Should rules be changed to keep people like Gadhafi out of U.S.?
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
When the bomber of Pan Am flight 103 was released - Libya and its leader Moammar Gadhafi threw a huge celebration to welcome home this mass murderer. After the civilized world expressed collective outrage at Scottish authorities for releasing this mutant - there was Gadhafi, putting on a display of affection for someone who isn't fit to eat with your dog.
Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi delivered an address to the UN General Assembly earlier today.
Then Gadhafi had the stones to waltz into New York and share his warped views of the world with the rest of us in a ranting, raving, nonsensical diatribe on floor of U.N. General Assembly.
Turns out since no one would rent a hotel room to this creep - he's spent weeks trying to find a place to pitch his trademark tent - most recently settling on the town of Bedford, New York.
The problem was the land he was using is owned by Donald Trump. Trump explained he'd leased the property to some Middle Eastern associates who in turn allowed Gadhafi to camp out on the lawn.
When the Bedford authorities found out, Gadhafi was told to roll up his sleeping bag and hit the road.
All of which is to wonder what purpose is served by allowing these kinds of people to come here every year for the U.N. meetings.
In addition to creating traffic and security nightmares - a guy like Gadhafi manages to send everybody's temperature up a couple of degrees. And, quite frankly, in New York City we don't need his help.
Here’s my question to you: Should the rules be changed to keep people like Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi out of the U.S.?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Linda from Kentucky writes:
Jack, I once ditched my best friend because she had the nerve to insult me in my own home. When I confronted her about it, she said "get over it". Well, I did, and I never spoke to her again. Why we allow this sub-human to set foot in our house is beyond me. It's like opening your front door and inviting a mangy cur to come in and pee on your rug.
Jay writes:
Imagine if the U.N. headquarters was in Venezuela, and Hugo Chavez had prevented Pres. Bush from speaking. America would have lost its collective mind, and yet you suggest America has the right to forbid people it doesn’t like from coming to what is considered international soil, not American soil? If you don’t like it, put the U.N. headquarters at the South Pole, and then it won’t be anyone’s problem.
John from Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin writes:
No! No rules needed here. Gadhafi got the message without any rules. If there were rules, we probably wouldn't have the opportunity to express just how unwelcome he is!
Frankie writes:
No, he is part of the U.N. As Pres. Obama said in his speech, the U.N. is what we make it. I think the U.S. dropped that ball the past several years, and we need to regain the power to be a force for the good in the U.N. A very strong and active U.S. could further trivialize things like Gadhafi's words and actions.
Joe from Miami Beach writes:
If people like Amy Winehouse are banned from entering U.S. borders, why are convicted terrorists allowed? And, to speak publicly no less. I’m a bleeding heart liberal but I have no tolerance for allowing enemies of democracy to participate in one.
Cindy from Miami writes:
A shout out to Mr. Donald Trump: "You're fired."
Michael writes:
No. Everyone should be allowed to speak at the U.N. Sometimes it's good to highlight how insane some people are. And when we see people like Gadhafi, it reminds us that Michael Jackson's plastic surgeon is still employed – even in a bad economy.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
As despictable as we find people like Moammar Gadhafi, we should allow them to come to the United Nations. Allowing only friends onto the stage of the United Nations does not tell us anything new. Gadhafi delivered his views and now we have some idea how warped he is and what makes him act the way he does. Understanding people will help us to deal with the problems that they create. Gadhafi is still the big bad boogy man, but he no longer is shrouded in mystery.
Jack, if you changed the rules to keep "people like Gadhafi" out, you wouldn't have a United Nations. And what happens when other countries change the rules to keep out the people they don't like? A lot of times that's us - or have we forgotten the response that George Bush received around the world even among our allies much less in Iraq where shoes were flung at his head. We deal with despicable leaders; we always have and we always will. We do it because we have to; we do it because we hope for progress, we do it because we hope that when people see a different way - maybe some small inkling that there might be a better way will seep into their subconscious and eventually produce some small change that will lead to a larger change. And sometimes it works.
Why not as long as they can't harm our interests . I must admit they need to vent ; we have the choice of listening or walking away or turn the dial so to speak to another channel. Those kinds of people crave a audience and need to feel their petty ambitions are being met with approval . Only history and the records of their deeds can really show the kinds of people they really are.
However the United States in not entirely innocent either but those people make a mockery of justice.
Whats wrong with this picture, Why was this Terrorist even allowed to debark aircraft on U.S soil, set up a tent and speak to the United Nations This Guy is a complete lunatic. Roll him up in the tent and put him on the aircraft he arrived in with his entourage other idiots and blow it up over the Atlantic. No Loss!
the real question is can rules change to keep Sarah Palin in Alaska . The real World isn't ready for that mess
Maybe we should be careful. Many other countries who have family in the US are concerned that are government is "hood winking" the middle class by over taxing us (taxation without representation), sending our jobs over seas, over pricing insurance (many can not afford insurance) which includes health,car, home. They tell us we are the only democracy that doesn't have some type of national health care. The world might decide to free us from this government and we may be sorry we didn't keep our mouth shut. My family has been here, from England, since 1634 we are comfortable with this craziness we call democracy. I believe though we live in a Republic, you know like he Republic of China or the Republic of Czech.
Oregon
Jack,
We could solve the problems quickly and easily. Move the UN headquarters to some other location. The Swiss have a neutral stance and may welcome being the home base for the United Nations. There are many countries which might really like hosting the U. N.; Somalia, Honduras, China, to name but a few.
Jack,
No. While it certainly is hard to tell from our own national political scene lately, America is seen as the shining bastion of peace and freedom (the country, not the Government) around the world. At a time of massive global economic and social change, it would rash for the U.S. to begin limiting which leaders of foreign countries we allow to visit, especially to a U.N event, which is supposed to be considered international territory.
No, he is part of the UN. As President Obama said in his speech, the UN is what we make it. I think the US dropped that ball the past several years, and we need to regain the power to be a force for the good in the UN. A very strong and active US could further trivialize things like Gadhafi's words and actions.
Jack,
The "rules" were changed so that I could no longer come into the U.S. without a passport. My Drivers Lic. was no longer good enough. I have not convicted of anything, nor due I support any mass murders! People like Gadhafi are able to get in without an issue?
What do you think?
If America wants to change the rules to keep certain people out of the Country they may want to consider an amendment to this rule that will also keep some of their wackos out of other Countries.
Silly Sara immediately comes to mind.
Changing the rules wouldn't exactly be in the spirit of the UN would it? How does excluding the people we hate the most accomplish reaching common ground for the good of the world.
The United Nations was created for the purpose of facilitating communication and cooperation between countries. Resolving conflicts among those nations is one of its primary goals. Though it is questionable whether some nations fully abide by the UN charter, to exclude any state on the basis of heated rhetoric alone would provide a potentially problematic precedent and could serve to further alianate nations with which the United States already has precarious relations.
Yes.
Pretty concise, huh?
I'll take it one step further Jack. The rules should be changed to keep people like Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi out of this world.
In a word..... YES! Geezums.... C'mon! Does this really require ANY commentary? Does it not speak for itself?
Absolutely not. We can't possibly claim to uphold the right to free speech if we're not willing to offer it to people we don't like, or whose opinions we find distasteful.
No. Everyone should be allowed to speak at the UN – sometimes it's good to highlight how insane some people are.
And when we see people like Gadhafi, it reminds us that Michael Jackson's plastic surgeon is still employed – even in a bad economy.
Of course they should boot out these terrorists -the UN should have known this was a three ring circus of fake unity. No leader of a country that sponsors, supports, or entices terrorism is a part of the nations of this world. They should be condemned and not allowed on US soil.
Jack this guy should not just be kept out of the US soil, But anywhere there is a civilized gathering. He's not fit for any civilized society and I wonder why it is taking the Libyan People so long to realize that!!
Sure, why not? We wouldn't let a known terrorist into the US, and let him pitch his tent in Central Park. Isn't Gadhafi a known terrorist? Keep him out, and Ahmadinejad too. What do we get out of their visits but a huge expense? Sorry, no terrorists allowed. OUT WITH YOU!!
I don't know, I didn't mind his speech. I didn't appreciate the translator (who gave me a headache) butchering it up. The translator was horrible, the woman translator who came in toward the end was much better. If she had been speaking the entire time I'm sure we would have understood his speech more clearly.
He made plenty of sense in my opinion.
Absolutely not. It is one of the many responsibilities and burdens of being the host of the United Nations.
Gadhafi? I thought it was a tea-bagger rally. He should be renamed "Ka-Daffy Duck"! Do you think this guy would welcome Obama speaking in Libya? Hmmm....
Hi Jack, NO, No, they should not be changed, because that would mean that "Bush & Cheny" can't go any where either.. nor stay @ any Hotel or set up his own tent.. they same can be said of our own. Many in the world say the same thing about your "Bush"if not worst.
What's good for the goose..
Yes, rules should be made for people like him and the Iranian dude, they both are totally a disgrace to the planet!
All members of the UN ought to be allowed to present their arguments. I completely disagree with you on this one Jack, and although some of Gadhafi's speech was jibberish, some was pretty right on.
Jack, we should send an eviction notice to the entire UN, move it out of the states and put it a desert where they can't break loca, state and national laws and get away with it; the UN has outlived its usefulness, period.
No. If we allow even people like Gadhafi to come here to speak, noone can accuse us of tyring to restrict speech that we don't like.
I think alowing Gadhafi to speak probably did more good than harm – he was mmore than able to shoot himself in the foot with his ranting.
No. Everyone should be allowed to speak at the UN – sometimes it’s good to highlight how insane some people are.
And when we see people like Gadhafi, it reminds us that Michael Jackson’s plastic surgeon is still employed – even in a bad economy.
Michael
Atlanta, GA
keep this creep out of here
Hell no, they have every right to participate in a world meeting. At least they aren't hiding in the mountains of Afghanistan threatening to pounce on us. Let them visit, let them speak, this is after all a free country, isn't it?
Rob K.
everyone has a right to there own opinion i dont think we need to be so hostile towards the leaders of other nations we need to just sitdown and figure out why the hate us and how to fix it
Jack, you can't be like Bush and change the rules when you don't like them. This is why the rest of the world had so much disdain for the US. You don't like Gadhafi, I don't like him and most of the world doesn't like him but he has the RIGHT to come and speak at the UN.
The only solution ..... move the UN to Guantanamo Bay Cuba. I heard they have room and board available there !
I like to watch and listen to the leaders of these countries. I am tired of just getting "interpretations" from our news media. I enjoy listening to the views of these leaders. When I FINALLY have a chance to actually listen to the comments of these leaders, (without interruptions and interpretations of our news media) I find it interesting, and realize they are just people too.
Could we get the name spelling of the LIBYAN leader right....one and for all!!
...GHADAFI, KHADAFAY...etc, etc
**correction : Qaddafi didn't stay in a hotel because he's afraid of elevators, not because they turned him away due to his dictatorial politics. And no, we should let him continue to come here so he can get further exposed to what makes this country great, and let him feel like a member of the community, if we reject him, Libyan public opinion towards the US will wilt, and we don't need any more of that around the world, despite any improvements that may have come from Obama's election
If I understand the rules correctly, the US cannot deny a Visa to a leader who is going to the UN to speak..With all the issues surrounding the Iranian and Libyan leaders and where they are staying while in town, why cant the leaders reside at their respective Missions while in NYC??
Yea... kick him out and tell him to stay out. Anybody who honors a terrorist with a celebration... and then of all things... brings up conspiracy assassinations in the United States? What the h... is that about? Get rid of this loon.
WOW As close as he is now we shouldn't miss this time. Yes Jack we need to fix it so the only country he can visit outside of his tent city is Libya.
Unfortunately Jack, the same freedom of speech that affords us our right to individual thought is offered to the scum as well. If it doesnt work for them, it doesnt work for us. What amazes me is why these criminals arent brought up on war crimes the second they step foot on American soil? Ah the delicate nuances of politics
~Shy in Chicago
Jack, as much as we can't stand people like this, he has every right to attend the UN meetings and express his opinions. Our country pride itself on freedom of speech, even to the crazy mindsets of people like Gadhafi.
My dad used to say that the higher up the pole some people climb, the easier it was to see their behinds – so having a loser like Gadhafi speak gives us all a chance to reflect on his danger to the rest of us, and see that behind – which he seems to gladly show to the world.
If people like Amy Winehouse are banned from entering US borders… why are convicted terrorists allowed? …and to speak publicly no less. I’m a bleeding heart liberal but I have no tolerance for allowing enemies of democracy to participate in one.
We should not allow avowed terrorists in our country. Keep them out. I think the UN should be somewhere else, we don't need the UN in our country. Maybe France or Britain would like to have the UN. We need to get that mess out of this country, the time is way past for when this should have been done.
No, the rules should not be changed. One of the amazing things about the American people is their tolerance for differences. Why is it that the media tries to discourage the American people from listening to views that the American media and policy may not agree with, and at the same time, decline to accept responsibility for their insulting and fear-mongering attitudes?
-Amy
Denver, Colorado
This man is the leader of a country. If we arn't willing to host the scum of the earth for UN meetings, I think we don't deserve to host the UN.
The United Nations was not meant to be an alliance of friendly nations. It is a forum where enemies can discuss their differences rather than go to war over them. All nations should belong to the United Nations and none should be excluded.
Absolutely not. It would make a mockery of the United Nations to ban a world leader from entering the UN's host country. If there is a problem allowing him into the country, move the UN to Bruseels.
Oh, then all its members can pitch a tent, serves them right.
Jack, We need to realize that the UN is NOT part of the USA. Its more like "international waters". Its just happens that the US happens to be the host. We should learn about how diplomacy works. If the US is tired of these clowns, then we would have to concede to Gadhafffi's proposal of relocating the UN Headquarters to a place like the "MIDDLE HEMISPHERE"!
No he should be allowed to pitch a tent or rent a hotel room in America. When we choose not to hear dissenting voices we become less
In short, YES, YES YES.
He is an antagonist–he has no substance–he's nothing. He is a mouthpiece that is up there because he has nothing to do and is ignored by everyone, so he wants to create conflict. He should take his puffed, swollen body back to Libya and spend his last days looking in the mirror and talking to himself.
Joanne, Willoughby, Ohio.
Bringing these men to the United States, welcoming them at the UN and calling them the heads of their respective states is giving them a legitimacy they don't deserve. They arent fairly elected and do not represent the people of "their" countries. I say either they get out of new york, or the UN gets out of new york
Jack,
Keeping people out because you do not agree with them is stupid. After all, America is a civilized country. Besides all his shortcomings, Ghadaffy said things Americans should digest. After all, America is not the Vatican.
Mo
Kelowna, B.C.
Canada
no, it doesn't matter what we feel about him, Gadhafi is a leader of a nation and we must respect that. The best way to keep these nations under our watch is to bring them to us.
As for not letting him rent a room in NYC, why not? It's easier to keep an eye on him there than in a field somewhere else..
And what better way for him to make a fool of himself in front of the entire world than by giving him the mike for an hour and a half. He just proved how much of a security risk his government is to the nations around him, and we didn't have to utter a word to do it.
I actually agree with one thing the colonel said: get the un out of the US.
My question is why do we even have to ask this question? Is the government of the USA stupid? This must be an "oversight"....
no because we are the land of freedom in the world so when we change the rules we become like the people we want to exclude.
A reality check on the UN is that this organization is as useless as bumps on a pickle. Forget the rule change. It's the address of it's office that needs changed. I suggest Scottland.
Absolutely! Just remember that the only reason the U.N is based in the U.S is because most of these countries wouldn't allow you into theirs if U.N headquarters were based elsewhere.
I thought this was the first time he has been here. If he comes here often, then the rules shuld be changed; plus, why does the UN need his ranting and raving in an address to them. Go home... and stay there.
Jack: This is what it means to be host to the United Nations. By definition, you let the UN operate–that is, you let all of the members of the UN meet together. Besides, we need to listen to those national leaders with whom we disagree.
No, I say dont provide him any security and if some crazy person kills him, we should celebrate. I would love to see how others in that country that celebrate others death would respond.
Jack, definitely we should. We spend the rest of the year enemies of these people and then we welcome them with open arms. And too it disrupts the live of millions of people because of security concerns.
Does anyone remember that John Lennon was banned from the US for possession of marijuana? This guy is a murderer...and absolutely should not be allowed entrance into this country. It is a slap in the face to the American people and those families who lost loved ones in the Lockerbie crash that this deviant would be allowed into the U.S. just because he's the head of a country. Outrageous!!!!
No, the rules should not be changed to keep controversial leaders out of the US. We are a democratic nation which champions peace. We cannot obtain peace by keeping others out. We need to hear their complaints, and dialogue with them to bring about world peace. By the way Jack, all of what Qadhafi said was not entirely incorrect. Remember, we are guilty of being invaders in someone else's land as well.
Why didn't Joe Wilson jump up and say, "You lie", to Gadhafi? He's no nuttier then some of our Congressional Republicans.
Yes the rules should be changed ASAP but i just want him out of the country any way possible
We worked hard to establish the UN headquarters here so the leaders of other countries could see the power and successes of democracy. sorry if it messes up your traffic but having the face-to-face meetings here, in this country, is a diplomatic coup.
Jack,
Does it really matter??? We seem to be the only country in the world who will sell our land to any one with some cash. Guess we're lucky he didn't buy a plot. Maybe to many illegals here for his taste.
Jack, you asked Wolf if Gadhafi was on Twitter. Based on his rambling, incoherent diatribe today at the U.N. it appears he is on crack or mushrooms, when perhaps he should be on Lithium or Adivan or something more therapeutic.
Dann
Vancouver, Canada
September 23rd, 2009 2:34 pm ET
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Jack, I’ll put it this way: if we would “arrest” him (or any other of the world leaders) if we found them on the streets at any other time, then we should not allow them in this country under the umbrella of the United Nations. By the same token, we should not have our nations’ officials in another country where common sense said that they could be harmed.
No i dont think so because at least now he knows how the world views him, pitch a tent because you aint staying here buddy. Maybe he will try to get on the same page
The rules should definitely change, Dumdaffi should never be allowed in this country. The UN needs to host their annual meetings in the Middle of the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean on a cruise ship. Nuetral location and none of our countries have to be bothered or disrespected by their presence.
This is freedom run amuck. We go out of our way to provide a platform to idiots like Ghaddafi and Ahmadinejad to rant about their twisted view of the world. And when they are done telling us how we should behave they go back to making heroes out of terrorist, torture decedents and kill innocent people. Do we really need them in these gatherings?
NO. Where would it stop, Iran?? If a member, they should have a say. john
The UN, for all its faults, is positioned on the idea of multi-national dialogue. It's supposed to be a forum for people to air their ideas and work through their diplomatic concerns, nonviolently and through discussion, even and especially when they disagree with the "norm." If the US wants to host the seat of the UN, and the business, status, and money that brings in, then it would be irresponsible and immoral to deny its access to the leader of any member nation.
This is our country (americans) which makes us the head landlord...I think when it comes to heads of state...we the people should get to vote via the internet who gets to spend the night.
No. At one point in time, I believed that there needed to be a neutral site to host different leaders, and what better place than the U.S.
Over time, my viewpoint has changed and gotten more realistic.
Allowing Holocaust-denying, mass murdering totalitarian dictators like Ahmadenijad a forum, allowing someone like Quaddafi, who embraces a mass murderer as a hero, a place to speak makes us tangentially morally complicit; Our assent in giving them a safe haven, if even for 24 hours, implies that in some small way, we approve of them.
Kip Williams
Gregory, Michigan
Why! Isn't it better to know where he is and what he says!!
No! What a narrow-minded view, Jack! It reveals your own insecurities.
To fight the enemy (Gadhafi), you need to know him. Covering your ears won't silence him or make him go away. Let him speak and he will self-destroy by revealing what a rumbling idiot he is. He is talking about democracy! The longest serving dictator! Bob
Well Jack I think it lets us know how stupid the other leaders in other countries really are. Mayby if we understand how ridicules they are .We
won't feel sorry for the radical religious in other counties.
I am not a fan of his, but them again I'm not a fan of alot of people. How can we call ourselves and open democracy if we exclude people we don't like. Even the Spartans allowed opposite speakers into their midst. Have we become so scared of opposing views that we prohibit them?
I just don't understand our country..they allow people to kill us off, support their country financially, destroy our flag and mock us out. WHERE IS THE JUSTICE? Is there something wrong with our officials to even think of allow this idiot in Our Great USA.."the word freedom is going too far" WE don't seem to have as much freedom as they have and to think they don't respect anyone or anything..WHAT IS WRONG WITH THIS PICTURE????
I can't believe as educators we are asking this question. As much as we don't care for these "dictators", we have to be mindful that they are not visiting the US. They are visiting the UN; therefore, if we don't want them on our soil, then, UN should be moved to a more neutral grounds...
yes jack, rules should chang, these kind of leaders should be banned
from coming to newyork, gadaffi,ahmadinajad and the israeli war criminals like netanyaho too.
I think if they can swim here we should apply the wet feet dry feet regulation.
Yes the rules should be changed so none of these evil dictators can stay
here. Let Gadhafi stay with the U.N .
P.S. Gadhafi's speech put me to sleep. ZZZZZZZZZ.
Jack, we definitely should change the rules . We spend the rest of the year enemies of these people and then we welcome them with open arms. And too it disrupts the live of millions of people because of security concerns.
Yes, I think Gadhafi should be kept out of the US. As well, I think the rest of the thugs, terrorist, drug dealers, ungrateful 'allies', and the whole lot of them should be kicked to the curb. If people like the French think the UN is so great and necessary, let the UN move to Paris and see if they change their minds.
While I can agree with any sane person in saying that Gadhafi is a despicable human being, it is hypocritical for America to restrict a leader of another country from speaking at the UN. We are a country built upon being able to listen to everyone's message and to decide for ourselves if we agree or disagree. Furthermore, having people protest him and Ahmadinejad gives us a chance to exercise a freedom that people in Libya and Iran cannot.
Known supporters of terrorist attacks against American citizens as well as innocent civilians across the globe should not be given the right to spread their inflammatory and dangerous world views. Allowing such men as Qaddafi is hypocritical to maintaining security on the home front and gives the impression that we are open to discussion with terrorists.
Jack,
If you keep Gadafi off USA soil,He will be an instant hero and another war will begin in Africa against USA. Remember Gadafi called for the UNITED STATES OF AFRICA.People respect him there especially the muslim world north and ,central and East Africa of Africa.
As much as I despise people like Gadhafi coming to the USA, since we do host the UN in NY unfortunately I do not see what choice we have in this question. Does he need to do it pitching a tent, of course not. Fly him in and then fly him out as quickly as possible.
Won't it be easier to just get rid of the UN? After all, the UN is toothless. Their only concern is making an appearance to be seen as doing something while all the time they do nothing. Example: Not long ago there was trouble in the Darfur region of the Sudan. The UN sent its troops to a completely different part of the country. And how many times has the UN told Iran to stop their uranium enrichment program? The Iranians simply ignore the UN orders. So lets get back the real estate where the UN is. Let Trump turn it into a spa.
Please remember the UN was created to allow countries to work things out in a neutral environment. Unfortunately for this to work, we must allow any government leader to be able to speak to resolve any issues that may affect them or others peacefully. I would be the first one in a line to not want someone like Gadhafi or the Iranian president from setting foot in this country but as a world citizen, we must suppress such feelings if we hope to achieve some sort of possible future peace in the world!
Jack,
he does have one point...in eight years we may be going backwards!
Oh, Please! Stop being so narrow-minded. WE wanted the prestige of having the UN in OUR country, and this is the forum for ALL nations, whether we like their leaders or not. Keeping out your perceived enemy is no way to "talk" out problems, which is what the UN is supposed to be about. Leaders have a right to come to the UN and voice their opinions, and we should welcome them BECAUSE WE WANTED THE UN HERE ON OUR SOIL! When are we going to stop behaving like spoled kids?
As much as I would love to keep people out of this nation that I and many others personally don't like AT ALL, we have to remember that the U.N. is not only the U.S. and if we are going to host the U.N. we also have to host those on the earth who dont like us. Otherwise we are fueling the "Ugly American" reputation that has haunted us for decades!
The rules should not be changed. As much as we may despise what Gadhafi has to say or what he represents, we should not try and keep him out. It goes against everything the US, and the UN stand for.
If the USA cannot accept the responsibilities of hosting an organisation such as the UN then they should do the right thing and let another country host the UN headquarters.
Respect for the sovereignty of all nations is a basic premise of the UN. It should not be at the USA's discretion to decide who should be allowed to visit.
It's embarrassing to me that my country the United States of America hosts the global forum for peace and cooperation and little majors from hick towns like Englewood, NJ and New Bedford, CT get to make the decision wether certiam world leaders can rent a hotel room or pitch a tent for the night. Maybe Kadaffi is right and the USA shouldn't host the United Nations; perhaps a "smart" country like Switzerland should. With great fear of the Jewish lobby we're obviously too petty and stupid to do so.
Moammar Gadhaf has lost his mind. Talking about his jet lag at the UN? Maybe just crazy people can't come to the UN. And Bedford only put a stop work order on the building of that loon's tent. How can you come from the desert weather and then sleep out in a tent in NY in late September? See, definitely nuts.
I don't think it is a question to ask. The United Nations are not located in the US but is directed under an international treaty. When you enter in the UN it is like an embassy you are in the UN not in the US.
Even though at the begining the US believed it will be used for its favor nowadays the world has changed and I think the UN should be located in Geneva where was the League of Nations before. The UN is not a tool of the US policy and if some people still think that, they should take some international policy courses in a recognized university.
Sure, freedom of speech is only guaranteed to citizens of our country, not to foreigners. Why should we allow them to have the same rights as us? Maybe we should listen to them so that we know what type of character these people have. How many Americans truly realized the type of person Ahmadinejad was until he spoke at Columbia University? How many Americans would care about the Iranian election if the character of Ahmadinejad was not known? Perhaps, Jack, it is good for these people to speak in our country.
While I can agree with any sane person in saying that Gadhafi is a despicable human being, it is hypocritical for America to restrict a leader of another country from speaking at the UN. We are a country built upon being able to listen to everyone’s message and to decide for ourselves if we agree or disagree. Furthermore, having people protest him and Ahmadinejad gives us a chance to exercise a freedom that people in Libya and Iran cannot.
I don't believe the rules should be changed...what if the shoe was on the other foot and the U.S. president or representative wasn't welcomed in a different country's "international zone"? America would be in a tyrant. Typically Americans are gracious host. Let's no discriminate or change that now.
Anthony
Izmir, Turkey
United Nations? Exactly why are we wanting to "unite" with the likes of Gadhafi and Ahmadinejad? It's like uniting around Hitler and Mussolini, isn't it? These "leaders" are HERE, walking among our citizens? On a stage shared by our president? It's outrageous.
Glenside, Pennsylvania
Absolutely NOT! That defeats the purpose of the UN process. If he is a leader, he has a right to express his opinions freely just as any other leader does at the UN GA. Though I do believe this man has hatred (and jealousy) for the US and is a terrorist himself, he is still a nation leader and has a seat at the UN. He did bring up several points which were valid – and several which were despicable but that's his right. For us to deny him this right makes us look ignorant – we don't want to go so low as him. As for finding a place to stay, that's his problem. If a hotel, Trump's estate, a particular town, etc. refuse his stay, he made his bed NOW SLEEP IN IT Gadhafi!
Jack, the General Assembly of the United Nations should either be moved to Switzerland or these dictators should be charged exhorbitant prices for anything they have to use money for in the U.S.
I support keeping rulers like those in Libya, Iran and North Korea out of the United States. However we must remember that as the rulers of their countries I think they are entitled to attend United Nations sessions or visit their embassies in NYC or elsehwhere. We can and should monitor/restrict their travels but we probably cannot deny them access. Now if we kick out the UN or other world bodies having a presence in our country or break off diplomatic relations with a country that is another story. I suspect the mayors of cities like NY and WDC along with the business community there would not want to lose the revenue or tax dollars.
Absolutely not. The United Nations is an entity created to represent all sovereign nations of the world. There are heads of state that we do not agree with, but that alone should not be a reason for prohibiting entry to an area designated to represent all of mankind. The majority of the Free World does not enjoy or endorse Gadhafi's comments and rhetoric, but if we allow them the freedoms we enjoy, they always manage to shoot themselves in the foot with absurd accusations. Freedom of speech is for all, including crazy dictators.
Rodrigo Gomes
Miami, FL
YES YES YES! Change the rules or make new ones; we do not need this lunatic rambling about events in our history he knows absolutely nothing about. His attention-getting tirades should be shared only with other inmates of the asylum.
Absolutely not. This is a good opportunity to humiliate people like Gadhafi in our own territory, I thought it was great that he had such a hard time to find a place to stay. Besides that, we can see first hand how much of a lunatic he is, he is playing a ridiculous roll to a huge audience. So why not, let him be a clown. I believe the more he acts like this the more he becomes a snake with no venom.
All leaders should be welcomed by the United Nations. Noone should be excluded. We all need to speak with each other to air our differences rather than going to war with each other and fighting it out.
Joan
Malik from Chicago...
Come on Jack'...your rant about Mr. Khadafy not being able to rent a hotel room is hogwash! I admire a man that would rather sleep in a tent than the Presidential Suite. Futher...why have you not reported that Pres. Ronald Reagan murdered Pres. Kadafy's infant daughter (Hanna) when he bombed Libya in 1986? Imagine the vice-versa scenario and the outrage. Oh I forgot...the lives of Muslims don't count, only the lives of Americans'. Selective Journalism uh Jack?
PS: You probably won't air this truth.
If you exclude diverse opinions in the UN, differ from our point of view, why have a UN????
Israel called for clearance of the UN when Ahmedinejhad speaks today. Why not just let only Israel have it's say and then close the meeting?
Or president is being trashed, directly and indirectly by our own media. I resent it. I think these hate mongers should be brought to trial and held accountable for their 'alleged' accusations.
Sigrid
We should absolutely keep nut cases like Gadhafi and Ackmadinnerjacket out of the U.S. They have their UN representative and that should be enough. They show time and time again by their remarks that they use that forum to show disrespect to our country and certain of our leaders.
Were it left up to me, I would withdraw the U.S. from the U.N. and kick the entire worthless organization out of our country.
I listened to this tyrant rage on after Obama's (his son) speech and the only thing that he said of any substance was about moving the (useless) United Nations over to Europe, Africa or Asia. Gadhafi should never be let into this country ever again. As soon as he physically dies- he will be joining Satan in one of the four compartments of hell!
No the rules should not be changed. People like Gadhafi and Ahmadinejad should be invited to the UN so that they would see how unwelcomed they are to the rest of the world. This also provides the perfect chance for people like Iranians to be able to protest against people like Ahmadinejad when he is there to show their respect for their home country. If the world's worst leaders were not allowed to come to the US for the UN meeting they would never know how hated they are outside their country; all leaders should be welcomed to the UN.
Mr. Cafferty,
I agree that Gadhafi is a nut, but..nut or not, he is a leader of a country which is a member of the United Nations and should be allowed his piece. I would rather him a member of the UN than not, same as Iran, that way you can keep an eye on them.
we are american, we listen to the people that we agree, and dont
Moammar Gadhafi speech to the UN today (if you listen to all of it, not just picked sound bites, like Kinnedy and jet lag thing) is not only truthful as compared to the typical UN hypocritical speeches, but it is also important to educate the Western so called "Middle East Experts" and their ignorant in Chief Bush who said Muslims hate the West because they hate American freedom and Democracy (unless Democracy means Abu Gharib, “Shock and Awe” and invasion of defenseless countries based on lies...).
And rather than preventing Gadhafi from using a Tent, the USA should sent tents to its victims, the 4 million Iraqi refugees, just as Gadhafi over compensated the victims of Lockerby.
We need to listen to the other side, and not just to the few who has led this country to disastor.
No the rules should not change! The United Nation should be moved to another country it's been here 14 years over the limits.
personal feelings aside, if we stop Gadhafi today then who will it be tomorrow,witchhunts are harder to stop than to start
Beautifully said Jack. I applaude you 1 million percent. Have you thought about running for president. You would get right to the root of the problem A.S.A.P.
Absolutely not, should we allow these terrorist's into this country. Who is paying for their security. I would bet it's us taxpayers. I say it's a free for all when these low life's come here. If they get blown to smithereen's tough poop. We are free people here in the U.S. and we should make theme know that they are not welcome and take it right to them. This should have stopped with these terrorist's that want to destroy us, from coming to the U.S. I don't care what the rules are about allowing these low life's here but we look like the laughing schmucks to the rest of the world.
I think Gadaffi should be run out of the United States and banned from EVER coming here again.Obama could truly be his son, we've had nothing but trouble since he was elected. I fear for this country my forefathers fought so hard to keep safe and free....their blood was shed all for nothing. Anderson, SC
NO , leave the rukles as is..instead. ..Gadhafi ranted on that New York had hosted the annual for more than 50 years and it was time to move it to an Eastern Hemisphere venue. Yeah ! Lets move the entire UN to a North African country and be rid of it for good ....
I think you should take a good look at Iraq and Afghanistan before you get upset about a mass murderer being set free. How about a look at our foreign policy towards the Middleast for the last 100 years. There's a saying about people who live in glass houses. The same applies to countries.
Gary From Tennessee
I am a bit of a cultural relativist so I don't believe that it is our place to root out all awful leaders in the world or control the UN's decision to let them speak (though we can surely vote "No" when asked). We either host the event as the UN seeks to run it or decline to host. I am more concerned that we (Americans) are dignifying the man's nonsense by giving him a media stage in addition to the lectern the UN gave him. Sure he should be allowed to speak if the UN allows it, but all of us, including major cable news networks, are also allowed to exercise judgment and not watch/cover it. As much as I disagree with Fox, at least they have the gumption to not cover what they "deem" to be without merit. There must be some line between censorship of news and exercising judgment. I will leave it to those with more expertise in media matters than I to draw this line for cable news networks. I have drawn my own re the Libyan tyrant's tirade.
This guy is nuts and could he dress any nuttier? Does he use Grecian Formula to keep his hair so "naturally" dark? Obviously the jet lag got to him! Poor guy!
But you Jack....how I love to listen to your commentary on crazies like this guy before you get to the actual question. I love CNN and Wolfe but you always keep me laughing. Keep it up Jack, for some of us you are just what we need at the end of these crazy days.
Gadhafi can come here, but the poor people who are forced to listen to his ramblings should be excused from attendance.
Jack
Sorry, but your calling world leaders (whether you agree with their beliefs & ideals or not) as "creeps" & "cretins" & then asking the viewing public whether they deserve a forum is deceptive at best & hypocritical at worst.
Obama expressed it very well : Let's just sit down at the table with ALL leaders & give a listen. A sealed mind is a sealed fate.
Donato Schimizzi
Puerto Vallarta, MEXICO
I don't believe that rules should be changed. II beleive that everyones opinion matters but when it comes to a man like Gadgafi they should make a exeption. The people who sold him the tent should be thrown out as well.
As long as the UN is in the United States we can't limit admittance to diplomates an state leaders that need to attend functions there. So lets just have the UN move their head quarters to some other country, how about Israel, that would make the trip much shorter for Gadhafi or Ahmadinejad to attend future meetings
I think you Yankees still don't understand what's going on around the world. What adventages would he get from coming to the US. Everything he says is right and I understand the speech wasn't well structured but there was so many things to say. But you only hide behind your criticism but never behind the facts he was talking about. United Stateds killed Saddam for no reason. Where is the power of your democracy? does democracy require terrorism? I don't know maybe we should ask the US government.
No Jack,
If we go down that road, then we should not be the host of the UN
From Austin, Texas.
Actually, I think that having lunatics visit and speak serves the purpose of reminding Americans what some of these "leaders" are really like. In our relative isolation, we sometimes forget to be thankful that our leaders aren't as awful as in some other places, even if they can be as verbose and unintelligible.
He may be a hypocrite and a bit crazy, Jack, but he is a world leader. As long as the UN is in the U.S. and he is a member we should not be excluding him. If we excluded every leader we didn't like their would be no UN general assembly.. Lines of communication must remain open for the UN to work.
Much as I wanted to dislike Gadhafi , he actually made some good points about the UN's failures.. We just don't like to hear them from a hypocrite.
Firstly, we need to keep trying. We can't just shut up somebody because we don't like that he says. And secondly, don't you think the western world always wins? Isn't there a small chance he's right on some of the things he says?
Jack–Rules should be changed. The United Nations is just that-united! Anyone like Gadhafi and the Iranian leader are not peace seeking men and should not have a voice in the United Nations. These two men are not even accepted by their own people. Why should we put up with them here in the United States!
As much as I abhor these so-called leaders of foreign countries, showing that we are more civilized by allowing them to voice their rantings tells them, indirectly what they should be doing to dissenters in their own respective countries.
No. We are America and better than that. Hopefully, cooler heads will prevail.
`the U.N. visitor-GAdfly... AND all other dignatories from foreign lands should be housed and their visit secure by EACH attendee in the form of a 5 million$ bond on Each pearson, to keep them safe wiothout becoming a burden to local New Yorkers, tourists and or the police of New York state. Thjis can be accomplished by simply housing ALL UN attendies of foreign governments in one place... a cruise ship... anchored 50 mmiles out to sea. Their only means of affecting the New York populus would be helicopter flights to and from the UN only.. and arranged by and paid by the U.N.
NO TAXPAYOR'S money should be speant...!!
Joe
No, the laws should not change. Leaders of the world have a right to speak at the UN. Not allowing any leader to come because of "traffic jams" or because "We don't need his help" is just not right... We should not have any authority over the UN just because they assemble in NY.
I agree Gadhafi is borderline psychotic, but I also noted that we have done nothing but moan about how these leaders feel about the West, how they dine, how they sleep, what they wear, where they stay. If we aim to invite world leaders over, then we need to understand they come in different colors and preferences. Otherwise, why be part of a world organization such as the United Nations if we just want American clones here? Perhaps its time we call them terrorists as we always do if we disagree with their policies.
People like Gadhafi should not be kept out of any country, simply because, everything this man said, he had facts to support his statements. Which I can not say about any of the U.S leaders. For once someone was not afraid to tell the truth. We live here, in the most powerfull country in the world, and for some reason 99% of the population here is uninformed about anything that is happening anywhere in the U.S, let alone the rest of the world. Let us fix this country before we worry about anyone else.
I think it is highly unfortunate that the US allows ignorant extremists like Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Gaddafi to use our media as a mouthpiece to voice their antequated and illogical views. By inviting these terrorists to our country and providing them with a platform to spew their unrestrained crap we are reinforcing their notion that the United States is a joke with no backbone. Where is the change we were promised Obama?
How is it hat Cat Stevens (remember his song, 'Peace Train'?) can't visit the U.S., but Omar Khadafi does ... AND is invited to speak at the U.N. for 96 minutes? Huh?
No; under the Bush administration the U.S. appeared to the world as a fringe group of bullies inviting in only specific groups. We now have a President who is honored and respected around the world, a president who is willing to listen to all, what a welcomed change!
There is ONLY one solution in keeping these dictators out of our country ,and that is to move the UN headquarter elsewhere as ironically suggested by Gadhafi himself. But I find it disrespectful to keep making a big deal out of where Gadhafi should stay while in US after issuing him the visa
Yes the rules for who can come to the US and CANADA, as well as other countries should be changed.
It is good that ALL are allowed, but in this era, there are a handful of people that should be shot (let alone come here) if they leave their country. People like Gadhafi Iran’s Shaw and President etc.
In fact it is democracy that actually allows countries to share intelligence, education. policing and politics.
If a country is NOT a democratic country, do not allow there rulers access to democratic countries or there resources.
GO IRAN GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Canada supports you.
There is no way we should allow these muderers to come to our country to spew their garbage. It is bad enough they get the press in there country. Maybe if we all stopped listening they would go away. When my children behaved badly I refused to acknowlege their bad behavior. They soon learned it wasn't the answer and there was no reward for bad behavior. They had a very pronunced attitude change. What works for kids shoul work for these bullys
If the UN is going to remain in NY or the US there is no way to keep a legitimate head of state from coming.
In answer to the "technicality" folks, hateful rhetoric, in no way, serves the purpose of reconciliation and understanding between foreign countries. In fact, it does quite the opposite.... from such rhetoric comes confusion, distrust and a whole host of negative responses.
We do not deal with terrorist states..... regardless of their creed. If anyone supports state-sponsored terrorism, they are considered an enemy of human rights. Even on a technicality, why would the U.N. want to promote such dis-unifying non-sense? Again, I think this argument speaks for itself.
Yeah, the rules should be changed. Better yet, I think we should put the entire UN on a giant floating barge in the Gulf of Mexico, smack dab in the middle of Hurricane Alley. With all the wind those idiots generate they should be able to blow themselves out of the way of the next category 5, and if not, oh well.
why are we even listening to this guy....jack
This is a ridiculous question. We, the US, will not always agree with every leader of the world. We come from different cultural backgrounds. The UN is a place where all people could come to have communication no matter what it is. We should not stifle it especially when one of US's primary freedoms is FREEDOM OF SPEECH.
if the UN give too much trouble to the US, it should move out 🙂 I am against Khadafi but the UN is not a branch of the US, I am sorry for who think that. If not happy ask the UN to go to Geneva where the League of nations was held. Ooop's Swizertland and Lybia got somes issues so let's pay to create a UN Island or let locate it on the North pole once it will be warmer 🙂
The UN is for world leaders to express their views, whether we like them or not. Restricting foreign leaders from entering the US, because you don't like them seems very petty. The UN should never have been built in New York, it should have been built in a neutral country in europe somewhere. Let them have their 15 minutes of fame, as we will al forget about it in the future, when something else takes over our conversation!
H-yes, the rule should be changed. This is an embarrassment to the US and disrespect to its citizens. Not only should Cadhafi not be allowed, as well as Iran leader. The US should not allow any leader that holds capture 3 Americans to enter the US. Our leaders should have demanded, without reservation, that Iran President bring the 3 Americans or stay home. No political or diplomatic relation is worth face slapping disrespect to all Americans.
Sam Long
First, I would have to ask, who is it making the rules? And secondly I would have to ask why is the UN in the middle of Manhattan and not out on some island, we have plenty. City Island (there used to be a sanatorium there) might be a good choice. Or Plum Island, which has a huge facility for disease testing which has been recently shut down, might be another one.
And since Mr. Khadafi is having trouble pitching his tent, might I suggest that lovely establishment at the end of E 23rd Street, known as Bellevue?
No Jack, let the Gadhafis' of the world come in. They are our own best propaganda against them, and they make our politicians look pretty good. I also have a deeper appreciation of the people in the diplomatic corps who have to work with these types. I could never handle their job.
it's goes with out saying jack, a tent ? look's more like the gutter he is a clown that starves for attention and should be shot into space!!
Mr. Cafferty move the UN out of NY, otherwise these people will come over here and say whatever they want, simple.
NO. Although we might not agree with Gadhafi's morals and ideals, or lack there of, he the Libyan people are apart of the international community. As such, he has the right to voice his opinions and concerns for his people. If we do not allow Gahdafi and leaders like him to speak and be represented we are dismissing them from the international community. We hold U.N meetings to bring out leaders from around the world together. This international segregation will only drive rifts between the World Communities and further the hate that so many people have died to prevent.
I think of the United Nations in the same way that I do an embassy of a foreign government, but it might be a good idea for them to add a dormitory to put up those folks that we don't feel terribly hospitable towards. Still, our national heritage is based on allowing everyone the opportunity to share their views, even the lunatic fringe. Gadhafi is nothing but a member of the international lunatic fringe. Also, when our collective blood pressure is elevated in reaction to the comments of individuals like this bastard, perhaps it also serves to educate us on just how dangerous the world really is, and how important it is for all of us to work together to protect our beloved country.
Lastly, my dog's dinner companions are not only more intelligent that this guy, but they're better looking than old Moammar, too.
No rule changes, Jack. Believe it or not, allowing him to make such a fool of himself could be the best weapon to use against him. No doubt, he embarrased his country, and who knows, they may now be compelled to get rid of him. There's no more conclusive destruction, than self destruction.
Come on now, don't tell me that no one knew in advance that these 2 leaders were coming, Kinda late now, don't you think?
Keep him and others like him out? Nonsense! Let 'em in!
Where else can these yahoos make asses of themselves to the 'civilized world' as you so put it and draw a collective ire?
What would you prefer? Confining them to their respective countries spouting hatred and lies to their adoring throngs behind a media blackout? What you don't know CAN hurt you. This guy we see coming a mile away.
I don't know why he had so much trouble finding a place to stay. There is more than enough room down in the New York sewer lines with the other monsters.
Absolutely not!
Representatives of any member country should be allowed to attend sessions unless prohibited by the UN membership.
However it is time for some other country, like Switzerland, to be the home of the UN.
It is largely ineffective and only serves for a speaking forum for some to defame our great nation while on our soil.
I strongly believe that we need to make certain sacrifices in order to come together as a world community, even if this means allowing oppressive leaders to enter the country for U.N. conferences. Alienating these world leaders from the United Nations would be a grave mistake and would manifest itself in future security issues within the international community.
Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi was considerd a terrorist, but now not.
Moammar Gadhafi is still a terrorist regardless of the new change of his recent aquired statuss.
He Moammar Gadhafi should be treated as such a terrorist that he is.
What if during WW II PM Churchill had allowed Hitler and Mussolini to come to England to give speeches? It would have been heresy, madness. But today we have two "leaders", Gadhafi and Ahmadinejad, within US borders giving speeches denouncing and degrading all we stand for and believe in. Would the world's democracies have considered the English insane? The answer is obvious as is the necessity of whatever it takes to keep Gadhafi and Ahmadinejad and their ilk out of this country.
How about changing the rules so that presidents of UN member states like Khaddaffi always find a room to stay in, instead of sleeping in a tent.
Chris
No, the rules should remain the same. Let him come. Gadafi coming to town reminds me of my childhood when the circus came to town with its clowns and wild animals. It also should remind all of us why our armed forces need to be the very best.
Jack,
If they changed the rules to only sane people being allowed to speak... well I guess even Bush wouldn't have passed that test. Unfortunately, even the criminally insane get to speak at the UN. His comments were a sign of his mind set which I think is even more frightening than anything else.
Luwanna Guysville Ohio
Dictators are welcomed in the US, but their speech should be censored by the UN. This will prevent anger and outrage that are usually ensued after their speeches.
I think its important to have unpopular people like kadhafi to the US. While it may cause a stir and cost money to allow them to stay, offering them the freedom to speak freely in our country shows a unique tolerance to hear radical world views. If he wants to make a jack hole of himself at Americas pulpit, there are few places better to let world leaders know you're nuts.
I am so frustrated by the small minded people who's demonstrations seem to be ruling the media...small town politics not to mention City planning codes have no place in world affairs.
In order to obtain global cooperation not to mention peace in the world, all government leaders need to be able to participate in United Nations activities... if we're going to ostracize any government leaders and forbid them from a place to stay while United Nations activities are taking place then the United States has no business hosting United Nations events.
The demonstrated hatred toward other governments reminds me of the following: If you always do what you've always done then you'll always get what you've always gotten.
How the hell do you think you are " america should be the leader" bull i'm a Canadian and some times I can't belive how ignorant Americans are, learn about the rest of the world and maybe just maybe you might get it.
Jack: If our criteria becomes dealing only with " nice states and heads of state" Secretary Clinton and the President could hold their meetings in a phone booth- if they can find one.
Col. Gadhafi is a head of state and has every right to be at the U.N.
It's far better to actually meet with these people than ignore them and
that doesn't mean we have to have a parade for them. We should be
civil.