Should Rep. Wilson be punished for yelling 'You lie' at Pres. Obama?
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
A Republican congressman from South Carolina made a complete fool of himself during a presidential address to a joint session of Congress last night, and in the process confirmed a lot of what the American public can't stand about politicians.
Rep. Joe Wilson shouts, "You lie!" after President Obama denies the health plan would cover illegal immigrants.
But he also had a point...
South Carolina's Joe Wilson shouted "You lie" at the president - after Mr. Obama denied that proposed health care legislation would mean free health coverage for illegal aliens. The fact is they get free health care now by just walking into any emergency room, and nothing in the proposed legislation would change that.
Nevertheless this was pretty low - even with our reduced expectations for our lawmakers.
Wilson stunned the room... everybody except the president. Republicans froze, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi frowned at him, and Vice President Joe Biden shook his head. But President Obama looked toward the outburst and said "that's not true" and then continued on.
There has been a steady and very noticeable decline in civil discourse in this country over the last few years. The entire month of August was filled with scenes of angry Americans yelling at each other at town hall meetings over the subject of health care reform.
And when a member of Congress yells at the President of the United States, calling him a liar in the middle of an address to a joint session of Congress, we have hit a new low. How do we get to the point where the highest office in the land is treated with such utter disrespect?
Here’s my question to you: Should Congressman Wilson face punishment for yelling "You lie" at President Obama during last night’s address to Congress?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Cheryl from Bluffton, South Carolina writes:
He should and he will, Jack. We in South Carolina are going to elect Rob Miller to replace him in Congress! No further punishment is needed aside from the crippling embarrassment this accomplished GOP liar is facing after his childish outburst.
Jim writes:
I believe that he should be censured by the House for his disgraceful conduct. If things like this are allowed to stand unpunished, the respect for our presidential office will continue to deteriorate and our meetings such as the one last night will turn into shouting matches much like the parliament in England. Shame on Wilson.
Robin writes:
The utter disrespect that Joe Wilson showed to the president was despicable. As a classroom teacher, if a student had called me a liar when I was addressing my class, he/she would have been thrown out not to return unless accompanied by a parent. Yes, Joe Wilson should be held accountable for his behavior. There was no excuse for it.
Eileen from Summit, New York writes:
Although I agree the outburst was not appropriate to the situation, why, may I ask is there such controversy about Congressman Wilson when we have a tax cheat as head of the Ways and Means committee? Are a few spoken words more significant than the actions of someone who so blatantly breaks the law?
Rodney writes:
Jack, By nature I'm a pretty cheap guy, but Joe Wilson ticked me off so much last night I couldn't wait to boot up my computer, log on to Rob Miller’s website and send him 100 bucks. We can't re-elect people like this anymore.
Denny from Tacoma, Washington writes:
Being a Republican is punishment enough.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
Censure is appropriate. The house has rules that govern the conduct of its members, and Congressman Wilson violated them. An apology on the floor of the house should be required. The best punishment would be if he could be defeated at the next election.
Jack, last night Joe Wilson showed the entire country who he is. He should be a poster boy for every high school to use as an example of the worse behavior a person could have. Unfortunately this behavior has cause many people to create a culture of hate. Joe Wilson must think it was okay to throw a shoe at former President Bush.
Yes. He yelled at President Obama in public and he should apologize in public AND be censured by Congress since he made his outburst on the house floor.
What Congress is lacking is Sister Matthew from my grade school circa 1967. She would suspend Rep. Wilson from attending the next joint session and would require him to write 'I'm a jerk' 1,000 times on a white board standing on the Capitol Mall. in addition she would grab Rep. Cantor by his ear and make him sit outside the chambers in a little chair with the Sergeant At Arms standing watch nearby. The arrogance of that man scrolling through his Black Berry with obvious boredom and disdain as the President spoke was shameful.
You can disagree with the Presidnet all you want and feel free to make your views known to one and all afterwards. But for heavens sake show respect for the Office of the President when he speaks to the assembled Congress of the United States.
Jim White
Oviedo, FL
Yes, Wilson should be punished, unfortunetly the only punishment congress has is censure. Crazy joe should have been tassered and charged with disorderly conduct just like the guy who tried to speak during a kerry speech.
Ken
Brick, NJ
Ledt me see YES YES YES
Ronald Texas
Hey Jack ,
I would like to know why Hail To The Cheif was NOT played when President Obama walked in to the room last night ? Maybe , I missed it but I didn't catch any reporter talking about it. I would appreciate if you could get an answer to this question for me.
Thank You,
Diane Moulton-Peddie
guess wilson let the cat out of the bag about who is behind the shouting at congressional meetings . What the heck is wrong with south carolina first sanford now this doesn't any one vote down there. seriosly jack what level are we sinking to when if you cant get your way you shout at and malign the president i would expect this from those crazy korean politicians but in the USa i am disgusted wilson should be censured and pelosi should isolate him and keep south carolina pork in the cooler shame on him
At the very least this guy should be censured by the Congress.
During a joint session of Congress that was being addressed by the President of the United States, he resorted to the same tactics that right wing goon squads used throughout the summer to disrupt the so called "town meetings"
It is time for the country stand up to Wilson and his ilk. Settling for his phony apology is not enough. An effort should be made to censure him .
A debate and vote on such a resolution would expose those members of Congress who subscribe to and promote this McCarthy like conduct .
"Enough has become too much" !
Bob
Louisville, Ky
No, Jack, for this guy to live in ignorance and biggotry as Joe Wilson is punishment enough.
No, why punish someone for telling the truth?
Why do you even ask? Have you ever dined with illegals? How many times? Have you ever played football with illegals? Have you ever worked for illegals? Have you ever left your children with illegals? Do you know where Verdun is? or Normandy? or Arlington? or the alkaloids are and why they're here? Why do you ask? The President gets hours and hours of exposure and TWO WORDS is out of place?
Andy of Sierra Vista, Arizona
Jack,
Hope stupid can you be when you can't even control your personal feelings in front of the President, Congress and the world! Hopefully his constituents are smart enough to vote him out of office soon.
Sue / Atlanta
Seems to me that the real Liars in this country are the elected officials from South Carolina. They swore that they would represent the interest of their constituents which appears to be a lie because all that I have seen is consistent pursuit of personal interest and hypocrisy and dishonesty notwithstanding the lack of patriotism from those elected officials. They lied to the people they were supposed to be representing about their character, honesty, principles, morals and leadership interest.
Steve
Clifton, VA
No,let it go.........lets move on
david
Well it was rude and disrespectful but Wilson was telling the truth when Obama said illegal aliens would NOT be covered! That was a flat out lie, we have been footing the bill for illegals all along and theres nothing in any of the bills that specifically says illegal aliens will be excluded! So if we aren`t going to punish Obama for lying to the American people I cant how we can punish a man for speaking the truth in the wrong setting! Sorry libs, this kind of conduct happens all the time in Great Britians Parliment, its looked at in England as no big deal to disagree with the Prime Minister privately or publically!
Yes! We would punish our children if they had an outburst like that when an adult was speaking because we want them to be respectful of other people. An elected member of Congress acting like a complete brat during a nationally televised speech is unacceptable. He should be punished. I don't care how "emotional" he felt. That was not appropriate behavior for an adult and he needs to get himself together or find another profession.
No Jack its like he threw his shoes at the president maybe Wilson is telling the truth.
Hi Jack,
The guy is from South Carolina, nuff said
Sanford, Graham, and enormous backwoods thinking.
The believe the economy was doing great under Bush
They fly the Rebel Flag in their State capital
SO are you really surprised by the actions of a South Carolina Republican, I think not
This guys is a Moron
And the rest of the Southern Republicans are not much different
so here it is, let that idiot stew in his own mess, and keep the dialogue alive on the idiotic behavior of the Republicans.
I think that his remark was inappropriate and disrespectful to the OFFICE of the US President. However, Obama did lie; he has always said that there are 46 million uninsured Americans but real newspeople kept pointing out that about 9 million are ILLEGAL ALIENS. So last night, Obama puts the number at 37 million uninsured (46-9!) because he got caught. So, what else is he not telling the truth about?! "You can keep your own insurance." But if your employer finds it too expensive, he/she will pay the gov't fine and guess what, you're in the public option!!
I'm sure my comment will go into the purgatory of "waiting to be moderated" and then just deleted, but at least I can get this off my chest and that someone at CNN, if not Cafferty himself, will read it!!
Yes. He didn’t even apologize on his own. He was TOLD to call the White House by the Republican leadership. He should be censured for his unprecedented outburst in the chamber.
Jack
If Nancy Pelosi does not censure this guy, she should be thrown out of the House of Rep. Clearly he broke protocol.
Representative Wilson's disrespect to the President is an embarrassment for everyone in this country regardless of party affiliation. If he doesn't have the decency to resign on his own, he should be censured by Congress and shunned until his term is up. It is hard for me to imagine how someone that is this low rent ever managed to get elected to office in the first place.
Jack, it looks like the good people of South Carolina are the ones being punished. Cancellations are starting to appear as a boycott of the state grows on the internet.
From "The State" Newspaper of Columbia, SC:
FROM: Scott Andreisen, Western Pennsylvania Sports Association.
I am afraid that Rep. Wilson's over night fame has caused many of our members to call our office this morning and cancel a Spring 2010 trip of 120 adults to Hilton Head, SC.
I don't have to tell you all that the internet is ripe with calls to boycott South Carolina because of Mr. Wilson's actions.
I have personally visited your wonderful state many times and have always found the atmosphere to be nothing short of welcoming and hospitable.
I regret our position in this matter and hope you can do whatever possible to restore your state's great reputation. Good luck and once again our regrets.
SA
We've reached this point because people treat each other with such disrespect, treat themselves with such disrespect, treat the planet with disrespect, etc. It's bound to continue escalating. Should he be punished? He's being punished enough already; his main opposition is receiving hundreds of thousands in donations and he's getting nothing but bad press. He's already committed political suicide, what more can we even do to punish him?
Lucy
SF, CA
No Jack. I think his outburst has received enough attention already and it's time to focus on the real agenda on hand. The republican party has been hijacked by the crazy right-winged extremists and unfortunately that's all that America hears coming from them.
Sagamore Hills, OH
Absolutely, Rep Wilson should be punished for his inapproriate action during the president's speech Wednesday night. I must admit that I'm not all that syrprised that members of the Republican party have sunk to this low conduct because I've almost come to expect it from them. I can also imagine the outcry that would have occurred if a Democrat had done the same to President Bush. My gut instinct is that Wison should be asked to find the nearest exit door from Congress and to let the door hit his backside on the way out and as well to never attempt to return until he learns some manners. I would hope the voters from his district would help him find unemployment after something like this but I know that Texas voters would not have considered his action offensive. I do, and he should pay the consequences for his action. As Baretta use to say "Don't do the crime, if you can do the time."
Shame on the congressmen who waived papers during the president's speech last night; shame on Joe Wilson; and shame on the Republicans. They sat there coldly, unconcerned about the common good. Are they that impervious to the health and lives of their fellow countrymen? Are they so in the (deep) pockets of the insurance companies and other special interest groups? Do they really think that they can get their way by shouting the loudest? Do they dare reduce our congress to the likes of recent town hall meetings? Punishment? They are unfit to serve this great nation and represent the people. May they be soundly voted out of office, and may any so-called "Blue dog" democrat who joins them suffer the same fate!
Yes he should. The Democrats never yelled anything when Bush declared his WAR and persisted in torture. That's way worse. Parents no longer teach respect for others opinions anymore and obviously his mother forgot to teach him. Instead of yelling why doesn't he participate in discorse aimed at not allowing that abuse he is yelling about? I for one would love to see law enforcement be able to ship illegals back to where they came from without our healthcare! Get theirs in their country!
The Gentleman from South Carolina is no Gentleman even if that is the proper form of address in Congress. Representative Wilson should be impeached by his peers in the House of Representatives and found guilty by the Senate. His outburst typifies the deep divisions that have become pervasive in our country and he should face the consequences and be removed from office. It is obvious that Mr. Wilson has no respect for President Obama but he and the rest of the country should be taught respect for the Office of the President.
Based on Rep. Wilson's behavior, his next electoral campaign should be for Parliament. Is there a vast right-wing conspiracy to make South Carolina the fool capital of the nation?
Is Charlie Rangel going to be punished for lying to the IRS to the tune of several hundred thousand dollars?! Nope. Congress is working up a bill to really punish average americans for even honest mistakes but good old Charlie gets a free pass and Congress is just "outraged" about this Wilson guy?!
Jack
Congressman Wilson has lost his title of statesman. The good news is Saturday Night Smack Down has an opening for people with a big mouth and low IQ
What is wrong with the Republican Party? This country was and is built on healthy debate and defended by the blood of our American Military Heroes. In front of the entire planet, a single, overly confrontational, ELECTED Republican official – not only attempted to “one up” the Leader of the Free World, but also showed a world audience how disfunctional, ridiculious and self-serving our politicians have become. Last night’s speech was not the time or place for such an insane display and a total lack of better judgement. His immediate departure from the chamber, followed by his poor attempt at an apology proves that.
Absolutely! He should be punished for breaking the rules of Congress. If they let him slide, they will have to let the next one slide.
Certainly. The senator displayed an incredible degree of disrespect for a US president and his office, not to mention the very institution he is a part of himself. His lack of respect requires an equally severe degree of punishment.
That not withstanding, I say this as a Republican, and ironically, one who also believes the president can not meet his promise to not use our money to provide healthcare for those who are in this country illegally. Obama must pay for illegal aliens’ health care unless he turns them away at the emergency room door, or he sends them all home. Neither will happen.
Yes he should. He should be a representative of the United States no matter who is in office and not get caught up in his townhall ignorance. I think he should step down and take some anger management courses. So disrespectful, but then most republicans are.
The Congressman should have some judicial action taken against him in the House for his indignant out burst. Mr. Wilson is now classified along with former Gov. Sarah Palin as one of the top two fund raisers for the DNC and the Democratic Party.
I'm sure the DNC and Democratic Party would like to thank him for his fund raising efforts.
Yes, Wilson should be punished, this type of behavior is unacceptable and just plain rude. I'm sure his momma must have raised him better than that. Actions have consequences, remember?!
I think he has already seen some "punishment". His opponent in next year's race raised over $200,000 since his outburst.
Congressman Wilson should resign as fast as he apologized.
I'm a "constituent" of Wilson. Did not vote for him and never will. He is a political opportunist of epic proportions, e.g., I believe he staged the entire event. How else would the photographer for Getty Image know to take a snapshot of Wilson at the exact moment of his now infamous words. I'm deeply ashamed and embarrassed that he represents my congressional district. He was a state senator when I worked for the SC Senate Finance Committee and he was known among the staffers to stick up his finger prior to voting to detect the prevailing political winds. With Sanford and Wilson, it wouldn't be surprising if SC attempted to secede again without any objection from the rest of the country!
The disgrace he brings to his party is punishment enough.
I think Wison should be censured.
He made history books...you know what we say...you write your own destiny!
YES! he should be punished severly!! ..that was very disrespectful!! the GOP are nothing but a bunch oh angry naysayers! always with the sour pus on their faces! they are angry angry people.....where were they when BUSH was around??? They show no respect at all, the bunch of them!
Yes, he should be punished. Where was Wilson when Bush was talking about weapons of mass destruction? He backed Bush on the war so Mr. Wilson, YOU LIED, right along with Bush, so how can he breathe the word LIE to Obama. To show such disrespect is horrible and I live in Florida and have contributed to his opponents campaign. Wilson does not need to be any body's public servant. He is such a disgrace. He needs to go!!
As much as I wish he would get punished, I do not see it happening. After all, isnt he protected under the first amendment?
Nate D.
Demorest, GA
The republicans are hold outs of the confederate ideology, and have no business now, or in the future deciding public policy.
Let us move on and not make an issue of this. Do we not have more important things to worry about?
He should apologize on the floor of the house and resign.
Most definitely!
Mississippi
As inexcusable, disgraceful and disrespectful as Joe Wilson was last night, I cannot honestly say that I am surprised. After 8 years of G.W. Bush and Dick Cheney this is exactly what I have come to expect from a republican.
Representative Wilson's behavior was uncivil, disrespectful and unexcusable. It is the perfect–and unfortunate–example of what is wrong with our politics: our political representatives chanel the worst–rather than best–of our character. He does not deserve to be re-elected.
joe wilson, r-sc, should be disciplined to full extent of House rules including expulsion.
since when is it against the law for someone to state their beliefs which you yourself said was true. I am not a Replubican but if some one punished me because I stated the truth I would become one
Yes he should. Kid in elementary school know better then to yell out slander like that. Isn't it sad that a member of the GRAND old party has been reduced to acting more immature then a 6 or 7 year old?
And further more could you imagine the uproar if a member of the Democratic party had yelled that during a speech by President Bush.
What would that do? Obviously he felt the scrutiny immediately, hence the immediate apology. Shouting out in the middle of a speech just made him look bad. That's punishment enough.
Joe Wilson, should be punished! His comment to the President was wrong and disrespectful. However, now is not the time to focus on Joe Wilson he will be defeated in 2010. Now is the time for the President's agenda to be tested and put into action. Forget about Joe
James Bryant
Montgomery Alabama
We have all had an oop's moment, a did I say that out loud moment!
Yes, we should all respect the President, yadda yadda yadda, but he and his cohorts are bringing the US to her knees. We are fighting for our country while we still have a country. It is time to IMPEACH Obama!
Representative Wilson is answerable to his constituents. Not the rest of us. Ellensburg Washington
i am a register republican Mr Joe Wilson you are fire
The "You Lie" scandal will propell Rep. Wilson as a presidentual candidate in 2012. He appears to be the frontrunner now.
I think he should be punished. He needs to show self control. The comment was very unprofessional, rude, and not to mention disrespectful. I am from the South. I must say, I am SO embarrassed that he couldn't show more tact. I would be outraged if I lived in South Carolina and this is who was representing me!
This is absurd....Yes, he should be punished. What kind of example is Rep. Joe setting for our future elected officials. That was a blatant disrespect to our President and to our nation. Not cool at all....
Yes and no. Yes, because his lack of posture on his reply towards the President in the middle of his address to Congress must be made an example of. No, because if any action were to be sent towards Rep. Wilson, the GOP will immediately antagonize the Obama administration for trying to silence voices of opposition, in their point of view, and further make him into a political martyr.
The congressman should be censored.
Definitely he should be punished for such a remark that puts the US to shame when others around the world view how our legislative branch treats the president of the USA.
Yes – this was our President addressing Congress and our nation, not kindergarten class. Grow up Joe Wilson!
hey jack love ya. i think he should step dowm!
No, he is just following the Republican party line of spreading lies and untruths whenever this bunch of losers need a boost. Wilson, like most of the Republican leaders, have no shame in spreading lies against our president. There is no civility left in the desperate conservative extremists that run the current Republican party.
Yes he should be. No matter how much you dislike the policy of a President of USA, it is a low class comment to say anything personal. He should be punished appropriately.
McLean VA
I believe he is already being punished as I understand his Democratic opponent in the 2010 election has already received $100,000 in donations to his campaign. This affirms my belief that most voters pay attention.
Yes. Not doing so would mean his actions are accepted and condoned by the members. Again. It is about their character. It's time to show some.
This guy has to go. I have never seen such before in my life. If this is allowed, where will it end. We look to those elected officials to set the standard for leadership and appropriate behavior at the highest levels. His behavior was back alley in every respect, that's where he should be relegated to.
Yes, he should face punishment.
Cayce, SC
I'm hoping his constituents punish him – I heard that his opponent received over $100,000 in donations just since last night...
That ought to keep his mouth shut but even in his statements to CNN today – he didn't seem too apologetic – so it rings hollow to me even if the President accepted it – and by the way, Rick Sanchez just disproved his claim...
So again, let's wait for his next election and see where that goes – hopefully he will get a time out.
Congress literally has written rules about this kind of thing. He can be stripped of his ability to speak for a certain amount of time. Though nothing exists specifically addressing what happens when a President speaks, certainly something of the sort can be done here as an example. This kind of behavior just isn't done towards the President. I hope they do punish Wilson for it. If for no other reason, than to show that it is unacceptable to others. If they do nothing, we know they don't care.
Yes, he should be cast out of office just as he would cast out a child of an illegal immigrant from the ER.
Becky
Tennessee
He should be censored and his fellow Republicans should lead the charge!! Those that are inclined to do so should also contribute to his opponents campaign in South Carolina. That's the best punishment!
He should be expelled for such actions. I thought these people were supposed to be civil, guess Rush really does pull their strings.
What he did was wrong and unacceptable, but you should not be punished for telling the truth
Indeed, when people start loosing respect for the Institution; it is a slippery slope...maybe this will be enough to server as a wakeup call for elected officials and their responsibilities!
it wasnt that long ago that republicans called for speaker pelosi to resign for saying at a news conference that the cia lied to congress. where are those republicans now? should they not call for wilson to resign?
I think he should be punished by not being reelected during the next election cycle. It is down right wrong to disrespect our President the way that he did last night. He ought to be ashamed of himself for the comment that he made.
Canton, GA
Yes he should. We have the right to expect and demand our elected officials behave like adults not kindergarten children in a schoolyard
He should be censured but only with a completely full house and made to stand in their midst on the floor while he is officially censured by the entire House of Representatives.
In other words a public shaming.
Won't happen since republicans have no shame, but it is what should happen.
Rep Wilson should be removed from the rolls of the house and returned to SC to be replaced!!
I was very proud of him and went to his website and contributed $20!
No, he shouldnt be punished, why reward his inappropriate behavior with more attention. His childish act does not deserve a response, the best thing to do would be for all of us to continue on living. It's really not a big deal, shake your head like VP Biden did and keep it moving.
No, Joe Wilson should not be punished, unless the many Democrats who said terrible things about George Bush are also punished. Mr. Wilson apologized to President Obama, unlike the Democrats who called George Bush a liar (and worse). Were Democrats respectful during speeches to their joint body by President Bush? did they ever boo him? I don't recall you asking this type of question when it was Democrats who were disrespecting the office of the President when a republican was the occupant. All of sudden, we are told how terrible the tone is. the only difference now is that a lliberal Democrat, who the media is cheerleading for, is the one facing the same rhetoric that Democrats have dished out for years.
Absolutely not. Wilson was rude but he was correct. There is nothing in H.R. 3200 requiring healthcare participants to prove they are eligible. It was in there but the Democrats removed it. Therefore by leaving that requirement out illegals can get healthcare insurance.
Good for WILSON. This is a demacracy, no?
No Jack, Rep. Wilson should not be punished for his outburst. He has already made himself, his party, and the people who voted for him look foolish enough, he will think twice next time if he ever wants to be elected again. Albuquerque, NM
Punishment is not enough. He needs to resign immediately, especially if the Repuglicants are hoping to hold onto that seat. This man is impolite, unAmerican, unpatriotic, a blemish on our national pride and needs to vamoose ASAP.
The voters of South Carolina should consider voting for a ham sandwich before they pull the lever for this clown.
South Carolina's Jim Wilson was wrong for that comment "you lie"! That should not go unpunished!
Yes, he should be punished, but the punishment should be left to the good people of South Carolina and administered during the next election cycle.
Punished for freedom of speech? I guess we better send a few mililion in bailouts to expand our prisons, because there will be a lot of us in jail for that violation.
He should be censured by Congress.
Absolutely. He should be censored by the House for conduct ill-becoming a member. Then it is up to his constituents to take his punishment to the next step.
Steve
Oakland CA
Wilson should not have to face any formal punishment because just the fact that he is in the Republican Party (the party which has Palin, Ann Coulter etc.) – that's enough of a punishment and embarrassment for him!
Without question he should, that was the highest form of disrespect irregardless or whether or not you agree or disagree with the President.
Should Congressman Wilson be reprimanded or censored because of his infantile behavior last night? Absolutely! The censoring of Congressmen in like the late Adam Clayton Powell is now the stuff of legends. While Wilson is entitled to his freedom of speech, the President's address to Congress last night was "official business". It simply was not the time or the place for such immature, irresponsible behavior.
jACK today you have 3 great questions, It goes to show> it is getting ugly out there.Every month I fine more things to worry about. Our politicians have NO SHAME (money) is the only thing they understand. GOD BLESS AMERICA
I believe in the right to free speech, but I also believe those who chose to speak so freely and disrespectfully should bear the consequences of that. I do believe he should be held accountable for his actions.
Jack, the world watched this event and it wasn't pretty, he should be censored, tossed out or suspended. I mean if America's representatives don't show respect for the office of the Presidency, how can the USA expect anyone else to.
I believe the gentleman is receiving his punishment now. And, it will almost be never ending....
I think it was a ridiculous display, and he should be cited for it. Perhaps he could write "I will not shout at the President" 100 times...
Come on. Yeah, he should be punished as if we are like Iran. Maybe we could send him to the prisons where they pull out toenails.
I think the American People are an 'intelligent people." I think he got the message clearly with Obama's eyes, and Nancy Pelosi's wrinkled lips. He apologized. What more does anyone want? He clearly knew he was wrong and he clearly apologized right away.
Give it a break CNN! Whew.. you guys are too much.
Yes, I think that Rep Wilson should be punished for his outburst, because no other president have ever had this treatment in congress. It was disrespectful and should not be tolerated! He is a member of congress and should know better.
I was surprised and angry at Congressman Wilson when he yelled at the President in the middle of his speech. He has the right to express how he feels, but there have to be some limits. But, nevertheless, he should not be punished... Punishing him will only stoke the fire.
Truth be told, all of these outrageous comments are showing to the world that what is happening in the US is a slow decline. As a world power, the utter disrespect of the system is what will ruin us. The conservatives need to understand they have been outvoted – not close, but defeated soundly. No propaganda, outburst or lies will be able to erase that.
I don't think Punishment is necessary Jack. I understand his opponent in the next election has had a considerable increase in contributions. Let the people do the punishing. Can't wait to see the ads!
Wilson, behaved like a child and should be grounded!
No he shouldn't be punished. I'm a stronger Barrack Obama supporter and a democrat. But, we in the United States have the right of free speech. England has debate and dissent in their chambers even when the Prime Minister is there. Yes, there should be respect for the president, but let's not go over board. It doesn't seem as if the Republicans are really defending his actions, and that alone should be enought punishment. Let's not get crazy and always be careful for what you wish for.
No Jack. While I don't agree with his outburst, I do agree that we have freedom of speech. Congressman Wilson needs to understand that he doesn't have to agree with the President, but he should respect the office of the Presidency. There is a time and a place for everything.
President Obama should decide if Joe Wilson should be censured.
The tone was beyond irresponsible but he has a point.
AP FACT CHECK CALLS OUT OBAMA on 7 Issues from the Speech last night.
The President may need to call out himself as well.
Yes he should have some kind of punishment. Any grade school student would be punished for that kind of outburst at an assembly. We have to put a stop to this horrible, unrespectable behavior by adults. We can disagree without being disageeable.
There is no need to punish this fool. It will not change how he really feels. I am sorry for what he did. His behavior is certainly no way to teach our children how to behave. There is not respect for anything or anyone anymore. We really are becoming a third world nation. Sad!!
Most definitely–what have we come to with so little respect for the office of President? This is outrageous. I don't care if you disagree with the President–he still should be respected. After all, he is the leader of our land!!!!!
No. The humiliation is punishment enough. That and the fact that it's driven huge support to Rob Miller's campaign, and Wilson will lose his seat next year. He said he was sorry, and I believe he probably is. It's cost him his reputation – and the people who think he's a hero? Water seeks its own level. There's not much we can do about that, any more than we can mandate civility. What a pity.
Yes, what he did was uncouth. He apologized and I believe that it was a spontaneous remark. I don't think he should resign, I feel that his apology was heartfelt. Let's move on.
However, the greatest thing to come out of this healthcare debate is that it has woke the nation up. We are far too complacent as citizens. We should ask ourselves, "Why is everyone yelling?" This is a big deal America, let's wake up and deal with this like adults.
No public option, no second term.
No. I think the political embarrassment he is experiencing now is punishment enough. The mere fact that you asked this question indicates that his reputation has been hurt.
I believe there does need to be a penalty for his outburst. For every action the is a consequence we must face. But at the same time, i believe that he was justified in his statement. Everyone knows that Obama has been lying to our faces but i guess it just takes someone higher up to get the point across huh? May God save our country.
Without a doubt, Congressman Wilson from S.C. should be reprimanded by the House for his disrespectful behavior towards the President. Even if you do not respect the person who is President, at least respect must be shown to the Office of the Presidency.
William Coleman
Greensboro, NC
Yeah! Absolutely.
When Harry Reid apologies for calling President Bush a liar!
Hypocrites ...
What happens when we find out after the fact the Democrates are working to 1) enable panels to decide what heathcare is provided 2) illegals do get healthcare??
Rep. Wilson will be seen as a prophet ...
I would love to see it, but what good does it do. everyone talks about freedom of speech, but no one ever wants to talk about 'being nice about it'. we have become a country of bullies, we tell the rest of the world who we are and you better listen, well, guess what, the world isn't caring about us anymore. they have moved on. Like Rick said the hour before, in the British House of Commons on sunday, they can yell, scream, call the PM anything..BUT A LIAR!!! THEY WILL KICK YOU OUT FOR THAT!!
Jack – Appreciate your efforts. As to Rep. Wilson I'm thinking to start he mouth should be washed out with soap, he should be sent to his room without supper, and his TV priviledges taken away for a week. Seriously our country keeps lowering the standards everywhere we look, there was a time when doors were opened or held, a piece of trash was picked up without hesitation and people whispered in respectful environments, now we can't even say 2 out of 3 anymore. Where will we be in 5 years or 10. I'm just glad i'm no longer 20 or 10 or newly born.
YES! No question...where has the RESPECT for each and everyone of us GONE??!??
Be punished? For what? As innappropriate as it was... Don't we still have a First Ammendment right to free speech in this country? Every person, even Congressmen, have the right to voice their opinions. Even when we may not agree with them.
When Harry Reid gets punished for calling President Bush a liar then Joe Wilson should be punished.
I do not believe congressman Wilson should be punished for yelling at Obama. He responded instinctively, just as if you get punched you would defend yourself, he defended himself. He protested obnoxiously about what he thought was the truth without thought as to what he was doing. He is human and made a bad mistake, which I do not think he should be punished for.
Once again the Republicans show what they are really made of. All that righteous indignation about the health care speech. How touching. That Wilson guy only reiterated the hypocrisy in South Carolina. Believe me the more they talk about how honest they are the more crooked they are. Wilson should be recalled right away. He obviously doesn't know how to play the game. Such disrespect for the president is not called for. The republicans are just sore because they are about to lose their extra meal ticket from the health care lobbies if things start running the way they are supposed to. Competition is the American way.
Yes he should be punished and punished severely.
Unfortunately the only reason I feel the President is being totally disrespected is because he is an African-American. No matter how much Republicans disliked Bill Clinton they never went so far as to disrespect him in that manner during a National Address.
Yes, Congressman Wilson should be punished for his actions. Can we walk into work and tell our boss that he is lying? I think that we would be fired! This is just appauling and I have never seen any President done this way in my lifetime. It was truely a disgrace. Apoligize, I don't think so because my mom always told me that what comes out your mouth you meant to say, you probably are apoligize because you were not thinking anyone was going to hear you. Well I think he knew that he was going to say this and was waiting on the opportunity to say it.
Only if you want our Constitutional right to free speech taken away from everyone including journalists. Bad manners are not against the law.
Dave
California
Rep. Wilson's biggest mistake was apologizing for his remarks and other Republicans should of followed his lead!
He deserves to be removed from office and forgotten about. Obviously he doesn't have the qualifications to be a member of our distinguished government.
Of course not, everyone forgets all the name calling from the left for the last 8 years. Obama doesn't want to believe the majority of people don't want this healthcare the way it's proposed. You even said Wilson had a point but then called him names. Get over it, we the people are standing up and the democrats just don't know what to do about it.
Absolutely Jack. If I yelled at my boss (I've had the urge) I would have been canned. But the setting where this congressman chose to disrupt, joint session of Congress and national TV, was way out of bounds. I hope his opponet has collected up to $! million since last night!
I think the end of his political career is punishment enough.
For all of those who wave signs of Obama with a hitler mustache, maybe they will realize that this is still a country of freedom, I don't think Hitler would have put up with that outburst.
Jack, I don't know if Congressman Wilson should be 'punished'. I don't think he should have to resign or be forced out for such a thing. The man apologized. While I, like many (including President Obama), understand his frustration, it truly was not the venue for such an outburst. He should have just waited until after the President's speech was over and talked to the press, or had his own small conference about the issue. Any of them, at any time, usually come forward to talk when something is burning on their mind about some issue.
Concerning whether Wilson was right in *what* he said, it doesn't help matters that there have been several versions of the health care bill. A House bill, a Senate bill, a bill that was being reworked, and now allegedly the President's bill. Some things are in one that might not be in another. If we learn anything from this outburst, I think it should be that we get to ONE bill and everybody see it. (and, hopefully, it not be 1,000 pages or more).
–Stephen Fox
Panama City, Florida
NO! Absolutely not. The house floor is still in America! Free speech, even if it was a rude and in bad taste.
It was very disrespectful and he should be told so in public before the house
Yes he should be punished Jack. How about taking away his Congressional medical coverage?
Are the networks that refusedto air anything negative about healthcare reform being punished? No, then neither should Joe Wilson be punished in any way for speaking his mind. I just wish he hadn't apologized.
Yes, he should be punished for disrespecting the highest office in the land. There is no excuse for his action. President Obama handled the situation wisely by continuing with his speech. Nonverbal communications was enough for him to get the message!
Karen Gibson Euless, TX
The Republicans appear that they do not want to be bypartisan and the outburst just confirms it. He only apologized because the "party" told him to. He did say that. By that statement, he seems to feel that he said nothing wrong. The signs, waving of the bill, and of course that awful statement prove the obvious. He definitely should be censured and the whole party should be ashamed.
The best punishment for Rep. Wilson will be his defeat in the next election. I don't think we should give him any more attention – he doesn't deserve it. If he is TRULY sorry for his outburst, he should go knock on the President's 'open door' and work with him to pass this legislation.
No, he should not be punished for his comment. Last I checked, we still live in America. If a congressman (who represents the people of his district) cannot practice freedom of speech, then Lord help us all!
Punishment via beer summit?
cmon jack
to become a politician being a compulsive liar is part of your resume.
everyone knows that
american politics is a joke ,ha! ha!
He absolutely should be punished for his obvious lack of control. Did he think he was at a sporting event? Did Democrats yell "You lie!" to our former president? That would have been true, but no one stooped that low.
Yes, Congressman Wilson should be punished for his outburst. But knowing the Democrats they will not do anything. If this a Democrats doing this to a Republican you can bet the whole Republican machine and the PRESS would have been all over him. But this President is a black man and in this country the media and the hypocrites will allow this kind of action.
Gus
Morrow, GA
Yes!!!!! This is outright wrong and unacceptable. To allow him to continue without a fine or punishment will make it somewhat okay to disrespect the President.
I was outraged that Rep. Wilson had this outburst. I truy believe he will be punished by the people. This was total disrespect for the President of the United States. What are we teaching our children with this type of action? The entire Republican party showed a lack of decorum with Cantor tweeting, signs and papers being waved. What a lack of disrespect. Hopefully the entire Republican party will be punished by health reform being passed with a great public option having none of them helping on this most important reform. We need it! Unbelievable!!
No Jack, Rep. Wilson should not be punished for his outburst. He has already made himself, his party, and the people who voted for him look foolish enough, he will think twice next time if he ever wants to be elected again
Hopefully the voters will take care of him and punish his behavior come election time. We can not allow tea baggers and others to interrupt and be rude in meetings and when the president speaks. Next time someone is so rude they should be removed by force from the room just like they did to the war protesters at Bush events.
You know Jack not ONE republican rebuked the behavior of the screamers, gun toters etc during the summer. It was all boorish and at times, a little scary (finger biters). Mr. Wilson may be sorry he yelled and called the President a liar but l doubt he really is. He's probably sorry he got caught, on TV no less. I do remember Bush's "free speech zones".
He most certainly should be punished. It is evident that he has no respect for our President, or the office that the President holds. He should be held accountable for his actions. He is so all of what America is not!. If his peers do not hold him accountable, then the voters of SC hold him accountable and vote him out of office! A sad day in America when we do not honor or respect the president.
I couldn't believe he called the President a liar.....How disrespectful can you get?...and nothing will be done to this moron either....because nobody really cares anymore about being respectful...as a teacher I've seen the morals and values in our young adults fade away....its not allowed to be taught in school any more and parents sure don't teach it at home....and its a crying shame that the President of the United States has to deal with this kind of behavior.....
Yes he should be punished if that was a normal citizen they would have been removed
Of course he Congressman Wilson should be punished for yelling "You lie" at President Obama during last night's address to Congress. My husband and I are US citizens who have lived in Canada since 1971 (not because of Viet Nam), and we were taught to respect the office of President. Congressman Wilson should be ashamed of himself.
Representative Wilson should be thrown out of Congress. He is within his First Amendment right to protest and speak up but so is Congress within its right to dismiss him from their ranks. He should not be rewarded with a continued seat on Congress when he is obviously not in a proper mental state. Outbursts like that are not fitting of a member of Congress
I don't think it is necessary to punish him, the American people will punish the entire Republican party in the upcoming elections. They will be punished not only for Rep. Wilson's stupid comment but also because of the new low debate in this country has reached. I've serverd in the military and had some superiors I couldn't stand but I would never disrespect them like that. You respect the office even if you do not respect the man.
I really think something should be done about Wilson's actions. As adults we are really showing children how to act and react in situations that cause for debate. He needs to be an example that this type of conduct will not be tolerated.
Wilson should at least be sensured for his outburst. While the Democrats didn't like George W Bush all that much they at least gave him the respect his office is entitled to. Wilson's behavior and for that matter the entire Republican party is a disgrace to this country. I can see another 2010 Republican whoopin at the November poles coming!
I loved it and I want to know where to send money for his future in congress.
Official punishment to enforce politically correct speech is way too repressive for most Americans. We've had enough pc enforcement in the media and in social interactions. At least Wilson spoke his honest feelings and brought to light (albeit rudely) the fact that Obamacare does NOT specifically exclude illegals. In fact a GOP move to exclude illegals from healthcare was voted down, along party lines. Obamacare is highly partisan – just telling the public that it is bipartisan doesn't make it so.
According to decorum rules, it is against the rules of the house and should be taken down. Regardless, he said it; the Republicans were disrespectful, and their followers cheer him on-like Karl Rove , who laughed about it on FoxNews. Par for the course–Wilson should be censured for the rest of his term.
Yes! Congressman Wilson should face punishment. The Sgt at Arms should have escourted Wilson out of the Chamber. There are rules of decorum in the Chamber and Wilson was in violation.
It is not a matter of agreeing or disagreeing with the speech. It is a matter of decorum, debate, and rules of the Chamber. Not to mention it was tastless and appropriate.
If this Wilson cannot control his emotions during a speech I would question his emotional status period.
Punished? For what? for saying the truth.
No. He has made a fool of himself, and will probably lose his seat in the next election. Sen. JOHN MCCAIN is among the heroes of this ugly episode. He immediately called on Joe Wilson to apologize. I APPLAUD HIM FOR condemning Wilson's insult to the President in the Chamber of Congress. This is the John McCain I have known and admired. In our midsummer madness, so many became so emboldened to take on the President to the point of almost endangering the institution of Presidency itself, some even carrying guns to a Presidential event. With all the nasty and cruel things being said against the President these days, how would our kids respect the holder of the office now and in the future? McCain's intervention is timely and patriotic.
Rep. Wilson is a former member of the military and knows better than to be so disrespectful to President Obama. Were he on active duty, his actions would be punishable as a courts martial may direct. UCMJ Art. 88. The GOP and all the supporters of their ideologies, have clearly shown the American people that they are either not patriotic or that they are ...racist. What else would cause a person(s) who claim to be American to be so disresepectful to the president at every available opportunity? No, having a black man as the "head' of the RNC does not establish inclusiveness. Slaves worked in the slavemaster's house yet, they were still slaves. I continue to listen to the GOP side and I hear a ton of inductive reasoning that also is the genesis of racism in this country. GOP, you need to pick which road you are going to take, so far you are only choosing between the low one or the lower one. He should be censured, at the very least
Yes! Absolutely! Of Course! Like Yesterday! Hard and Stiff! That type of behavior and disrespect for the office of the President should not go unchecked. He needs to resign if he has no respect for the President of the United States. His lame excuse for why he did it shouldn't be tolerated either. People have relapsed in emotions and commit murder but at the end of the day they have to pay for their lapse and in this case should be no different.
I am truly angry about what he did! He is no better than the guy that through shoes at Bush in Iraq.
If Rep. Wilson were a soldier and shouted "You lie" to his superior officer, what do you think would happen? Wilson should resign and crawl under a rock with all the other slugs like him. President Obama is our country's leader. It doesn't matter whether Wilson likes him or not. The voters spoke loudly on Election Day and he is our president. He deserves respect, if not personally at least for his office.
While I believe the media and political backlash we've seen against Rep. Wilson is sufficient to discourage future outbursts, that decision should be ultimately left up to the voters of South Carolina come reelection.
Vincent Yau
Knoxville, Tennessee
You asked when did this take place that some feel the right to disrespect the highest office in this land, it was when a man of Color was put in the seat. Some sit feel even if they do not know it themselves that they feel like this man of Color does not comand the respect that a man of non color should.
Which being a woman of color and a mixed woman of color I see this place as the color on my face.
That is why it was easy for the man to call Mr.Obama a lie.
And that is sad.
YES! Mr. Wilson is one of our "leaders" and should show respect to our President. Reprimand, fine and public apology. That's MY president he's talking to!!!
I was thoroughly disgusted by the Senator's outburst and lack of decorum. I DO believe, most strongly, that he should be punished for his lack of respect and poor judgement.
He made the United States government look like the government bodies that we laugh at on YouTube.
I'm embarrassed
this goes to show us how rude these so call intelligent people are
Of course Joe WIlson should be punished. There is a time and a place to voice your opinion, but i would hope a man in his standing would have ben able to hold in his composure during the address to the nation. He made a perfect "republican" out of himself. He makes me proud to be a Democrat. I LOVE my President!
Yes, they should have him step down from office. People like him is the reason why we can't have a conversation about anything that matters. I bet insurance companies must be paying him big bucks for that scence that's also taking place in townhalls.
Yes! During the debates of the War which were very heated I never heard a Democrat yell anything out while Bush was speaking. What a baby! The GOP sees the Democrats doing what they should have been doing while they were in power, and they are jealous that this administation is getting things done. They are falling a part as a party and last night was an example of that. Goodbye GOP, and good riddins, you have messed up this country long enough!
While I do not agree with what Congressman Wilson said I believe he has a right to say it. A three term member of the House should know when and where something like that should be said. One would think that he would be grown up enough to know that.
Absolutely there should be consequences! There is no excuse for this type of behavior in that particular setting. As far as I'm concerned he can leave along with Sanford (and DeMint and Graham).
No, not now. He'll be punished come re-election time. Free speech has consequences too, and I'm sure Congressman Wilson will realize that some time down the road.
Absolutely with out a doubt yes, Wilson should be ashamed of himself. No matter what the topic at hand, we owe our president the common decency to give a speech and not be rudely interrupted with such an accusatory statement by Rep. Joe Wilson.
He will. Come election time his opponent will paint him like the teenager he is. His constituents should be calling him to tell him he doesn't have their vote. There are better ways to voice your dissent. When you yell "You Lie" to the President you really paint a bad portrait of your party and the people you represent.
It was inappropriate because of the way our system is set up, (we're not Great Britian) however I like the open debate system of UK. So, NO, he shouldn't be punished, everyone in our country is to darn sensitive over everything little thing and it gets old! I'm 31 and and think people should just chill out...
Yes wilson should be punished. It has been disgraceful how the
republicans are treating the president. At least he is trying hard in
a very difficult situation due to president's failure in everything he
set his hand to. Why dont they get off president's back.
Yes, Representative Joe Wilson should be punished for such crude
behavior. If he is not, other representatives will feel free to shout out
during speeches. I say take away his committee assignments, and
make him apologize on the floor to everyone, as well as the American
people. He is an embarassment, and if he can't control himself, he
should not be allowed at joint sessions of congress.
While his behavior was reprehensible and beneath the dignity of his office, it is not the President's nor Congress' responsibility to punish Rep. Wilson. It is the responsibility of the voters of South Carolina to recognize that boorishness and childish outbursts will never lead to progress and remove him from his office during the next election cycle. It has been well documented that the amendments to which he refers as being defeated do NOT mean that illegals would receive free care under this plan–the bill itself specifically spells it out. Rep. Wilson's inability to read the bill (apparently, he only reads the proposed Republican amendments) should in and of itself prove his unworthiness of the job.
If Mr Van Jones resigned for his comments about Republicans then Rep. Wilson should be impeached for disrespecting the "Office" of the President of the United States. If the World is seeing that you do not respect the President why should they respect the office? I think these politicians need to reform their minds.
The President as well as those individuals in Congress and in the Senate are our representatives. They are servants of the people. They are not celebrities to be worshiped. If one of our representatives believes that the executive branch is not being honest then kudos to him for having the courage to question the President's words.
Joe Wilson is a disgrace and should be disciplined by the House immediately. A clear message needs to be sent.
What type of "punishment" would be both appropriate and have teeth? The media attention brought to this moment and the apology from the Congressman seem like the end of the road on this issue. There has been a constant erosion of the respect Americans have historically shown for the President of the United States, during this first year of Pres. Obama's term. This incident is just a glaring glimpse of the obvious. This level of disrespect IS unprecedented. But unbiased media attention to the issue seems like the most reasonable and effective "punishment."
Yes, Wilson should be forced to resign over making such a disrespectful comment to the President of the United States during a joint session of Congress. It was totally unacceptable.
Yep! South Carolinian politicians need health insurance for certain! Seems like from the Gov to the Congressman, et al, have foot in mouth disease! Sad commentary when our elected professionals can't control their actions...and then try to blame it on someone else! Good grief!
Just the other day while watching Indian parlimentarians make fools of themselves on camera, the wife commented how lucky we were to live here in America. Then we had to go and witness Joe Wilson's outburst at our President. How do such chumps get to enter Congress? What does it say about the people who vote for a Joe Wilson? He needs to be censured. I have already written to my Congressman demanding that he move a motion to censure.
Yes, he should be punished. After all the hoopla about President Obama talking to school children, this is what the Republicans have to teach or children. The message is , "If you can't have your way, Yell and Scream", how mature.
Jack, I can't believe I just heard you question how people don't have any respect for the highest office in the land. I clearly remember how you showed very little respect for Bush and the presidency, when he was in office. Short term memory you have there.
Any way, I agree the comment by the governor was uncalled for and he should be reprimanded. By the way, he did apologize publicly ..didn't he?
I believe in freedom of speech and if the senator could not hold himself back any longer and felt like sharing his feeling i believe he should. Just because someone is called president doesnt mean he cannot be held accountable for what he says, also he is as equal as you and me there should not be a special totem for the president to be on he stands as an equal to me. To the point no he shouldnt be punished for speaking out that makes no sence if we didnt speak out against the king of england where would we be?
Congressman Wilson embarrassed our entire country due to his irresponsible behavior. He owes President Obama an apology along with the citizens of this country. That scene will be played around the world, thanks to modern technology and programs like "Youtube"
He definitely should be punished.
Jack,
No, he should not be punished. Looking like the idiot he is is punishment enough. I understand your concern about illegal aliens walking into emergency rooms and getting treatment. However, I don't believe hospitals should be turned into immigration check points. I've known americans who needed emergency medical treatment overseas and they received it. I wish everyone would calm down.
Michele,
Millbrae, CA
Yes he should or we will have congress start to resemble the crazy town hall meetings we have seen recently. Jack as people in the media go you are a pretty honest guy so let's be honest here. We all know why this happened, why people question the President's citizenship and why people refused to let their children hear the President speak earlier this week. It is called racism so let's call it what it is. He is hated by people who feel threatened by him and Joe Wilson is not different.
Yes he should be censored. He not only insulted the way of life in America"s highest office. It will be precieved his actions is also racist. Congress has a duty to punish this guy. If not the actions will get worse. This is not the America I know. Why not just segerate the country. And let those who want to live in peace live together. But things must be equal.
Yes, he should be punished, by all means possible. A clear disrespect for authority it not something we need to be teaching our kids. Hopefully his constituants will punish him by not re-electing him. Then all he will have left is a talk show on fox, like all the other 'fallen' politicians.
This congress man does not deserve to serve south Carolina another single day. He is a disgrace not only to his own sate but also to this great nation. Did he learn anything from his own parents to respect others in his life. He should resign and go home.
Hayward, Calif.
Wilson has punished himself enough by tarnishing his reputation with such an immature and inappropiate outburst. Hopefully he'll be punished by his own constituents at the polls.
Look at this way, if a student shouted out something while the principal or the dean was speaking, there would be consequences. Should it be so when a congressman or congresswoman did the same to the president of these United States? Yes, Rep Wilson shoud face some sort of punishment or reprimand.
I think that all the attention that Wilson is getting is either punishment enough or will be by the time he finaly finishes apologizing.
No – he is a moron – forget about him. I find it odd that he would shout "You lie" at Obama when all of congress sat silent while Bush and Cheney repeatedly told the "Weapons of Mass destruction" lies for years.
Maybe we should be more like other countries – When the politicians lie – scream it out. Maybe not – there would be so much screaming – no one would hear anything.
As soon as Rep. Joe Wilson did the unthinkable to a sitting President, you could just hear the collective gasp heard round the world. While I am a firm believer in Freedom of Speech, what Rep. Wilson did was nothing short of yet another embarrassment for the Republic party. I don't think he should resign, but some sort of punishment by Pelosi is due.
yes...that's not even a question to ask...but i think that voter will take care of this situation.
I believe Rep. Wilson should have to apologize on the floor of the House. His disrespected more than Obama with his outburst. Letting this pass with no consequence, will only lead to more of the same. Things have already gone to far at the townhalls. Civility needs to return to our political debates. This is one of those teachable moments. I hope Speaker Pelosi does not let it pass.
Jack, This guy should be sent back to the sand dunes from which he came. If the House does not punish him, what does it say to our children about respect for the highest office in this country.
Representative Wilson is also a retired Army Colonel with the S.C. National Guard. If his behavior wasn’t a big enough disgrace to the GOP, his disrespect of the President, as a retired officer, was an even bigger disgrace to the Army. Major General Paul Eaton wrote this today on the Huffington Post:
“Retired Colonel (Representative) Joe Wilson's conduct last night is a breach of military protocol and represents a further departure from the historic good order and discipline I expected, in the past, to see from the GOP… I would never expect to hear anything but the greatest respect for the elected President of the United States from these men and women, regardless of their political persuasion.”
Rep. Wilson should be removed from Congress, eliminating that pension, and he should lose his Army pension, too. Can retirees be court-martialed?
Jack, Absolutely – he should face punishment, perhaps even censure for his outburst. We know he's 'outspoken' and 'confrontational', but we must all, regardless of affiliation, respect the office of the President. If our elected officials are setting an example for us laymen, what does this behavior signal?
You asked "How did we get here...?", but a more helpful question is: "How can we learn and grow from the degrading communication amongst our politicians, and move in a different direction?"
We should, but we won't - which will set a bad precedent. However, even though I believe it's necessary, our congressional leaders need to keep their focus on fixing health care and the economy. Focusing on the shameful Mr. Wilson will only take time and energy away from that.
Molly
Los Angeles
Mr. Wilson showed no class nor restraint and is not worthy of such a pressure filled Public Trust Position. Come on South Carolina, you can do better than Mr. Wilson. Hopefully, he does not reflect the typical judgement of the average SC resident.
The congress should indeed penalize him in some substantive way that he can really feel and that would serve as a clear deterant to any future disrespect of the President of the United States of America.
Congress step up and do something to Mr. Wilson...I don't think he is worthy of being called a 'Representative'..but more so representing HIMSELF...
DeLeon
Chicago, IL
Jack,
Absolutely. And while they are at it, Rep. Cantor as well. The CNN cameras showed Rep. Cantor on numerous occasions texting on his Blackberry during the speach. It's amazing that after putting up with 8 years of lies from the Bush admisistration these republicans have the audacity to call this President a liar. Hopefully the people will see through these tactics.
Well, I believe he should be punished, but legally he can't be. He's protected under the 1st amendment to his freedom of speech. So no matter how much we like it or not, there is nothing that can be done.
Rep Wilson definitely deserves to be punished. He should be removed from office. I have never witnessed such disrespect and outright ignorance in my life. There should be zero tolerance for this kind of behavior.
Absolutely! In the USA we respect the "office of the Presidency" weather or not you like the person holding the office. I opposed President's Bush Iraq war. 4000 service men gave their life even though there were no Weapons of Mass Destruction. Despite this I would have been horrified if any Democratic Congressmen acted in this matter and would have called for their censure.
Yes, he should be punished. I would suggest having him work at one of the many Hispanic run free clinics through out the nation for a minimum of 6 months. Only then will he come to understand the healthcare challenges facing those that choose to make this country their home whether legally or illigally.
No, wouldn't that be a violation of his constitutional rights? What's wrong with voicing on how you feel to the president? Is the President above that?
Yes, he should be, at the least, censured, if not expelled, and very publicly This should show the American public that this sort of behavior should not be tolerated.
I find his actions a sad commentary on our culture; a culture fed by our need for constant stimulation. Many find this in political conflict. Sure, it may be fun, but it is destructive to our country and sends a terrible message to our children. I think the most appropriate response is to ignore Rep. Wilson.
Yes he should be punished. Representative Wilson should be made to go to the blackboard and write "I lied!" 200 times!
Absolutely, he should be reprimanded. Regardless of whether you agree with the president, he deserves our respect. President Obama is taking on an unpopular challenge, but at least he's trying to do something. You sure can't say the same for blowhards like Wilson. Geez, and to think that I thought my state's politicians were loudmouths. Poor South Carolina. I never thought I'd see the day when I'd be proud to be from Utah.
Cathy
Salt Lake City, Utah
John Wilson conducted himself like a undisciplined 1st grader. He should be put in detention and banned from the hall for a while. Maybe then he'll grow up.
Jack I think the shame will eat at Rep. Wilson's political career. But I will say to all the people saying it's ok bc Europe does it to their Prime Minister.... My question to them is, since it's ok to heckel the President. Is it ok we have Universal Health Care like Europe now too? Since one is ok there and we can use it here. Let's go all out and use their Universal Health Care system here....
FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
Don't use one example to prove your point in one case and not allow other's to use the same excuse. "Europe Does It"
Atlanta, Georgia
Yes, he should be reprimanded in order to prohibit this behavior in the future. Bush/Cheney lied about the war, yet anyone who disagreed with them were called unpatriotic and accused of treason. The republicans have proven to be very sore losers and completely unprofessional. I'm an independent, but I cannot associate myself with the actions the republicans have taken lately, or their followers at the town hall meetings who act like lunatics. We need some voice of reason, from both sides.
Rep Wilsoni should be punished. There is something wrong in SC taht the representative and governor seem to trouble makers. That was t he rudest outburst that could possibly go in in a meeting with all the interested parties. I hope the republican party asks him to resign just like they have asked the governor to resign. They both sound alike and actually favor. I am ashamed of them both.
I Understand this guys frustration. The current plan won't prevent illegals from getting care. I say if and illegal comes in to a hospital and don't have forms to prove they are in The America legally they should get deported. I think thats fair.
absolutely jack.
Wilson showed an absolute disregard for the office he(Wilson) is occupying talkless of the president's. this is the president of the free would for crying out loud. if you cannot respect that office, then you don't deserve to be i government, you can just be another joe the plumber or whaterver
Should he be punished? He is not worthy of even being in that prestigious hall that represents the last barrier between democracy and anarchy. Regardless of what one may philosophically feel about legitimate issues before that body, too much blood has been shed around the world for too long defending it. Freedom of speech does have its moral limits. Of course he should be punished and shamed!
I think he put the republicans in a deeper hole I saw that disrespectful outburst last night and it was a shame . well one thing is confirmed the republicans will not get my vote for the next 8 years until they get there act right and people like him are gone
Yes!!! We now know how low republicans will go showing that kind of disrespect to the president. As bad as George W. Bush was he wasn't treated in that manner. Wilson is a pig.
Congressional punishment for Rep Wilson will not be necessary for
his more honorable SC constituents will care for him, and, most likely end his political ambitions.
Yes. He should be punished. Had a senator done that to Bush he would have been punished. Our country's leaders should remember that they need to act maturely, especially in the public eye, if they want to set an example for the rest of the nation. Also, Republicans should grow up and realize that change is taking place. They cannot always be in control of everything and everyone as they've done in the past!!! The GOP days are fading...
Civility must be protected from loud mouths! Listen respectfully to both sides of any issue and vote in privacy – that is what keeps this country from civil war!
I would just let it go...the GOP speaks for itself this week between the unfair critism of the President's school speech and their outbursts last night. I think this is scarey!
I think his punishment will come during his re-election. I think someone who is so incapable of controlling their emotions and who would disrespect the President during a speech as important should not only offend all Americans but should also be a signal to our society at how far we have fallen in civility. I think it is pretty obvious that this empire is on the brink of collapse. All of the signs are there – economic meltdown, inept & political incompetence and societal intolerance. I could go on but I think you get the point.
What happened to our Congressmen and Senators being good role models for our young people today? Congressman Wilson's outburst showed his lack of control and inability to work well with others. This man is absolutely NOT a role model I would choose for my 19 year old son.
His outburst goes along with the mentality of the Tea Party Republicans here in Texas that want President Obama to "stay away from their kids" when attempting to address school children. The same people so against abortion, but so full of fear, selfishness, and hate.To answer the question, yes, I think he should be formally reprimanded for his trashy behavior!
Yes, Congressman Wilson should be punished or his behavior will become mainstream, or congress will become even more dysfunctional and less will get accomplished for the good fo the people.
Congressman Miller's current Democratic opponent, Rob Miller has raised over $409,000 since Wilson's outburst, some of which was mine.
So he has already been punished but Congress should have established rules for respectful, professional and productive conduct.
It is unbelievable that Mr. Wilson can show such disrespect to the President without any ramifications. We appreciate that Mr. Wilson disagrees with the president on how healthcare reform should take place, but he has gone too far. A muzzle Jack, a muzzle.
jack,wilson should be censored,fined and put on some sort of probation! would have loved to hear Rahm's response when he took the call re: the apology!
I think Joe Wilson should be removed from office. No matter what he believes, there is no excuse for blatant disrispect for his Commander-in-Chief. A soldier must show respect to his General, as a holder of political office must respect the President.
Yes. Both my husband and myself said immediately after the speech that he should be disciplined. How, we're not sure. He should also resign. To think that someone would disrespect the office of the president that way is unthinkable, let alone unAmerican.
Unbelievable and unprecedented that an American President is so appallingly disrespected. Note to Mr. Wilson: You reap what you sow. To get respect, you have to GIVE it. Grow up.
YES, censure this nutbag but keep him in Congress-where we can keep an EYE on him & he can keep his increasingly ineffectual seat warm.
More important, HOW much moola is he pocketing from the healthcare industry lobby????
Jack,
You are usually spot on but if I heard you correctly there seems to be a discrepency. I believe that the President was referring to illegal immigrants being eligible for healthcare COVERAGE under his plan, not treatment. You are right, any human being who walks into an ER will get stabilizing care by law, but illegal immigrants are explicitly excluded from obtaining healthcare insurance under this plan. If I am correct please clarify on your next segment.
If the President was in fact talking about the healthcare bill and not treatment in the ER then he was not lying.
He should resign, but probably he won't, so he should be censured. What a terrible example for young people.
Congressman Wilson should be censured by The House and he should be recalled by his district voters at home. But Jack you are wrong on health care for illegal aliens. Anyone by law, illegal or not, can be treated in EMERGENCY ROOMS. Doctors and hospitals are not required to treat people without insurance anywhere other than Emergency Rooms. Nothing in the proposed Health Care Reform plan allows them to receive GOVERNMENT SUBSIDIZED INSURANCE.
Its an outrage if I were to scream out at a meeting where I work I'm pretty sure I would part company. Something needs to happen to show that his actions are unacceptable, and will not be tolerated.
No, he should not be punished. When politicians can be trusted to speak the truth, then maybe we will all be more respectful of our elected officials. Obama is not the first President to be treated with disrespect nor will he be the last until they truly earn it.
Of course he should get some kind of punishment. Even British parliament removed the guy who did the same thing to Margaret Thatcher twice. Have we become so uncivilized as a nation that we have lost so much respect for our president? Even if you don't care for the man, you must respect the office. Its the same as in the military and you salute an officer. Your not saluting the man himself but rather the rank and uniform and what it stands for.
This is the type of rhetoric that damages the very essense of our nations credibility in the eyes of those around the globe.
It was also a terrible message sent out to Americas youth! Let's teach our young that it's okay to demean our very President?
An apology was due and in fact given, but given the stature of his position in government, I believe an apology isn't enough.
He should resign his seat and 'show' a statement of apology that will teach others in government, our youth and the general public that heckling the integrity of the President of the United States is a no – no that will simply not be tolerated in the future regardless of our political perspectives.
There are appropriate forums in this great country of ours that allow all Americans the opportunity to be heard with respect and civility. Our President deserves the same.
This has proved beyond a shadow of a doubt, that Rep Joe Wilson has NO RESPECT for the office he holds.
Jim St. James
Absolutely. If such behavior is not punished in some way, it will sadly become more common and considered acceptable behavior. He was incredibly disrespectful and is a poor role model for our young people.
Yes. This was very disrespectful.
Why can't we supply healthcare to those who are not citizens of our country. When I was in Rome two years ago I fell very ill. I was taken to a local hospital treated and released with no cost to me. Why can't citizens and those not citizens receive care when it is needed?
Absolutely, he should be punished for disrespecting the President. This type of behavior simply fuels the other fools that we have seen in the past in town hall meetings treating others with uncivility. And this type of behavior should not be tolerated.
This is the same for the other foolish behavior that was just deplayed by some who did not want their children to listen to the President's speech to students. However, in the state of Texas today they transported students by the bus load to see the ex-President.
Rep. Wilson should resign, I can't still believe there are people who are actually defending this guy. That was a shameful night in the history of this country!
Horrific!!
I blame this entire loss of civility in our political discourse on right wing talk shows and cable networks. They have fostered this climate where it is acceptable to show disrespect for the president. They are the real culprit and ought to be called out on it.
I do believe that Mr. Wilson should be reprimanded and disciplined. This verbal bullying behavior on the part of an elected official showing such dis respect for our President is unbelievable. If any Democrat had dared to yell and call Bush a liar during a public address, they would be thrown out! Wilson should have been excourted out of the chambers as the "heckler" that he was. This is a terrible example to others and if tolerated will only lead to more terrible confrontations...when we start throwing shoes??? What has happened to America??
No, the President is a gentleman and we should follow his example.
Let it go. The outburst speaks for itself.
If the iraqi shoe thrower was imprisones for throwing a shoe at a US president while he was defending the US war in Iraq; congressman Wilson should at least lose his job for his disrespect of a US president.
i believe the people of america should call for the resignation of joe wilson. apparently he cannot control his temper, is direspectful, arrogrant and has proved himself to be of poor charecter. we do not need him voting in behalf of the american people on any subject.
Yes, 50 strikes with a wet noodle. He should be impeached, and kicked out. That is how a four year child old might act. Republicans think, that what they and big money want, is the only thing that counts.
A bunch of Sickos.
Congressman Wilson absolutely should be punished for his outburst. It was appalling and reprehensible. The office of the President of the United States of America deserves respect. Wilson, as a public servant, should know this better than anyone else.
I think he should be censored because he was elected to help solve problems, not to create problems! And to disrespect the President of the United States, the greatest country in the world, something should be done so that other countries will not feel that they can do it also!
ABSOLUTELY! What a terrible example of a lack of self-control and utter disrespect. Under GW and Cheney's watch there was never this lack of respect shown during a presidential address and they actually "lied" about weapons of mass destruction and motive for going to war with Iraq. There are consequences when you act so recklessly and he should be punished.
I don't believe he would have made such an outburst to a white president- let's just call a spade a spade- it was racist and shows a total lack of respect for a black man who happens to be the President of the United States. How crass!
Yes, Wilson should be punished ...by those he represents, and by his own party. He should be turned out of office if he 'does not' represent the views of the people in his district. He should be banished by his party, if he is not representive of its values and standards. But the Dem's, should not raise a finger against him (not even the middle one). Let it go. Follow the example of your President and ours. -LH Woodstock, NY
No, he should not be punished. He's already apologized for the inappropriate spontaneous outburst and the President has already accepted the apology.
Should Sen Hillary Clinton have been punished for all her snarling looks and head shaking when Pres. Bush spoke before the Congress? If you want to talk "disrespect for a president," I think you should examine how Pres. George W. Bush was often treated by the Democrat leadership.
But I would bet money, marbles and chalk, you've never examined that!
Sincerely,
Pat
He shouldn't be punished. At least he speaks the truth, unlike the majority of the current administration.
Yes, of course he should be punished.
His action shows how unstable and disrespectiful he is.
Jack, the real problem with the Rep. Wilson's comments is that it draws attention away from the vast majority of us who oppose government run health care because we find such a system to be both an egregious invasion of our privacy and a financial nightmare for our country and our children, not for these little issues like "death panels" or coverage for illegals.
Wilson should be fired without a doubt! He disrespected the President and the office of the President. No apologies can erase that. Now, have you ever seen anything like that before/ the answer is no. Have you ever seen a conservative, southern white man have to treat a black liberal president with respect? Betcha you haven't. A lot of this is about race, Jack. A whole lot of it.
stan leacock, Atlanta, ga
Yes he should. Never has the office of the President United States been so belittled in the house, by a member of that house! It's unbelievable! You may not agree with what the president has to say, (I happen to think Obama did a great job last night), but you must respect the office and title that he holds!
Anything beyond a resounding YES would be superfluous. For an elected official to act this way is demeaning not only to the body he represents but also to the people who elected him..
Oh most defenetly! Wilson should be reprimanded for his disrespectful outburst. Independently of what "team" his on or his opinion on the issue, he should not of responded in that matter. What is wrong with this country...does'nt anyone have morals anymore? It's a complete disgrace!
one of our formost rights is the freedom of speech, why should Joe Wilson be punished for exercising his right to voice his opinion regaurdless of the situation. I think we should be comending him for have the guts to call out the president.
Absolutely!! The comment was extremely inappropriate. I'm sure there are many South Carolians who do not express the same sentiment. Rep. Wilson has every right to not agree with President Obama, but to blatantly disrespect him in public like that is a sore reminder of how far we are truly from being the "United States."
The guy proved himself to be an idiot, along the same line as Joe the Plumber and other nitwits associated with the aging racist Republican Party.
Wilson should be removed from office due to his lack of sophistication and lack of respect for the President of this nation .
As a teacher about to teach a civics lesson on what it means to be a citizen and respecting our system of government, I am very saddened by the behavior on display last night. Whether you agree with him or not, or voted for him or not, Obama is the President of the United States and should be accorded all the respect that goes with the office. He was fairly elected by our very own democratic system. The Republicans are looking like the school yard teens who did not get their way, can't handle losing, so they will just be the world poorest sports for the rest of the season.
There is no doubt he should be punished. What kind of an example does this set for anyone who was watching the speech? If it is OK to yell at the president of the US during his speech, how do you justify that is a wrong thing to do in any other similar situation?
In the America I want to remember, Congressman Wilson would have faced instant censure by the house and subsequent recall by his constituents. Unfortunately, that America vanished when the GOP decided in 1994 that if they lost the presidency they would simply do every thing in their power to destroy any elected Democratic President.
In today's America, Wilson will likely be praised by his constituents but publically flayed by Limbaugh for his apology to President Obama. His apology to that demagogue will be more heart-felt than the apology to Mr. Obama.
Absolutely. Sen. Wilson should be made to make a public apology to President Obama. His behavior was in very poor taste; and truly it makes him look like a fool to the public; which some may see as an appropriate punishment in itself. However, a public apology would show the American people that such behavior is neither condoned nor tolerated.
Yes, I think there has to be some form of punishment. His yelling at the President was wrong, inappropriate and disrespectful. The behavior of other members of his party were just as bad. No wonder nobody takes them seriously anymore. The GOP has created this climate with their negative agenda and scaring people with non issues, half truths and not the facts. They are at a new low. Joe Wilson is proof of that!
You darn right Rep. Wilson should be punished for yelling "You lie" at President Obama. I suggest that a most appropriate consequence would be that ordinary citizens go to their computers and immediately contribute to Rob Miller's campaign
Representative Wilson should punish himself and resign. Some of the press have reported Wilson's action as an example of the emotions of the health care debate. Wilson's action is an example of Congressional Republican's, tea bagger's, birther's, astroturf's, and pseudo political scientists' (using the word socialism as if they know the definition) behavior during the first eight months of the Obama administration. Even under the largest estimates, the shouters at the Congressional district level town hall meetings are under one percent of the population of those districts. The shouters and their confederates, as well as Representative Wilson, have lowered the debate to the preschool level.
These are the kind of politicians who can never think right because their emotions rule . Why cant they draft their own instead and submit to the President or talk to the President himself . Let me check, are you receiving a lot of money from lobbyists Mr. Wilson???
No, Jack, I don't think Rep. Wilson should be punished. His outburst made the Republicans look bad, which is great for Democrats. It only President Obama look even more cool and collected than ever. Perhaps Rep. Wilson would be more at home in British Parliament.
Yes, of course, but it should be done by the ignorant voters in his estate who elected him; I mean, vote him out. He is too stupid to represent them
Jack – I say punish the congressman from South Carolina ONLY if you also punish the Democrat congressman who did the EXACT SAME THING to Bush in 2005. Shame on you Jack.
Hell Yes! It was a complete lack of respect for the occasion and of the government process. If this guy isn't given his hat, we are heading down a road of no return!
What were his motives? Perhaps one should check out exactly who were his top contributers to his campaign.
Gotta love those republicans. I don't know what the punishment should be but I think he's already punished himself. I would be so embarrassed to be the first person ever to heckle a president in a congressional speech. Republicans are daily hitting new lows and this outburst makes me so glad we don't have one in the president's office. We should be happy to have a president that wants to get us out of wars, help the economy and get healthcare for everyone. Glad President Obama isn't starting wars.
Congressmen Wilson will be punished... by the American people by NOT being re-elected next year. Let's hope he shot himself in the foot last night. My kindergartner is better behaved. (Although not while watching President Obama's speech to the school kids. Sadly, his school did not show it. Yet another sign of disrespect by our nation.) Can we all grow up, please?
Hi Jack,
As a Canadian who loves CNN and your show, the answer is simple...
YES!
Not only should he be punished, he should be kicked out of the House plain and simple.
RESPECT for the President is very important, and if he is not punished, what will prevent future outbursts from either side when the urge hits.
Set a strong example now, and nip it in the bud...
JACK, No one ever called BUSH out like that....just boggles my mind!
LOVED your book!
How sincere is an apology that Wilson admitted was ordered by the leaders of his party? President Obama is better than I for accepting this garbage.
South Carolina’s Republican Congressman Joe Wilson is a complete idiot and should resign for acting improperly in the House Chamber. I served 10 years in the United States Navy and firmly believe in respect for the Chain of Command, regardless of whose party is in control of the White House. When did our nation lose it's sense of pride in the Office of the President? When did our politicians forget their true mission in elected office to serve their own interest instead of their constituents? How will we regain our respect throughout world when we can't even respect eachother? Americans should be ashamed that people like Joe Wilson are in public service.
Yes there should be censorship for the senator who callled "you lie."
A part of his censorship should be the loss of his current federally funded health plan. Perhaps if he to secure his own health insurance through an individual policy, he might get the idea what health reform means.
Sheila
Vineland, NJ
Absolutely... he should be kicked out of Congress and let him get his own health care like everybody else.
These outbursts and the complete disrespect for the Pres. of the United States has become more than ridiculous. President Obama has told Americans, in many clear words, 'it is time to take responsibility and grow up.' Yes, Wilson should be punished just for being a grown man with no respect for the most powerful man in the country. Obviously he isn't getting the message the President has been making for months.
Wilson is a disgrace to his position and yet another embarrassment to the Republican Party! If this childish man cannot control himself any better than a 3rd grader, he needs to resign. He is a horrible role model to his children and grandchildren if he has any.
JEM
Colorado
I believe Congressman Wilson should face some type of punishment. I had just had a discussion with my 12 year old son about showing respect to others when he saw the outburst on T.V. He was floored. What example are we setting to our youth, even the rest of the world, if the President can be shouted at during a speech to Congress by a Congressman?
Jack –
I think the comment was utterly inappropriate, appalling and humiliating for the Republican party. In my opinion, it was no way for a man representing our country, and therefore our morals and ideals, to treat the president of the United States. That aside, I don't believe he should be punished in any way, as what he did wasn't illegal or "not allowed". He, like all Americans, is entitled to freedom of speech. Anyway, the humiliation and bad press is punishment enough. He went from having little media attention to a severely bad reputation with 2 words.
Chloe M., 16, Montvale, NJ
Yes, congressman Wilson should be disciplined, the vulgarity from the likes of Rush Limbaugh should not be permittes in congress, Enough is enough
Absolutely. It would be fitting for him to lose his health care benefits!
Some politicians worry about the US becoming like the UK. The very ones accusing others are displaying the same behaviors as the UK Parliament. HOW SHAMEFUL! Cash Rules Everything Around Me (CREAM) Get the Money, Dollar Dollar Bills Yall...
Congressman Wilson should only be punished if the rest of the members of both houses are punished for the crap they spew out!!!
ABSOLUTELY ABSOLUTELY ABSOLUTELY!! What a pathetic, disrespecting thing to do. He should resign!
Absolutely Jack,
He must be made an example of. Its bad enough we are apathetic towards our government with all this infighting, we sure don't need this to draw more energy from the much needed discussions on health care. He should be reprimanded by the Republican leadership but I don't think he should resign. We are all entitled to make mistakes, but his act should be a reminder to both parties to act civil no matter how hot the issue or the passion. If we loose it in the halls of congress we are lost!.
While Rep. Wilson's outburst was a disgusting display of partisanship fueled buy the bitter polarization that dominates our political system, he should not be punished in any way for exercising his First Amendment right to free speech.
In all reality, there doesn't need to be any formal kind of punishment against this provincial Senator. His loud mouth and lack of tact will hurt him and his party enough. It's obvious; members of his own party are already trying to distance themselves. You did it to yourself, my friend.
Jack, I am more concerned with the fact that his oubursts reflects his and many others deep seated hatred for Obama. Jack, look at where the vitrol is coming from-southern states and places like Okla, all who have a very tarnished record regarding civil rights and minorities. The fact that we now have a very intelligent articulate individual in the White who happens to be black, is just too much for many of them to absorb. Maybe the guy should be censored but not tossed out of the assembly.
Get real. Noise was made, an apology was accepted. If there has to be a bad guy here, it is the news folks that are attempting to fan the flames that aren't there....nothing new at work here.
no, he shouldn't – what he said was true – albeit maybe the wrong platform to say it
Illegal immigrants, homeless, etc will continue to receive free health care – how you going to collect insurance premiums from them?
so they will still bleed the system with costs and everyone else will pay for it
Even when we disagree with our president the office should deserve our respect so yes, I feel he should face some consequences.
Him or nobody else would of disrespected George Bush or any other president like that. it was a disgrace and nobody should be allowed to disgrace a sitting president in public or private especially if you are an elected official.
I don't think punishment will be necessary for Congressman Wilson. While he has a right for free speech, his disrespectful and discourteous outburst has raised questions about his credibility as a representative with both parties, the media and I believe – the public at large. At the same time, he gave the President an opportunity to take the high road and focus on the issue at hand – passing healthcare reform. I think Congressman Wilson's 15 minutes of fame are over, along with his career opportunities.... All in all – quite an accomplishment for a 2 second sound byte...
Rep. Wilson merely said what many of us believe. His mistake was that he said it out loud. Right thing, wrong place.
I think that if any “regular” American worker stood up and yelled something that disrespecful to the biggest boss of their company in a meeting, that person would certainly be diciplined, if not fired. So yes, I think he should be diciplined.
The president was hired by us, we pay his salary to work for us, if we think he is doing a bad job we are going to tell him, if we think he is lying we should call him on it, that was not the time or place to do it but when you hear lie being told to you to your face it would be hard to hold back. minneapolis, MN
yes he should. there was no place for this.
Of course something should be done about the rude outburst by
the representative during President Obama's speech. We should
not let such a disregard for the office of President of the United
States be ignored. Censure by the House perhaps? Maybe more!
I also feel that the "preacher" who is publicly advocating death for
President Obama should be watched closely. He obviously is
dangerous in encouraging any "crazies" who might be on the
brink of violence!
He should abolutely be punished! He is the president of the United States, and should be respected. I'm tired of politiicans acting like a bunch of children. Start acting like adults and get some work done!
Unfortunately punishing Representative Wilson is no longer an option. President Obama has accepted his apology. As for me – I have no respect for Representative Wilson. He is not a new lawmaker. He is fully aware of the rules. Disgraceful conduct! Poor South Carolina voters!!! Governor Standford and now R Representative Wilson!!!
I think the comment from Rep. Wilson was justified. At some point, people in positions of leadership can not just sit silently while a megalomaniac tells bare faced lies to the American public. The President is playing the American public for fools and his lying and misrepresentation of the facts should not be allowed to go unchallenged. Lies and deception will do so much more to bring this country down than a comment like that made by Rep. Wilson. At least he was telling the truth.
This man should resign, or be removed immediately! This is a total outrage. All Presidents deserve respect. If you disagree, you can speak to the President in a respectful way. this country is in trouble,
with the hidious behavior at town hall meetings, and now this.
If Wilson isn't removed, he should definitely be punished.
Julie Ruskin
Overland Park, KS
Unequivocably Rep. Wilson should be censured for his outburst. It just demonstrates how difficult some members of Congress find it to be respectful to others who may not share their views. But our President deserves that respect. He has done nothing to disrespect Rep. Wilson. Censure him.
Yes, I think that Wilson should be punished. Even my 5 year old shows more respect than that. It is a pity that our country does not respect the President. Although I guess you must respect yourself first before you can respect anyone else. PUNISH HIM !!!!!