Are Republican debate crowds bloodthirsty?
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
The Republican presidential debates are turning into lively affairs. Maybe too lively.
For the third time in as many debates, crowd members have either booed or cheered at what some say are inappropriate moments.
Most recently, former Sen. Rick Santorum was asked about the repeal of "don't ask, don't tell."
When an openly gay service member asked what the candidates' intentions were for gays in the military, members of the crowd booed loudly.
After the fact, Santorum said he condemned those who booed the gay soldier. He said he didn't hear the boos in the debate hall.
In another debate, Rick Perry was asked about the death penalty and the more than 200 executions that have happened under his watch as Texas governor. The crowd cheered that question.
Another GOP debate crowd got worked up when Ron Paul was asked a hypothetical question about a 30-year-old uninsured man. The crowd cheered when Paul was asked if that man should be allowed to die.
President Barack Obama has criticized the reaction of some of these audience members at the GOP debates; and Vice President Joe Biden calls the booing of the gay soldier “reprehensible.”
Politico asks in an online conversation if the GOP debate crowds are bloodthirsty.
Critics say these debates promote extremism within the Republican Party, and show “the mean season is upon us.”
They fault the candidates themselves for not stamping out the behavior when it happens. They should. Also, some suggest the booing or cheering could turn off moderate and swing voters in the general election. It should.
Here’s my question to you: Are Republican debate crowds bloodthirsty?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Corey in Fort Lauderdale, Florida:
Bloodthirsty? I think they are viciously cold-hearted. I mandate that we change their moniker to the "iced-tea party." The behavior of these debate audiences and the lack of some sort of acknowledgment of inappropriateness by any of the candidates have shocked many of us. The booing of the gay soldier was just the "ice"-ing on the cake. Please stay away from our White House.
Fay in Texas:
It seems so and many of them call themselves "conservative Christians” too. There appears to be a serious disconnect between those Sunday sermons and every day living.
EJ in Houston:
There has been quite a spotlight put on this and rightly so, but the candidates on the stage need to be called out, Jack. Are they all so afraid to upset their base that they would allow them to boo a soldier because of his sexuality, or cheer allowing an uninsured man to die? After it was all over, you hear that "Oh, I didn't hear the booing" or that they condemn that type of behavior. It is like when Sarah Palin claimed she didn't hear all the racial names that then candidate Obama was called at her rallies. It really shows the GOP in a negative light, but the problem is that they don't seem to care as long as they win.
Richard on Facebook:
These are the types of people that would have watched the lions eat the Catholics in Rome. The candidates don't say anything because they are afraid of alienating their base, which are these extremists.
James in North Carolina:
Jack, You have found out our secret. Yeah, we are a bloodthirsty lot. Sometimes we go to KISS concerts when there is not a radical Republican holding a rally. Once we win the election we will be moving on to cannibalism. Right now we have to satisfy ourselves with buffets with medium rare roast beef. Got to go, just saw another UFO fly by.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
Jack,
All I know is that I was raised to sit quietly when someone is giving a speech or presentation. I guess the people that show up at these debates weren't raised the same way. Or maybe they feel it's okay as many celebrities exhibit disrespectful behavior and get away with it.
If there was any doubt, it's been erased with the performance of the audience as well as the candidates. These are our fellow Americans. And the candidates, dear God, were they afraid to speak up for fear of tea party retribution, or is this how they truly feel? Is this our future – a total lack of civility and basic common decency? Those clowns don't have what it takes to qualify as dog catchers, let alone President. Disgusting, audience and candidates alike.
No. They are like 10 year old children who are allowed to inject themselves into adult conversations. The longer the adults allow them to speak the crazier they seem to get. Before you know it the adults are talking about destroying social security and further enriching the wealthy because the unemployed social security receiving tea party says they're the "job creators".
So what's new? Inappropriate candidates and inappropriate crowds representing the Republican party. Bloodthirsty is a good descriptive term for these debate crowds; more like vampires willing to feed on the American people.
Are crowds bloodthirsty? No. Are there people attending who have bloodthirsty tendencies? Yes. I think we are going to see more and more of the fanatics from both sides crawling out of the woodwork over the next 14 months. Will anyone try and put them in place on either side? Doubtful. Candidates only hear boots marching to the ballot box.
Yes, they are. It started with George Bush and his side kick Cheney. They fed the war machine and so many American want blood and an eye for an eye. Compassion is not in their vocabulary. God fearing people are not doing what Jesus would want.
Mr. Cheney was in Vancouver but our weak minded Government officials did not arrest the war criminal. Why they even let him into Canada in the first place is a disgrace. I am sure there are many Americans equal ashamed of their torture and it is continuing.
Well Jack, I think the Republican debate crowds are not the brightest and they certainly don't know how to act during a Republican debate. I was absoulety shocked at the cheering and the applause that the crowd gave when Rick Perry was asked about the over 200 executions that have taken place under his watch as Governor, and I was also shocked at the cheering that occurred during the Tea Party Debate when Wolf asked Ron Paul the hypothetical about if "socitey should let a sick 30 year old man die because he doesn't have health insurance". In my opinon, it is very hypocritical for any Pro-life Republican to be in favor of the death penalty, or to even say anyone should die. The Republican Party claims to be "the party of life" and that they value all life at all stages. Yet it has become clear over the years that the only life they ever care about is the life that is the womb. And as for the Fox News Debate, I thought it was absolutely disgusting to hear the crowd boo a soldier simply because he is gay. He is a soldier who has volunteered to serve this country, and puts his life on the line everyday to serve and protect this country. No soldier who has volunteered to serve this country should ever get booed simply because he is gay.
Jack, ever think that they're not thirsty at all, but that they're drunk?
Huntsman seems the most compassionate of the current crop of GOP candidates. Yet even he didn't admonish the inappropriate reactons from the crowd. What we need is a true statesman. I think they are all dead.
Carol in Northampton, Ma
Jack,
I was truly dismayed and shocked to hear the crowds at these "debates" cheering over the number of people executed in Texas, cheering over Ron Paul's answer that yes, he should die, and especially the hateful booing of a gay soldier serving in Iraq.
What is wrong with these people? These are the same people who say they are devoutly and deeply deeply conservative and CHRISTIAN. Unless I missed something, I didn't get the memo about cheering for executions, cheering for someone to die due to serious illness and lack of health insurance and care, and booing someone who volunteered to serve this country. These are very un-Christian behaviors.
I truly believe that this country is going backwards, people are more ignorant, less tolerant of anyone who doesn't think and especially pray exactly the way they do. What next, will they bring back public hangings?
Who these so-called religious people remind me of are the Romans who threw early Christians to the lions and had gladiators fight eachother and wild animals to the death in the Colosseum.
What I can see is that there is no compassion for anyone or anything, especially if you don't look like, pray like, sound like, come from, the same place as these people. Our country is doomed.
Bloodthirsty? Yes! But u must add ignorant, self-righteous, small minded, disrespectful, and downright mean to the mix! Stir, and the result is a group of rotten apples callled the GOP!
Jack,
No, they're not bloodthirsty. But they and the rest of the meandering republican masses have been whipped into fulminating fury by their so-called leaders. They've been filled with rage and hate and are determined to unleash it on designated enemies. So they boo gay soldiers and cheer executions and ridicule President Obama. You want to be seriously frightened, Jack? Go back and read The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich by William L. Shirer. Read about what Hitler did to rally the masses to the swastika banners, about what he told workers struggling with the 1930s depression and how the government was to blame. Read about how he told them that giving up rights and entitlements, and assigning all power to him, was the right and patriotic thing to do. It'll make you cringe and tremble.
Jim
Reno, Nevada
Although I'm sure those yelling extremist views have been a minority, it is telling that none of the GOP candidates called them on it, nor apologized for them, indicating a tacit approval among them and the crowds in general.
From what I've seen and heard about the Republican debates, people are getting a bit more bloodthirsty. Gays should be weary of ANY of the Republican candidates, especially after the one gay soldier presented a concern and got booed for his troubles. Elderly should also be weary of the current candidates due to the Social Security issue and Ron Paul's response to the hypothetical question posed to him. I have yet to see Democrats get this bloodthirsty.
Santorum didn't "hear" the boos in the debate Forum ?? Just for his answer – that he didn't 'hear' the boos – would be enough for me to NOT vote for Santorum. sounds like an automatic liar to me.
Yes, true colors revealed
yes they are blood thirsty angry and everything else.just 8 years too late with it.we really could have used some of that energy at least 8 years ago
Well, yes and no. I think it’s important to remember that such debates usually attract the most ardent and idealistic conservatives. In that regard, yes their ideology is unsympathetic and hinges on the line of “bloodthirsty” with certain issues. But, it’s important to remember that this doesn’t apply to all those are in attendance. It’s only the few who attend these debates, because of their irrational and obdurate stance, who degrade the rest of the Republican base and warrant such titles.
Not only too harsh but demonstrating no sign of really thinking about anything. Hey folks, it's not a football game, it is not some kind of post modern gladiatorial combat. It also should not be about which party wins or loses but whether our ENTIRE nation wins, thrives and succeeds not just materially but also morally. That seems completely lost on those people.
There is a connection between Neanderthals and republicans. They prove it every day!
better check thier birth certificates
These people are just letting us know what they are really about and that's hate. The GOP are no different.
It wasn't that the GOP crowd cheered at inappropriate times; they cheered for the wrong reason. That debate crowd easily exposed what the American media has been trying to whitewash about conservatives for decades: they are selfish, mean and apparently wish bad things upon other Americans.
Too bloodthirsty and mean spirited for my taste. There attitude is completely Un-American. I don't admire any of the Tea Party or GOP cnadidates for endorsing this behavior. Yes,they are endorsing this behavior by Not Stopping it. They have a problem-address it! If none of them can handle a rowdy crowd at a debate How will they handle the United States business on a Global scale.
The Grand Old White Party could benefit from a course in Reasoning and Critical Thinking. You don't boo U.S. Soldiers serving this nation in a War Zone, nor do you stand silent on a debate stage. There is something terribly wrong with elements of the Tea Party and Republicans in General. I am not a Democrat either, I'm an American.
It is simply an extension of hyper-partisanship between and within the parties. Sometimes what is being cheered is a tough question; sometimes a tough answer; and sometimes the private angers and frustrations of people who aren't being listened to, just pandered to.
No. They are not bloodthirsty. They are self-indulgent. Their screaming takes away from the message of the candidates they support.
They are just being themselves.
Of course they are bloodthirsty. Its the American way. Republicans were quick to crucify of those cheering the collapse of the WTC. Where are they when US soldiers are being booed and the deaths of US citizens cheered. Can you even imagine the reaction if this were Arabs doing this, or even worse, Democrats? We would never hear the end of how 'evil' leftists are. Why are these people getting a free pass?
No Jack, they are just mean-spirited people who blame the President, the Government, their neighbors and their dog for their problems. They are just mean-spirited people whose contribution to the debate is questionable.
It is sickening, the hatred and bigotry being exhibited reminds me more of World War 2 Germany then what the US has and should stand for. Even more disgusting is when they rationalize their hate based on misinterpration of religion, they are no better than those that misinterpret the Islamic religion as an excuse for extremism. This of course also occurred in 08 with Palin and other leading republican figures empowering and not setting straight this extreme wing of the republican party.
I don"t think the crowds booing reflects what the candidates think. I hope that it is just crowd mentality.
Do you mean the mob.....these people have shown how uncivilized they are
They are just being pragmatic. A bloodthirsty loony vote is still a vote!
Jack, it's not that they are too harsh. They are revealing their true essence. It should not be surprising that many of that same crowd didn't believe President Obama wasn't born here. Don't believe in science, believe in freedom and fighting for it only if you're straight. No, not surprised.
Even though I know many level-headed Republicans who I admire and respect, I find myself feeling very uncomfortable being around people that I know lean to the right. The more I see these debate on TV, the more I feel that way. I long for the quiet, official debates that are held closer to the elections. What is happening now is too similar to the presidential speeches and responses in Idiocracy.
Absolutely. But then, it perfectly exposes the cold-hearted voters who support this group of candidates...a group of candidates, I might point out, who did not chastise the crowd.
Jack, These folks seem to be much more than bloodthirsty. Soul thirsty would be more appropriate and accurate as seen in the reaction to Perry's comment concerning executions. VERY disturbing. The blood is just a bonus for them IMO. Greg M. Largo,FL
It is nothing less than what I would expect from these yahoos, Jack. This is the party that wants to rid us from the department of education and that speaks volumes.
Yes they are, and it is the blood of Obama, you can have the IQ of Bush, McCain, Palin, Bachmann, Perry and Romney combined (all of them put together equals 71) and you can see the racism in this bunch, they can't lie enough to hide the fact that they are a bunch of racist and that is what burns their butt is the fact that the United States has a black president, It just tells me that the Republican Party is made up of mostly Fat White men and women who are heavy into religion and think theirs is the only way to do anything.
There are only two times in all of recorded history that a crowd has been as hateful as the Republican/Tea Sippers. First, was in the arena during the Roman era. Thumb voting was started at that time. The second was when the National Socialists came to power in Germany. For those of you that failed World History that would be the NAZI party in Germany.
I'm an Independent and it certainly turned me off. Any Republican candidate wanting my vote is going to have to go a lot further to counter this kind of barbaric behavior and clearly savage attitudes before I'll even consider them seriously. And this is coming from someone who's very disappointed in Obama. It's also more than a little ironic that this behavior comes from the so-called 'right-to-life' party. Yeah, right!
Absolutely, positively and completely YES they are Jack. Republicans are at the end of their leash and wanting big change come 2012. Their only problem being the country's gone nuts and the poor, disenfranchised, illiterate and uninformed are now in the majority and taking the country directly into the toilet,. America's quickly becoming a third world nation.
Gary in Scottsdale, AZ
The tone and hostility coming from the audience at GOP debates has followed the mean, angry rhetoric set by Fox "News", and the rest of the conservative talk show universe. This is tied in with the decline in respect in general for President Obama. Many conservative republicans have no tolerance for people who are different than them: Poor, Disabled, Gay...the list goes on and on. Even a group that traditionally receives across the board support, the military, is being looked down on if they are gay, or question the status quo. There's just more and more anger & hostility and they're not timid about expressing it loudly.
These Republican debates have been a real service to the American public, not for what the candidates have said but rather how the in-studio audiences have responded. They are barbarians. These are the Republican voters. Independents and Democrats, beware of them and their candidates.
Well, first of all just look at the photo above of the people who attend these debates. We are clearly talking about the bottom of the intellectual food chain here. and YES, they are too bloodthirsty. But It's not the peoples fault as much as the politicians they adore. These people are sheep, they will do whatever the most popular guy with an R in front of his name will tell them. And when politicians use fear an intimidation as a tactic to get votes, this is what they will see. Rabid, dishonest, low-intelligence sheep to fill the voting booths.
Yes Jack, and to be honest it is sickening. I've never seen anyone boo a soldier, or cheer death like these crowds have.
Michael Smith Soledad California
Sadly I expect no less from people who continue to buy the fear and hatred continually promoted by most within the GOP. You reap what you sow.
It's just a few idiots in the crowd! The majortity of the party has much more class than this. IT's just like the media to make it sould like something it really wasn't. Was it distastful? Yes it was, but if you watched the debates and heard for yourself you'd see this as a non story being blown out of context by the media. The media makes alot more money turning people against each other than making them come together.
No more bloodthirsty than tyour average democrat crowd.
The unofficial slogan of the Tea Party faction of the Republican Party is "Kill them all and let God sort it out". At least they don't hide what they believe in, even if I don't share those values. While I respect their right to free speech, I doubt they respect those who disagree with them, as evidenced by booing the Iraq vet.
Jack, They're just as bad as ticks on a dog!
I wouldn't call them "blood thirsty" but for a political party that touts it's Christian Values they seem more concerned with helping themselves than helping the Americans that aren't as fortunate. Then again that's always been the case with the GOP. The Tea Party has just illuminated that cold hearts that Republicans have are on a deep freeze now.
It's not debate crowds in general, it's a few activists. To be cheering death penalties and leaving patients to die and to be booing American serviceman simply because they are gay shows the kind of opposite polarity that is present in America today.
While Democrats haven't really veered further to the left, Republicans have been hijacked by thew far right elements in the Tea Party and have gone so far over to the right that now even genuine Conservative principles (like helping out your fellow neighbor when in trouble) are labelled Socialist.
It's time that both parties met in the middle again and refound their common ground.
If it wasn’t the Republican Party’s intention to fan the flames of this hatred and racism, they would denounce it, but , they just support it more. The Republican party is not doing America any service by this, it is only for the benefit of the party.
If you are thinking of supporting this party in any way, think again. They are not helping anything that matters to the American people. They are only dividing us. Yelling against "death panels" and then cheering executions. Pleading for the life of fetus's and for the life of Terry Shivo, then yelling that an uninsured man should die. They are responsible for the violence and the hate. What ever happened to the real Republican party? It is long gone.
What should bother all Americans is the new Republican behavior over all.
Man, talk about a loaded question being served up to a liberal audience that already despises those there supposed to comment upon. Come on Jack, how about a little journalistic integrity. Why don't you just ask your liberal audience to list the first twently things they hate about the tea party and be done with it.
The fact that these people are booing someone who is honorably serving his country, and cheering at the deaths/potential death of fellow Americans is sickening. Many of these people are the same ones that are supposedly patriotic and proud Americans, well to you I say "it doesn't get much more un-American than that."
When your back's against the wall -and many in the GOP feel that way- you lose your sense of humanity, decency, and find solace in good ol' herd mentality, Jack.....
Yes it shows their true intentions and even if the Republican politicians were to quite down the Gop crowd it doesn't change the fact that inside their smiling that they have all their shee-ple on their side.
Its interesting how pro life these folks are, working hard to prohibit abortion. However, if you are 30 years old and have no insurance because you declined to purchase it and now have a disease that will kill you without treatment, these same people will let you die . Once you are born you are on your own.
Booing a gay soldier was enough for me to say that I want nothing to do with these people.
When did we as a country become so judgmental?
Yes; they represent the worst in America.
And the guys dressed in 18th century garb? Now that's Gay.
Blood thirsty? Or sick of watching the justice system continue to fail in this country? Can you blame people for cheering what they perceive as a proper handling of justice, when all too often, we see cases like Casey Anthony or OJ Simpson where what the public perceived as justice was woefully denied? I think its fair to say that if the justice system was not in such shambles with the handling of very public cases or even malfeasance at the higher levels of American society, the Republicans in that crowd probably would not have reacted the way they did. It's not like every time there's an execution somewhere, every Republican in America drops what they're doing and starts applauding.
As a nation of laws, we want the justice system to work. And hearing that it works is something that they were cheering for. I don't think Bloodthirsty is the right word; I think fed up is far more accurate.
Jack,
It just highlights the disingenuous behavior of the Republican party. In one breath they scream "Support our Troops" and in the next they boo a service member, fighting for their freedom, because of one facet of his personal life. It's absolutely disgusting and those people are a disgrace to our country. These are the people that make me ashamed to be American.
Will in CA
The Republicans complain that the country needs leadership, but their leaders have proved to be ineffective cowards in the face of the takeover of the party by extremists and crackpots. The hate-driven camp followers who are now attending the debates, the town halls, and the Tea Party rallies, have always been there, but in the past they were pushed aside by responsible Republicans. Now the party is destroying itself; its identity has been re-defined as the party of hate and intolerance.
Tony, St. Louis MO
YES, THEY ARE BLOODTHIRSTY! They are also mean spirited, ignorant and bigoted. This kind of hatefulness must be stopped if we are going to continue as the "United" states and as Americans. It is ruining this country.
Bloodthirsty, probably yes! Unfortunately, also primarily representing the worst of stereotypes of the Right. Those that relate to them that are people of color are primarily the serious fringe element, fools and others who vote against their economic self interest, election after election. Wake up The Republicans want to take us to a place where the rich are Master's of the Universe, everyone else are but knaves.
Jack,
These idiots are the same goons who only cheer at their kids' little league games once their brat starts beating another kid up.
You want to know what the republican party of today, and more specifically their teavangelical base is... they are the uncontrolled, immature id of America.
Yes, the Republicans at the debates, who value life, remind me of the peasants at public executions during the Middle Ages shouting for the death of the subjects.
It's really sad. They are bigots, racists, idiots, poorly educated, stupid, intolerant, uncaring. I have heard things on these Republican Tea Party debates I never thought I'd see or hear. The nation is headed right into the dumpster.
Yes, Jack they are. I'm a proud American that has traveled much around the world. This is the kind of behavior that many foreigners believe is common among Americans. This simply reinforces that stereotype. For me, its embarrassing. We are better than that.
No, just ignorant.
Of course they're bloodthirsty. But that's OK because their true colors are showing through for the world to see. They display unbridled hate of and intolerance anyone and anything they dislike. Clearly, Christianity at its finest.
Rob P.
San Francisco, CA
It really shows how the republican "tea party" the other group that is uneducated for the most part.
Booed a soldier, applauding someone got cancer and cheered executions. Wow another year or more to go!
let us hope that these reactions are incorrect, in real life situations I don't think these thoughts would prevail. It is easy to follow group speak, most persons are not mob members.
The awful comments that have come out of these debates make me wonder about my fellow citizens. How can people be so thoughtless and cruel is beyond me.
Really Jack?
John McCain brought this racism to the country by picking Palin. That's when the ugly came out & McCain allowed it. This blood thirsty crowd is just getting started. Hold on to your seats.
Ann in Texas
Well, Jack. In a word, Yes. Not just the debate crowd. The GOP voters overall. They have pinned the candidates into a hole they're never going to be able to climb out of.
Absolutely. The only reason I keep watching is that I'm waiting to hear the chants of, "Give us Barabbas!" that I am sure are only days away.
Jack, bloodthirsty is a compliment for these savages...they possess no compassion for anyone who looks, sounds, or thinks differently than they do. We ought to call upon the military, round them up, and put them all on their own deserted island. Then maybe they would find happiness.
Let us face it, the Republicans that attend the various events at this stage of the electoral process are no more representative of mainstream Republicans than the Democrats that come out at the same time during the electoral process. And that is the problem with our electoral process. The fringe elements select the candidates and then the mainstream Republicans and Democrats have to select the lesser of two evils. It's time for an Independent Party to take the middle and leave the Republican and Democratic parties to their fringe elements.
Ask any sane Gop'er and they'll say that this happens on both sides. Simply untrue! When was the last time a liberal crowd shouted for someone to be left to die, or hated due to their sexual orientation despite military service?! The tea party are misguided, ignorant and full of hate.
Yes!!! Yes!!! Yes!!! Cheering the death of 236 Americans, with no regard if some might be innocent. Yelling to let someone die on the street if he doesn't have health care. Here is the definition of 'bloodthirsty' Jack....'Wishing the worst (even death) for someone that you don't know, because the hatred in your soul needs to be satisfied.'
Of course they are bloodthirsty. Their whole mindset is built around fear and hate, so its not surprising when some vitriol spills out at inappropriate time.
maybe they just forgot what there bible says about helping the poor and sick and not judging. maybe they forgot about the part where the govt is not supposed to put one religion before another. maybe there just not americans in the historic sense of equality and justice for all part.
Unfortunately, what you are seeing is real people and real reactions. Those of us who disagree with their self-centered extremism have beeen sheltered from these people by their previous lack of a forum and a general disgust with their attitudes that has kept most of their actions out of the media. Now, an Internet based society has emboldened these people so that almost anything can be said without consequences. They feel free to spew their intolerance in public, rather than just to their closely picked friends. Open your eyes. These people have always been there, but now feel unrestrained. And the politicans they support can't find the guts to rebuke them, because they risk votes.
Bloodthirsty? – no
Ignorant unthinking hypocrites brainwashed by corporate interests and ridiculously partisan media? – yes
Dating back to the founding of the Nation, political theater has been a part of the discourse. From the original Tea Party, to suffrage, to anti-war (WWI,WWII, Vietnam, to the present), abortion (both sides) to the present day, political theater has played a role. I can't agree with many of the ideas of the modern Tea Party, but their political theater joins a fine American tradition. Bravo!
The attendees represent the current makeup of the GOP:
1) Holding the bible on one hand and the American flag on the other hand, but they can careless about the hardship that their follow Americans have to face daily. 2) Un-willing to give up the benefits from government programs/handouts while complain loudly on how much the government spend on these programs/handouts. 3) Anything other than status-quote is unacceptable.
of coarse theyre bloodthirsty.when that many right wing extremests get together its mob mentality.im surprised all they did was boo the gay soldier.
Jack, the collective IQ of Republicans is shrinking faster than the national debt is growing. They're too fixated on taking out their anger on whoever they can think of to bother looking for solutions to the problems that cause their anger. Naturally, the Republican candidates are feeding their base what they want by continuing with their own inflammatory rhetoric.
Yes – the nasty and hate-filled audiences are taking this country down a despicable road of intolerance.
Yes. The Tea Party portion of the Republican party is quite bloodthirsty because their last presidential representative was such a miserable failure with the economy, the wars, and medicaid, and they hate that a Democratic president who happens to be African-American came into office with an extremely high popularity pole, and is yet ahead of their candidate and representatives. They have actually lost focus on the reason they were sent to Washington. They think that they were sent there to get rid of Obama, not work to help get things back on track. They have knowingly put America at risk financially and tarnished our image worldwide. This does not sound like someone who loves America!
Sir,
As a military servicemember, and a gay man I too was appalled by the booing of a brother in arms, no matter his sexuality. This and the cheering of both the number of deathrow executions in my state (Texas), and the question of allowing a man to die who had no insurance, or one of many reasons while right now I choose not to vote Republican. For all their hate may they eventually see that it's all it is, nothing but pure unadulterated hate mongering.
Yes, they are bloodthirsty. The audio/video coverage has been very revealing. Too many of the fringe right make up the audience and they, sad to say, extend the stereotype of the Repubs as being inflexible and reactionary. I hope the voters are paying attention to what is being shown this fall. I am an independent voter, and I have voted with split tickets numerous times. With what I have seen and heard this time around, there will be no Republicans getting a vote from me. I only hope other independents feel the same way. WE will decide the elections in 2012!
Shows that what many of us moderates have feared about some in the republican party is true.
I consider myself to be leaning republican in general, but the current way the Republican party is going has made me wonder if the leadership realizes they are becoming a mob. Mob mentality is not the way to govern, nor the way to make reasonable decisions. Right now the Republicans appear to be run by a bunch of lunatics. The democrats aren't all that much better, but their problems seem tame right now in comparison. Maybe its time for two new political parties to be formed. A moderate right, and a moderate left both with open primaries and no litmus tests.
Perception is reality..
Which is why independents are turned off by the GOP..
The GOP may not all be bloodthirsty but the perception is they are..
I think you answered your own question, Jack. Yes the religious right are hawks they'll fight anything they can't control. Look at their leaders in Congress do we need to say more...
Hi Jack, I think that the extreme wings of both parties are bloodthristy. I have never seen this country so polarized. I sometimes think that social network has made things worse. You can say whatever you want without be accountable for the hated and lies you spread. Some civility would be nice but from what I read none is coming our way. What a shame.
I don't think they are as bloodthirsty as they are narrow-minded and easily led around by any politico with a scintiallating catch-phrase that appeals to their ultra-idealiistic views of the world. They are driven purely by unchecked emotions. Reason and logic were forgotten long ago. It was this kind of unthinking extremist electorate that put people like Hitler and Mussolini into power.
Jack what i think is that people that bother to attend an event such as this come because they are angry with the way things are going. They want any chance to speak out. With a room full of hostility it is next to impossible to ask a question without someone twisting off about it. We are all different like it or not and we all have opinions. I don't think it is any different then at a democrat party meeting. Democrats are upset too. What this tells us is that something needs to change to bring civility back into government and that will bring civility back into these meetings. Well Minus the occasional Nut Job and nothing will ever change that.
Well Jack, this question falls right in line with your other question of the day..are they bloodthirsty...YES!! They have been blood thirsty ever since Obama was elected, and they have become more and more dispicable by the minute!! These are the same people who you couldn't DARE criticize Bush for his Iraq war folly and every soldier was held up on a pedastel,my oh my have things changed ina few short years. Republicans are not only bloodthirsty, they are repulsive!!
"You lie." When Congressman Joe Wilson was disrespectful of the office of the President, he set a bad example. The American people are frustrated with the changes that go against their core values and like Joe Wilson they are expressing themselves openly. We need to reign in our emotions and act in a civil manner toward our fellow Americans. The hypothetical young uninsured person will hypothetically be paying a fine each year he chooses not to carry insurance. I hope our government will build a pool from those fines to help with this uninsured person's medical expenses. We have other ways to deal with problems other than making statements that make us sound barbaric.
This isn't all that new. During the 2008 campaign, some of Palin's supporters would shout "Kill him" when she would say Obama's name. She claimed she never heard them, but I still can't help but notice that she never condemned the sentiment or the action. There just seems to be a certain level of meanness in the GOP that's not only tolerated, it's cultivated.
Disbelief at a gay soldier who didn't understand that the military is a macho culture that is suspicious of gays? Criminals who commit capital offenses and are executed are to be deserving of sympathy? These are not politically correct emotions, but understandable. I'd say media bias, particularly with how much President Obama has said out of both sides of his mouth, but the media would have to be fair in the first place for it to be bias. It is simply to be expected.
No, Jack, its not just the blood the want. They will eat up anything the candidates throw at they as long as it is not something based on facts or logic.
Yes," Beware the zealot!". I heard that somewhere.
I don't know that Republicans are bloodthirsty but it makes you wonder when they rise after dark and are all in bed before sunrise. I only know of one group of people like that and ooopppss, they are bloodthiristy.
It is always unfortunate that the actions of a few represent the feelings of the masses. It's absolutely perverse that the masses aren't marginalizing those who clearly represent malice, hate and discontent. What's worse is that these candidates who claim that this is about "leadership" don't publicly chastise this vocal fanatical minority. Where is the leadership in standing on a stage, hearing the disgraceful cat-calling, and saying nothing? Rick Santorum is a liar.
Right wingers see criminals as "BAD PEOPLE" and therefore their execution is warranted.
Left wingers see Right wingers as the criminals and therefore "their" execution is warranted.
I kid you not!
Ed in Sacramento
Jack as the founders thought, this government is by the people for the people. We all don't need to run our mouth, yell and make alot of noise to be apart of government. We just need to stay awake and get involved in the daily working of
our government and those we have trusted to send to Washington to work for us. Its not about them, its about us we the
people. Their paychecks have the seal of the United States on them and we provide the money to pay them, so lets make sure they do their job for us, not for what they want or special interest groups that own them.
It’s disgusting the way these Tea Party folks act. The failure of our school systems is now starting to show via uniformed bozo voters. We now have unqualified goof-balls who can run for president and actually gain traction (even worse the Bush 2).
There is only one hope left for solution to this problem and that’s the next election. The 2012 election will be the most important in the nation’s history.
Absolutely but the worst part is the inconsistency and Jon Stewart pointed this out lovely last night. Republicans are pro-life on abortion but they don’t extend that principle to the pregnant women in the Middle East and Central Asia being killed by U.S. hellfire missiles.
Sounds like they are bloodthirsty to me. And Republicans claim to be Christian, the religion that tells us we are our brothers keeper and we are to love one another.
Republican rabble have always been bloodthirsty. Have you forgotten the shouts of "Kill him, kill him!" every time palin would talk about obama "palling around with terrorists" and other incitements, in the 2008 campaign? Booing is mild for this bunch. They're a mob looking for a rope and a tree.
You would be thirsty too jack is you just ate up the right of anyone who is slightly different from you. Maybe its time for the reasonable republicans among them to shut up the noisy ones that coincidentally show up at all their debates.
For years the GOP has appealed to this country's lowest common denominator. I guess the old saying is true: we DO reap what we sow.
They're just following the examples of Maxine Waters, Jesse Jackson, Michael Moore and others on the left.
I will have a difficult time voting for a Republican candidate when I associate the candidate with the Republican Party of today. Just look at the hateful people they represent! I want a government run by pragmatic yet compassionate leaders. I am not looking to join a political organization unbalanced between a facist state and anarchy.
Apparently two wars was not enough bloodshed for the crowd. This is why I am NOT voting for the GOP this upcoming election.
Yes!
These people are flat out nuts. The fact that they still have a chance at winning any elections in 2012 is sad. There should be equivalent anger on the other side and more importantly from the middle stomping these idiots out and relegating them to regional party at best.
I couldn't care less about the crowd. There will always be ignorant people who make fools of themselves in any situation. What disgusts me is that not ONE of the candidates said "this behavior is unacceptable." These people are applying for the job of President of the United States, and they should have the courage to say when something wrong is happening, even if costs them politically. I didn't vote for John McCain, but I at least appreciated that he had the courage to say something occasionally when people were saying ignorant things about then-candidate Obama in 2008.
Bloodthirsty? No. Rude and disrespectful? They are the definition of it.
The GOP has gone off the rails. This concerns me less than why moderates in the party have allowed it to happen. The hatred and corruption of US values is astounding. It is an embarrassment.
They are not just bloodthirsty. These comments are obominable. It is clear that the core supporters of the majority of republican candidates are dangerous radical terrorist-oriented extremist. It is time to take to the streets against these thugs.
In my view these crowds are a lot more then just "bloodthristy". They are simply put hateful. I don't understand how you can cheer to the death of a fellow American, even if it was a hypothetical situation. Also how can you boo a man who has served this country, and fought for the rights of those same people that were booing him. It's sad and things like this should not happen. I believe the candidates should be addressing these sick and twisted people, because in the end, no matter what, we are all American.
Absolutely they are bloodthirsty and it's disgusting. The republican candidates want us to believe that those people don't represent all repubicans and that may be true, but there's no question that they DO represent the people who have highjacked our government. Like the "you lie" comment, it's a sign that our government is full of people who call themselves patriots, but display behavior that is completely unamerican.
At least they haven't started burning books.
At least now you can identify the difference between the Tea Party and regular Republicans. These conservative views are nuts and not mainstream – but they weren't going for mainstream, huh?
The bloodthirsty label may be a bit too strong, but these debate attendees are very rude. One could argue that they weren't brought up with good manners, but I think perhaps they have been learning rudeness from the very politicians who participate in these debates. There seem to be quite a few screamers in the GOP, and not nearly enough listeners. They certainly don't seem to be listening to the public.
George W. Bush had to falsely label himself as a compassionate conservative because, as it is painfully apparent, conservatives have no compassion. The lack of objection from the panel of candidates at the debates proves it.
Absolutely.
I had to turn the debate off when the crowd cheered the Ron Paul question, you have to ask what the world is coming to, when people will cheer a question about letting a man die but when put in the same position would fight hard for thier "right" to medical care, the very same right they are attempting at every turn to undermine while they are healthy.
Yes, they are! We've known that for a long time, so the question should be "How are we going to combat it?" I'd like to see the candidates those people support lose out on federal financing in direct proportion to their supporters' bloodthirst!
Come on, Jack. It's so easy to boo - stupid people can't think. Of course they are blood thirsty. And the candidates? They're almost as stupid and even more spineless. I'm a Democrat, but I see spinelessness in my party too. But the Republicans? They're spineless, immoral and mean. They're followers are only a reflection of the worst in this country. It's sad.
No, however there does seem to always be strategically placed "loud ignoramuses" to whip up a bigoted fervor. It's always been an effective way to gain support for your side by relegating certain groups to the "hated outsider" status
They behave sound like the American version of the terroist groups...hope they don't start throwing bombs or threatening the lives of people like Michael Moore.
Jack what it is called is Freedom of Speech. Politicians are not responsible for what people think. People are all different and many solders have fought and died for these peoples right to assemble and speak their minds. If you think that is bloodthirsty just try shutting them up and see how blood thirsty things become.
Oh God Yes! and it is a despical behavior being displayed by Americans
Jack, the Tea Party has planted these out spoken neandrathals to insight hate and distrust in everything good about America....after all, the Tea Party wants the USA to Fail miserably and for good reason, there are factions around the world who want everything we have for IRAN...
Jack-
Their behavior speaks for itself. It's the candidates' lack of response- or reaction at all- that is bothersome.
All Republican's are not blood thirsty. However, until Republicans start denouncing those in their ranks that cheer for executions or letting people die because they don't have health insurance, they deserve to painted with a brush dipped in blood thirsty red.
Bo Wandell
Union, WA
Sociopaths shouldn't be called bloodthirsty. They should be treated as mentally ill. The capacity to think empathically beyond a small group of the likeminded is a recognized component of intelligence and Mental health. These people are defective.
I would be really impressed if any candidate spoke out against inappropriate reactions from the crowd. REAL leadership would be displayed. Cheering for a man dying from no medical care or, booing an AMERICAN serving our country shows low morality and doesn't reflect well on our country. I think it's true the GOP candidates at these events are more interested in their jobs (appearing to agree with everyone who might vote for them) and careers than mine or the future of my country.
I would argue that the language used in this article and by some of the commentors show a lack of respect towards this issue in equal insensitivity. You are labeling others without understanding the context of their inappropriate remarks. While I would agree that booing a US soldier given the context of the question is apprehensable. I can not and will not disagree with the cheering for the execution of a 'convicted' criminals who received their court mandated punishment. These individuals deserved the result and we should support our judicial system.
I don't think they are bloodthirsty; there are just a few of the attendees that don't have any sense and don't know decorum. I would like to know what the crowd at a democratic candidate debate would cheer at...except that won't happen since they already have their candidate. Guess we have to wait until the two parties have at each other after the republican candidate is chosen to see what what rocks are thrown.
Would you really want to be elected by a bloodthirsty horde of morons? What happens when you don't have all the answers and can't solve all the government problems etc? That same horde of idiots turns on you and wants your blood. I'm willing to say that Mitt Romney is the only candidate that seems to have a reasonable grasp on statesmanship and common decorum. Bachman and Perry along with the other GOP candidates seem willing to ride whatever wave of sentiment will lead them to the nomination.....no matter the lack of compassion and humanity that wave might consist of.
The candidates are leading them to be bloodthirsty. They think that will win them the election, but they are wrong. Most people reject bloody wishes. The Republicans will lose because of these extremists.
Jack, havent you noticed?/ For some reason these Tea Party/Republicans people are angry, that's all just angry, at everything. Gay soldiers, sick people, black presidents, angry at everything, most of them look pretty well off to me, so how they got so angry is beyond me–must be something in the airwaves.
Don't worry Jack, I think your questions are spot on. Are Republican Tea Party crazy's fed by Glen Beck bloodthirsty? You bet. They're uneducated, narrow minded and unbelievable gullible.
Republicans and their fans are definitely bloodthirsty. And who's to blame?- Over 200 years of an America who heartlessly denied the rights of blacks, women, and homosexuals. The bloodthirsty-ness is built into the fabric of our country; it's a shame. And it's a joke to act like we can change overnight. Especially with factions like the Tea Party, who divide this country and often present offensive rhetoric, the political war is becoming more dangerous.
There are people out there who want to make this country in their image Jack. I think we are currently in a cold war situation just like we were with Russia. Not good!
The Republicans are embarrassing themselves big time. Lincoln would be so ashamed at what they've done and what they intend to do. I'd like to hope that most Republicans are not represented by the reprehensible tea party, but I'm starting to wonder. Where are the moderates? Why don't they speak up? Do the Republican's intend to find someone sane soon to run for President? Can they?
I'm a life long liberal – but I'd like to be able to respect my opponents. This is not now possible.
From North Pole, Alaska
Jack, I'm not a Republican supporter, but the prologue leading up to your question is misleading. When you say the "crowd cheered", you imply that there was an angry mob. Only a couple people in the audience at these debates cheered the notion of the death penalty, only one or two cheered the "let him die" question of Ron Paul, and only a couple booed the gay soldier. There is no doubt that those who did these things were inappropriate and certainly damage the entire image of the party, but as a journalist it is your responsibility to at least present an accurate picture of the true events that transpired.
Jack,
Is water wet? It is absolutely reprehensible that not ONE of the candidates for president has the courage to address these hecklers on the spot.
Instead of asking if the Republican party is "bloodthirsty", how about asking if the audience that cheered is in favor of supporting and enforcing the laws of Texas and the United Stated? Gov. Perry is bound by oath to support the Texas, as well as, the US Constitution; something the current administration has lost sight of.
Jack – Absolutely! This current round of debates are only the most recent example. Sarah Palin put crosshairs on people she deemed enemies and you saw what happened there! I posted an opinion at another site recently as an Independant voter and people began to attack me as old and out of touch, calling me names. What is with these ultra conservatives that they think their opinions are more important than other's rights? And they claim to be Christians – obviously the ones I've heard at the debates and other sites are far removed from Christianity – more aligned with the devil. Bloodthirsty and proud of it!
So these candidates think they could be President? If they don't have the guts to stand up against the GOP audience for common decency, how could we expect them to stand up against a foreign leader?
Bloodthirsty? They say you can't get blood out of a stone and that's what these people are, stones, with no feeling or empathy for others.
Jack, The teaparty mentality is what is wrong with the GOP. Intelligent people know that the teaparty is bloodthirsty about anything that they don't agree with, and especially with our president because he is black. It is an unspoken fact that the majority of them are misinformed and not very smart or well read. If the GOP candidates do not separate themselves from the teaparty, they will lose all of credibility, which has already happened as far a in the case of Bachman and Perry.
Jamestown, PA
They are no worst than Congresswoman Walker tell them to "go to hell", or the Vice President calling them "terrorist".
What else could be said of a crowd which denies medical aid to a critically injured 30 year old man in a hospital because he doesn't have healthcare insurance and says "let him die". Not the America I grown up appreciating.
Yes, it has been despicable. What kind of a nation have we become? Were the crowds that bad during the primaries before the 2008 election (didn't follow then to the level of detail I do now)?
"ThatsEnoughAlreadyRepugs" are a Complete Disgrace to the Once GRAND USofA. Not only are the crowds like leeches, the candidates themselves are. Puppets & Leeches RUINING our country, people & respect around the world. What I would like to ask/say to all these Ignorant Supporters & Candidates is: "And You call yourself a Christian?!? Jesus will recognize NONE of you! Wake Up!"
They are not Bloodthirsty, They are KNOWLDGE-STARVED. These are the same crowds that make up tea party events, support Sarah Palin as an intellect, and tote guns to political events. Time will only show that the GOP party is short lived in history, unless major attitude changes are made.
Yes, the gop resembles the mob in a frankenstien movie. I have never seen such a heartless, mean spirited gang of people in my life. The gop has fallen out of touch with freedom. The problem in a free nation is everyone is free and this really irks them.
Jack, You can't spin this. Booing a gay soldier, cheering the death of someone who was denied coverage and treatment because of a pre-existing condition, and cheering the execution of someone who's case at least deserved a timely review just shows how far we have fallen as a nation. Regardless of your political beliefs, cheering death and booing someone who has honorably served our country should be against anyone's moral fiber, no matter what the other side said. Right wing political vitriol has created a part of society that is exhibiting everything ugly about this country. Social Security, Medicare, and all "entitlement" programs were created to take care of our old, our sick, and those who needed help because we are the greatest country on earth. We should be able to debate abuses, inefficiencies, and even contributions, but we should never let our political agendas take away from what made us a great nation. We have gone from compassionate to bloodthirsty. Even though bloodthirsty is the minority, they are so loud that they actually believe they are the majority.
I wouldn't say bloodthirsty, but I would say insensitive, like alot of people these days. Some people are only concerned with themselves, and do not show any impathy for someone who may have a different issue. A list of these insensitivies are racism, poverty, sickness, sexuality, and religion. Basically If I don't agree with it or if i haven't experience it, it is wrong or it doesn't matter.
Yes they are bloodthirsty- amazingly they would also tell you they are pro-life! Apparently life begins at conception and ends at birth. To say they are a few crazies is to ignore the reality – these are the folks who elected the house members who are willing bankrupt our country before they will let a democrat win a point. I would guess that the candidates control the tickets for folks to be in the audience so these people must be connected – sad!
Marianne Newton, MA
They should get back in their holes where they do not have to deal with reality.
The debates are just like states, such as Iowa, choosing the Republican candidate by voting first. It make the candidates move to the extreme right and hurts them in the general election
All this noise about cheering for capital punishment (which is a proven failure as a deterrent), letting the poor die on account of unaffordable health care, or even booing the very idea of a brave and patriotic soldier based on his/her sexual orientation is reprehensible. All these idiotic displays of intolerance do little more than paint the GOP with a very ugly brush, which up until recent debates has only been partially justified. Not sure if the Dems are the right people for the job, but I am now positive that the GOP are certainly the wrong people to steer our neighbors to the south towards a social and economic rebuilding.
Bloodthirsty? Only until they get rid of all the queers, commies, and liberals...
They are not Bloodthirsty, They are KNOWLEDGE-STARVED. These are the same crowds that make up tea party events, support Sarah Palin as an intellect, and tote guns to political events. Time will only show that the GOP party is short lived in history, unless major attitude changes are made.
Yes they are. The past 3 debates I've watched I've seen more clapping for jabs and cheapshots at Pres. Obama, then for idea proposals. The Republicans seem to get more "excitement" over the "misfortune" of others than finding a solution to America's problems. That alone speaks volumes.
Jack , great question , these things have upset me too, and all I can say is, not all feel that way but many in the new GOP do , and especially in the south. Remember , Jack , this is not your Dads republican party , it has been changing over time and that is why Geo W Bush ran as a "compassionate" conserative ....I think they have left the building along with Elvis! Compassion is not considered cool now for the tea party nor in todays republican party...they leave that to the unpartriotic and ungodly democrats!
Yes. I say let them be and express theselves. It should be because truth conquers all and it will help shape our country
what do you expect from a party that uses the likes of F-word News Channel to spread false propaganda, hate, racism, and intimidate public figures openly and without any reprimand from the FCC, let alone their own conscious? their followers feel empowered to bully, to insult, to hate and to ridicule, all in the name of religion and family values. shame on this country for giving hate and skewed facts a leg to stand on, under "free speech".
I do not know about the crowds but look at their leadership. Republican Ex-Vice-President would attack Iraq again if he has to do it over even Iraq had nothing to do with 9/11. Does it tell us something?
Al from Denver, Colorado
These people remind me of same kind of people who populated rome before its fall. They represent a mentality which sadly has hijacked the republican party from more reasoned pursuits. As an independent voter, I could never vote Republican based on the what i perceive the fundamental lack of decency which pervades the heart of the party at present
They should get back in their holes where they do not have to deal with reality.
Kathleen in Norwich, Vermont
As a registered Republican, I am getting increasingly more embarrassed by the antics and intolerance of the "new" right side of the party. And since they fan flames of hate and pull so much negative attention – we are all looked at that way. As extremists. It just seems that the more extreme someone's opinion is – the less tolerant and more disrespectful that person is of others beliefs. So, maybe it's not really the extremism that bothers me, it's the saddening degree of intolerance that comes with it. We need a new party so we can separate ourselves from that.
Bloodthirsty, Jack? Yeah, and let's add disgusting and reprehensible. The silence from the candidates speaks volumes. Is this what we've come to? Say anything (or nothing) to keep the rabble on your side. The "Moderate Republican" has now become an oxymoron. The whole GOP seems to be made up of just morons.
Absolutely! Grab your knives a pitchforks. These are the Christians. I think all republicans need to look in the mirror and ask, "what would Jesus do?"
Bloodthirsty? My God, yes. And yes, they are turning off moderates, without a doubt. Scary thing is the trickle down...look at the college bake sale racism story...those kids don't give a rip who they offend or to what degree they offend.
There bloodthirsty alright! This is the real GOP! They are hateful, racist, only care about the wealthy, want grandma to kick off early so the insurance companies make more money. They don't care about the middle class and poor. They only care about one thing! Themselves! This is the real GOP. Selfish, selfish, selfish !!!!!!!
It still makes me tear up. As a disabled soldier I swore to protect my country from enemies foriegn and domestic. Beligerant to the hieghts. They seem like domestic enemies to me. They want us to die.
did anyone here watch the debate ?The crowd was boooing the two people who were booing the gay soldier.
Cheering death and booing a soldier is just a portion of the small minded thinking within the Republican party. The candidates pander to the base which reveals just how small minded they are as well...................
There is certainly a vocal minority that is bloodthirsty. The fact that they are so well tolerated leads me to wonder if they are vocalizing a hidden dark side that the majority may be unwilling to admit to.
Let's go back to 2009 when Joe Wilson, South Carolina House member shouted "you lie" to the president no less. This set a precedent for heckling in all venues. Nothing is sacred. This behavior is just immature and disrespectful.
Yes they are and it's disgusting. They really are they Party of Hate and I just don't get it. How could you boo a gay man who is serving are military while your just sitting at home safe and sound.
Jack, it goes well beyond the Republican debate crowds being bloodthirsty. We as a society have wandered so far from what is moral and ethical behavior that unless we treat each other as we would want ourselves to be treated then we are doomed as a civilization.
Felix F Giordano
Ashford, CT
No, they are not! In the case of the hypothetical young man without health insurance, could it possibly be that these people believe in personnel responsibility? That might be the reason for that particular response. There was a time in this country that people had enough dignity to have some. That's all right, with the liberals reaction to this audience behavior; their love of "Big Brother"; and with personnel responsibility on the wane in this country, it is probably a good thing we are headed for socialism. They want to be "taken care of" and have responsibility for nothing...
Jack,
When I heard these outbursts, my first thought was of Joseph Welch's statement to Joseph McCarthy; "Have you no sense of decency, sir? At long last, have you left no sense of decency?"
What has happened to our sense of decency and self-respect?
Where is our Joseph Welch?
You betcha these "folks" are bloodthirsty, or at least they allow themselves to be portrayed this way. They are a disgrace to the GOP and they will only aid President's Obama's reelection. Sadly, many conservatives are compassionate, but this vocal MINORITY continues to skew the perspective many Americans have of the GOP.
They are cheering because a man with no health insurance may have to die because of his disease...I personally find that disgusting but that goes to show that GOP voters just care for them selfs and not their fellow man.
It is a sign of the times. We cheer for "our side" with all of the tact and decorum of an Oakland Raiders game. If your "star quarterback" runs dog fights you cheer for him anyway. If you have a seat near the tunnel to the opposing team locker room, throw your beer at them. The plot of Idiocracy is unfolding generations ahead of schedule. Buy stock in Brondo.
GOP no more bloodthirsty or uncivil than Dems who say "tea party can go to hell and GOP congressmen want to see blacks hanging from trees". Why did the President not call these out as "uncivil"?
Jack,
The answer is absolutely yes. The Tea Party, by its own definition wants to overthrow the current government. Many of their candidates have in the past few months even implied armed aggression to get what they want. Hearing the crowds responses over the last few debates, while appalling and revolting, sadly are probably mild compared to what is to come.
You will always find at least five idiots in a crowd. That will never change no matter whose debate your at. Unfortunately that is a price of free speech. I'm not too worried about candidates, or presidents, having to condemn them. I don't assume just because two people are in the same room that they speak for one another. When I argue a point with someone I usually try to argue with the smart one because if I need to base my argument on what the idiots say then I didn't have much of an argument. I judge the candidates and President on what they say and do, not what others say and do. That is the price for free.
I have never responded to you, Jack, but this one is making my heart pound! What does this mean that such callousness can be allowed by people that I can call fellow Americans!? And where will this lead? Their no-heart behavior is totally unacceptable and will only come back to haunt them. Just wait till someone in their family is caught in such a situation. I am 75 and know what a good heart can mean and what caring for one another can mean and what it can lead to. This is an organized angry group of shallow, rude, mean and angry humans that are very misguided!
I think it's entirely possible that left-wing activists have plants in the crowd. What assurances does CNN have that every attendee is a Republican and/or a Tea Party supporter? Most people watching at home are smart enough to reach their own conclusions and realise that this is mostly theater, no matter which side they agree with, if any.
Bloodthirsty and hypocritical, selfish, small-minded, envious and cruel. They elevate their ignorance and call it populism. A large segment of the party has always been like this. But now that we have a black president, aka, the "antichrist" - the lid has come off and the hate can't be contained. Good. Now we see their core values. What's next? Brown shirts?
It is unfortunate for the GOP that a few bad apples can spoil the crowd which gives the media the ability to spin the debate crowd's attitude as "blood thirsty." Fortunately Ron Paul is disturbed by both the crowds attitude toward our BLOODTHIRSTY foreign policy and the attitude the crowd displayed.
It is never about the far sides of the political wings, rather it is about what they endorse by not speaking out. I have received countless emails about how progressives are destroying this country. When was the last time a progressive drug an evangelical behind their truck until the were dead? When was the last time progressives harrassed conservative children to the point where they committed suicide.
The Republican Party has a responsibility to once and for all step forward and denounce this unacceptable behavior against people that don't look, speak or believe as they do.
Yes| the gop resembles the mob in a frankenstien movie. It is sad to see people so ignorant and mean spirited.
At least these folks have some feelings / opinions instead of just sitting on their hands. Our "new' tradition of not trying to hurt anyone's feeling had gotten way out of whack.
All of us need to become involved for our future and show some passion.
Don't see what is different from the comments by union boss who said that the tea party folks needed to be eliminated and the crowd cheered
Remember the movie The Road. You had the dad and the son just trying to survive? Then you had the crazy people that went around killing and eating people to survive? Well.....to me the tea freaks are the crazy people that will eat you for their own survial. ew. Maria form Tucson
I'm a Democrat who believes that the majority of Republicans object to that behavior as much as I do. I wouldn't let the stupidity of a few paint everyone else in that way.
What disappoints me the most is that those on the dais refused to say anything. They should have put those people in their place. They have become so hard up for acceptance they have forgotten right from wrong. The Republican party is in turmoil. How must these candidates feel knowing that their leaders are scurrying and looking for someone else to throw into the fray. Watch out candidates, here comes Chris Christie. Your leaders don't want you, and pretty soon won't want Christie either. A truly sad state of affairs.
Bloodthursty? No...loaded audience Yes; When I went to Union Sq. in San Francisco, my home city, to hear the Tea Party meeting, I was expecting to hear a genuine program but the crowd was only interested in venting hostility. I learned nothing. When these meetings, such as the Republican Debates, are planned, it seems to me that groups of deliberatly hostile people make sure they get in to create trouble and give the impression that the majority feel as they do...what I term a loaded audience.
I am a Goldwater Republican but am ashamed of what is happening to the Republican Party...now I am an independent.
Russ Saunders Martinez, CA
What's BloodThirsty is not 2 or 3 idiots in a crowd, but the sensationalism created by the media and the Democrats.
Why haven't the media and Democratic leaders called the elected Democrats Bloodthirsty for their remarks...calling the
elected GOP Congressmen "Racist" among other things, and Maxine Waters' " Go to Hell" comment. Yes, the campaign
is in full swing....blame the entitre GOP for 3 idiot remarks of private citizens , but, heaven forbid...never call the
Democrats Bloodthirsty or any other harsh word. It's sickening!
Jack: The answer to your excellent question in my opinion is very clearly "Yes." These are the same people at those hostile and radical tea party rallies with all of the inappropriate signs. People need to realize that voting for tea party candidate in either Republican primaries or in the general election is not in their best interest because these candidates will mostly be held captive to the type of people in these crowds if they win!
Jack, yes they are..Not tjust this crowd, it was really brought to the forefront during the 2008 campaign between McCain/Plan vs Obama.There was so much hate and venom spewed towards the Obama's during this campaign..I am so fearful for my country as I know it will only get worst for us..God help us..
As an independent, these tea party types and their weak kneed candidates who cannot confront them have lost any chance of my vote. Are they all led around on a tea party leash or what? It's no wonder the repubs can't get a quality candidate to run with this crowd
Frankly it doesn't matter if the crowds are bloodthirsty. As a Republican I am appalled. We stand for life, liberty, freedom and justice for ALL. Every candidate failed the most basic test of our leaders and pandered to the Tea Party. Not one of the candidates stood up to the crowds, showed strength of leader and defended life or the soldier who protects our liberty and freedom. Their collective inaction displayed selfishness and a complete lack of patriotism. I am ashamed for them.
Oh Yes they are, its look a like a Twilight Saga,Where Vampires ( GOP) try their best to destroy the Werewolves (Democrats), Spreading the terror between the American population and also doing their best to eliminate their competitors no matter what it takes, no matter how scare you are and where it will end, they just want the power. No human rights or social rights you need they will step up on top of you. But in the end remember Vampires cant stand the sun, so don't worry the Werewolves will be here for a long time, for sure.
Jack, there is no excuse for the behavior of the crowd or the current GOP! Appalling!
Jack I think with Palin being of part of the GOP race in the last presidential election they seem like a joke these days. That's the reason their followers are made up a bunch of jokers. It's unbelievable the kind of Politics they play with no solution for anything.
Before we slap another ridiculous label on all Republicans - ask yourself if you even watched the rebate? If you did, you would have counted about 5 knucklheads out of a thousand audience members even booing. Not enough for any candidate to even dignify with a response. When was the last time you a Obama chastised a member of his audiences for booing conservatives. When has Pelosi or Obama challenged members of the Democratic party for demonizing the Tea Party or calling them 'Tea Baggers', an obvious homophobic insult.
Ask yourself......
People behave how they want to... so you are right that the problem is with the candidates. The fact that they don't stand up to inappropriate reactions is only half the problem... I am gravely troubled that they smirk at the responses with satisfaction... as if their ego is stroked. This signals to me a more sinister problem. I'm a Republican, and I want them to represent reason, intelligence and respect for others. I'm embarrassed by what I see and expect something more. I will vote for something more ... If I can find it.
This is extremeism as those who can get into the hall are truly diehard, but continue to present themselves as a representation of what they believe. Frankly, when people do not lash out at such lurid and cruel behavior it says something. And for politicians to refrain from criticizing those present who repond in this way is a form of silent approval for what is being said. This shows how "important" these candidates believe this segment of their party is...and their lack of fortitude to "do the right thing"
Yes, and its only identifies the candidates with the bloodthirtsy comments that are made. You would think the candidates would take the opportunity to lead and differentiate themselves from the rest of the pack. Here is the real question Jack, who runs these events and don't they have the responsibility to maintain the decorum of the debate; or is it all about the ratings?
Jack, you and others were PUNKED! The two people, out of 5000 in attendance, who booed the gay soldier at the recent Republican debate, were liberal plants! Be real will ya!
New Jersey
This is the party that panders to the lowest common denominator, while waving the flag and insisting they believe in Jesus. Jesus would not favor unnecessary wars, or the profiteering on them, capital punishment, tax cuts to the rich at the expense of the poor and elderly, discriminating against gays, or paying off politicians. The right wing has trouble finding any lower limit to their morals, saying things in private they have to deny publicly when their followers aren't bright enough to keep quiet about it.
Yes. And only going to get worse. When you hear them booing soliders, you know they lost touch with their professed morality. From their audible groans, the rumbles start to grow into angry hate speech. This will provoke many to justify open hostility and possibly violence. After years of class warfare and racism, we have to openly admit this reality and discuss the issues openly.
Yes followers of Tea party are bloodthirsty-greedy; uncaring group. God have mercy if you Americans are stupid enough to elect a republican president!!!
Cheering for executions, and booing compassionate initiatives- sounds like bloodthirst to my ears. If this keeps up one way or another we'll end up a one-party nation, either decent or hideously evil.
Ridiculous. Are Democratic supporters of Mr. Obama, who keeps sending young Americans to die in his "no-win" war in Afghanistan, "blood-thirsty"? Just because people support the death penalty for a small percentage of convicted murderers, that doesn't make them blood-thirsty! I heard a lot from liberals about Troy Davis last week, but nothing at all about the Connecticut home invasion where a mother and her two daughters were bound, raped, and burned to death even after paying a ransom. Where were the Pope and Desmond Tutu in talking about that?
From Seattle:
No, I would just call them plain nasty, mean spirited and ignorant and about as unChristian as you can get. . I am dead certain that the teaching I got in Sunday school told me to be respectful of everyone regardless of who they were and what they believed. What a bunch of hypocrits.
Bread and Circuses. To quote Heinlein: "Once the monkeys learn they can vote themselves bananas, they'll never climb another tree."
Yes. It's obvious by all they stand for. They love the death penalty,
they want a young 30 year old man to die, they want to Kill any bill
the president to pass, they would rather see the common man work
himself to death. They are filled with such hurtful hatred for anyone who does
not belong to their elite club.
You forgot to mention the 2009 town hall hysterical screaming and fistfights and the guy in Lakeville, MN who screamed out, "Kill him!" when John McCain said Obama's name. Yeah, they are bloodthirsty, angry and unsophisticated.
Not sure about bloodthirsty, but it sure is an embarrassing element of this country. For all their claims of the courage they possess to be President and to fix this country, not one of them had the courage to stand up to the people in one room. It proves they are all not ready to lead this country. I can't understand how more people are not outraged and embarrassed by this element of our country. Sad.
Well, I do believe the are. The presidential candidates used to be seen as the sheepdogs protecting the citizens rights and values whenever they participate in presidential debates. Now, it's these citizens who are now seen as the wolves seek bloodthirsty revenge for the rights and values that have not been granted to them. And they are using these debates to speak up by howling and barking at the candidates whenever their rights and values are not guaranteed.
Jack
I think most of these people are uneducated followers, people who are easily influenced. They are a minority of voters
That do not represent the views of the average American. I feel sorry for them and don't think they should be given so much press coverage. It never ceases to amaze me how low some people in politics will go to get attention, using these uneducated people for political gain is just wrong.
Only in the case of the death penalty did it seem like a majority of the audience engaged in reprehensible behavior. But even if only a handful of people in an audience turn ugly, when we project that proportion to the entire population, we're still talking about millions of people cheering death for the uninsured and jeering at a soldier risking his life to protect our, and their, country.
The Republicans are just mimicking their elected officials that booed the President of the United States and yelled out "you lie" during one of his speeches. I blame the GOP leaders for inciting negativity, hatred, and racism (btw I am white). They encourage their followers to create havoc during public hall meetings and even have a written plan instructing folks how to do it. The GOP has taken politics to an all time low. I do admire President Obama for not engaging in these harmful and childish rants, at least we have one adult in the room.
Jack,there is no excuse for the behavior of the crowd or the current Gop!Appalling!
A very sad display of civility and respect. And shame on each of the candidates for their outright silence in not calling out this type of behavior. Your moral weakness is obvious lady and gentlemen.
what about all of the off color statements made by the likes of maxine
waters.....and that union guy a couple weeks ago?
not trying to down play the crowd memmbers or anything, but these are
actual officials making full statements, not just a few idiots
booing/cheering....
or did i miss something?
It’s a shame the few idiots are getting the attention and not more about the real issues. They are not bloodthirsty just ignorant. Also we should not be so quick to assume that all of these idiots are Republicans anyone can attend the debates from any political party they could very well be Democrats. Having said that the lack of response from the candidates during the debates is inexcusable and shows a real lack of a backbone.
Republicans claim to have a lock on Jesus, but lets take a closer look.
Jesus said about taxes: "Give Ceasar what belongs to Ceasar". Republicans try to avoid taxes at all cost.
Jesus said about prayer:"Those who pray in public have their reward" Republicans try to look pius praying in public
Jesus siad about charity: "To least of those, you do unto me". Republicans are trying to end social security and medicare
Blood Thirsty? Republicans have morphed to an evil cult that are out to steal, kill, and destroy like the devil himself.
The Republican's crowd are a disgusting crowd to say the least. They are pro life yet promote and cheer the death penalty. It just shows you that they are a bunch of uneducated hillbillies lacking any commonsense.They are the spoiled child that holds their breath to get their own way. They don't know exactly what they want as long as they can disrupt whatever is going on to get the attention and their own way. And when they get their own way then is when they realize that they really didn't want what they got. Immature, selfish, uneducated hillbillies.
Unfortunately, the GOP still represents caveman thinking.
Are Republican debate crowds bloodthirsty? YES!
They hate everything. Blacks, Hispanics, Medicare,Medicaid, Social Security, Gays, Gays in uniform, the unemployed, the terminally ill, children's health care, social spending in any form. ect. I know I am not voting republican until these nut cases get out of my party.
The party of NO needs to remember not all Republicans are employed here in Texas. This ol boy has had it with
saying NO to everything. We sent this people to Washington to do a job. We want them to work together and get
this country working again.
To put it mildly, they are basically showing their arses, their true colors you might say. How can people be so cruel as to give one human being basic human rights and not another just because of who they love? These people are self-righteous and hypocritical I'm sure. Very judgemental at the least and scariest of all they are cruel in their hearts. They are also very ignorant and this is not a good combination my friends. Santorum's answer was so weak and so scary and these people just cheered him on. I pray for this country and each person in it that none of these jokers get anywhere the White House.
The current crop of Republican Candidates simply know how to get applause...All Bachman has to say (errr...shout) is
ONE TERM PRESIDENT!! That's usually good for two minutes of unbridled delight and cheers from the Tea Party people. The single word "Obamacare"...is a natural crowd pleaser...From there...anything abut guns, targeting Obama or Democrats, questioning Obama's birthplace, innuendo about his being a "loyal 'merican" - all these are easy guranteed simply ways to stir up the Republican crowd. One further...and the crowd is ready and willing for something a bit more violent. - Take a step back and become rational anr this audience will call you a "Liberal".
Yes but I think everyone has the right of freedom to express themselves which many take granted. I love my country but. The truth conquers all and it will help shape our country to be better as we have in the past.
Yes, and it is NOT equally distasteful on the other side. One is not always or entirely just as bad as the other. I kills part of me inside that people defend this behavior at all. There is a VAST gulf between respectfully disagreeing as we are taught from early childhood and this display of arrogance and ignorance. I can't find a a strong enough word for how I feel about this behavior.
I'm outraged by the cheers to let a 30 year old man die who had no insurance. This is the same party that criticized President Obama for taking on healthcare reform and preached that he would institute 'death panels'. I would say that the Republican Party is in favor of denying those with inadequate or no insurance to suffer needlessly. As a healthcare worker, I see first hand the unbelievable lengths the insurance industry will go to deny patients basic medical care. The U.S. falls far behind other industrialized nations in quality of healthcare. When are we going to wake up? We need a public option and quality, affordable healthcare for all U.S. citizens. The Republican Party is only concerned with lining their own pockets and the executives of the health insurance industry.
Simple. These people represent what the GOP believes. I don't understand how some people can run for president of the USA.when deep down you know, you're not willing to represent everyone in this country.
Don't care the republican debate crowd bloodthirsty or not bloodthirsty. Only want to salute American soldiers who bloodshed a lot in the two wars.
Jack, You are so naive! Have you actually talked to any of the (very few) people who rudely cheered or booed? They are most likely activists from Moveon.org or similar democrat dirty tricks organizations. Send a reporter to the next debate. I'll bet you'll be surprised.
Some say 'No, we're just standing up for what we believe in'. . . when you believe it's okay to let an uninsured man die, and moreover, you cheer for it, there's obviously something wrong with your party and the people supporting it.
Jumper
Provo, Utah
Yes they are. The American people are sick of wasting our time to elect politicians that are useless. We want to put people in office who don't know how to point the finger at another party and change government.
In a word: Yes. In several words: not only bloodthirsty, but disgusting, ignorant, self-righteous, rude, and indecent.
Jack,
I think they are bloodthirsty and they represent the worst of America. How can alot of these groups claim to be Christians but yet all you see is hate and malice? It's the same people that showed up for Palin's hate rallies. Just because everyone has an opinion people have to remember they are still American. Just like that soldier, at least he is serving his Country, it's better than all of these other people that wouldn't even think about it at all. WE are definately better than this, and I believe the candidates need to start taking control in a respectful manner.
I am an Independent from Texas. I don't like the Tea Party. When I heard the boo at the gay soldier, it turned my stomach. Thererfore, I paid close attention in the days that followed on all channels. It seems , through eye witness accounts, that it was one or two bad people and they were promptly jumped on by the crowd.. Do not assume all the people in a crowd of one or two skunks are bad people. It's just not right.
I'm not republican but I hope these outbursts are coming from the minority. Honestly, I think the Rep party just attracts these people just as the dem party attracts its own radicals. It's just sad that they aren't put back in line by their "leaders".
I guess Compassionate Conservatism is gone.
Get you facts straight!. The 2 or 3 people who booed were booing the question not the service member. Really you need to find the facts, not repeat political rhetoric. You should be pleased that people are involved in politics, however untasteful. Years past the media was upset that people were apathetic.