to a latina female. I can tell you categorically that the Sotomayor comment is not racist. Latina females are smarter than males be they brown, black or white. And if you don' t believe it just ask my mother and my wife. And they are not racist. Newt and Rush are in the toilet and so will the GOP if we don't wise up on this issue. Sonia Sotomayor may be a pleasant surprise for the pro-life party. I trust her. We need to give her a chance.
Their agument is completely foolish in the first place. They are simply contradicting their campaign rhetoric. If one was to go by their logic, Sotomayor would be the right choice because she has the most experience. Experience was a centerpiece of the McCain campaign, and that is exactly what Sotomayor has. This is just political bickering, and will not stand up against the Senat.
Yes, Jack, it absolutely hurts the Republican party. Moderate Democrats such as myself are disgusted by our party's "stick it to the other guy" demeanor over the last few months and should be starting to look at other options during the next election cycle. Rush and Newt are doing a fine job, however, of helping us remember why we threw out the old guard in the first place.
It doesn't hurt the GOP one bit.
In the USA today, people love to bash others. The Obamamaniacs loved to rip into Bush so obviously the GOP is not the only ones doing the bashing. That being said, the current Sotomayor bashing is directed towards GOP supporters. The supports love bashing the other side as much as the other side loves bashing them. The Dems don't care for the Sotomayor bashing but they didn't care for the GOP anyway. The GOP supporters are okay with the bashing.
If the GOP keeps bashing and Obama and the Dems don't fix the economy, the GOP will make gains in the next election. Americans love to bash but they also love to blame others for their decreased pocketbooks.
Jack: I believe that such comments from GOP figures like Newt and Rush can only further the perception that the GOP is a white, Southern and Midwestern minority party. As well as decreasing ethnic minority support for the GOP, the constant focus within the GOP on ideologic "purity" on social issues has driven people away from the party who have an affinity for a) fiscal conservatism and b) libertarianism on social issues I'd happily support a GOP candidate drawn from the historic Republican party (i.e, the Nelson Rockefeller candidates cannot win a GOP primary or have been driven from the GOP). However, I can never support any GOP candidate who pursues what appears to be an almost "theocratic"policy view of interferring with individual rights. Similarly, I believe that Hispanic voters will remember Republican attacks on Sotomayor in the next elections.
Let 'em talk and be as nasty as they like. The more they talk, the more they reveal to the nation the sort of people they are and the way they think. They are so outraged with an African American in the White House that they are no longer hiding behind their code words anymore. Let them talk, and let the nation judge their views and values at the voting booth. That will be the final word.
Jack,
Rather than the well-being of our nation and the endless controversies pouring from this administration, you seem to solely focus on your obsession (and apparent joy) of what you believe to be "the end of the GOP."
New Hope, PA: Yes it does - big time! And in their case, the old addage applies that when you point at someone there are always three fingers pointing back at you. Newt and Rush: who's really being racist here?
If I said the exact same thing, just switch the white male and latina part I would rightfully be judged a racist faster than you can blink.
I feel these comments are typical of the GOP. They have NO grasp whatsoever of minorities. I hope they keep it up. Just keep digging, guys! It's important that you be seen for what you are and it ain't a pretty picture.
America is having growing pains with the different cultures and ethnicities rising to the highest pinnacles in our government. The only way to smear these good, rspectable people is to call them racists. Get used to Dear republicans .
It should, but given the current state of many Americans it just might. It seems that we as people of the United States have taken a giant step backward in our feelings toward minorities. The problem is that for the better part of eight years we have been polorized as a nation due to the past politics and an apathetic president who cared more for his personal pride than that of his people. Now we have a president that is not only a minority but one that is making every attempt to prove that equality exists no matter where you come from. By the way we are all equal under the law, equal in oportunties and just plain equal as a human race. Political pundits and liberals may be naysayers but they do have pull in government. I think that says it all. And it seems we now have a presisent that wants to support us as a whole but everytime he does, we turn around and kick him in the backside for it. Your damned if you do and damned if you don't.
Interesting how people on here call the GOP hateful, as they dish out venomous comments, most of which are unfounded (except on far left websites). The far left and the far right need to remember that most people are much more moderate than either end.
I don't feel as what she said is being racist, but it does raise an issue worth exploring in the confirmation hearings. A judge may need some empathy in deciding cases, but an appellate judge needs to follow the letter of the law as it is written.
The scales of justice must be balanced before weighing judgement on our nation's laws. With nearly 40% of Americans now a membor of a minority, and most of those Hispanic, our constitution demands balance. This white male, for one, is not afraid to see a court that represents America as it truly is in the 21st century.
Believe that Rush Limbaugh and Gingrich, Lou Dobbs and all those who are trying to cast aspersions on the character of Judge Sotomayor and claim she is a racist will prove to do more harm to the Republican party than good. She prefaced her comments with the words "I would hope that....", which makes her comment a hypothetical wish, rather than a firm commitment of hers. Intelligent, fair minded people will bother to read the whole comment and take this into account. Not that the above named gentlemen are not intelligent. However, their political desires to pull a very fragmented Republican party together seem to have brought out the very worst in them! This will only work with 'extremely fanatical conservatives' with very closed minds. This does not make for a party with a large umbrella! This is just the type of thing Democrats need to help them remain in power. Governor Palin tried this type of thing with, then, Senator Obama. Now she has to call him Mr. President!
The GOP is doing its job, pointing out the hypocrisy of the left. The judge's comment is a racist comment. Can you imagine a white man saying such a comment refering to another group? It would not be tolerated. She also ruled against the white firefighters showing racial preference against whites in the New Haven case, so it is relevant. She has also said that owning a gun is not a fundamental right- she's the wacko, that's Constitution 101.
Toby,
Pullman, WA
No, Republicans should not attack Sotomayor because she is a racist; they should attack her because she has a dismal record of judicial performance.
I wonder why the Dems did not complain when their Senators smeared Miguel Estrada a few years ago. Isn't he Latino? Doesn't he have a compelling story? Surely we don't have a double standard here, do we?
This is nothing more than the pot calling the kettle black. I remember Rush getting fired from Monday Night Football beacause of racist comments. As long as Republicans cowtow to these buffoons, the Republican party will be nothing more than a heckle from the top of the bleachers.
With just 22% of Americans still willing to inhabit the Republican tent and Latinos the fastest growing minority in the country, I think that unless GOP can prove she is a hardened criminal they would be well advised to tread lightly on Judge Sotomayor. It is morning again in America, or should we say manana?
We hope so. Rush and Newt are two grumpy old men that time has passed by. J&B from NC
Here we go again. The all too familar role of the Republicans!
Instead of letting the nomination process take its course, they would rather show that they still have a third grade education!!!
We saw 8 years of attacks on the previous administration by the opposition. Some of those attacks were pretty nasty. Should we expect anything different with a new administration? When did questioning appointments and the government become a bad thing? As far as harming the Republican Party? How can it hurt it?
But using Mr. Martin Luther King's yardstick, shouldn't she be judged by the content of her character and not the color of her skin or her gender? The comment should be judged by the content and should at least be discussed. Nobody should get a free pass to a position that is an appointment for life.
YES!!! I think it is time that someone stops these Conservatives.
I am sick of hearing from them. Judge Lito also made a comment that could have been taken out of context but, no one called for his outing.
Rush Limbaugh, Gingrich, Hannity, Rove and now Cheyney should be shut down.
Give this judge a chance. I am so sick of the Republican Party.
Maybe we should start bringing out things about them. WONDER WHAT WE WOULD FIND ON THEM. Didn't Limbaugh get in trouble over a racist remark about Donovan McNabb and didn't Gingrich cheat on his wife while she was in the hospital with CANCER!!! AND AS FAR AS Rove and Cheyney they should be in jail.
Spanish philosopher George Santayana" coined the phrase Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it," After Obama's landslide win this past election the pigheaded republican remain clueless of this fact. From now on, Are they going to think with their heads or their tail? "
I think it's time for the next tea party. The Republican Party no longer represents the conservative voice. Rush is just Rush. Newt is Newt. The cards will fall how they will fall. I don't see leadership from either one of them, communication, but not leadership. Lots and lots of independents out here right now. Looking for a leader principled in the Constitution as our country was founded. The Federal Government is knee-deep in matters of which it was specifically never delegated to be, intentionally not suppose to be...health care, art museums, financial markets, car companies, agricultural. The People are restless ignoring the Tea Parties was a really, really dumb move by the current Democrat regime. Obama himself, "uh, what, uh...I didn't hear about them. I don't know what you are talking about." That's not reaching out, but alienating an entire segment of the population. Our country was divided 48/52 last election, and more now. The minority is ruling now. And that never works. The Majority will rule again.
It hurts both sides to do this. The question as stated above really is: If a white male, or black male made the same type of comment would he have been treated differently by democrats during the Bush administrations? The answer is they would have been crucified, to say any different is a BIG FAT LIE. My thoughts are there is no room on the Supreme Court for pre-conceived thoughts about race, gender or creed.
The truth about a persons reputation or actions only reveals the true character. There is no room for bias in any judge regardless of their experience, education or beliefs.
If anyone with half a brain actually ready Sotomayor's comments, they aren't racist, but very well thought out and nuanced. Unfortunately, the GOP tends to use soundbites out of context, they don't do nuance, and Newt and Rush don't have half a brain
Sotomayor's statement has been conveniently excerpted far out of context by the rabid right wing conservatives.
Sotomayor also went on to say, "Let us not forget that wise men like Oliver Wendell Holmes and Justice Cardozo voted on cases which upheld both sex and race discrimination in our society."
It's obvious that a minority's experience would likely have resulted in different judgement than Justices Holmes and Cardozo - even properly within the framework of our laws.
Republicans as usual are making noise without substance.
Deposed and disgraced former Speaker Gingrich and High School graduate Rush Limbaugh are not qualified to carry Judge Sotomayor's shoes. They, and others like High School graduate Sean Hannity, will continue their transparent racism and hate-speak, and further marginalize the GOP until and unless the likes of Colin Powell and other moderate voices step up and retake the reins of a once-upon-a-time proud and respectable organization.
I was republican for years but they stand for everything now this is totally disgusting and vile. They have become the arian fascists of the nation. I have been a Democrat for the last 12 years and at least we embrace differences and encourage each other. Everyone does not have to have family origins from The U.K. to be worthy of all that the UNITED States of America has to offer.
Yes, it will hurt the GOP, but not Judge Sotomayer. This is GOP school yard antics and although sticks and stones may break some bones, from where she's come and from what she's been through, I doubt names will hurt her.
Ralph, Corpus Christi-Texas
Isn't being called a racist from Rush and newt sort of like being called ugly by a frog?
Yes.Where are the true Republican statesmen like Bill Buckley these days? How sad.
Yes, Jack, it does–And I couldn't be happier. The Republican right wing has caused too much damage to women's rights and the environment and it's time they went down in the flames they wished on everyone else.
Bill & Judy comments "Rush and Newt are two grumpy old men that time has passed by". Since you can not argue that they are wrong. You comment on them.
How wonderful? most of the comments for this article attack the people making arguments against Judge Sonia Sotomayor but none of them have given argument proving their case.
Judge Sotomayor is a 'reverse racist'. Before any one attack me let me tell you I'm Legal PR ethenic east Indian,brown color, not very rich, not from rich family, worked hard for my life.
Hey I might be more qualified as I have more diverse experience then her!!!!
It should.
The fact that Newt, Rush and Co. get any airplay make me pessimistic about this country.
The Republicans are just grabbing at straws and trying to find fault with anything. I happen to agree with Judge Sotomayer's remarks,with one exception – I would have said any female.
These old, rich white guys know nothing about being poor, Hispanic or African American, male or female or Asian, Native American or Alutian. The more they bray, the more they pay.
Viva Sonia Maria Sotomayor!
They will all be extinct in about one hundred years or so, anyway.
Yes, absolutely - it shows that these people will take anything out of context and run with it. If they didn't continue saying stupid things, they would never be on the air or in the news.
Lynn from Brevard, NC
Who cares what the liberals think, since they don't. They are foolish.
Jack,
Just put a photo of Limbaugh, Gingrich and Sotomayor on the screen and ask everyone to pick out the racist.
Les Brown
Yes, Im a 17 year old republican and i think anytime Rush and Newt open there fat mouths it hurts the GOP. One more controversial remark from one of them and I will become a democrat.
When will we stop giving these same people who have led us down the path of ruin any credibility at all. They are jerks and thugs who have mugged our nation and they are still trying to get back into power. They are laughable.
As a latino, I perceive her comments as being confident and proud of her achievements, also her knowledge of the judicial system, she is not saying am better because I'm latina thus superior than whites.
Whites lile newt and rush feel threaten by comments like that because of their superiority complex, minorities are finally getting its due in the fiber of our country.
In my book it strengthens Sotomayor case when a drug addict and a corrupt politician are against her. Everyone has an opinion on a variety of topics and we are not always politically correct as we should be, but as long as it is not brought into our professional decisions/choices that is the important part. Have any of her decisions or judgements shown any bias of this statement or other opinions she may have stated in the past.? That is the important part-professionalism. It is obvious that Limbaugh and Gingrich in their jobs have been less than professional on more than one occasion.
The thought that comes to mind is, how can ANYTHING hurt the Republican Party more than the last eight years has done!
Then, I do think the statements by Gingrich and Limbaugh can add to the idea that the Republicans are out of control. I'd like them both to explain to me how a rich, old, conservative, white guy can POSSIBLY call anyone a racist!
And exactly when did a TV commentator become the leader of a political party? If Limbaugh is now the leader of the Republican Party, it is as a Judas goat!
What a double standard! Did it hurt the Dems when they crucified Clarence Thomas? How about the way they treated Gonzalez and Estrada? The eminently qualified Roberts and Alito were voted against on strictly ideological grounds by numerous Dem senators, including Mr Obama, but Repubs with similar objections to Sotomayor are vilified as neanderthals. Hypocrisy knows no bounds!
I hope Gingrich and Limbaugh continue to attack anything and everything Obama does. The Republicans will be able to hold their next convention in Newt's living room.
Joe
Wichita, KS
I think I have read a zillion articles, where this comment was not said the way the republicans are repeating. She said in this one case she identified with the people and could give a more qualified decision, OR SOMETHING TO THAT EFFECT. Not the out and out statement, newt the dopplegangler and rush the mouth are quoting.
Newt says he is going to run for president...ha ha ho ho....and he acts like this. Even the right wing religious groups are running from him. What in the world is wrong with the republicans. I think it is time an intelligent, human one, with class and character steps and takes charge of the republican party and stuffs a sock in all those loud empty mouths.
Why are these questions called attacks? They are fair questions and statements. How quickly many of you forget the process that the last 2 new justices went through with the left.
OMG yes! Despite a questionable remark or two by Sotomayor, I am certain she has suffered more the affects of racism than ever performed.
And excuse me, but I believe that we all have had good and bad experiences in race relations. And sometimes those bad experiences cause us to feel things at that moment which are not a normal part of our nature.
The demi-god of the GOP are trying to play the "poor little hurt white boy card". It ain't gonna work, they have been in a position of control too long to have gained our trust or sympathy.
I need to say this I love when the Dems do it it's not Racist but when the GOP does it's the most racist thing I feel that we have a very racist government
Another perfect example why the Republicans are a dying party!!
Jack ..I know it will hurt those fools who are trying to put down the Judge with her imacculate education and not to mention experence they are just trying to be in the news . The sooner you guys that is the media stop talking about them (rush with is stupid self and those other republican the better it it for all AMERICA.)
I'm sure all she meant was that someone who has struggled will arrive at a more practical and compassionate conclusion than someone who hasn't. It's really very simple.
The Republicans are divided, divisive, desperate and IRRELEVENT !!!
it's sad to see how deeper the hole gets for the GOPs right wing, but it's sadder to see how people will make comments about others without knowing who they are or where they come from...by the way Sotomayor is of Puerto Rican heritage, not Mexican...
“I would hope that a wise [Latina] woman with the richness of her experiences would more often than not reach a better conclusion than a [white male] who hasn't lived that life.”
Substitute the words between the brackets with the ethnic tags of your choosing and convince yourself that it is not racist. While comments of this nature may be appropriate for a talk show host they are hardly what one would expect from a Supreme Court jurist.
These types of comments do nothing but foment division and will inevitably lead to the destruction of this democracy.
BTW, I am not a while male but a brown hispanic male and I found both political parties equally disgusting.
What hurts the GOP is a liberal media that won't report facts. Judge Sonia Sotomayor admits is a liberal judge, appointed by a Socialist President. When the media accurately and consinstently reports those facts, our nation will be much better off.
Jack, it will hurt the GOP and good they are too dumb to realize it – Go Dems!
Roughing up a nominee that will be confirmed serves no purpose other than to continue to tarnish the GOP. Stuck with an approval rating of around 35% the GOP has an image problem not being helped by Rush and Cheney.
A high profile Senate show where the GOP looks unreasonable is likely not the way back to national relevance.
Sotomayor's comments aren't racist, they're narcissistic and speaking as a narcissist, I can't tell you how glad I am to see one of MY people nominated to the bench. We narcissists are a proud people and our comments are often taken out of context by the AVERAGE american. Though, truthfully I can't say I'm "rejoicing" as its not really all that uncommon for us achieve high office, and to be perfectly honest I don't really give a damn about the others, its just that their appointment confirms my own sense of self worth, which is what is really important in this whole thing right?
Yes, it hurts the Republican party! Where are their recommended solutions and alternatives to critical global issues like North Korea's and Iran's nuclear threat? What are they doing to bring about peace in the middle east and bring our boys home? So many issues, and this is all they can offer?
Is that all the Republican party can do is incite one-sided radio talk show jockeys and resigned (in-shame) ex-politicians to name calling?
What personal accomplishments qualifies Limbaugh to say anything authoritative or profound about anyone? What military service, credentials, or social prominence does he have other than being a propagandist on radio?
Limbaugh is NOT even on the membership committee of the Republican Party. Thank You Colin Powell for that contribution!
While I believe everyone should be treated equally and with dignity I also understand the human perspicacity in which we will always "judge" by appearance/impression based on the experiences/influences in our lives.
I am growing tired of the outcries of Liberal Bleeding Heart Democrats accusing anyone that doesn't agree with their spokesqueen Perez Hilton of being a bigot or a racist.
I will defend your God given right to espouse a different opinion than mine, however do not vilify my opinion and right to disagree, because at that point we are not working toward a consensus we are just drawing lines in the sand!
The republicans don't know what racist means.
The Sotomayor pick is a masterstroke by Obama. He knows the Republicans will only move further towards oblivion if they alienate the growing Hispanic population. Gingrich and Limbaugh's race-based attacks on this supremely qualified jurist will certainly accomplish this. He artfully laid the bait, and it looks like he landed a couple of whoppers!
Definitely not! It doesn't hurt me nor does it hurt America, simply because the American voting public has finally realized the bankrupt, immoral Right Wing of the Republican Party and will further show their disgust in their future votes against these ill-sprited idealogs who are filled with vile and contempt for America, Americans and anyone else who does not see the world as they do. I am glad that Gingrich, Limbaugh and Cheney are crusading for the demise of the Republican Party. Moderate Republicans can help form a moderate movement with the Independents of our Country. The Republican seem bent of trying to tear down any attempt by the Obama Administration that is definitely working overtime to correct the horrendous policies of Bush/Cheney. Here is one Independent that believes that Obama is the best thing to have happened to America in many decades. Fred Riek
GOP is hurt. That's why they are attacking. It is a self-inflicted wound that GOP perpetuates to kill itself. But it must be moral and ethical for them to shout on principle.
Jack, it doesn't seem like the left has ever cared about alienating any voter demographic when they go on the offensive, particularly the Hispanic vote, and it obviously didn't hurt that side too much, considering it controls the country with an iron fist now.
Also, how much good did it do for the GOP when Hispanics were given some ground in Washington, such as Bush selecting Alberto Gonzales, Tony Garza, and Richard Carmona to be a part of his administration? It sure doesn't seem like that has given Republicans any boost in the Hispanic vote.
So why in the world should Republicans now suddenly care about hurting the feelings of the Hispanic voters? The Dems just want the Republicans to shut up and take it, and this ridiculous notion of offending a demographic if they don't just accept everything Democrats feed them is just another trick up the politicians' sleeves.
Sotomayor, Granholm, or whomever. The Gingrich's and Limbaugh's and their ilk will attack no matter what. The Republican party is a control freak party and Gingrich, etc. are wannabe's whowill never quite make it to the top. Their only connection to the public is making waves and sowing discontent while attempting to convince us they know more than others. However, they in fact do not and they cannot face reality. Sour grapes are in season now and the Right is tuck with the whole crop. Trying to sell sour grapes is a hard sell and when tasted they remain sour and soon the public refuses to buy any more. Doesn't matter who the nominee is and never will.
Thom Richer
Negaunee, MI
Right now just being the GOP hurts the GOP. Too many of their leaders still believe that the politics of polarity, divisiveness hatred and intolerance is going to get them elected. They forgot the lesson the electorate taught the Democrats: only a few, woefully misguided Americans will except radical politics, whether it be from the left or right.
What hurts the GOP is a liberal media that won’t report facts. Judge Sonia Sotomayor is a liberal judge, appointed by a Socialist President. When the media accurately and consinstently reports those facts, our nation will be much better off
I find it hard to imagine that Newt and Rush actually believe their own inflammatory and dramatic propaganda. And it's even harder to imagine that any reasonably intelligent individual would agree with their divisive assessment of Sotomayor. Unfortunately, obvious falsehoods cloaked in half-truths can become gospel when it comes from indignant speakers seeking to stir our basest emotions.
Unfortunately with such a sheltered upbring , the candidate has been subjected too much television and too many hollywood movies where white men are portrayed are corrupt and idiotic. And too many movies where a single parent mothers with a budding " overachiever " , outwits such white males, and then puts them in their place. Its difficult to discard such imbedded imprinting. So much for that political propaganda !
Newt Gingrich said on TV to Bill Clinton, we Republicans can only win if we cheat or lie. Now Newt has added one more dimension, sleazy attacks on the innocent before found guilty. Why so much concern about an appointment being more moderate since the Bush appointments were so far from moderate? Kyl has made the most noise and concern and I live in AZ with him. Even his soft spoken words are like Newts' now, very sleazy and he seems to be paranoid like the rest of their party. The party of hate and fear is where they live, the rest of the American don't buy it anymore, fear is always used by the weakest side.
John T
A party populated by numerous well known racists calling anyone a racist is disingenuous at best. When you have nothing to offer, I guess slurs are better than nothing; at least it keeps you in the public eye. Go, party of NO, GO!
The reason to mention race or gender? Because the original statement by Justice O'Connor that she was discussing was about gender (men and women jurists would come to the "same conclusion"). Justice Sotomayer simply brought in race to indicate that there *are* issues with regards to race and gender that a white male without the experience of dealing with it may not understand. Fact is, people, no matter how you try to slice it or dice it, a person's experience *does* give 'color' to one's view of the world, and race/gender are part of that experience. Therefore, it is important to have diversity on the bench – because if everyone looked at the world just like white males there wouldn't be any of these issues to consider in the first place. And, as for the question of whether policy is made on the bench – this is reality folks. The Executive branch is supposed to enforce the law – not the Judicial branch. The role of the Judicial branch is to *interpret* the law. By definition, this means that policy is set by how the law is interpreted. The Supreme Court rules on whether a law is Constitutional or not, and *interprets* what the Constitution means. Kind of like how different people interpret various passages of the Bible differently, and that is why we have different Christian sects, where each one sets *policy* based upon their interpretation. Geez, do schools teach critical thinking anymore at all?
I would love to know why none of the high up moderate GOP tell them in these exact words "shut up, you're damaging the party".
White males don't generally take too well to being in the minority, and this nomination merely reminds many that the majority status is shifting in America.
Of course it hurts them....so please PLEASE keep doing it Repubs! The more the country sees your true colors (reactionary, neo-con blowhards) the longer it will be before the country has to suffer through another of your mindless all-ideology no thought administrations.
My liberal friends who are so outraged at the mere thought of challenging this "Latina" for the High Court have such short memories...
I didn't see you all so concerned when Alberto Gonzales was being compared to Hitler, or when Linda Chavez was being made out to look like a criminal, or when Miguel Estrada (President Bush' nominee to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals in 2001) was filibustered by the Dems back to the Hacienda!
Nor did I see ANYONE warn the Libs about "attacking" Hispanic nominees.
What's wrong? They weren't Hispanic enough??? Or was it because they were of a different POLITICAL persuausion?? Hmmmm.
I am married to a wonderful Latina, and we are both conservatives (NEWSFLASH!!! Not all Hispanics are liberal Democrats!!!). We oppose Sotomayor's nomination based on her views regarding JUDICIAL ACTIVISM and LEGISLATING FROM THE BENCH.....nothing more. Republicans should NOT be afraid to attack her views and decisions simply because she is a Latina woman. If that is what we have come to in this country, then we have abandoned our representative, democratic American Heritage in exchange for some kind of dangerous, political Groupthink.
I remember reading the book "The Ugly American" which raised my consciousness of how our actions, words, and attitudes (as Americans) play in our global community. Russ, Newt, the leadership of the GOP in Congress are creating a new term in politics: "The Ugly Republican." We do need a two party system and these "Ugly Republicans" are screwing that up.
Yes it hurts the GOP because it proves that the right wing conservatives do not have a clue as to other human being experiences. What Sotomayor meant in her speech was that she has had a broader experience in life that has open her up to see the world as it is and not be narrow minded. She has had experiences in her life that these right wing conservatives have no understanding because they have never walked in those shoes. Her statement was not racist, it was simply stating a fact.
Judge Sotomayer is not a racist. I am quite put out by CNN and other news agencies, who are airing a short section of a larger comment. Her entire comment, not just the out of context comment about being a Latina, goes on to say that she tries to make unbiased decisions based on the law and not her background. READ the entire speech.
I view Gingrich and Limbaugh, etc. as racists. They both have a long history of racist comments.
Of course it hurts the GOP, this is a good example of why they are loosing membership left and right. Decent people don't want to be identified by, or identify with, this rabid, foaming at the mouth hatred and childish attempts at character assasination. Next we'll probably hear she "pals around with terrorists". Drill baby drill! Kill! Kill! Kill!
Did she say it or not. Why does your side always get a pass. Hopefully her true judicial skills will confirm or deny.
TC
Yes, criticizing Sotomayor hurts the Republicans because: 1) the Democrats have successfully labeled all Republicans as sexist and racist; 2) minorities are above criticism; and 3) the press does not challenge either 1 or 2.
The answer lies in the last part of her statement..."than a white male "who has not lived that life." Justice Ginsberg was rightly angered by her colleague's unempathetic remark concerning a female student who was strip searched by school authorities for an over-the-counter headache remedy...him wondering why she should be upset to be strip seached in front of the school staff. Justice Ginsberg who "had lived that life" was able to give him an answer from a woman's perspective. Likewise, because soon to be Justice Sotomayor has lived a life as a woman and a minority she will have a better perspective to be able to judge a case more fully and completely than a typically favored white male who was, by the way, very likely nominated because of his favored status in this country...like so many white males before him.
Racist? Bullfiddle, just more of the crap that the "new" batch of old Republicans spew out like so much vomit. How is it that as an older white male I can so clearly hear the sexist and racist comments of so many of the Republicans who are so unaware of what they say?