Does Boehner's crying diminish his credibility?
Incoming Speaker of the House John Boehner (R-Ohio). (PHOTO CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES)
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
"Weeper of the House"... that's what Joy Behar dubbed the incoming Speaker John Boehner after his teary-eyed performance on CBS' "60 Minutes."
Boehner got choked up multiple times during the interview with Lesley Stahl, including when talking about the nation's children.
He also teared up another time toward the end of the piece with his wife, Debbie, at his side.
And this "60 Minutes" interview isn't the first time we've seen the speaker-to-be get choked up. On election night, when it became clear the Republicans had won control of the House, Boehner got teary-eyed talking about how he spent his whole life chasing the American dream.
Boehner describes himself as "a pretty emotional guy." No kidding. He told "60 Minutes" he's comfortable in his own skin and that people who know him know that he gets emotional about certain topics.
But not everyone is so comfortable. Barbara Walters said Boehner's got an "emotional problem." Others are now questioning the emotional stability of the man who will be second in line for the presidency. Of course, there are some stereotypes at work here.
In 2008, Hillary Clinton revived her presidential campaign when she started blubbering in a New Hampshire diner. Voters saw the tears as showing her human side. But if a man cries, typically it's seen as a sign of weakness.
When outgoing Speaker Nancy Pelosi was recently asked about Boehner's crying, Pelosi said she cries about a personal loss, "but when it comes to politics, no, I don't cry." Where Pelosi's concerned, it's the taxpayers who cry … but that's another story.
Here’s my question to you: Did John Boehner's crying on "60 Minutes" diminish his credibility?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Jayne writes:
Mr. Boehner needs to use his solid gold, taxpayer-provided health insurance and find himself a good psychiatrist. He blubbers as he talks about the "American dream" and school children, but doesn't hesitate to vote "no" on bills that might make the dream possible. Something just ain't right with the guy.
Bradley in Portland, Oregon writes:
Boehner's crying makes him seem emotionally unstable. Do we really want someone on the verge of a nervous breakdown controlling the House?
Gerry in Arizona writes:
Boehner's tears just confirm that he's human, which puts him way ahead of most of his peers. I shed tears when I fill out my income tax and downright cry when I see how it's spent.
Jeff in Bishop, Georgia writes:
Dick Vermeil is famous for being a crier. Vermeil is also famous for being a Super Bowl championship coach. Having said that, I'll take Crybaby Boehner over Botox Pelosi any day.
Mike in Vermont writes:
I think Roger Ebert said it best: If only Boehner wept as copiously for the poor and the sick as he does when confessing his own greatness.
John in Kansas writes:
Jack, I'm more interested in how he pushes good, sound policy through the House than whether he occasionally cries doing it. Crying shows that Mr. Boehner cares deeply about what he's doing. And if his only critics are two old, unfunny co-hosts of an unpopular TV show, it bothers me even less.
George in Pennsylvania writes:
Jack, You can't lose what you never had!
Loren writes:
I thought it was strange. But given the current state of our economy, he's merely reflecting how the rest of us feel.
Bob in Youngstown, Ohio writes:
Always tan, lifetime career in the same field, willing to take whatever part is available and able to cry on cue. Are we talking about George Hamilton? At least we know he's an actor.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
Let's put this way, we people in the trenches have way more to be crying about than the incoming Speaker of the House. With the high rate of unemployment, the high price of putting food on the table and all the problems we have as a nation we suck it up and go to work, pay our bills and deal with all of life's difficulties.
"Where Pelosi's concerned, it's the taxpayers who cry … but that's another story."
What the h@ll was that? Stupid thing to put in the story. Writer lost all cred. Now they are just one more comentator with an agenda.
C'mon Jack. I'm a democrat however the notion that you would question the credibility of a political leader based on the strength of their emotional empathy is in itself questionable. I would much rather have someone that truly cares about this country and it's citizens than most of our manufactured candidates.
Jack,
Your worried about what Walters and Behar think about a Republican? That would be like worrying what Beck and Rush thought about Pelosi. They are all partisan hacks and should be ignored. Let's wait to see what he does as actions speak louder than tiers.
He's my congressman and I always thought that he only had one expression and that his tanned face would crack if he smiled. So he can cry, wow. I never would have thought it possible.
Diminish Boehner's credibility?...NO... It assures me that he actually cares!
The fact that Pelosi doesn't cry should not surprise anyone...
A.J., Birmingham, AL
John Boehner and his bunch of misguided party members will have a lot of weeping to do before the next election that will send them packing. They have caused the mess that the country is going through. Remember Bush?? They all had their nose up his rear and refused to curtail his spending. Now they want to blame Obama for their mess......but this typical of unethical politicians. Bill Frist abandon the Bush Administration when he saw what a folly they all were. The only decent person there.
Tears of joy ?
"power" and "control" He accomplished his dream..
Lots of people weep when they finally make it to the finish line..
They are weeping for their own struggle and the fight they themselves went through.
Nothing else.
Hey, Mr. Speaker, there's an air attack coming at the USA !!!
"Boo Hoo !!!! What am I gonna do?" Being in command requires discipline and responsibility and demand a control of emotions. Use your head, not your heart.
If you're going to wimp on us, we're all toast. Cy West, Hollywood Florida
Jack, what credibility? The man is a joke!
As a woman I find absolutely nothing wrong with a man crying, unfortunately this man he cries over anything and everything.
I wonder if it's the booze or he has some mental problems (depression maybe)?
Can you imagine Pelosi crying like a little girl time and time again? The republicans wouldn't let us hear the end of it!!
Jack, What a wimp!!!! He is a joke and everyone will find that out. I hope everybody that voted for these nut cases enjoy the royal screwing these clowns are going to give the American people over the next 2 years. They will give the country away just to give the wealthy their welfare tax breaks. We will see who is crying after they get done.
When people are intoxicated, get drunk, are tipsy whatever, they're emotional, sometimes they are confrontational and combative, and burst into tears having a crying spell. When he gave his spech on November 2, he appeared intoxicated and yes, he burst into tears. That would be called UNSTABLED
I don't think it diminishes his credibility but it certainly makes for a great skit on SNL. I also don't think wheeping all the time makes him more "human" or sensitive or likeable - he's just an emotional guy much like my mother, she cries at everything. Will this mean the other politicians will have to watch what they say for fear they'll make him cry?
If we are truly holding men and women to the same standards then yes, John Boehner's credibility has been diminished–significantly. Nancy Pelosi would have been incessantly berated if she had shown such a display of emotion during her time as Speaker of the House. Both sides of the isle would have claimed Pelosi was too emotional or mentally unstable for her position had she acted the way Boehner did.
I keep hearing he's a major boozer. If that's true no wonder he cries at the drop of a hat! I would be a lot more concerned about the alcohol consumption and not the best decisions made as a result more than any tears. People in public office should have to take random drug tests and have the results posted to the voters just like so many of us "peasants" that work for large corporations. Bet pot would be legalized in a heartbeat! Tee Hee!
Part of the problem in this world is an emotional detachment that allows children to kill each other, and CEO's to pillage and plunder, without feeling a thing.
This is one of the few moments when i have actually respected John Boehner. I disagree with him most of the time, but applaud him for being real, and being a real man.
Listen to what Jimmy Valvano said just before he died... Everyone should live so passionately, and believe to the point of tears. Otherwise, what is the point?
His tears don't match his demeanor. He has the tact and diplomacy of a water frenzied maggot. Bullies seldom cry in public, then they are embarrased. Not real. Eve of Texas
Jack
it was all a joke, the only tears he really shed were when his beloved business friends were illuminated during the wall street crisis. This man has no feelings for the avarage "man" in fact he has no clue of the economic crisis. The tears he "faked" were to manipulate the public he has often abused and ignored, let him shed real tears when the Repubs loose in 2012 and he is permanently kicked to the curb
Does he cry for the children who don't have health care? Does he cry for the mom or dad who has lost their job and can't support their family? Does he cry for the less fortunate to whom we have a moral obligation to help? No, he is a wimp who cares only about those whose pocket books can support his elections!
Hello. I'm hailing from Minneapolis, MN. Boehner showing emotion doesn't bother me. I hate that men aren't supposed to show emotion. I don't think Boehner's emotional displays are his biggest problem; he's a hypocrite churning the right-wing machine. His "We're going to shut down government until we get what we want" stance is childish at best. He doesn't understand that Republicans are just as unpopular as Democrats right now in the public's eye. He doesn't understand he got his job as "Weeper of the House" (Rock on Joy!) because people were sick of the status quo,not because everyone suddenly stood up and went "Yay for the Red." But let him do his thing ... in two years voters will turn their backs on Republicans again.
Jack,
Where to begin? He campaigned for job creation, to cut spending to drop deficit and to fulfill the voice of the American people. He won. Before even stepping foot as Speaker, he quickly changed his tune to Obamacare and saying no to middle class tax cuts unless 1 trillion was added to the deficit (because, again, the voice of the american people decrees all this) and has offered not one reason how tax cuts can create jobs (see: they don't). Did I mention he's not even Speaker of the House yet!
His tears open a window into a man who can't keep it together and his recent actions are symptoms of this. His
This really diminished his credit with me. He looks like he is faking it. How can you get choked up about dollars and sense issues. I would like to see him really cry. All politicains should be treated like executives. they already have the huge perks and are paid in the to 5 %. They should get a majority of their pay in the form of treasury debt the closest you can get to equity in the US government. They need to have their interest aligned with the majority of americans. They should also be paid median income. This will make it so policies are directed to the majority of people instead of just he few the fund campaigns.
I bet he got real emotional saying no to extend the UI benefits to families with kids. We screwed your ability to get jobs by allowing companies to go overseas and gave all your tax payers money to the rich and guess what my young children, no soup for you.
Hillary Clinton did not "blubber" she got slightly emotional and there were no actual tears. This happened once and she was practically lambasted for it. Boehner on the other hand cries at the drop of a hat and at things no one else would consider tearing up for. Your right there are stereotypes at work here but they are all yours.
Well Jack, I never thought Boehner had any credibility to begin with. He's just another guy who thinks that living in a free society should also be free of charge. His performance on Sixty Minutes was another matter, though. I now wonder if he has a screw loose.
Not to me...I don't understand why people are making fun of a man's ability to cry... I think we have been stuck in the stereotypical macho man world way too long...so what if he has feelings – someone in this country needs to have them...And Pelosi's comment about not crying over politics??? What was that she pulled when she got choked up over her "hateful rhetoric" speech. She is a hypocrite!!!
No, many people become emotional, even when trying not to be so. However his policies can make anyone, even with a heart of stone, cry uncontrollably. It s beyond me why, with the country in so much debt, our esteemed elected politicos tack on another whopper of red ink with this new tax deal. I guess the road to re-election is paved with tax breaks not sanity.
Not his credibility, but his sincerity. Every time I see a politician cry I question whether it is sincere. Republicans have a reputation for being hard hearted and this could be calculated to counter that. But, I see no problem with it if it is sincere. You do not associate crying with head football coaches yet Dick Vermeil cried all of the time. It did not change the fact that he was a good coach.
He is crying because him and his party, the rethugplicans are going to have a very merry christmas. And for a moment he thought about the nations children and how their christmas won't be a good and his and rethugplicans. He feel so bad because he has it soo good.. He also thinking about what he and rethugplicans are going to take from social security and medicare. I would cry too...
As I recall, years ago Glenn Beck used to cry on his show. The fact that he cried doesn't seem to have hurt his popularity, so maybe this won't be a serious issue for Boehner. However, in hind sight it does now appear that Beck's crying was an early symptom of other issues of concern to us all.
Boehner's crying may not signal that he has a softer side than most people–just a softer side than Mitch McConnell–the supreme sourpuss.
Not at all! Dick Vermeil is a well respected man who gets choked up. He coached the St. Louis Rams to the super bowl win. Football is not for weak people, so, he is strong, and yet, he often gets choked up. Different styles, different people...you have to look at the results. Does he accomplish what he sets out to do? I would say, yes, he does. Getting choked up means he has a sensitive side but that shouldn't be confused with weakness.
If he can do they job who cares. This is barely noteworthy unless he is such a blubbering fool, then the people who put him there should be questioned and have "diminished cred". That is not the voters but his fellow congressmen who elevated him to the Speaker of the House
On Pelosi's watch taxes for most Americans went down. If Boehner gets his way millions of Americans will cry becaose they will be bankrupt by the increasing costs of medical care. Hopefully they (and others) will also satr crying when they realize what kind of domatics and fanatics they have voted in offices 56 weeks ago.
The republicans have fleeced the lower classes of this nation and this is just another facade to appeal to them specifically.
If we were a nation of educated, informed voters and citizens, we'd be able to see that the only tears this man cries is when a corporation is challenged financially or when a lower class person victoriously makes the struggle from welfare to the middle class.
I think Boehner's crying and chain smoking need to stop. I couldn't believe how teary eyed he was on 60 minutes. I can see crying over the loss of a loved one etc. but Boehner is simply a big crybaby. I do question how he woul react under pressure. Let's put it this way, I am a Vietnam Vet and would not want Boehner anywhere close to me in combat. I'd be concerned he would just start crying and not do his job.I think anyone who chain smokes with all the research that we have now regarding health issues is setting a terrible example in addition to affecting others with secondary smoke. Time for Boehner to show some discipline and quit bawling at the drop of a hat. Enough already! That was pitiful on 60 minutes.
Nope, it does not dimish his credibility. He aldready started out with a big goose egg in credibility with his limited vision and narrow stance on social issues and interence with our basic freedoms. These include a woman's right to choose what to do with her body and the right for two consenting adults to marry, not to mention the scientific advancement of stem cell research.
If he gets so emotional about the children in this country, why does he want to give my medical insurance company the right to throw my daughter off my medical plan? The new Healthcare Law is the only thing keeping her on it!! Essenitially that will kill her by leaving us home and pennyless!!
Mr. Cafferty: What if the president cried - specifically, the current president? Can you imagine the grief that would come his way? His credibility would be forever ruined. So would Ms. Pelosi if she cried. But I suppose Mr. Boehner thinks things are just fine for the GOP right now, so he can afford a whimper or two. My response? A big laugh. JB in L.A.
Jack, You counted one time Clinton was caught "tearing" (and not baling). Boehner has breakdowns. A lot. You're not being fair or coherent in your arguments.
Pelosi making tax payers cry is a fallacy, one that you can not prove nor does it matter. We're talking about a man here who just had 1 trillion to the deficit before even setting foot as Speaker. I can not think of one person who added a trillion dollars to the deficit mere weeks before stepping into a newly appointed position.
Jack,
It diminishes his credibility when he can't seem to control himself. Showing emotion is not weakness – However, emotion does not mean that he cares about those of us in crisis, or that he can resolve any of the issues that face our country.
Jack, His cred is already diminished because of his crying. It is all to obvious that he is spending more time watching the greatest crier of them all, Glenn Beck, than the amount of time he spends thinking of the needs of the people he says he represents ...
Correction: The last sentence should have read: "Hopefully, they will also start crying after they have realized what kind of dogmatics and fanatics they voted into offices 6 weeks ago.
Jack:
As far as I am concerned, it may increase his credibility ! Of course, I really think he weeps because he knows about many things (and politicians) that we do not. Spooky !!
The same person crying does not cry to extend unemployment benifits for millions of unemployed workers. Yet, there appears to be tears shed for an extension of Bush's Tax relief.
Please, dry those tears.
Jack,
I watched the "60 Minutes" interview, and I don't think John Boehner's crying makes him less credible than the other crooks in Washington. Perhaps Boehner's crying is because he feels guilty that most of us will not live the "American Dream" because of the terrible policies that he and his buds on the Hill spread over the American public. It might be refreshing to see some other politicians flush the guilt and stupidity out of their systems with a good cry.
Doug Havens
Orange Park, FL
I am not offended at Boehner crying...it's why he is crying that has got my goat! He did not win a beauty pageant! He won additional responsibility. If all he wanted was a dozen roses and to walk in front of the cameras waving and crying and blowing the public kisses with a crown on his head he should have entered the Miss America pageant! He's not crying because people are out of work and children are doing without...he's all choked up and all enamored of his own story! THIS IS NOT SUPPOSED TO BE ABOUT JOHN BOEHNER, IT IS SUPPOSED TO BE ABOUT PROMISES MADE TO FIX THE COUNTRY.
If you never had credit to begin with, how can you lose it? Just because he cried doesn't change the fact that until all politicians, from both sides, really start looking at the state of the country and start making decisions that are to improve the state of our country, they all have no credibility. Only looking at their own parties for answers have gotten us to this point.
Does John Boehne's crying make him less credible, in my opinion he never had much credibility as a republican. Anotherwords, republicans don't have hardly any credibility in my book. They never want to help the average citizen but, they love to take care of the rich people in this country. They believe in trickle down economics and that has been proven not to work in american politics. There are to many greedy people in business and when republicans get in power, the trickle down econcomics starts all over again. and the greedy people never let money trickle down very far. It usually stops half way down the ladder and the people at the bottom never get rewarded. I sincerely believe in abolishing the republican party and just have the democratic party and the independent party.
It absolutely does! John Boehner's crying is completely random, unprovoked and way too frequent. This man's policies and ideological beliefs do not reflect his background of struggle nor does it reflect the average hardworking American. Johnny Boy is suffering from severe internal contradicitions and hypocrisies that is why he can't control his slobbering outbursts. He not only lacks credibility and emotional stability, but he is dangerously out of touch.
What credibility? I didn't see him cry for the millions of people who lost their jobs through no fault of their own. I didn't see him cry for the thousands who lost their homes because of the greed of the banks. I didn't see him cry for the tens of thousands of Americans without health care. Or the children that go to bed hungry at every night. No, he cried for the top two percent that can add to their 40 trillion dollars of net worth.
No, I only shows he cares deeply. I cry when the space shuttle goes up or lands. I cry when the flag passes by. I cry when I say a prayer in public. Emotions do NOT mean someone is mentally ill and Barbara Walters is so far out in left field, she need a space suit to get back. Imagine asking Betty White if she still has sex.
Jack,
John Boehner is a mamby pamby....kudos to Joy Behar for her "weeper of the house" title....it fit's him perfectly. He's more concerned about making sure the bush tax cuts get extended, while not taking care of those children that he's crying about because he does not want to extend benefits to the families that need it.
I wished John Boehner would cry for Us, because the Big Boss/Rich/Corporations have taken our Homes, Our Credit, Retirements, Medical Services, Our Jobs, & nearly All of our Cash...We have Nothing else for Them to take!!!
The Monopoly Bankers have it All...& We're sitting on Park Place & only have Jail or Homelessness to choose from... 🙁
Thanks to Mr. Boehner's special interest Thugs!
Cry plenty for Us....James Zitis Holiday, FL
I agree with Marie MD Jack, what credibility? The man is a joke!
He cries only when it is about him. Has he shed any tears for the American people who are out of jobs and going homeless? He is self-absorbed.
Is Boehner another catholic politician who is uncertain about his sexuality??
Was he raped by his priest as a child?
He talks about his childhood struggles as if he is the only one in the world who had it bad..
Like his story is the only story that counts.
Maybe all that alcohol served in his family bar has taken it's toll on him.
I don't know why but every time i see him crying or not i think these things about him.
Jack, it's difficult to damage something you don't have. But regardless, yes, the man clearly has an emotional problem that is disturbing to witness. Why would anyone give political power to someone who exhibits so little self-control? It's frightening.
Sarah
Denver
Jack,I no you don't like Nancy but I will take her over him.He is a drinker and has drinked all his life.I don't think he needs to be Speaker.I sure don't trust him.Sorry I don't no who is worst he or four eyes Mitch McConnall.
Uncontrolled emotional displays from a man who is third in line to the President is just plain scary. Makes you wonder how he would deal with a real disaster like 9/11. Apparently the man has struck out the word 'compromise' as it does not convey his political message. God help us all!
he wants you to respect that he's an immotional guy buy he turns a deaf ear to the millions of crying children and their parents who have lost their homes and pay checks due to the republicans "just say no to American families" and give it all to the rich" agendas
Jack,
I'm not against anyone shedding a tear occasionally
It's so telling that Boehner cries about his own situation. He didn't cry for the nation's children but – same as election nite – out of overwhelming emotion about how far HE had come. It underlines that he's incredibly self-absorbed, also unable to control himself under pressure.
Traditional Republicans like my dad surely must be cringing (or rolling in their graves) at the quality of person now ascending to super-stardom in their party. Sarah Palin is proudly ignorant and insists "quitting is winning" ... and the incoming Speaker of the House acts ready to suck his thumb and crumple in a corner. Great for reality TV but not for running the country! This next 2 years should open everyone's eyes once and for all.
I haven't seen any tears yet, is it for real? No credibility.
He makes the tax payers cry much more than Pelosi. Remember when Bush was in office and needed to pass a bill about covering more children's insurance? Beohner didn't have any feeling for children then. He could care less for the unemployed who have children
Maybe Beohner gets that way when he is tipsy. Could that be causing the color in his face.
Those were false tears.
He is not for middle clas
He is for the rich people
He is for corporate & lobbist money.
He does not have any credibilty to lose in my eyes.
Yes, Boehner's crying does diminish his credibility. It also show what a hypocrite he is. How could you be so mean spirited and deny poor people minimal considersations and claim that everyone should experience the American Dream? He says he has had to struggle all of his life, then why not feel some real compassion for the less fortunate. He has some deep-seated emotional issues and his tears are a smoke screen, and are not sincere. I think his tears are due to being put on the spot, and he will not be able to stand up under pressure, and it's all a bunch of nerves, which shows extreme weakness. He is not fit to step into the presidency if need to. Man up John.
that's a trick question, jack. boehner had no credibility before his fake crying. he is evil, works for someone other than the american people, and belongs on dancing with the stars and in jail.
I am glad to learn the Bawa in Big Town, USA has picked up a degree in psychology so she can tell us what kind of problems folks have...if Boehner has an "emotional" problem, she suffers from "a big head."
Hell, I've been crying ever since we voted for the White House Trainee...that be the current POTUS, and (I get emotional here, Jack...) becayse we actyakkt allow the notion of "a lame duck" Congress to do what they are doing now to continue screwing up the country....and we voters. Wouldn't it be nice if the day after they lost, we could say bye to all of tghem, instead of this nonsense..........makes a grown man cry, Jack!
Every time I see Boehner crying, I flash on a scene from the Godfather where Brando slaps around the lounge singer and tells him to act like a man.
Boehner is a phony, just another Republican scam-artist trying to manipulate their dimwitted base.
YES, because everything he has done shows no compassion for anyone except the rich and the lobbyists(also among the rich).
The other 95% of us are facing the prospect of getting by each day and hoping we don't lose our job. This is bwecause of the Republicans demise of the economy, not the present.
First of all, Hillary Clinton did not "BLUBBER". She pretended to tear up, but if you'll look at the tapes, you'll see no sign of a tear. Boehner BLUBBERED, but nice try on your deflection technique.
Barbara Walters is absolutely right. He needs therapy for his unresolved childhood "issues" The only one he cries for is HIMSELF. He's a narcissistic, self-pitying, sentimental DRUNK. His crocodile tears are nothing but bathos and mawkishness. His and the republicans' vicious anti-poor intransigence and rip-off policies benefiting the rich are the main obstacles to anyone achieving "the American Dream". You whine that "men can't be seen to cry", but that's not true. Republican men cry all the time and get away with it. That's because it's unexpected that the "tough guys" like George HW Bush, who BLUBBERS at the drop of a son's name, and other republicans are capable of emotion. Since everyone expects Democrats to have hearts, and therefore labels them as "weak", they are ridiculed if they shed a tear. Remember Ed Muskie defending his wife from the slurs republicans made against her? As for this jackwagon, Boehner, I hope he goes in to work with a brutal hangover someday and makes such a fool of himself that nobody ever takes him seriously again.
He took a page out of Glen Back's play book when it comes to the fake crying. Conservatives may like it, but when I see him crying, I see a scam coming on. Just like the big scam with controlling the dept and yet, he pushes the big tax cuts that allows the debt to keep spiraling way out of control. I don't think the average American is buying it.
Is he crying for the top 2% of wage earners? Mr. Boehner's doesn't cry for the unemployed, or the first 911 responders. If he's crying for the children of this country then why is he adding to the deficit at the expense of the children of this country.
Ed Evans
Kirkland, WA
No Jack,
But he should cry for the Americans that have pre existing conditions, those who have their insurance cancelled after coming down with an illness because he wants to get rid of the health bill passed this year. Those Americans who lose their unemployment benefits but cant get employment. Those students who live in certain places where the disparity of education is obvious (ex bloomfield hills- detroit michigan). That he looks out for the ultra rich's tax rates while they already have the best bank rates to borrow , the best lawyers, accountants,and financial advisors. That he backed the war in Iraq which had nothing to do with wmd's and many soldiers lost their lives. The list could go on ....keep up the good work Jack!
My grandfather was a passionate man who would cry at birthdays, weddings, funerals...during virtually any event that involved happiness or sadness. He also was an imposing figure; 260 pounds and most of it muscle developed from hard physical work all his life. He had zero tolerance for assault of any kind upon him or his family. But a few perople interpreted his tears as indication of a man without fortitude and attempted to take advantage of it; those few paid very dearly for that massively erroneous presumption.
Would you really want to piss off a 260 pound mass of muscle who would have no reservation about ripping you apart with great passion because you made fun of his tears?
Don't misjudge tears as weakness; they may indicate the person is not afraid to display emotion...any emotion...with great passion. And to passionately act upon those emotions.
I'm a conservative. I like Boehner on certain levels. But I don't think men cry like this, it's a good indicator that there is something unstable in the man. Or that he's a liberal softy. But real men simply do not tear up over every conversation. I'd rather have a different Speaker, please. I'd rather not be ashamed as the GOP speaker cries with every win or loss of a vote.
You mentioned Hillary Clinton "blubbering" and i seem to recall it was more of an eye watering, choked-up sort of moment. That is not the same as "blubbering". That word would better descibe Mr. Boehner's behavior. I'm old enough to remember Geraldine Ferraro crying during her campaign with Moldale and catching hell, shoot down as not VP or Presidential material. I wasn't impressed with her nor am i with the next speaker of the house. My advice to any weepy politictian is Buck up or go Home!
Seriously? I for one did not want to see the "party of no" back in control of any branch of our government. Now that they have the House... at least we can be entertained. All the Republicans ran on deficit spending, then they cram the Bush tax cuts down our throats as their "welcome aboard" legislation. Seriously? Deficit spending is only visible when the Democrats are in charge. When the Republicans are in the forefront it's "doing the people's business."
I think he must be a sensitive guy. I only hope he's also sensitive to the real life issues that the Congress needs to address. I hope he doesn't cause all of us all to become blubbering idiots because of decisions he does or does not make.
I'm sorry, but with all the crying it makes me think something else is making John Boehner sad. I keep waiting for the real shoe to drop and we hear what's going on. Is the ethics committee going to tell us about unpaid taxes, is some lady going to bring charges, or is there a page just waiting to talk. What's with all the crying. He's definitely depressed.
Jack, This is nothing more than politics. I dont care if he dresses up as a tranvestite, so long as he keeps his promise to cut spending and gets entitlement programs under control. I want to see government focused on jobs, not attacking each other or constantly on the campaign trail, it did not work well for Obama in 2010 and it wont work well for Mr. Boener now.
Focus on jobs, period. No more new or expanded free handouts, nothing is free. It is time to consider the tax payer and future generations who will have to pay the bills we have run up.
Where I come from, you can't give what you don't have. Therefore, Boehner, doeesn't possess cedibility. Boehner's tears represent the alcohol he obviously consumes on a regular basis. Also, Boehner's
tears were a cover-up because his "perpetual tan" was exposed as a lie. Ms. Stahl should have asked him,"how often do you use the tanning booth?"
The only reason crybaby slobbers everytime he talks about his past is that he had to work a little to make it and he knows for a fact that the policies he is forced to enact as a republican means those folks he now looks down his nose at will not have a snowballs chance in hell to be able to make it..
One would think that he's the only person to ever have to work his way through college or even just work!! My goodness, his not the only one to have grown up poor and in a crowed house!! You'd think he'd have more feeling for the poor of this country.
I like men who can cry, who can be vulnerable. This old-fashioned more about men not crying needs to change. It ruined Muskie in the 70's and that was wrong. People should cry when thinking about death, loss, suffering and poverty. It shows you are home in there.
At the same time, if Boehner really believes that everyone deserves a shot at the American Dream, he must support spending in social programs that try to even the playing field and make the dream rela for everyone-like affordable healthcare for all, like quality and affordable education for all, like job availability and training and decent pay for all, like legally viable marital-type unions for all. There has been a history of white and male domination in this country. Braking the stereotype is great and needs to be done in many areas of generalization.
I am all for believing whole-heartedly in something-I just hope it's fair, open-minded, and non-judgmental.
Who really cares if he cries if he gets the job done. If anything, it is refreshing to see someone actually showing that they truly care about everyone. His small town, family values portrayed on 60 Minutes, give us hope for some real changes that help everyone. Unfortunately, there is no common ground on which we can all stand. Emotional or not, Boehner has a lot to prove. Then when its all said and done, only some of us will like it anyways.
Of course not. Shows he's real and there are things he is passionate about. It shows a heart inside him which is something you rarely see in a politician. If we saw their hearts when they run for office we might change some of our votes as it turns out.
John Boehner is one amazing individual. Having risen from total obscurity early in life from that of a night custodian, to his new role as Speaker of the House, is truly something of an American Dream. John is often reminded of his past, and is obviously humbled that only in America could something like this happen. As an observer, I too get a bit teary eyed when I think of what Boehner has accomplished, and I would not fault him for his emotions.
Jack,
What your missing is the two sides of Boehner. One side is steely tough, competitive and fierce as they come regarding agendas and action. The other side is a blubberer who gets very emotional after he lets his guard down. It doesn't change my opinion of him at all.
I would rather have someone like that as Speaker than some cold-hearted, fame seeking, napoleonic dictator who, as a leftist "know-it-all" is on her way out.
Yes, especially when they are crocodile tears. Boehner only cares about himself. If he really had emotions he wouldn't be forcing the unemployed, the 9/11 workers and the middle class to suffer due to his political dreaming. The Republican leadership doesn't care about people that don't matter. Only the rich and corporations matter to him.
What's he crying about anyway? He's got no compassion for the middle class or poor–but plenty for the wealthiest. Honestly, what a pathetic excuse he is. Soon most Americans' will be crying real tears after Bohner and his cronnies get their way in congress. Gggeezzz, Man up Johhnt Boy.
Back in September 2008, Boehner actually choked up on the house floor when he pleaded with house members to "vote for" TARP, you got it, the bank bailouts. To this day, he has continually criticized Obama for bailing out the banks too big to fail. What a flaming hypocrite!
speaker boehner is a real man, not fake or plastic , god bless him, for we american's need real ,honest men in our goverment. like him. far too long have we had fake and dishonest representatives who hide their emotions and their true character," GREED" and "POWER". ie; pelosi and her three stooges who almost brought our govermentr to it's knees. We ask for more REAL INDIVIDUALS with true character to provide america with honesty and leadership!
We are tired of all the CHICKEN-CRAP!
When the Republicans and Boehner take control in January, it will be the American people crying. His tears would be more appropriate if shed over the plight of the American people rather than his personal circumstances. America's millionares and billionares are far from crying in the wake of this tax deal where Republicans demanded tax breaks for their rich friends-they are laughing all the way to the bank.
Let's see here, Jack..... did Boehner's crying diminish what little credibility he had? Nah. I think his reputation as a regular at the local watering holes, and having almost no work ethic has put his credibility where it is, hovering just above nothing..... I have one thing to say on his credibility though: If he makes Michelle Bachmann uncomfortable, he must not be too bad.....
Many Republicans cry tears of joy when they realized they have benefited their benefactors (millionaires, billionaires, and corporate America) at the expense of the middle class and the poor. I'm sure Boehner also cried uncontrollably when he had to relent on unemployment benefits. Realistically, this is more serious than a lot of people think. He had little cred to begin with, but now has none and is the incoming Speaker of the House. And to the 8th district of Ohio, do you really believe this guy represents you and your working person values?
I believe it's been said that he hits the bottle a tad bit too much. What's behind that constant flush? Well, e've been down that road before. But, he has health insurance so he can get help – right??
Jack,
I think Boehner's crying actually HELPS his credibility - it shows he is human - which also explains why Speaker Pelosi doesn't cry - No heart and ice water in her veins - NOT human! Case closed.
Jack,
I havent seen so much wimpering from someone since Halle Berry won the Oscar. The blubbering may be sincere but he needs to realize all that crying about the American dream he seems to proclaim to be fighting for doesnt seem to hit his tear ducts as much everytime he votes against another bill that helps the minorities, middle class and working poor in this country, majority who will never see it with his policies in place.
He wants to cry, spend some time with people in places I live around who has real issues, problems and struggle day in and day out in this society. Believe me, now that he's Speaker, Americans will be crying everyday with 'no compromise' Boehner in charge. I need a tissue.
-Compton, Calif. USA
Cry Baby My Eye! Yes it hurts his credibility because he looks like an alcoholic. He's not just crying he's slurring some words too. After the election a reporter remarked that Boehner looked like he started celebrating a little early. Now he's crying all the time. What's he drinking in his coffee these days anyways? Maybe he needs to be subjected to a random drug test. This is not what the voters wanted I am sure.
Does John Boener's crying diminish from his strength of character? Not at all! If anything, it is a sign of strenth, as wekk as a humble heart. Shame on Barbara Walters or anyone else who thinks it is a sign of weakness! Was it a sign of weakness when the Llord Jesus wept for Jerusalem? Better bit tell this to any of our troops who have lost comrades in battle! Leaders like John Boener are few and far between! I say, give us more of them!
Why does he try tugging at our hearts...I believe his voting record would show his crocodile tears are not justified.
This is the same guy who was willing to kill extended unemployment benefits to our states...so much for "living the american dream" when there just aren't the jobs right NOW.
There are over five million unemployed people in this country who have come to the end of their benefits and are now penniless and many are homeless, the 99ers. Conservative statistics show that for every one job opening in the country today there are five unemployed workers – that means that 80% of the unemployed have no possible way to get a job. The additional 13 weeks wrapped up the the tax cut bill do not add additional weeks to the maximum now so it is just a band-aid that will not help the unemployed over the next 4 – 5 years the Fed says this downturn will last. Nothing has been done to date to help the 99ers. The resulting social disaster will be unparallelled in our history as a country. Will Mr Boehner tear up for the millions of disenfranchised unemployed workers and their children in America?
Doesn't look good to me.
crying is girly. A Man like John Boehner should not be crying. He came from a well respected family and he has lots of support. If he wants to cry, he should take a box of cleanex to the restroom and cry all he wants too.
Are you kidding me? How can the crying diminish what he never had in the first place. You really think he is crying?
The thug is a phony. He knows where the camera is...he is clowning like all Right Wingers and Repugs do.
Jack, I watched the 60 minutes interview, and I don't think the tears reduced his credibility at all. Frankly, I think I kind of liked him more for it – it was obviously real, heartfelt and I am DESPERATE to see someone who still has a heart up there on Capitol hill in charge. Maybe he will manage to care more about the citizens of the US whom he represents than himself, his party, or his political agenda. Wouldn't THAT be wonderful? At that point, I will sit down and have a good cry of my own.
Have sunk that low in our aggragate character to fault a man for getting emotional and shedding a few tears over things he cares about? It seems like the collective mindset has turned into the big bad bully that we are telling our kids to fight against. I find nothing wrong with a man crying. Is that REALLY what this is about? I'll take a crying grown man over a cold, heartless giant mallot carrying dragon lady anyday!
Really? It's that just showing his true side? "Mommy! The Dems are not giving me what I want. Mommy! They're not compromising with me. I only have 50% of what I wanted. Didn't you tell me that compromising is when I get 99% of what I want?"
And dawn right he should always get choked up whenever he talks about the nation's children. He should be reminded for voting down healthcare for children.
I was okay with the election night tears. However the speaker-to-be is turning out to be a cry baby. Is he going to cry if the House doesn't past his party's bill? I don't even want to talk about Boehner being second in line to the Presdency.....that's too scary.
A Former Republican and Democrat.
I only wish he would cry over the poor people who are 99ers but he only gets emotional about his rags to riches story. Cry babies who only care about themselves make me sick. He is another heartless Republican who only cares for policies that take care of his rich buddies so he keeps getting support from lobbyists. Hey John..got any checks from big business to buy your ctonies off with?
What credibility? Is his credibility in regards to the Republican platform of taking from the poor, middle class and rich Americans and giving it to the super rich multinational and super rich foreigners? Then his credibility is intact. Was he crying because he has sold out America, has no honor, and he realizes he has no respect for himself? Definitely.
Boehner's tears are tears of happiness! He'll be making his uber-rich owners - I means firends, I mean supporters - a whole lot richer and the rest of us (and our kids and grandkids) get to pay for it.
I hope those are tears of guilt from all the spending he and his cohorts did during the Bush years that got us to this point. Where were the tears when he was voting for the tax cuts for the rich, two wars, the Medicare Part D that gives pharmaceutical companies unlimited access to taxpayer money, or maybe he's finally feeling guilty for passing out checks from the companies that are killing our children, the tobacco companies. Mr. Speaker where are the tears for the children of today that will go hungry due to you cutting off the families unemployment benefits. Don't they count?
Right now I don't know a thing about this guy, but you know what they say about first impressions. He said that he will not compromise with the Democrats, he takes from the middle class and the poor, to give to the rich, he cries, maybe he's Hamlet.
When has Boehner shed any tears for the unemployed, the homeless or the childern that go to bed hungry? When has Boehner shed tears for the men and women that have died in Iraq or Afghanistan? When has he shed tears for the 99ers? Go crawl back into your septic tank Boehner.
It's about time we had someone in Congress that can show some emotion other than screaming at the opposing party. We should have matured enough to accept a man crying, most people don't give it a second thought when women cry.
If the political pundits make a big deal out of this, I,m afraid we will never grow up!
Credibility? Man cannot loose something he never had Jack! His credibility is as solid as his tan, he will prove it in the next coming months and years by making all the bad choices for most Americans. These are tears of joy for the rich, thats all they are.
Raffi
Montreal
I'd like to see a few psychiatrist's analysis of this phenomenon. It is disturbing to see a person with this much power reacting emotionally to things that do not seem to cause the same response in most people. is this a sign of instability? Is this emotional response an indication that his judgement is wholly determined by his emotion and not the analytical side of his brain? That's all that really matters.
Yes it does diminish his cred, but I think you have the stereotypes backwards. Sure Hillary did it once and didnt get as much flack as he is, but when you think of women in politics, you think of Hillary, Pelosi, Bachman, Rice, Palin. A woman who doesn't portray a tough, no excuses attitude day in day out will not make it that far in politics. Fairly or not, that does diminish his credibility, and if I cried in public talking about my job, it would diminish mine too.
I think there should be a plethora of other instances of Boehner's insincerity that would diminish his credibility. Be it from the lifting verbatim from his previous "pledge to America" which was never fulfilled or the admittance that he is American business, will side with American business and the common American be damned. This man is two faced and has become entirely too comfortable in his life of power and lying. Honestly, I don't see how anyone still gives money to either political party. If we want to end this stupid ideal war, stop giving the idiots in charge money to throw giant conventions for winning elections, when they should be focused on rebuilding our crumbling infrastructure and adapting our failing institutions that are being outstripped by the march of technology.
Jack
What the hell does it matter if he get emotional at least he is honest about it. If you don't John Boehner care about this Country then you have spent to much time with Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reed. The only time you she these to idoits weeping is when things do not go there way. John Boehner cares more about this country than the both of them put together. So if he shows emotion for this country so be it.
Walter
Abilene Texas
yes, this does show a weakness at a time we cannot afford it.
we have a weak and socialist president in the oval office, a cowardly house and senate (lame duck) that could not get the president's agenda passed over the last two years because they could not reconcile amongst themselves, all the while blaming the republicans who did not have enough in their party to block a vote or start a filibuster.
now we have a weak president, a weak speaker of the house (elect), a weak former speaker of the house (nazi pelosi) and a weaker senate majority leader (scary reid) and a weak economy thanks to two years of out of control spending and bush bashing.
bottom line is: we are opening our throats to those that would do us harm because they see a perceived weakness. thank God we still have a strong military and strong military leaders...except for admiral gaytes, who is apparently waiting for his "coming out of the closet" celebration if he-she gets it's way.
-TheBigSarge
Jack, It would be less of a detriment if he only cried now and then, but he breaks down too often. I don't think he is seen as weak but as unstable! He is bit "off" to begin with. I don't have the confidence in his abilities to be a leader, his history is shaky. The biggest thing about him is he is still not showing any intent to be cooperative and that is not what the majority of Americans want.
Sandra A
Wetumpka, AL
I don't need his charade of virtual tears to consider his credibility diminished because his veneer is thinly lobbyists and can be easily peeled off if only one blows hard enough onto it.
Since he's in position to be President if others were wiped out ,I sure as Hell would;nt want a weeper for my President .He must be a little unstable. I've always felt he has a problem from past actions .Like HELL NO YOU CAN't. Remember, Send him home for help.
Jack, I have an uncle that cries everytime he talks about the things that matter the most in life. He's a giant of a man and no one in our family would ever suggest that he was any kind of a whimp. I watched the 60 Minutes report on Boehner and thought finally a person in Washington that's not affraid to show that they're passionate about life, just like my Uncle Ed.