TPMDC
Obama Does Question Time With The House GOP (VIDEO)
Rep. Mike Pence (R-IN) and President Obama
Share
Send to a friend!
President Obama spoke this afternoon to the House Republican retreat in Baltimore, turning the occasion into a lively debate, on national television, between a sitting president and the entire House caucus of the opposition party.
Obama opened by thanking House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-OH) for the invitation: "You know what they say, keep your friends close, but visit the Republican Caucus every few months."
During his speech, Obama went over themes from his State of the Union address this past Wednesday. At once, he simultaneously said that Democrats and Republicans can find common ground on issues such as a spending freeze and tax credits for small business, but he also went after the GOP for voting against the stimulus bill while attending ribbon-cuttings for projects in their districts, challenged them to work together on important issues, and called upon them to support his proposed fees on the bailed-out financial sector.
Then came the really interesting part. Obama began taking questions from Republican members of Congress, a sight that isn't normally seen on television in American politics.
There were some similarities to the British Parliamentary tradition of Prime Minister's Question Time -- minus the cheering and booing -- with a sense of political jousting between an incumbent president and the opposition, who for their part pitched one tough question after another.
One key moment came when Rep. Mike Pence (R-IN), a potential presidential candidate for 2012, used his question to attack the stimulus plan as having failed to prevent double-digit unemployment, alleged that the Republican stimulus plan would have created more jobs with less money, and asked Obama if we would embrace across the board tax cuts.
Obama said that the economy turned out to be even worse than was initially thought when the original estimates were made, and that this was from before he took office -- a subtle jab at the prior Bush administration. "We had lost 650,000 jobs in December [2008] - I'm assuming your'e not faulting my policies for that," said Obama. "We had lost, it turns out, 700,000 jobs in January, the month I was sworn in - I'm assuming it wasn't my administration policies that accounted for that. We had lost another 650,000 jobs the subsequent month, before any of my policies had gone into effect,t so I'm assuming that wasn't as a consequence of our policies. That doesn't reflect the failure of the Recovery Act."
Obama also returned to his point of how the polls have shown that individual stimulus components are popular, but not the total plan itself -- pointing out directly how this relates to GOP members of Congress. "As I said a lot of you have gone to ribbon cuttings for the same projects that you voted against," said Obama. "I say all this not to re-litigate the past, but it's simply to state, the component parts of the recovery act are consistent with what many of you say are important things to do."
"I am not an ideologue. I'm not," Obama also said."It doesn't make sense if somebody could tell me you could do this cheaper and get increased results, that I wouldn't say 'great.' The problem is, I couldn't find credible economists that would back up the claims that you just made."
Later on, Obama also said how health care reform had been demonized by the right, despite support from a wide variety of people such as Republican former Senate Majority Leaders Bob Dole and Howard Baker, and former Democratic Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle. "Now you may not agree with Bob Dole and Howard Baker, and certainly you don't agree with Tom Daschle on much, but that's not a radical bunch," said Obama. "But if you were to listen to this debate, and frankly how some of you went after this bill, you'd think that this thing was some Bolshevik plot -- (scattered laughter, stray applause) -- I mean, that's how you guys presented it."
Obama also said the Republicans had ruined their own legislative leverage, if they wanted to see their ideas incorporated into legislation, by being overly combative with the administration and agitating their own base.
"So all I'm saying is, we've gotta close the gap a little bit between the rhetoric and the reality. I'm not suggesting that we're gonna agree on everything, whether it's on health care or energy or what have you. But if the way these issues are being presented by the Republicans is that this is some wild-eyed plot to impose huge government in every aspect of our lives, what happens is you guys don't have a lot of room to negotiate with me. The fact is that many of you, if you voted with the administration on something, are politically vulnerable with your own base in your own party. You've given yourselves very little room to work in a bipartisan fashion because what you've told your constituents is this guy is doing all kinds of crazy stuff that's gonna destroy America."
At one point, Obama was asked whether he had time for more questions. "You know, I'm having fun, this is great," Obama responded.
The combativeness continued, during a question with a very lengthy preface about spending, from Rep. Jeb Hensarling. Obama interrupted him during the preface, and also got his name wrong. "Jim (sic), I know there's a question in there somewhere," said Obama. "Because you're making a whole bunch of assertions in there, half of which I disagree with, and I'm having to sit here listening to it. At some point I know you're gonna let me answer it."
This became what could be the first publicly-held President's Question Time, and Obama was quick on his feet. Will something like this happen again?
Late Update. Here's some video from the event.
Comments (322) | Join the Conversation!
Leave a comment
Follow us!
Most Popular
TPM Stories Now Surging on Digg.com
TPM Top News
© 2010 TPM Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Michael A
January 29, 2010 1:50 PM
What a waste of time. Give it up already.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
nova voter
January 29, 2010 1:52 PM in reply to Michael A
did you watch it? it really didn't seem like a waste of time.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Michael A
January 29, 2010 1:56 PM in reply to nova voter
Nope. I'm working. Why wasn't it a waste of time?
Are they going to change their positions? Are they going to cooperate and try to offer legitimate proposals? Are they going to play ball? Are they going to stop lying? No, no, no and no. They are trying to chop him off at the knees and will lie and distort as always. I do not see how this could possibly be productive. As opposed to feigning this bs bipartisanship that they are shoving up his a**. He should roll them over. There are majorities in both houses. Start getting tough and lead.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
LAB
January 29, 2010 3:21 PM in reply to Michael A
Those are some great Dem ad moments--they need to use them in the fall.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
nova voter
January 29, 2010 5:43 PM in reply to LAB
here's the full video of the Q&A:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/01/29/transcript-of-president-o_n_442423.html
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
loria
January 29, 2010 8:32 PM in reply to nova voter
Here's the entire meeting from www.whitehouse.gov.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/01/29/president-holds-open-discussion-across-aisle/?e=29&ref=image
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Peter Principle
January 29, 2010 3:26 PM in reply to Michael A
A waste of time trying to persuade a bunch of knuckle-dragging supply side morons to come to the negotiating table? Obviously.
A waste of time positioning Obama as the pragmatic problem solver who's reaching out to the other side to craft bipartisan solutions (a position overwhelmingly supported -- at least in theory -- by a majority of American voters? Not really.
PR is what the modern presidency is all about, and it was a pretty modest investment of time.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Packerfanchick
January 29, 2010 3:38 PM in reply to Peter Principle
incredibly stupid I meant to say.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Turnaround
January 29, 2010 3:59 PM in reply to Peter Principle
Bingo.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Turnaround
January 29, 2010 4:04 PM in reply to Turnaround
That's bingo re: PP's "positioning Obama as the pragmatic problem solver who's reaching out to the other side to craft bipartisan solutions."
Color me impressed. Ballsy, direct, factual, and pragmatically and sufficiently congenial. All while facing a gang of many maroons.
Note to self: Refresh b4 posting.
Can anyone image Bush doing this? Unscripted QA with Dem leadership? I mean without soiling himself and his verbal goulash?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Avvocato
January 30, 2010 10:20 AM in reply to Turnaround
The problem with this is that the "Democratic leadership" with few exceptions wouls also have soiled themselves. What "coglioni" they all are!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Turnaround
January 29, 2010 4:07 PM in reply to Turnaround
That's bingo re: PP's "positioning Obama as the pragmatic problem solver who's reaching out to the other side to craft bipartisan solutions."
Color me impressed. Ballsy, direct, factual, and pragmatically and sufficiently congenial. All while facing a gang of many maroons.
Note to self: Refresh b4 posting.
Can anyone image Bush doing this? Unscripted QA with Dem leadership? I mean without soiling himself and his verbal goulash?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
JNagarya
January 29, 2010 6:29 PM in reply to Peter Principle
Idjit: if it doesn't persuade it exposes those who won't be persuaded by facts and reason as obstructionist for no reason except LIES.
In other words: if his efforts to persuade them doesn't work on them, that will persuade constituents about what they Republicans are about.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
MyMy
January 29, 2010 7:26 PM in reply to Peter Principle
I agree that this is what it's all about.
Plus demonstrating the shock to the ego of all these men and women who automatically assume they have a superior intellect to a man of color. That's what gotten them in such knots. They've depended on that in their own hearts and they've also assumed everyone else who is white thinks like they do.
It's important for everyone to see their arrogance and their crude misrepresentations fought back against, and highly successfully.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Packerfanchick
January 29, 2010 3:37 PM in reply to Michael A
I don't think it was aimed at the Republicans, it was aimed at the Independents, to spell out how incredibly the Republicans have been acting and how they have backed themselves into a corner, all right in front of them. No one can refute that. He basically said: "How are you going to help, if you aren't stop opposing things, No doesn't fix things." If he can focus on those things and continue to spell it out for the brain-dead electorate that we have turned out, he will be more successful. Of course he knows they will oppose, but he is going to let them do it in front of those they are hurting and tell them why.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
AmericanDreamer
January 29, 2010 4:22 PM in reply to Packerfanchick
PFC, yes, of course. Plus, you never know.
I wasn't able to watch it. Based on the account I was wondering if at any point he said something along the lines of "You know, for those who think that this Administration and the Democrats in Congress somehow should be obliged to meet the Republicans halfway towards an ever-receding, if not invisible, right-wing pole, I'd like to point out that we did win the election and majorities in both houses of Congress.
Ordinarily, you might think that should mean something, that the majority party should be given some deference by the minority party to give its ideas a chance. Instead of one unanimous no vote after another and using the threat of the filibuster in the Senate to even prevent the majority's agenda from coming up for a majority vote.
They used to call that a honeymoon period. It hasn't always been this partisan in Washington, you know."
Something like that, or some parts of that, perhaps. Did he say anything like that?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Wordie
January 30, 2010 3:52 PM in reply to AmericanDreamer
He did say something along the lines of what you suggested - I think he framed it in terms of "that's what democracy is."
Too bad you missed it, but it's replaying on C-Span this weekend, and Keith Olberman, Rachael Maddow and Keith Olbermann did an excellent two hour special on it last night, which is also re-airing this weekend. You might have to keep switiching to MSNBC during the day to catch it, because it's unlikely that there's been time to ubdate the cable schedules, which probably will continue to indicate MSNBC's usual lock-'em-up programming. But the special re-aired where I am at 9AM (PST) this morning, and it's likely to re-air several times during the day in lieu of whatever regular programming that was bumped. It's worth the effort to try to catch it.
I think it's also available by podcast: http://www.reddit.com/r/politics/comments/aw4rl/olbermann_matthews_maddow_did_an_excellent_2hour/c0jozo2
We should all write to MSNBC to thank them for the program.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
cmaukonen
January 29, 2010 5:21 PM in reply to Packerfanchick
This is absolutely correct. This may seem like a waist of time to people here...but this is exactly the kind of thing that average Americans want to see.
C
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
JEP07
January 29, 2010 6:53 PM in reply to Packerfanchick
"how incredibly the Republicans have been acting"
Can we do a poll on which word best fits between "incredibly" and "the."
There are so many possibilities.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Packerfanchick
January 29, 2010 7:25 PM in reply to JEP07
If you'll look I corrected above by saying I meant incredibly bad.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
JEP07
January 29, 2010 11:18 PM in reply to Packerfanchick
Won't be long and ALL the Repblicans will become exclusively corporation dependent for their money and 'bagger dependent for their voting base, which will whittle away at their numbers as time passes..
Money can buy ads, it can't buy votes, especially if the general public has turned against them, in defiant independent response to right wing elitists and their stringent, extreme "litmus-tests.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Tombien
January 29, 2010 6:41 PM in reply to Michael A
Michael A January 29, 2010 1:50 PM
What a waste of time. Give it up already.
January 29, 2010 1:52 PM in reply to Michael A
did you watch it? it really didn't seem like a waste of time.
January 29, 2010 1:56 PM in reply to nova voter
Nope. I'm working. Why wasn't it a waste of time?
Geez Michael, did you have a bad night?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
JohnW1141
January 29, 2010 8:22 PM in reply to Michael A
MIchael,
it wasn't a waste of time because this episode will be broken up into film clips and shown on TV, and the clips will show how obstinate the Repugs are. Obama may have won back some of the
independents.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Ronbo
January 30, 2010 10:05 AM in reply to Michael A
How do you compromise with a Communist? Make the country half free and half slave?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Cal Gal
January 30, 2010 6:12 PM in reply to Ronbo
Why don't you ask the Ghost of St. Ronnie how he managed to turn COMMUNIST China into the biggest capital engine of the 21st century?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 29, 2010 1:57 PM in reply to nova voter
Yes, I'd really like to see this. And, no, I don't think it's a waste of time at all. It is a way of changing the dynamic and that's what O-Man has to do. I've thought for years we should have Question Time. Then the idiots can make fools of themselves trying to embarrass someone 40 IQ points above them.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:17 PM in reply to wbgonne
I totally agree. The man is trying to solve the country's problems and is smart enough to know it's going to take two parties, willing to put differences aside and compromise. He exposed them for who they are. He really is too smart for these folks. They cannot go toe to toe with him in a debate,
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
jonnienohands
January 29, 2010 5:46 PM in reply to lousgirl84
Have you seen this,
http://thinkprogress.org/2010/01/29/russert-gop-obama/
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Jackster
January 29, 2010 11:45 PM in reply to lousgirl84
As a group, a contingent of like minded politicians, THEY could hold water to this man. It's about time the public saw more of this type of interaction.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Jackster
January 29, 2010 11:46 PM in reply to Jackster
Sorry "Could NOT"
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Steaming Pile
January 29, 2010 2:36 PM in reply to wbgonne
Amen to that. This ought to be institutionalized, by legislation if necessary. If I were the President, this would be the last thing I did before I turned over the keys to the WH to the next guy. Every President ought to be able to answer questions from a non-friendly audience about his own agenda. If not, he doesn't need to be the President.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Calouste
January 29, 2010 3:03 PM in reply to Steaming Pile
Imagine if Bush II had to do this...
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
loria
January 29, 2010 4:11 PM in reply to Calouste
Actually, I was thinking that it was the interview questions that exposed Palin's average intelligence and lack of knowledge on most everything she needed to know to be president. Those interviews made Independents question McCain.
Meet with them. Televise it. Let Obama debate their idiotic statements and set people straight. I don't think it's a waste of time as long as the media gives it coverage. The Republicans don't have anything to stand on except the tired policies that created this mess. Yet, somehow they think those policies will fix the mess. So, since they have few real ideas they simply through around bs and lies. It's a good opportunity for Obama to confront them and let us all hear the reality (not that it will matter to the Fox watchers, but it will to the Independents and to Dems).
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
hunter
January 29, 2010 4:14 PM in reply to Calouste
That was my first thought. That guy's bubble was impregnable. They even hired fake news guys to soft pitch questions in the press room...
Yes. This should become a regular occurrence.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Avvocato
January 30, 2010 10:22 AM in reply to wbgonne
You are very kind. Only 40 points lower in IQ? I wish!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Alex39
January 29, 2010 2:01 PM in reply to nova voter
I saw it at the gym. No sound, but I got the text. I was impressed. IMHO, he cleaned the floor with them, but there was also a certain amount of candor on both sides.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:12 PM in reply to nova voter
Not to me either. I thought the President was excellent. He is a brilliant communicator and definitely didn't go there with an attitude but more importantly he was able to refute every single talking point they issued.
I just heard Luke Russett who was there and agreed that this was a brilliant move on Obama's part by agreeing to have this televised and said even a republican person pulled him to the side and said, it was a mistake to let this be televised because Obama stood up there for an hour and a half (I watched it all) and went toe to toe and in fact made them look bad by refuting every one of their talking points.
This President was absolutely knowledgeable and even knew what was in the bills the Republicans did propose. They could not get him on anything and all the while he was respectful and classy while callling them out when they would resort right back to the same old rhetoric
I thought he was sensational.
It will be interesting to see how its covered. I have MSNBC on right now and Alex Witt asked the most stupid question of Luke Russert ever. It give you an eye into how bad the state of "journalism" is. Since I am home I am curious to see how Matthews, Shultz, Olberman and Rachel cover this.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Marinus van der Lubbe
January 29, 2010 2:24 PM in reply to lousgirl84
Pence is a schmuck. He is part of that 'constipated look' crowd in the GOP. Its a nice touch to address them and start slicing them in many different ways because he takes away their whine about his inability or lack of desire to meet them halfway and be bipartisan. Very brilliant on many levels. Boehner, a simpleton, and Cantor, a smarmy little Greg Marmalade style asshole just dont get that they have been skewered.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:27 PM in reply to Marinus van der Lubbe
Absolutely , and the President was brilliant and you'd have to be deaf, dumb and blind not to see it. They are no match for him in a debate. He's too knowledgeable and prepared to debate.
He went there with sincerity, he tried to have a sincere debate, he was respectful yet definitely cleared up the constant attempt by the thugs to paint a different picture than the truth.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Marinus van der Lubbe
January 29, 2010 2:42 PM in reply to lousgirl84
He has parlayed the SOTU speech and this meeting into a neutering session of their talking points. I thnk its a well played pincer movement they planned to spring on them ,especially after seeing how they took bait and sat on hands during SOTU on issues they could have backed and in the past had. xxooo
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:54 PM in reply to Marinus van der Lubbe
Agreed! I found it totally entertaining!
xxx
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
nowhereman
January 30, 2010 4:04 PM in reply to lousgirl84
Obama seems to have his mojo back. The Repubs were just so dim to stage this. They undoubtedly thought, "yeah, that's the ticket, get Barry to debate us one on dozens of us, we win!" Sadly, No! WIN for O, FAIL for Republican guile.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
jeffgee
January 29, 2010 2:49 PM in reply to Marinus van der Lubbe
Snow on the roof, nobody home inside.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
zonk
January 29, 2010 2:31 PM in reply to lousgirl84
I understand that Obama actually agreed to extend the Q&A time with a comment like "I'm having fun"...
The WH communications office has to be absolutely ECSTATIC right now. They ought to be rewriting their own talking points for the Sunday talkies as we speak.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:33 PM in reply to zonk
He did say that and there was something said in the background which I didn't hear but I am sure it was a snark but he just let it roll right off his shoulder. He was in command and he knew it.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Marinus van der Lubbe
January 29, 2010 2:56 PM in reply to lousgirl84
GOP Caucus = Owned
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Cal Gal
January 30, 2010 6:05 PM in reply to Marinus van der Lubbe
Punked. Served. You-name-it-ed.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
glblank
January 29, 2010 3:58 PM in reply to nova voter
Obama presented his side as sane and flexible giving Rethugs a public forum to debate the bill honestly aqs in inserting portions of Paul Ryan's plan; which was quashed by Boehner, into the bill or just as we expected being the party of NO, positioning themselves for the 2010 midterms. it was basically posturing on both ends seeing who would blink, but it was Obama who offered the olive branch and the Rethugs refusing to accept it.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Docb
January 31, 2010 1:52 PM in reply to nova voter
Excellent TV...He did it all without the need of a teleprompter...goes to show haw smart he really is...even to the point of knowing about the supposed Gop ideas...Which when reviewed one understands why they were NEVER presented in Bill form or to the CBO..There is nothing there!
Especially liked the 'campaign talking points' comment!
He is very good! Note that deminted was rather mute...
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Xantar
January 29, 2010 1:53 PM in reply to Michael A
It's theater. He's trying to show the Republicans for what they really are. Unfortunately, we can't really count on the MSM to show more than twenty seconds of this.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Michael A
January 29, 2010 2:01 PM in reply to Xantar
What we can count on the right-wing media to do is buy into the repuke bullsh*t and spin and spew the talking points of the right-wing. They will say that obama is not listening to the right-wing. Obama isn't working with the right-wing. The right-wing is making "reasonable" proposals that are being ignored. They will lie, lie, lie and distort, distort, distort.
That's why I think this is a waste of time and will just fuel the right-wing media to lie and distort and make the repukes sound "reasonable."
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
CT Voter
January 29, 2010 2:11 PM in reply to Michael A
Geez, dude...grumpy much?
I didn't see it either, but I think you're being too dark.
This is going to get a lot of attention, and no amount of spinning is going to take away the fact that it was Obama who reached out to Republicans--that's what the public is going to see, and near-sighted as this may be, people want the appearance of bipartisanship.
I've read some of the remarks, and who knows? He might start getting through to some Republicans.
And even if this gets only 20 seconds on the air (and I think it's going to get way more than that), Obama is still going to look good.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Cal Gal
January 29, 2010 3:32 PM in reply to CT Voter
I expect his purpose is to get through to INDEPENDENTS, and if he can get through to a few Republicans, too, so much the better.
Anyone know if this will be shown again in its entirety? I missed it.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
randomname
January 29, 2010 4:41 PM in reply to Cal Gal
C-SPAN? Check their website for a schedule. It was great...really, it was
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
kgb999
January 29, 2010 3:34 PM in reply to CT Voter
This is making the assumption that Americans give a flying fuck if Obama reaches out to republicans. By and large they do not.
IMO, all this type of charade has done is take what in 2009 was a discredited brand and given it greater legitimacy than Obama's own caucus. Imagine if Obama spent as much time promoting democrats as he has advertising "No! Really! These guys have legitimate input!"
For whatever reason, democrats can't seem to help themselves ... they love to play on a field defined by the GOP.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
loria
January 29, 2010 4:22 PM in reply to kgb999
Obama is doing two things here. He's reaching out to Republicans and exposing them for the obstructionists they are. You can think it does little good, but every minute he can dispute the Tea Partiers and the GOP in Congress's claims is time well spent. The Tea Partiers and many in the GOP aren't going to change their minds, but it might change the minds of reasonable people who will focus on what the GOP is doing to obstruct rather than just listening to sound bytes.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Pragmatic
January 29, 2010 4:39 PM in reply to kgb999
You obviously didn't see it kgb. The President went into their lair and ate their lunch.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
barryashe
January 30, 2010 4:31 AM in reply to CT Voter
He is killing them with kindness!
I agree with you completely that he might start to get through to some of them. They cannot help but like him - the President had no hint of animosity in his demeanor or his delivery. He sincerely and openly reached out to the GOP Caucus members. He asked for their help. I think some of them will respond in like terms.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
barryashe
January 30, 2010 4:41 AM in reply to CT Voter
He is killing them with kindness!
I agree with you completely that he might start to get through to some of them. They cannot help but like him - the President had no hint of animosity in his demeanor or his delivery. He sincerely and openly reached out to the GOP Caucus members. He asked for their help. I think some of them will respond in like terms.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Pragmatic
January 29, 2010 2:12 PM in reply to Michael A
You have to see it Michael A. He was the adult in the room and everyone knew it. He should do this once a month but the repukes will never allow it.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
zonk
January 29, 2010 2:36 PM in reply to Pragmatic
He ought to propose it anyway...
Just to see how amusing the GOP's "scheduling conflict" excuses would be.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Bloggin
January 29, 2010 3:42 PM in reply to Pragmatic
It was like watching a parent, scold the children for their unacceptable behavior. And then tell them not to expect anything from him, until they correct that behavior.
It's no wonder that the GOP is pushing the concept that intelligence/education is a bad thing. They have been spewing their lies and deceptions for so long, that this live and televised 'conversation' with President Obama, made it very clear that the GOP really does not serve a productive purpose in our government.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Cal Gal
January 30, 2010 6:10 PM in reply to Bloggin
And spinning it as "we made our points."
Nope. Nada. Nix. Nein.
The Big-O showed all your points to be bloviating posturing. I loved it when he kept repeating a big point in different ways: "The experts say it won't work" or "Find me an economist that believes this," etc.
Final coup de grace was his reaction to Jed Henserling's "question," "See, this is what you do. You don't really ask questions, you make campaign videos. And you say things that are just out and out wrong." I give him credit for not saying they were "lies," and I wouldn't be surprised if he had this in his arsenal and waited to use it for a final shoot-down on the last question.
And the ReThugs couldn't have picked a better, windier, or more boring patsy than Henserling to serve up the bait.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
ondioline
January 29, 2010 2:40 PM in reply to Michael A
You're awfully opinionated about something you didn't see... Any thoughts on the new iPad you don't own?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
FreeRider
January 29, 2010 2:55 PM in reply to ondioline
LMAO! Exactly. He's been ranting about what will happen when he has no clue what did happen.
Obama is the only president who has ever met with the other side at their retreat. He stood there for 90 minutes and took every question they had. So let the talking heads try to spin this as "he's not listening to the other side" and they will look as ridiculous as Obama made the Republicans look.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:59 PM in reply to FreeRider
Hi FreeRider. I saw it live and I was blown away. I could almost not believe my eyes. I kept thinking to myslef, what were they thinking. Was the scolding he gave them at the SOTU not enough> He wiped the floor with them but all the while, respectful and always listening and then responding and blowing them out of their chairs.
Stunning is what it was absolutely stunnin!!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
FreeRider
January 29, 2010 3:06 PM in reply to lousgirl84
Hey, Lousgirl! He's the man, ain't he?
I haven't seen the firebaggers in this thread bashing the president as usual. But, have no fear, they'll be here soon. They are as useless and deluded as the GOP.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 3:39 PM in reply to FreeRider
Indipro showed up talking about health care and Bill Clinton, and as negative as usual.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 4:06 PM in reply to FreeRider
This is the President I have always felt was the right man for the job. I never doubted him for a moment and I also knew he was too smart not to go down without fighting and I was so hoping he would expose them for who they are. He did it masterfully. This is a man who wants to help fix the problems and I have no doubt that he is going to give it his all. That;s all we can ask from him, especially since the other side is fighting him all the way. They have been exposed as caring more about their election than the people.
He is the da man!!!!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
jsfox
January 29, 2010 3:16 PM in reply to FreeRider
The R's are now wondering why in the hell did the agree to this and why in the hell did they agree to TV cameras in the room.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 3:00 PM in reply to ondioline
LOL!! Good response.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:32 PM in reply to Xantar
It was good theater to expose them. And it shows HE IS TRYING to find a way to solve the problems. His opening statement was briliant.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
zonk
January 29, 2010 2:34 PM in reply to Xantar
My understanding is that MSNBC and CNN covered the whole Q&A in its entirety... and Fox covered the first half, cutting away when it became CG-13 (not safe for conservatives with a maturity of less than 13).
Check out the MSM tweets on it... http://twitter.com/pwire
This might very well have legs.
It's a perfect follow-up on the SOTU and I'm really loving the narrative.
If he sparked something with the SOTU, this kindles it. If the WH can keep it going, we're on our way back.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:42 PM in reply to zonk
I saw it that way too Zonk. I feel exactly the same way. I happened to be home today and was just going to watch some HGTV or finish reading a book so as to not watch the mindless talking heads but I had that urge to check out MSNBC and he was just coming on to the podium.
I was blown away with his opening and by then I was riveted. I thought he was masterful.
I think you are right about the SOTU sparking this and the President realizing he needs to get this country moving and to let the people see how he is trying. You should have heard the little press conference by the thugs afterwards with Boehner and the people covering it must have been all right wing reporters because they sounded like Geff Gannon/aka Guckert.
Nothing will ever change with these folks but Obama exposed them royally. Don't expect to see it on the nightly news but it is going to be ineresting to see the Sunday Politcal.Talk/Funnies shows.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
maxd
January 29, 2010 2:51 PM in reply to Xantar
Here are the MSM headlines so far:
Washington Post:
"Pence Questions Obama at House GOP conference"
and
"Obama: Republicans leaving themselves little room"
ABC News:
"Obama Accuses GOP of Demonizing Health Overhaul"
and
"Obama Defends Economic Policies at GOP Conclave"
and
"Obama Spells out Differences With GOP on Energy"
Los Angeles Times:
"GOP freshman congressman stands up to accuse Obama of broken promises ..."
* * * * *
So far, nothing reflecting "Obama Wipes Floor With GOP Doofuses". Mostly Obama "Accusing", "Defending" and generally "Imploring". That's how the MSM will be reporting this. Obama begs GOP to not beat him up any more... GOP stands strong and sticks to their guns. What a load of BS.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 3:03 PM in reply to maxd
You won't.
Luke Russert however is reporting that some guy from the rnc said it was a mistake to let this be televised. Obama was the star and they know it. Luke Russert is at least an honest reporter of the news so far as I have seen.
I am watching David Shuster
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
zonk
January 29, 2010 2:27 PM in reply to Michael A
That doesn't seem to be the case...
MSM tweets seem 100% in agreement that this was a MASSIVE backfire for the GOP (the Q&A wasn't going to be televised, the GOP decided to let cameras in at the last moment).
Hell, even posters and diarists who write daily bash Obama diaries over at Kos are cheering the living hell out of the performance.
All accounts are that the President absolutely wiped the floor with the GOP. CNN and MSNBC covered it in total. Fox was - but hit the panic button and cut away half way through once it became obvious this was a bloodbath.
Get out of your bubble - all accounts indicate that this was a SMASHING success and a perfect follow-up to the SOTU.
Expect to see clips all over the Sunday talkies and spill into the villager coverage next week.
This seems to have the potential be a real turning point...
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
zonk
January 29, 2010 2:29 PM in reply to zonk
BTW, here be the tweets from Chuck Todd, Marc Ambinder, Larry Sabato, etc...
http://twitter.com/pwire
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 3:43 PM in reply to zonk
Thanks for posting that Zonk. Good stuff there - even from Chuck Todd.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:30 PM in reply to zonk
That's the way I saw it hands down!!!! Not even debatable.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
jsfox
January 29, 2010 2:38 PM in reply to Michael A
He handed them there collective asses. Made them look small and petty. And seriously the party that does not want to govern.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Overreach THIS!
January 29, 2010 6:03 PM in reply to jsfox
TOTALLY!!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Docb
January 29, 2010 4:11 PM in reply to Michael A
The aides are saying they never should have allowed cameras..That means I am not the only one that saw him nail them!
Push this out to viral--do not allow the Faus newsless edits!
Love it Love it!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Chris
January 29, 2010 4:42 PM in reply to Michael A
Holy cow! I'm impressed. And I've been so down on Obama lately.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Goshen
January 29, 2010 4:57 PM in reply to Michael A
Most definitely NOT a waste of time. Must-see TV.
He probably changed some minds in that room.
BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY, this masterful performance and display of great skill, will help move the independents back to his side.
Big, big event.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Overreach THIS!
January 29, 2010 5:16 PM in reply to Michael A
Once source for this, the full session, is MSNBC. It is *incredibly* strong! WOW!!!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
JohnMcCSF
January 29, 2010 7:41 PM in reply to Michael A
Ezra Klein captures another excellent shot.
Fact is as Axelrod(?)put it, a large number of our $25 contributors (independents) at least want us to keep trying
Excellent answer via Ezra Klein
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Ronbo
January 30, 2010 10:03 AM in reply to Michael A
Yes, it is...The Republicans know Karl Marx was not a Founding Father of our Free Republic.
http://ronbosoldier.blogspot.com/2010/01/president-obama-is-big-fat-lying-commie.html
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
cambridgeMR
January 30, 2010 11:14 PM in reply to Ronbo
I just looked at your website.
I'm surprised that anyone can devote that much time to hating Obama.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Marinus van der Lubbe
January 31, 2010 8:40 PM in reply to Ronbo
Do you put your balls in a vise at home for fun? Because reading the website is akin to that...so you must really enjoy it.
And get some fresh material..drop the Karl Marx sthick and forget communism. Look in the mirror and count the one fascistic jerk off you see there and kill him.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
BrookJolley
January 30, 2010 1:04 PM in reply to Michael A
Waste of time? Not really. He should get in front of them on a public televised stage and make them look like morons more often. This will not resonate with their base, but independents that see this and see how reasonable Obama looks in comparison to the nutbags on the other side will easily get what is going on. It makes a lot more sense when you hear him defend himself than it does when a proxy does it.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Ronbo
January 30, 2010 1:35 PM in reply to Michael A
"Give it up?" I don't think Obama is ready for suicide yet...but maybe he will be after the loss of the Senate and House in November...
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 1:53 PM
Again, the President did an excellent job by skewering them and exposing them for who they are and intelligently being able to answer them and not skirt issues.
They are a pathetic, heartless bunch of liars.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Mimi katz
January 29, 2010 1:56 PM
Sounds like a good idea. If the Press won't challenge these clowns, then Obama has to. When he calls them on their exaggerations in such a calm and sensible manner, he reminds people why they voted for him. It sounds like a big plus for him. And it's something that's bound to get coverage.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
converse
January 29, 2010 1:57 PM
Is this on-line anywhere?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
jason1911
January 29, 2010 2:06 PM in reply to converse
its on huffingtonpost replaying
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
a SC mom
January 29, 2010 2:13 PM in reply to converse
it's on c-span
http://www.c-span.org/
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
zonk
January 29, 2010 2:37 PM in reply to a SC mom
Complete replay tonight at 8, apparently, on C-SPAN.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:36 PM in reply to converse
I would suppose here. I am sure you can see it o MSNBC and/or CNN. I watched it on TV but TPM was broadcasting it also.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
zonk
January 29, 2010 6:17 PM in reply to converse
OK, MSNBC is now going to make a 2 hour event of this...
Their primetime lineup is going to be together for 2 hours tonight showing extended portions of the Q&A with Chris/Keith/Rachel discussing.
On one hand, that's exactly the sort of thing Fox would do (if it had gone badly for Obama)... but on the other hand that's exactly the sort of thing Fox would do:-)
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
IndyLinda
January 29, 2010 2:07 PM
What I saw was pretty good. Some GOP rep (missed who it was) had a serious suggestion for reducing Medicare costs. The prez had read the proposal and seemed conversant with it, surprisingly so, but then pivoted to nail the GOP for screaming that the proposed elimination of subsidies to Medicare Advantage equated to "cuts to Medicare." Said basically, this idea has some merit, although I don't agree with all of it, but how can we have a serious discussion when you guys demagogue everything? Boehner, Cantor, and Pence did not seem too happy with how things had gone when he left.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Overreach THIS!
January 29, 2010 2:13 PM in reply to IndyLinda
"Boehner, Cantor, and Pence did not seem too happy with how things had gone when he left."
Oh, good!! =D
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Xantar
January 29, 2010 2:31 PM in reply to Overreach THIS!
I think Boehner in particular was livid, but I couldn't really tell.
(Couldn't resist)
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Morbo
January 29, 2010 2:53 PM in reply to Xantar
Was he a redder shade of fake-bake orange?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
maxd
January 29, 2010 2:55 PM in reply to Xantar
He looked flushed to me. Positively burnt umber.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 29, 2010 3:07 PM in reply to maxd
Some posted called him Agent Orange the other day. I like that.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Overreach THIS!
January 29, 2010 3:14 PM in reply to wbgonne
That's GOOD! =D
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Overreach THIS!
January 29, 2010 3:18 PM in reply to Xantar
Well, he's just had his ass handed to him at his own event by a guy with 55 point IQ advantage; I'd go pale if I was dealt his hand.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Cal Gal
January 29, 2010 3:42 PM in reply to Overreach THIS!
Impossible when you live in a tanning bed and/or paint yourself with "tan" every morning. He puts George Hamilton to shame.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Overreach THIS!
January 29, 2010 4:12 PM in reply to Cal Gal
And *that* is saying a lot, too, Cal Gal! =D
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Pragmatic
January 29, 2010 2:09 PM
I watched the entire thing and it was incredible. He took their talking points and turned them right back. He pointed out their lies and, since he was there to respond, they were stuck with the truth.
The repukes will never let this happen again.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
cambridgeMR
January 29, 2010 2:15 PM in reply to Pragmatic
If the Republicans refuse to debate the President again, the President can accuse them, with total credibility, of being unwilling to talk, of being against transparent governance, of being "the party of no", of being unwilling to help govern, et. cetera.
This QnA session was a great idea.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:25 PM in reply to cambridgeMR
Obama said he'd do it once a month if they wanted as he wants to get things done - that's what he was elected to do and that's what the people want him to do. In reality, that is what it will take to solve the enormity of the problems but the thugs will never do it. Some may be so inclined but not many. He said, "I am not an idealogue" if you show me a better way with better results, I said good job.
If you all haven't watched it in its entirety, I suggest you do. It was the best hour and a half I have watched in a long time.
This is why I support him.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Cal Gal
January 29, 2010 3:44 PM in reply to lousgirl84
Now if he would just do this with the Blue Dogs, too.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:19 PM in reply to Pragmatic
Me too and I am so glad you saw what I did.
I saw Luke Russert's report. He saw it that way too and the thugs knew Obama aced them as one of them pulled him aside and told him it was a mistake.
Obama agreed to meet with them on their turf and even suggested the televising it for the purpose of openeness and they agreed. After the skewering they took I can see why.
You'd have to have your head to sand to see it otherwise,
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
ectype
January 29, 2010 2:12 PM
Could anyone imagine George W. Bush facing Democrats in forum such as this?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Overreach THIS!
January 29, 2010 2:15 PM in reply to ectype
That's right, of course not! Good point!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
jeffgee
January 29, 2010 2:56 PM in reply to ectype
No. As he said, dictatorship would be easier. As long as he was the dictator.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
cambridgeMR
January 29, 2010 2:12 PM
They should do this every month and broadcast it on CNN. This is fantastic.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:13 PM
Why are my posts coming up under sugar? I am Lousgirl
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
WaitWut?
January 29, 2010 5:17 PM in reply to lousgirl84
...hear you roar!! Or...meow?
;-) Couldn't help it.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 10:13 PM in reply to WaitWut?
I'm late to the party but that really was funny. Thanks for the laugh.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
candideyam
January 29, 2010 2:13 PM
Anyone want to take a bet on how long it takes before Obama's criticized for trying to Europeanize the U.S. Government by introducing a British Parliamentary tradition?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
CT Voter
January 29, 2010 2:15 PM in reply to candideyam
ROTFLMAO!
Countdown in 3 - 2 -
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:20 PM in reply to candideyam
LOL. Wasn't that a great display of such a tradition. Obama was a master today.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Xantar
January 29, 2010 2:32 PM in reply to candideyam
We already know that Obama's budget is notorious for its use of Arabic numerals.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
pppwww
January 29, 2010 2:42 PM in reply to Xantar
+1
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
witty1
January 29, 2010 2:53 PM in reply to candideyam
Funny thing is its not that different from Chicago's ward elections. They have all the drama of a Mexican soap opera but reveal detail policy issues - ward by ward.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
hoppycalif2
January 29, 2010 2:24 PM
I tried to watch it but all I saw was a Repub guy talking endlessly, trying desperately to sound like a folk hero. I hear enough Repub BS to voluntarily sit through even more, so I turned it off. However, I do think televising such meetings is a good idea, because the Repub faithful who watch hoping to see Obama cut down a notch have to come away with more doubts about their party positions. And, as others noted, the press isn't going to spend any time showing how ridiculous the Repub talking points are.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
CT Voter
January 29, 2010 2:34 PM in reply to hoppycalif2
I tried to watch it but all I saw was a Repub guy talking endlessly, trying desperately to sound like a folk hero.
I bet that was right before Obama said, in essence, "Is there a question in there?"
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Kevin Sutton
January 29, 2010 2:24 PM
I think it was a good move and good for government. Bipartisanship may be hopeless, but confronting/answering the opposition in this fashion isn't weakness or bad politics.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:28 PM
Excellent, succinct response. I agree
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
The Commenter Formerly Known as NCSteve
January 29, 2010 2:32 PM
Can anyone imagine the House Democrats under Bush doing anything other than cowering under their chairs if he had?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Lono65
January 29, 2010 2:32 PM
He ought to do this at least once a month! Let the GOP make their complaints in person, to his face, on TV...and then address those complaints that have merit and simply point out the fucking gibberish for what it is.
He may not get a single GOP vote for his effort, but it will show the American people which side is being unreasonable. No, I don't expect the hardcore teabaggers to suddenly hop on the Obama bandwagon, but those "independent" voters ought to appreciate the effort.
And to top it all off, the MSM will not be able to keep themselves away from it.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
zonk
January 29, 2010 2:41 PM in reply to Lono65
Completely agree.
It will never happen, but it will give Jon and Stephen a few days of worth material musing on the GOP "scheduling conflicts" that would inevitably arise.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Phoebe Fay
January 29, 2010 2:41 PM
I listened to most of it and was amazed. I think Obama handled the Q&A part brilliantly, mostly by pointing out reality, which seemed to throw these guys off their game. I think many of them have forgotten what it's like to have a real debate. They only talk at supporter-stocked rallies and to faux news.
In the beginning of his remarks, all I could think of was that these guys must feel like Malia or Sasha getting a stern talking to. (Except, of course, Malia and Sasha could never misbehave as much Republicans do.)
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
jsfox
January 29, 2010 4:09 PM in reply to Phoebe Fay
And Melia and Sasha would get it. Unlike the Republicans they are smart.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
The Commenter Formerly Known as NCSteve
January 29, 2010 2:43 PM
The Republicans let this happen because they are so caught up in their own alternate reality that they really do believe their own bullshit. They really thought their talking points would be bulletproof gotchas and that Obama would stumble and hem and haw because he's a vapid, affirmative action empty suit who is good at reading talking points off a teleprompter (that are written for him by white people) who'd be helpless before their relentless onslaught of compelling Republican Truths.
They don't venture out into the real world very often and the MSM usually huddles with them in their bubble of delusions. When the real world smacks them in the face, it always upsets them terribly.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
CT Voter
January 29, 2010 3:28 PM in reply to The Commenter Formerly Known as NCSteve
And you know what's hilarious? I mean truly hilarious? Laugh out loud, roll on the floor hilarious?
If they have another meeting like this, they're still going to have to televise it, after all the screaming and crying and general stamping of feet over the healthcare negotiations NOT BEING SHOWN ON C-SPAN. . .
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
John I
January 29, 2010 2:46 PM
"the MSM will not be able to keep themselves away from it"
-Unfortunately, they probably will.
He should quite publicly thank the GOP for their very helpful input, and insist on making it a monthly event. Of course, they will be much better prepared next time.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
eric the red
January 29, 2010 2:47 PM
You know what is happening right now? Many of the Republicans are reconsidering their obstructionism and are considering working with the President.
NOT
This was a waste of time. The Republicans don't care about anything but stopping everything Obama and getting back into power.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:51 PM in reply to eric the red
And they were exposed for who they are quite brilliantly by Obama.
I notice the usual suspects are quite absent today like IndiePro, masanf, saliormarlowe and the rest.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
felix
January 29, 2010 2:57 PM in reply to eric the red
Well, I think Obama's true intent was to bolster the flagging spirits of his own party.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
WaitWut?
January 29, 2010 5:23 PM in reply to felix
I agree, somewhat. It just may light the necessary fire under some lazy Dems in Congress. "If I can do it...so can you". Combine that with the "run for the hills" comment and I'd be pretty embarrassed to be a Democrat in D.C.
Leading by example.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
FreeRider
January 29, 2010 3:04 PM in reply to eric the red
If Obama did this to convince the Republicans, there would have been no cameras. This was done to show up the RePukes.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
The Commenter Formerly Known as NCSteve
January 29, 2010 3:19 PM in reply to FreeRider
What? Are you suggesting there was a motive other than the stated one of achieving bipartisan consensus? That by obstensibly "engaging" with the Republicans, he was attempting to get Republican obstructionism and their complete intellectual bankruptcy into the MSM discourse?
Bah! Sputter sneer three-diminsional chess sputter grouse O-Bot.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
storm
January 29, 2010 3:10 PM in reply to eric the red
maybe he gets thru to one of them, probably not. but they are not the only people in the world that could possibly be influenced by this.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 29, 2010 3:18 PM in reply to storm
Yes, I seriously doubt the House Repubs were truly the intended audience. Obama must find ways of disseminating this -- and, hopefully, other similar events -- to the country at large. If that happens and the GOP is ridiculed roundly, THEN you will see the dial move in the right direction.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 3:49 PM in reply to wbgonne
I believe you are right.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:48 PM
The thugs and the Media will try to spin this of course - shame shame. How nice it would be if they would show the people what they need to see and know rather than what they want us to, especially since too many people get their only source of information from them.
Alex Witt is doing it right now. Just taking everything out of context.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
WaitWut?
January 29, 2010 2:51 PM
Damn. Didn't get to see it, but will hopefully catch the rerun tonite.
From what y'all have said here, sounds like the man I voted for! Just tell me...did they squirm? Play with their hands? Show any signs of submission? Is it safe to assume our President stood tall and looked them in the eye? Occasionally, letting that "wtf" look slip by?
No matter...friggin YAY!!!! It's about time he slapped them around a bit! It probably won't do any good, but at least now he can say he tried and they failed. Any decent human that still exists on the right needs to take this as a sign that his/her party is not working for the people, but for their own self-preservation.
Geez. I'm way too excited and I haven't even seen it, yet.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 2:57 PM in reply to WaitWut?
You are going to enjoy. Sit back, relax and have a glass of wine and enjoy. I saw the whole thing and I am going to rewatch it again. Mostly the cameras were on him, except you would see the silhouette of the person in the audience asking the questions. It was a sight to behold.
He is the man we all voted for. I don't think he ever changed but I think he got a big dose of reality and went into action. He has always been willing to debate this party on any and all issues because he is wayyyyyyyy smarter than they.
Delicious is what it was
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
bdop4
January 29, 2010 2:55 PM
Haven't seen it yet, but will record and watch it tonight.
This needs to go viral. I hope it gets posted in all the usual places and gets a lots of exposure. The big hurdle is to find a way to insert it into MSM programs, who will likely try their hardest to bury it and pretend it didn't happen.
Going forward, the Dems need to challenge the GOP to debate issues like these in response to baseless accusations. People like to see a competition, and the Dems should give it to them. THAT's how you get your message out.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
SardonicOptimist
January 29, 2010 2:55 PM
This was pretty epic. Everybody keeps talking about "Candidate Obama" versus "President Obama" and it finally seems like he's figuring out how to mesh the two. This is the kind of force that he had during the campaign that has been fairly absent during his term in office.
At this point, if the Republicans come out against Obama for this they just look like huge, huge whiners. You only have to look at Jim Hoff for a preview of it:
"An angry Barack Obama met with House Republicans today at their retreat in Baltimore and attacked them for voting against his very radical and failed economic plans for restructuring America."
Everybody watch out, "Angry Black Man" meme, coming through!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Maritza
January 29, 2010 2:55 PM
Damn! Obama was good!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Indie Pro
January 29, 2010 2:58 PM
I know you guys disagree, but if you look at the facts of this bill [Healthcare Senate Bill], most independent observers would say this is actually what many Republicans — it is similar to what many republicans proposed to Bill Clinton when he was doing his debate on health care.
Word
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 3:04 PM in reply to Indie Pro
Wrong thread, but your response is predictable
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Indie Pro
January 29, 2010 3:08 PM in reply to lousgirl84
I just quoted him, from the event. It isn't the wrong thread.
What is predictable is your embarrassing behavior over watching this:
Sit back, relax and have a glass of wine and enjoy.
Change your name to fangirladulations.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Indie Pro
January 29, 2010 3:08 PM in reply to Indie Pro
and I agreed with him.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 4:26 PM in reply to Indie Pro
It is the wrong thread and your post had nothing to do with this discussion. I watched the show in its entirey. It covered everything not just the healthcare bill but that seems to be your only obsession.
You are the only one who should be embarrassed.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Indie Pro
January 29, 2010 5:10 PM in reply to lousgirl84
The President discussed healthcare at the event. Said the words I quoted, and agreed with.
That you think what the President "actually said" at the event is off topic says alot.
Like, I saw the whole thing and I am going to rewatch it again. Mostly the cameras were on him...It was a sight to behold.
But this is my favorite fangirladulation statement of yours:
Delicious is what it was
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
FreeRider
January 29, 2010 3:09 PM in reply to lousgirl84
Ignore IndiePro. He's just trying to rain on our parade because he's a loser.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Indie Pro
January 29, 2010 3:10 PM in reply to FreeRider
I quoted him, agreed with him, and still you two bullies attack me.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 29, 2010 3:12 PM in reply to FreeRider
Um, I believe Indie was COMPLIMENTING the president. Perhaps not as giddily as you'd like but still.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
FreeRider
January 29, 2010 3:19 PM in reply to wbgonne
You believe wrong. IndiePro is, as usual, saying the HRC is a Republican bill and trying to slam the president.
Here's what you and she don't grasp: Every time HCR gets dropped, it is MORE CONSERVATIVE the next time. Truman's proposal was the most liberal and each successive bill got more conservative because the available options decreased and mistrust of government increased.
So this "kill the bill and do it again" meme is pure lunacy! The next bill would be nothing but co-ops and health savings accounts and will make the Senate bill look like single payer by comparison.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Indie Pro
January 29, 2010 3:24 PM in reply to FreeRider
again, I'm quoting the President:
I know you guys disagree, but if you look at the facts of this bill [Healthcare Senate Bill], most independent observers would say this is actually what many Republicans — it is similar to what many republicans proposed to Bill Clinton when he was doing his debate on health care.
Word
***
you are a loon if you think I think this is a republican bill.
If the GOP had any sense, they'd start negotiations now, move the bill further to the right.
But don't let that get in the way of your futile/impotent campaign bully me.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 29, 2010 3:28 PM in reply to FreeRider
What's wrong with you? HCR is on the back burner b/c the Democrats are scared shitless after MA. That's a fact of life whether you like it or not. Don't you read the news?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
CT Voter
January 29, 2010 3:22 PM in reply to lousgirl84
Geez. Indie Pro is AGREEING with Obama. Hardly ever happens.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Indie Pro
January 29, 2010 3:26 PM in reply to CT Voter
It happens.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
CT Voter
January 29, 2010 3:52 PM in reply to Indie Pro
I know, but it doesn't happen every day. . .
It happens more than some obviously think it does, though.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Indie Pro
January 29, 2010 5:12 PM in reply to CT Voter
I appreciate you noticing.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Silence
January 29, 2010 3:10 PM in reply to Indie Pro
Wow. I just read your post without my glasses. I thought you were writing about the 'farts of this bill'.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Indie Pro
January 29, 2010 3:11 PM in reply to Silence
with my constant typos, I easily could;ve been
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Silence
January 29, 2010 3:03 PM
I forgot he was black today, for a minute. Then, I heard that he cut the constellation project and I remembered again.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Silence
January 29, 2010 3:07 PM in reply to Silence
.........that he's a Bolshevik.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 29, 2010 3:14 PM in reply to Silence
Are you a House Republican?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
tmginnova
January 29, 2010 3:16 PM in reply to Silence
And you're not making a bit of sense.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Cal Gal
January 29, 2010 4:06 PM in reply to tmginnova
Does he ever? He's drunk so much Kool-Aid his kidneys are swimming.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
beltwayskeptic
January 29, 2010 3:03 PM
The political "optics" were brilliant! Republican House leaders will regret the day they agreed to allow the q & a to be televised. He's showed his willingness to extend a hand knowing full well the Republicans won't reciprocate.
He's just letting the rope out.....the Republicans are going to hang themselves.
http://www.c-span.org/Watch/Media/2010/01/29/HP/R/28993/President+Speaks+at+GOP+Retreat.aspx
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
SteinL
January 29, 2010 3:03 PM
He blew a year, thinking they'd see his point of view.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
jsfox
January 29, 2010 4:18 PM in reply to SteinL
I am not sure where this he blew a year crap comes from. Gitmo and HCR were the only two things he didn't get done this year. Good grief Medicare took three tries over five years and we didn't have the economy to worry about.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
again
January 29, 2010 9:14 PM in reply to jsfox
Okay, you're in deep denial, then. Good to know your perspective, will save me some time.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 29, 2010 3:04 PM
Everyone saw it but me, apparently. How about CNN sends David Gergen and His Clown Posse to a spa so they can clear precious programming time to show this in its entirety. Anyone know how to communicate such a wish to CNN (minus the snark, naturally)?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
FreeRider
January 29, 2010 3:23 PM in reply to wbgonne
http://cspan.org/Watch/Media/2010/01/29/HP/R/28993/President+Speaks+at+GOP+Retreat.aspx
Here it is.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
The Commenter Formerly Known as NCSteve
January 29, 2010 3:23 PM in reply to wbgonne
"David Gergen and His Clown Posse" may be the funniest thing I've read here in a week.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
tmginnova
January 29, 2010 3:13 PM
I don't think they'll want him back, because they look so bad by comparison.
Obama was direct, factual, informed, funny, open minded, but not willing to listen to patent nonsense without commenting on it.
Dems don't need to run for the hills, as he said Tuesday. They need to embrace their policies and defend them (while acknowledging that the other side should be given a chance to present ideas, if the other side is serious and not just shouting slogans).
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
JohnW1141
January 29, 2010 3:19 PM
The Republicans came loaded for bear, and it started with Pence. Their questions followed an opening salvo by each, indicting Obama, Pelosi, Democrats for everthing and anything. The problem was, they thought they were speaking to their constituents or each other. Pence was followed by a woman whining aoubt health care (Marsha Blackburn?), then some freshman from Utah, the Doctor from Ga and finally Hensarling from Texas. Each had phony numbers and outlandish charges which they set forth before asking the question. The Repugs tried to use right wing propoganda and were made to look like asses to rational people who were watching.
Obama took each one on and handed each of them their head.
C-SPAN will re run this at 8:00 tonight, watch it again and watch Obama skillfully cut their heads off simply by using reality.
By the way, I'm one of the liberals who is now disillusioned with Obama, but I give him his due today.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 3:37 PM in reply to JohnW1141
Yes you have been disillusioned but now maybe you have a better understanding as to how difficult it is for him to make change if these people won't even try.
He is a man of integrity and I hope you come back. He needs our help. The problems of this country are monumental and he knows in reaiity it takes two parties working together to effect meaningful change. That is reality but they won't work with him. He is the best hope this country has because he really does want to do it.
This backfired on the thugs - and I doubt they will invite him back and if so, sans the camera.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Cal Gal
January 30, 2010 6:22 PM in reply to JohnW1141
And they were so blind as to what had happened to them that Hensarling actually went on the PBS News Hour to say they had made their points! I guess the Brain-Trust Goop Leadership assigned Hensarling that task before the thing started and didn't have any backup to replace him with.
He got Jingaled yesterday, and enormously.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
LNAB
January 29, 2010 3:27 PM
Obama sure handed the GOP their heads on a platter during that Q&A. I'm no fan of Obama or his performance so far as president but I was definitely impressed with his stand up with the GOP. I felt informed with some truth about the GOP offerings they brag so much about (apparently they're pretty shallow and unsupported) and interestingly the GOP seemed able to counter Obama's assertions or recital of his view of their proposals.
He sure made it clear to me that the last good idea the GOP had died with Reagan. They're whole focus is to reinstate Bush policy again and just ignore the fact that it collapsed the entire American economy
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
chrisl
January 29, 2010 3:51 PM
It wasn't a waste of time at all. Obama should have done it a few times last year and should do more in the future. This is not (just) about changing GOP politicians' minds. It's actually more about shaping/ re-shaping public opinion --- to make people better informed, so to speak, and to reclaim the political center. Excellent job, Mr. President! You should continue to put your excellent communication skills to good use.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 3:58 PM
MSNBC making more changes David Shuster just announced his show with Tamron Hall is being cancelled but both of them will have their own shows in the morning. What a mess over there. They need to be a full blown liberal station in direct competition with Fox and make it a real station and start covering real stories indepth and get away from the gotcha media Obama discussed today. He did call them out too. They deserve it.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 29, 2010 5:03 PM in reply to lousgirl84
Now they should ditch Tweetie Matthews' 7 P.M. (EST) re-tread. He's bad enough the first time around. And if he's too lazy to do a show then MSNBC should someone else for that big-time slot. Maybe they can trade Tweetie for Fareed Zaccaria at CNN or Shep Smith at FOX.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 10:18 PM in reply to wbgonne
Fareed is a great idea. I never get to see his show because I rare;y watch CNN but I think that would be a good idea. Shep might bring another dimension. Could work. Better than what they have now except for Keith and Rachel. I am like David Shuster these days also.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
LAB
January 30, 2010 12:08 AM in reply to lousgirl84
I didn't hear that, but Shuster should have his own show, he's a great leftie pundit.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
jim43
January 29, 2010 4:01 PM
The "no" label won't be off of Republicans until they actually accomplish something of significance with the president. Today's showdown helped Obama more than the GOP. Americans will see a president willing to have a dialogue with a party who essentially says one thing but acts quite differently.
http://www.political-buzz.com/
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
SantaMonica
January 29, 2010 4:06 PM
punked and pwnd
pretty funny stuff all around - this might be the biggest story of the week
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
MarinCat
January 29, 2010 4:10 PM
BO was brilliant.
...hadn't intended to watch, but I couldn't break away.
Repuks got so served; they yammer about transperency- they can't handle transparency. Every single wingnut talking point batted down and OB makin' it look easy.
Next: The Democrats.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Mr.E.
January 29, 2010 4:12 PM
This is both brilliant politics, and what politics SHOULD look like in a modern, transparent democracy, which makes it all the more amazing that it happened. I say get rid of the presidential debates, get rid of campaigns, and have the candidates repeatedly go in front of the opposing side's local, state and national elected officials and answer questions until everyone has heard enough and gets bored and goes home.
Can you imagine what it would sound like to have McCain, Palin, GWB, DeMint, Bachmann or most of the other dim bulbs subjected to this type of scrutiny? Romney would put everyone to sleep in minutes. The only national-level R who could stand up to this is Huckabee, and he'd be creamed the next day by the fact-checking.
BTW, I'd like to see Baucus, Nelson, Landrieu, Lieberman and the rest of "centrists" get this treatment, too.
But I'd sleep out overnight in the cold to get tickets to see Franken in this forum. He'd be crowned King within a week.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
justaJ0e
January 29, 2010 4:23 PM
I applaud his doing this. He walked into the Lions den on natinal TV and he looked and sounded STRONG. He gave the impression of being a leader and that goes a long way towards getting the moderates (of both parties) to tune out the noise from the far right.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Agateman
January 29, 2010 4:26 PM
I remember the time when President Bush (W type) spoke to the Democrats when they met in Grundy Center, Iowa. I think his answer about comparing different types of bikes was just as good as any answer President Obama gave today to the Republicans. Oh,Oh, my wife just reminded me that Bush talked about Trykes, not bikes.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
stevemtzn
January 29, 2010 4:47 PM
How twisted is this Chuck Todd tweet? "RT @chucktodd: Of course, minority parties in the House have no real governing power so today's event is more show than substance."
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 29, 2010 5:06 PM in reply to stevemtzn
This is 2010 America: show IS substance.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
calbearinillinois
January 29, 2010 5:01 PM
The only problem with this (and its a good problem to have) is the Obama's abilities and intellect make everyone else (D and R) look stupid by comparison. I'm convinced that part of the reason Boehner, McConnell and Cantor are so dedicated to saying no to everything is because they feel the charismatic power of Obama putting theirs to shame, and, thinking themselves as alpha males, have to do something - no matter how stupid - to resist. As much as the GOP derided Obama as a "celebrity" look who they now tout as their standard bearers - good looking but vapid types like Scott Brown, Sarah Palin, Marco Rubio; and charismatic populists like Huckabee.
For Dems, the problem is that if you aren't in Obama's league, you don't inspire by comparison. Coakley coming off as an ice queen is just the latest example. I don't think she really is as inept as she seemed, but when compared to the seemingly effortless Obama as an ideal of what a Dem can bring to the table she (and Hillary, Reid, and Pelosi, and everyone else) suffers.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 29, 2010 5:16 PM in reply to calbearinillinois
I think the GOP has played a very poor hand brilliantly up yo now at least. They not only neutralized Obama's strengths, they turned those strengths into weaknesses. Hopefully, SOTU and today's event shows the White House is beginning to figure it out. Obama is the only one who can shift the center of gravity in the country. They need to find more and more events like this and make it so the nitwits at CNN HAVE to deal with it. But Obama has to pound away. He cannot let up. It's going to take a lot of effort to move this nation out of juvenile delinquency.
P.S., Once CNN catches on that it is a big part of the problem, there will be the inevitable on-air self flagellation. WHich I will enjoy immensely.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
itsallaboutthemoney
January 29, 2010 5:07 PM
In your house, killin your doodz!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
dougom
January 29, 2010 5:17 PM
Can you imagine even in your wildest dreams (or nightmares, depending) Bush having the nerve, policy knowledge, and intellect to do this? Even if he had tried, all he would have done was to reiterate his established talking points over and over, whether they were relevant or not.
One can agree or disagree with Obama and his policies, but it sure is nice having a President who actually seems to understand and think about policy, isn't it?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Mr.E.
January 29, 2010 8:00 PM in reply to dougom
The horror. The horror.
But think of the humor that would have been.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
jhc
January 29, 2010 6:19 PM
My first thought is how many of us would have the nerve and confidence in our abilities to stand before a crowd of our ideological opponents, take what comes from them, and give it right back at them. I'm proud to have a president like Obama. This is an example of the right stuff.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
davewtf
January 29, 2010 7:17 PM in reply to jhc
Can you even imagine G.W. Bush doing anything like this?!? I am truly amazed by Obama. He is willing to go into the lion's den and try to have a rational reasoned debate/discussion with his ideological enemies.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Viva!America!
January 29, 2010 6:40 PM
It was.......Unprecedented!!!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
agio
January 29, 2010 6:41 PM
Listening to the GOP postgame press conference. Somebody call a wahmbulance.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Cal Gal
January 30, 2010 6:27 PM in reply to agio
And unfortunately, our intrepid MSM still seems to treat it as a "he said/they said" story, with their unfortunate ability to answer wrongly the question, "Who you 'gonna believe, the Republicans or your lying eyes?"
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
billpaustin
January 29, 2010 6:47 PM
The proof will be in the pudding. Will any GOP vote for an Obama initiative? I doubt it.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Cal Gal
January 30, 2010 6:29 PM in reply to billpaustin
The pudding is whether the independents who elected him return to his side. He'd love to get some Republican votes, too, but his observations about their ability to vote with him, whether they like the substance of a bill or not, was deadly accurate.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
JEP07
January 29, 2010 6:51 PM
Obama's got a tough-guy hard-nosed prosecutor streak, doncha think?
"re-litigate the past"
It's beginning to sound like a threat, no?
...not "re-visit" or "re-member" but "re-litigate."
As in "COURT!"
The one place none of these former Bush Republicans ever wants to end up, either being charged or just testifying about taking part in The Big Lie.
Just an observation.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 29, 2010 10:03 PM in reply to JEP07
Good catch.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
again
January 29, 2010 6:52 PM
Thanks, Mr. President, for calling these people out. We need this. Wish it had happened earlier, but this is a strong start to rebuilding the lost momentum.
I am able to forgive you for tanking on health care in the last year if you just keep this up.
We needed this. Don't disappear back down that rabbit hole!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
morgan warstler
January 29, 2010 7:07 PM
The clear issue is solving Medicare Crisis vs. adding 30M people on the unfunded healthcare roles.
The "haves" (ie 80% of the population with healthcare including the senior citizen Medicare recipients who vote, MA voters, etc) are going to consistently be against anything that ALSO tries to worry about the "have-nots."
The best political move for Obama is to worry about solving the problems facing the haves... do a good job of it... prove government works, and then come up with a lower cost solution to aid the have-nots.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
nova voter
January 29, 2010 7:21 PM
just saw pence on hardball. it's pretty clear that the new GOP strategy is to try to flip the "Party of No" thing back on democrats. his argument is that the poor GOP has proposed legislation on every issue, but the Party of No democrats in the house and senate have ignored all those proposals and shut the republicans out and have tried to cover up all the republicans' contributions.
he even went so far as to say, "i think now we can just get rid of all that 'Party of No' stuff about republicans. that was pretty much put to bed today." he then even tried to argue that obama had agreed that republicans aren't the Party of No. but gosh, nancy pelosi and the other democrats have said NO NO NO to everything the republicans have proposed.
it seems to me that they must have some polling or other information that their NO NO NO strategy is going to hurt them at the polls, and this is their attempt out of it.
it's pretty disgusting to watch, mostly because it will probably work.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
AmericanDreamer
January 30, 2010 12:15 AM in reply to nova voter
Of course they're sensitive to the charge of being the party of "no" because they know that is exactly what they are doing.
Which party won the last election and has strong majorities in both houses of Congress? Do you think they really believe that as the minority party, flushed out of power by an electorate on to their con game and miserable performance, they get to set the agenda? That it's incumbent upon Democrats to be reactive to their proposals? To meet them halfway?
Of course not. They'll try to get away with that if they can, if they think the Dems are just going to roll over and fall for that.
Another response to this horseshit coming from them is that the far right-wing pole keeps receding farther and farther to the right to the point where it appears to be literally invisible.
I wish I could think of a verbal analogy or simple way of illustrating this point that our side could use. I don't have words now, but maybe the following image conveys the idea.
Think of a square dance where the men are in one line and the women are in another, parallel line. For the next dance, the men and women are to meet one another halfway to partner. The men come halfway towards the women but instead of meeting the men in the middle the women walk in the opposite direction.
The men, being gentlemen, and mistakenly thinking the ladies are gentleladies playing by the same rules, continue to move in their direction. They have now gone considerably farther than halfway based on where the two lines were at the start of the dance. As they continue well past the halfway point, the women continue to move in the opposite direction.
Then the women claim the men are being whatever the dance equivalent of "partisan" is because the men never meet up with them! This leaves the men at a loss for words. (Yes, I know. Hard to imagine.) They feel as though somehow, what has happened has not been fair, that the women are not operating in good faith based on the rules as the men understand them. But they have no idea how to communicate how they feel. Nor do they know what to do to set the situation right.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Mr.E.
January 29, 2010 8:03 PM
I apologize in advance for my crassness in not reading all the comments before just blurting this out 'cuz it's probably been said already . . .
But as good as it is for Obama to stand up and look and sound like a leader, what we REALLY need is for that booklet he was handed to be scanned and published on the web.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
nova voter
January 29, 2010 8:25 PM in reply to Mr.E.
according to pence, it's at gop.gov
i don't have the stomach to visit that address, personally.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
nova voter
January 29, 2010 8:26 PM in reply to nova voter
ok, i lied. here you go:
http://www.gop.gov/download?folder=misc&file=better-solutions-1-10.pdf
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
willia451
January 29, 2010 8:07 PM
I agree. The President's performance was simply magnificent.
But the 60 vote filibuster rule in the Senate still exists.
Corruption in Congress is still the order of the day.
And Unemployment is still at 10%.
Slamming the Republicans is easy for The President. Because, they are all stupid. He's not. What the fuck were they thinking?
But a good show. Very, very impressive.
Will it have an impact? On some level?
Maybe. We'll see. I'd like to think so.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
mikedrevguy
January 29, 2010 8:34 PM in reply to willia451
will it have an impact?
after watching Pence's interview afterward - where he deflected any responsibility for any of the rhetorical dynamic playing out in Washington - was disappointing to hear.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
willia451
January 29, 2010 9:20 PM in reply to mikedrevguy
Actions speak much louder than words. Words can be the impetus for those action relative to challenge.
Hopefully, this will be a beginning of something foundational.
But it really is only a hope.
Thank you President Obama.
That's really all I can say.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 29, 2010 10:06 PM in reply to willia451
Right. All you can do is try. And if the Repubs give him the middle finger again (which I fully expect), I hope he lets the country know all about it.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
mikedrevguy
January 30, 2010 12:03 AM in reply to wbgonne
There's reality in the thought - sunshine's the best antiseptic; let the light shine!!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
expat46
January 29, 2010 8:17 PM
That's the most riveting piece of television I've seen since Stephen Colbert hosted the 2006 White House corespondents dinner.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 10:20 PM in reply to expat46
Co-sign!!!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Cal Gal
January 30, 2010 6:33 PM in reply to lousgirl84
Me three.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
GTFOOH
January 29, 2010 8:30 PM
Mike Pence thought he was bright enough to take on Barack Obama and got his ass kicked.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
AKHunter
January 29, 2010 8:50 PM
"Can anyone imagine Bush doing this?"
Heh, can anyone imagine McCain doing this? Can anyone imagine....shudder....Palin doing this?
Run ads asking this question about fill-in-the-blank for the next election and Obama wins in a landslide. He needs to do this every month until the Republicans demand that he stop.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
WiliamWalace
January 29, 2010 8:53 PM
Boom goes the dynamite!
Loved it!
finally not rolling over and peeing on ourselves.
now lets get some sht done!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
zuch
January 29, 2010 9:13 PM
Not likely any time soon. They're still licking their wounds....
Cheers,
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
geofu54
January 29, 2010 9:21 PM
Haven't had a chance to watch it yet, but sounds like it was quite something. Keep it up President!
(And I can't wait to watch it :))
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
expat46
January 29, 2010 9:23 PM
Why was Frank Luntz at this meeting?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
AmericanDreamer
January 29, 2010 10:25 PM in reply to expat46
Perhaps Luntz was there to figure out the poll question that will be needed to stamp out the coming watercooler talk that those House Republicans really didn't look so sharp?
Question: Would you say that the televised performance of the House Republicans:
a. exceeded your expectations for a group of politicians
b. presented an appealing positive agenda for our country
c. was reported unfairly by the biased left-wing media
d. should not be judged harshly because today was Friday
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
GTFOOH
January 31, 2010 12:30 AM in reply to expat46
Clearly shows that they had a plan to counter punch off of whatever Obama said at the gathering. They probably hadn't planned for getting knocked out!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
expat46
January 31, 2010 1:02 PM in reply to GTFOOH
The Republicans are all over the MSM hammering the talking points that Frank helped them craft as a preface to their questions. My take away is that the 'party of No' moniker has them worried. The problem is that they're actually the party of 'No compromise'. Refusing to aknowledge that some of their policies have helped to create the mess that we find ourselves in.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
LAB
January 29, 2010 9:37 PM
Republican panties all in a twist--gotta love it.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
jim43
January 29, 2010 10:01 PM
No question this moved the needle for Obama and has painted Republicans into a corner. Guess C-SPAN cameras aren't so hot when you get embarrassed like this...
http://www.political-buzz.com/
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
artappraiser
January 29, 2010 10:04 PM
Sure looked like "change" to me (and about time, too.)
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 29, 2010 10:11 PM
I'll tell you how good it was, I've been home all day and I watched it live, watched coverage of it on MSNBC (with Keith, Rachel and Chris) but then again on the rebroadcast on c-span. It's just a sight to behold.
Our President was brilliant. You have to see it. It cannot be explained.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
murphthesurf
January 29, 2010 11:27 PM
“FIRST TIME.....EVER.
No President has ever done what he did today. Not one. He was calm, respectful, strong, clear, and visionary. No Congressional Party Caucus has ever done what the GOP did today. Not one. The GOP representatives were also calm, respectful, strong, clear and visionary. They engaged in what I continue to believe is essential for good government: authentic political dialogue.
He was OUR President. They were OUR representatives. This is the way that this is supposed to work: the Majority and the Loyal Opposition. You don't have to agree with him to respect him as the Commander in Chief. You don't have to buy a single one of his ideas to engage him. If you stand with him, you don't have to agree with the GOP or buy a single one of their ideas to engage them.
This was a risky thing for Obama to do. He could have fallen flat on his face. And the GOP decision to invite him into their midst and to allow the event to be telecast was extraordinary. I know that some say they hoped to slay him. Certainly there were some who might have wished to do so. I think many wanted to take him on, but that is essential in a debate over policy. And, maybe, a few wanted to see if there was some way that they might work together on issues of significance.
As a canddiate, Mr. Obama often surprised me. He did so today. Today, the GOP surprised me as well.
I canceled my mid-morning schedule because I realized that they were making history today. I remembered why I chose to do what I did in 2006- to set my job aside and to work on the campaign. I wanted to be a part of history then. This morning I realized I still am.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
LAB
January 30, 2010 12:07 AM in reply to murphthesurf
I agree, you can't dismiss the man--even if you don't agree with him. However, you do know they are turning this against him as he was lecturing them (imagine that!) which won't work for thinking persons but the T party types will latch onto. He'll be described as arrogant and too cerebral (not that they'll know that word). Where was Bachmann? I guess she got scared when he knee capped that awful Blackburned woman.
Neither here nor there, though. Because he has reignited his base today--he will win the fights he chooses--remember how so many on our side wrote him off throughout the campaign? But those of us who have worked in politics for many years knew we were seeing something special--and we were right.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
murphthesurf
January 30, 2010 1:30 AM in reply to LAB
I have no doubt that you are right. Barack seems to prosper in the midst of adversity. I have been watching the GOP bloggers tonight and your prediction is on the mark. Obama is being criticized for being professorial, snooty (uppity?), and out of touch.
The contest was 240 to 1 and the 1 won. That is certain to upset the Tea Party crowd.
I enjoy Bachmann and Fox. Both crazy. Both outraged. Both so very wrong. As Rachel Maddow said tonight: The Democrats are right on the edge of getting their Mojo back. And Barack is our MojoMan.
I have been involved in politics since 1968. I recognized that specialness in Bobby Kennedy, in Ronald Reagan, in Bill Clinton and now, in Barack Obama. Barack may be the most special of all.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 30, 2010 9:21 AM in reply to murphthesurf
I gave been involved in politics since JFK ( was too young to vote for him) but I certainly was moced by him and I was raised in a right wing republican home but that was it for me and I never looked back. I thought JFK was pretty special. For awhile I thought Bill Clinton walked on water until I took my head out of the sand. But Obama is the real deal. Hands down.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
LAB
January 30, 2010 10:17 AM in reply to lousgirl84
When I saw his speech in 2004, I thought, whoa--who is that guy? When he announced his candidacy in IL I told anyone who would listen, that he was going to win the Presidency. My AA friends (and yes, as a liberal middle aged woman, I do have AA friends!) were actually much more for Hillary in the beginning. One told me that she just knew Obama would get so close and lose, and she couldn't face that. But I told her he wasn't going to lose. I'm no psychic, but like you say, after many years in politics you can just feel it when someone has that special connection--I was never in doubt about it. Just like you said, JFK, RFK, Reagan, MLK...we haven't seen it for a long time. I'm not putting O up on the pedestal with those legends just yet, but pointing out that the possibility exists, if he gets a chance.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
murphthesurf
January 30, 2010 5:41 PM in reply to LAB
Very moving. Thank you.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 31, 2010 9:43 AM in reply to LAB
I said the same thing in 2004 and went to work the next day and said to one of our law clerks who happens to be african american, that I think I just saw the first black president of the united states and of course he looked at me strange. I don't have a crystal ball but I sure felt I had seen a winner and a dynamic man and he was and is even more than I could have imagined.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Cal Gal
January 30, 2010 6:37 PM in reply to murphthesurf
"The GOP representatives were also calm, respectful, strong, clear and visionary."
You've GOT to be kidding. They were calm, and somewhat respectful, as none of them (this time) shouted "You lie!"
But strong, clear and visionary? What flavor Kool-Aid were YOU drinking?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
twirling fartknocker
January 29, 2010 11:49 PM
this exchange was simply amazing today. I was late to work so that I could watch the whole Q&A
TPM's continuous penchant for yellow journalism with the blaring front page headline of "FACE OFF" does the magnificence of what happened today a great disservice
this isn't professional wrestling. this is our lives. and I'm proud of what Obama did today
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Jackster
January 30, 2010 12:03 AM
I must thank all of you wonks out there. I wasn't, but will, view this classic political theatre. If it's all you have said, then I will be surely proud. All I heard from NPR on the way home was one quote and that fact that he called some Jed, Jim. NPR could have done better for me anyway.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
LAB
January 30, 2010 12:17 AM in reply to Jackster
Rachel Maddow made a joke about it, that he did get ONE thing wrong today--he called Jeb Jim. It really is amazing pol theatre. I am beginning to think he likes to get into a corner and then battle his way back to the championship. Obama is a great competitor, that's for sure. I loved the part when Olbermann asked what Republican could go out and do a Q and A with 240 Dems...
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
pol
January 30, 2010 12:16 AM
That was absolutely amazing. I am so proud of our president today. I think one of the plusses here is that he impressed Tweety, and Tweety will talk about this on Sunday morning.
I came away with the feeling that Olbermann, Matthews, and Maddow have had enough and aren't going to take it anymore.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
LAB
January 30, 2010 12:20 AM
Oh, I forgot to add that Pence is a snarky pussy who came off as incredibly disrespectful--yet there were some crazy women in the audience clapping for him. What kind of radio show did he have? Lush lite?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
geofu54
January 30, 2010 12:41 AM
OK, just now finished watching the entire Q & A. Wow, that was nice. That was quite a smackdown.
And that striking contrast with the half-baked orange, the lizard, and my-facial-muscle-doesn't-move Pence murmuring something pathetic in front of the press -- oh that was rich :).
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
KQuark
January 30, 2010 1:03 AM
Wow now Obama has to do the presses job too like he dose not have enough duties already. Congress can't do anything without him either and are whining he's not doing their job too. People are reading the whole political situation wrong. The biggest problem with government today is we don't have enough people like Obama running government that are worried about the country first and politics second especially the extremes of each party. This country is so sorry.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 30, 2010 9:07 AM in reply to KQuark
Hi Quark, It's me. Good to see you. I couldn't agree more. So glad you came to offer your comments
Wasn't that a sight to behold.
How do you like my new rescue kitty? I think I have a home for him. He's the sweetest cat on the planet.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
FreemanW
January 30, 2010 3:08 AM
Did the President acquit himself in splendid fashion?
You bet.
Will it matter one iota?
Not a chance in Hell.
You have to know your audience. His audience was unable to comprehend the civility they were faced with for over eighty minutes.
The level of debate has been pushed into the gutter by the GOP. There is a very large percentage and gross number of the population that is uncaring of the truth. There is another large percentage and gross number of the population that is selfish and greedy and uncaring for their fellow humans.
That is the Republican base. They are oblivious to the subject of this thread and they are certainly oblivious to the Presidents impressive Q & A in Baltimore this afternoon.
Nicely played, but. . .
Far too little, and way, way, way, too late.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
expat46
January 30, 2010 12:17 PM in reply to FreemanW
It's about convincing the Indy's, thoroughly discussed at the top of this thread.
The President specifically laid it out for them, they think they're boxing him in but the reality is just the opposite. The over the top rhetoric, the obstinance, the tea-bagger's, the purity tests all serve to solidify the base. So much so that ANY compromise is then seen as appeasement, think Lindsey Graham.
The decision to put HCR on the back burner for awhile to provide a "cooling off period" has given the GOP an opening. What position will they take now that we've moved on to financial reform, which has broad support? They can't outflank the Dems with a more populist position and they can't compromise without alienating the their base. They're stuffed.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Leftflank
January 30, 2010 4:36 AM
The Prez was/is badass, end of story. My gut never lies to me & I didn't think it was wrong this time, about Barack, that is. It was so cool to see him in action, if only he had a worthy opponent. He's just warming up, imagine seven more years of distancing ourselves from bush.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
barryashe
January 30, 2010 5:17 AM
YouTube Poll Running 92% Obama Victory, GOP at 8%.
Frankly that looks about what the 2012 election results will be when our man faces one of the Seven Dwarves. Will it be Sleepy or Sneaky or Grumpy or Hissy? Maybe the GOP will have to look to McCain to run again like the Dems had to feed Adlai into the fire again in 1956 because nobody else would go on that suicide run. Right now I would say that Obama would sweep 56 of the 57 states McCain might hold the line in Guam as there are a lot of retired service people out there.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
chrisfromneenah
January 30, 2010 8:57 AM
I believe that Obama had a great performance. Throughout is campaigning and presidency, he has performed well in his speeches and interviews. However, that doesn't make him correct. He stated that it has been the Republicans that haven't been negotiating with him. However, it has taken until now to have a meeting like this. He even admitted to this but gave the excuse that it has been confusing and unorganized. Well, I don't think it has been any less confusing or unorganized but here we are having this dialogue, finally. Now, are we going to get true corraboration. I question it especially since he believes that its the Republicans that aren't giving in. The democrats are the ones that have tried to push there agenda no matter what others have been saying. Now, I do agree that the Republicans don't have much to offer either. So to me, heavy debate and dialogue should continue. Maybe, we will actually get some good ideas out of it. So to say that Obama was the star is an exaggeration. I believe he was at most the flash in the pan that needs to now work together with others to get some complete answers
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 30, 2010 9:33 AM in reply to chrisfromneenah
Spoken like a true thug with his head in the sand. How is that fantasy world you live in working for you?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
LAB
January 30, 2010 10:19 AM in reply to chrisfromneenah
Uh, elections have consequences. I thought we made that pretty clear.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 30, 2010 5:42 PM in reply to LAB
That's right. And you lost. Deal with it.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 30, 2010 5:49 PM in reply to wbgonne
Oops. I thought I was replying to first guy. Nevermind.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
T Groan
January 30, 2010 9:06 AM
It looks like it doesn't take much to please the obamabots. All he has to do is give a good speech or engage in an argument that he dominates against third rate intellects.
Ruling the country and making change is different though. Unlike the obamabots I choose to grade him on what he actually accomplishes and thus far it's a loss and change it 'ain't a happening'.
Of course to get that info you have to be willing to visit progressive web sites (and not democrat party ones i.e. TPM) and be willing to think instead of worship.
I don't see the shills here (FreeRider, ilovebaccy, and the other perhaps paid devotees) at sites that legitmately analyze politics and don't take a democrat party uber alles mentality. I think those sites would be a little too grown up for them and that they'd rather stay in the dark (head up ass perhaps?) plus they're also afraid.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 30, 2010 9:25 AM in reply to T Groan
Bitter much? How do those sour grapes taste this morning? Oh and the "shills" as you call us were all here in full force yesterday. We noticed you weren't. Afraid to take the heat?
We don't get paid to talk about our President. That is something exclusive to you repigs.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
LAB
January 30, 2010 10:10 AM in reply to T Groan
Your response confirms that we Dems had a clean shot at point blank range. We know from your responses on the right that we are doing damage to your rwtp rhetoric--and what serious sites are you talking about? Please don't say Politico....
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Jackster
January 30, 2010 9:38 AM
For the life of me I couldn't see the teleprompters. How the heck did he answer all those questions without a teleprompter? Oh I think I know, Bill Ayers had him miked up and was feeding him the answers from behind the curtain.
This guy is that smart! It is truly amazing, what a hoot. I want more.
If he had gotten out in front on HCR and not let congress screw it up, it would be done and we be on to greater things.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Cal Gal
January 30, 2010 6:42 PM in reply to Jackster
Maybe he had one of those box receivers under his jacket, like Bush did. Are there any photos of Obama's back?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 30, 2010 9:56 AM
Yes and some asked 5 questions in a long drawn out dissertation and he never lost sight of one question and responded to everyone - no notes, nothing. Brilliant. He was classy, respectful and calm.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Jackster
January 30, 2010 9:56 AM
Loved the point at the end when he was finished and someone wanted to ask another question. Pence or some other said, no, he's been here long enough, this can't go on...(okay, so I re-interpreted)
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Bat Guano
January 30, 2010 10:06 AM
I stayed up too late to watch CNN's edited version. Pres. rocked.
For those who say this was a waste of time to try to get the Republicans to budge, realize -- THEY WEREN'T THE INTENDED AUDIENCE!!!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
sbv
January 30, 2010 10:26 AM
in the president's state of the union address, he talked over the heads of congress directly to the american people. of course the latest poll shows, 90% of americans who did not watch the address, did not like it. lol.
yesterdays televised live address to the gop's retreat, the president talked over the heads of the gop and the msm who are enamored of gop talking points, to the american people once again.
hopefully this signals on barack's part, "i will not be rolled."
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 30, 2010 10:34 AM
Well, I finally got to watch the whole thing and Obama was impressive, as nearly everyone has said. And the Repubs were pathetic losers just trying to make him look bad. And the enthusiastic response to the program shows again just how desperate clear-thinking Americans for truth (which is just what Obama delivered even as the Repubs continued their obfuscation). The White House must come up with a mechanism for transforming their advantage -- mainly Obama but also the imbecility of the current GOP -- into Congressional votes and actual achievements. The rhetoric is not the end; it is the means to the end. But it sure was great to be reminded what I saw in Obama all along. The man has the potential for greatness; but greatness doesn't come in a gift-wrapped package. It won't be easy; the country is a completely dysfunctional mess. And it certainly isn't fair that so much weight is on one man but that is how the great ones become great. The country needs it. Desperately. I hope the White House can figure it out quick. This program and SOTU may be the start but only time will tell. I sure hope the White House isn't counting on the GOP to "grow up" or "come to its senses." They are shamelessly cynical and will never cooperate unless and until they see that as the preferable political course. Obama will have to MAKE them cooperate.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
CVille Dem
January 30, 2010 10:42 AM
I am glad he did it, and I am thrilled with the way it turned out, but unless people feel that their lives are better and they have jobs and roofs over their heads, voters are going to swallow the republican talking points about needing them to save the country!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
tlees2
January 30, 2010 10:46 AM in reply to CVille Dem
Agreed!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
olychris
January 30, 2010 11:05 AM
I feel the base energizing!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Silence
January 30, 2010 11:18 AM in reply to olychris
You can energize yourselves all you want. No jobs, no votes.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
besetfree
January 30, 2010 12:40 PM in reply to Silence
the jobs have all gone to third world countries. happened years ago and democrats still got votes.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Silence
January 30, 2010 12:52 PM in reply to besetfree
Hmm. All of the jobs have gone, huh?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
expat46
January 30, 2010 2:36 PM in reply to Silence
Silence, GDP is up 5% and unemployment rates will soon start to decrease. Of course, you can always hope and pray that things will get worse.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 30, 2010 5:45 PM in reply to expat46
And that is just what these fine Americans will do.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Silence
February 1, 2010 8:45 AM in reply to expat46
While very encouraging, the GDP does not tell the whole story. At this point in time, the GDP number reflects replenishment of slow moving inventory. These inventories have been replenished with drastic workforce reductions and cuts in time.
In effect, you could say that current GDP number is representative of supply side economics. The business sector is hoping that new products and inventory will inspire the consumer to spend again. We'll see.
If the consumer turns away, we will see the next leg down in this recession.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
MyMy
January 30, 2010 11:25 AM
What it showed me is that Republicans have NOTHING but the same old cant: trite platitudes about big government, debt and spending, when all they really want to ensure is that none of THEIR money goes to nonwhite, poor and yet deserving people.
Did you see the Republican woman shaking her head continuously "NO" as Obama described how 30,000,000 more people would get coverage under the Democrats plan. That's an idea they cannot stand.
Remember for these guys, the poor are poor by their own fault.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
bill
January 30, 2010 11:58 AM
Why has the transfer of wealth accelerated under Obama just as it did under Reagan? These are the key questions to ask and the factual answers.
Who are Obama’s ‘constituencies’? Follow the decisions , find Obama’s constituencies, see where the money has gone and how voters and middle class were left holding the deficit bag and will no longer support him.
1. Decision - Ignore previous Republican crimes, misdemeanors and profligacy – tax cuts for the wealthy: Constituencies - Republican voters and Republican Senators and Representatives he hoped would become ‘bi-partisan’.
2. Decision - Support a stingy stimulus that was half of what was needed and included one-thirds tax breaks, increasing the deficit and further reducing the stimulus to one-third of what was needed: Constituencies – Wealthy investors, special interests.
3. Decision - Kill the only option that would have slowed the cost of health care & led to universal coverage – $ 753 Billions : Constituencies - Health insurance and pharmacy industries.
4. Decision - Accelerate the Bush bailout, $ 4.3 Trillions in bailouts, guarantees and purchasing assets from the private sector at well above market value: Constituency - Financial industry and banks.
5. Decision - Escalate a meaningless and fruitless war, $600 Billions: Constituencies - military and corporate mercenaries.
6. Decision - Gut real financial reform and substitute finger wagging and silly taxes and fees, while banking fees continue up, lending freezes and credit tightens - $UNK Billions: Constituencies - financial industry and the wealthy.
7. Decision - Not help people with bankruptcy and mortgages remediation – accelerating middle class decline: Constituencies - financial industry, banks and wealthy. and
8. Decision - Fiddle around and not pass a jobs bill – accelerating middle class decline (Already spent to much money, cut taxes and increased the deficit – so, sorry, no money for the middle class and American voters): Constituencies: Wealthy and Republicans.
Obama’s constituencies are the health insurance and pharmacy industry, military-mercenary complex, the financial industry and banks, and the wealthy.
Obama’s policies have continued to transfer America’s wealth from middle class families to corporations and the wealthy.
Why has Obama lost the support of the voters? Based on the decisions Obama has made, these appear to be the reasons for the lose:
1. Republicans are better off with real Republicans, hence support Republican voters is all but gone;
2. Independents, who wanted change, see the status quo protected and coddled, hence Independents have retreated from support for Obama and the Dems;
3. Democrats see a so-called Democratic White House and so-called Democratic Congress working to continue and accelerate the transfer of wealth from the middle class to the wealthy, hence they have no reason to support Obama and his allies in Congress.
Obama has made decisions that have hurt most Americans, and, he is either:
1. Oblivious,
2. Doesn’t care,
3. Surrounded himself with advisors up to their eyeballs in the status quo and/or self-interested,
4. Erroneously assumed the military-mercenary, health insurance-pharmaceutical, financial-banking industries and wealthy constituencies would remain loyal and rescue him from troubles.
It’s easy to understand why Obama’s ratings and his ‘agenda’ have been broadly rejected and Democrats have lost majority support. Now, we can look forward to more of that, as our Joe Lieberman President continues his waffle toward the Republican Party. Wont win that way, Pres. Sorry for you; sorry for all of us.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
DaddyD
January 30, 2010 12:55 PM in reply to bill
Cup half empty type, eh?
You assume too much, and choose to make the worst out of some things that are not as clearly one-sided as you would like us to believe. Not worth the effort to debate.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Barfood
January 30, 2010 12:30 PM
Bark!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
DugFmJamul
January 30, 2010 1:29 PM
The Democratic Party are the true Partisan Hacks in the United States Senate because the Democrats vote with their Party’s Majority more often and in greater numbers than the Republicans, this is a fact!
In 2009 27 of 40 Republicans voted 85% of the time with their Party’s Majority compared to 54 of 60 Democrats. In addition the Democratic Majority in the Senate passed 11 Bills without the help of the Republican Majority beating George W. Bush’s record of 8 in 2005 where the Republican Party did not need the Democratic Majority to pass a Bill.
The Senate's Democratic and Republican majorities came together in “Consensus” and concurred on only 104 of 397 votes (26.2%) during the 111 1st Session (2009) compared to 136 of 366 votes (37.2%) during the 109 1st Session (2005) of George W. Bush.
The Democrats have rarely reached over to the Republicans in the spirit of "bipartisanship" now or in the past. Telling Republicans in the Senate to bend over and hold their ankles to accept government run health care is not "bipartisanship" is it? Single Payer Government run Health Care might be part of the Democratic Party Platform but it’s clearly unconstitutional for Congress to force Americans to buy private health insurance period. The idea forcing an American citizen to pay for a Mexican citizen’s health care before forcing the Mexican Government to pay for their own citizens health care that are here illegally is too unconscionable to think of. Senators John McCain, Lindsey Graham, Benedict Arlen Specter, Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins have all been bending over for the Democrats in the Senate for years, in fact one bent over so far that he became a Democrat...do I make my point!
When the Liberal Bias Media speaks of bipartisanship between the political parties in Congress, what they are really saying is "Why can't the Republican Party be more like the Democratic Party". Well the Republican Party tried that approach with John McCain; it didn't work out so well for the Republicans--did it? The Democratic Party has positioned itself in direct contradiction with the Constitution on Health Care Reform and the Democrats have the nerve to ask the Republicans to join them…what nerve indeed.
President Obama is a much more polarizing figure than GWB ever was, why because Obama wants to lay waste to the U.S. Constitution and turn this Nation into a Progressive State where Democratic Tyranny shall rule over the States and Minority rights.
http://www.SenateReports.com
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 30, 2010 1:44 PM in reply to DugFmJamul
True insanity is a wonder to behold. ROCK ON!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
DugFmJamul
January 30, 2010 1:48 PM in reply to wbgonne
You can't debate me, so you ridicule me! So very Progressive of you!
Rule 5: Ridicule is man’s most potent weapon. It’s hard to counterattack ridicule, and it infuriates the opposition, which then reacts to your advantage.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 30, 2010 1:53 PM in reply to DugFmJamul
Like I said . . .
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
DaddyD
January 30, 2010 3:44 PM in reply to DugFmJamul
Here's an easy one... given the majority puts forward most legislation, they're more inclined to be happy with it, whether it be a politically major piece of legislation or not. That's easy. Individual members of the minority will, on smaller politically safe issues, generally decide on the merits (or respond favorably to the right enticements). However, on major legislation - especially those to which the majority has a political stake in, the minority will generally make a political calculation to oppose it - especially if the party in the majority also occupies the WH. If you want to look at the numbers from, say 2004 through 2006, when the tables were turned, you'll see it's true. That would be the valid comparison, between what each party does in similar circumstances. And this is where it becomes clear that the R's have taken things to a new extreme. You cannot deny that. Well, you could, but you'd be wrong.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
DugFmJamul
January 30, 2010 5:27 PM in reply to DaddyD
Daddy D you seem to be making an objective argument to my post, so I will respond to your inquiries about Senate Partisanship.
Freeman's post on the other-hand is nothing but pure Progressive Propaganda and Conjecture that deserves no response from me.
The 2004 and 2006 Party Percent numbers were less partisan for both sides overall because election years tend to bring out bipartisanship in both parties but Democratic partisanship started to increase in 2007 to 42 of 51 from 22 of 45 with >= 85% in 2006.
The Republicans Party Percent Averages continued to go down from 31 of 55 in 2006 to 18 of 49 in 2008 with a slight jump to 23 of 40 in 2009. This small jump for the Republicans does not match the jump for the Democrats which peaked out with 53 of 60 >= 85% in 2009.
Democrats are more partisan in the Senate than the Republicans because the vote with their Party's Majority more often and in greater numbers, that's a fact which you can't SPIN away!
So when you say, "it becomes clear that the R's have taken things to a new extreme."! No it's not clear, in fact its quite the opposite of what you said. It has become clear that the D's have taken things in the Senate to a new extreme, not the R's and the Democrats must continue on their partisan ways in order to pass their version health care reform.
Sorry, the numbers don't lie! Nice try but you are wrong about Partisanship in the Senate!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Cal Gal
January 30, 2010 6:45 PM in reply to DugFmJamul
You're not entitled to your own facts anymore.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
DugFmJamul
January 30, 2010 8:24 PM in reply to Cal Gal
Since I shared them here "the facts" now belong to everyone that has read my posts....have a nice day!
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
DaddyD
January 30, 2010 9:47 PM in reply to DugFmJamul
Only if you can verify them. You've cited no source. You could've simply made it all up.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
DugFmJamul
January 30, 2010 10:46 PM in reply to DaddyD
It seems Progressive Censorship is at play here and I'm not allowed to list my web site as a source of information...
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
DugFmJamul
January 30, 2010 10:55 PM in reply to Cal Gal
Freedom is the freedom to say two plus two equals four, that granted all else follows...
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
DaddyD
January 30, 2010 9:45 PM in reply to DugFmJamul
For a valid comparison, you need to pick years when the Dems were a minority in both chambers, a Republican was in the WH, and it was an off-election year.
And, please, link to your source for this information.
Here's a link to a post here on TPM back in August, long after it was becoming abundantly clear that Republicans were on track to obstruct at a record pace - including a choice quote from Trent Lott clearly stating that the R's were playing that role in the minority and rather proud of how effective they'd been... back in 2007! Take a look: http://tinyurl.com/6kpozt
Also, take a look at the link she provided to McClatchy.
Here's some more current data, published in late December: http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2009/12/23-7
I'd search for more, but why spend more of my time debating the obvious, when I could better spend my time with my son?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
FreemanW
January 30, 2010 3:58 PM in reply to DugFmJamul
You know the Republican playbook well young padowin.
The Republicans have rape & pillage down to a science. They have perfected the art of propaganda through talking points in the MSM. The Republican party owns the patent on mendacity with vigor and repetition.
They know how to build a money machine (witness 'K' Street & the rodent killer and convicted criminal Tom Delay) to support their Racketeering, Influence and Corruption power machine that has no rival.
The Republicans place party above all else; G.O.P. before truth, G.O.P. above country, G.O.P. fellow humans, the G.O.P. comes first and last at the expense of everything.
The crying shame for those interested in Democracy and a vibrant, healthy, civilized society is that at the moment, the only recourse we have to look to for salvation from the Democracy wrecking ball of the G.O.P. is the Democratic Party.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
FreemanW
January 30, 2010 10:39 PM in reply to DugFmJamul
"President Obama is a much more polarizing figure than GWB ever was, why because Obama wants to lay waste to the U.S. Constitution and turn this Nation into a Progressive State where Democratic Tyranny shall rule over the States and Minority rights."
Your lies make the baby Jesus cry.
When the Republicans are gifted an election by the SCOTUS they call it a mandate. The shout like lunatics on street corners how elections have consequences . . . that is, until they lose in a landslide.
Then all of the sudden, it is tyranny?
That may work with your pre-school crowd--it doesn't play with the adults.
Now go home, your mother is calling you from the back door. Your dinner is getting cold.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
DugFmJamul
January 30, 2010 11:04 PM in reply to FreemanW
Rule 3: Whenever possible, go outside the experience of an opponent. Here you want to cause confusion, fear, and retreat.
Refresh my memory FreemanW, but didn't Al Gore only want certain Democratic districts in Florida recounted but GWB wanted an entire recount of the State of Florida and that is why Al Gore pushed for a SCOTUS ruling?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Lestatdelc
January 31, 2010 1:01 AM in reply to DugFmJamul
No.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
FreemanW
January 31, 2010 1:59 PM in reply to DugFmJamul
Uhh, NO.
You know what is very bizarre, almost scary?
Your perceptions of fact are so whacked compared to reality.
It is as though you are living in a Salvador Dali world.
Have a good life in your fun house of distortion! ;-)
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
fred17
January 30, 2010 1:38 PM
the president did very well by focusing on the issues and the debate rather than a tit for tat talking point exchange. he did not set this up as i win/you loose.
commentators should do the same. i am disappointed in the pundits and bloggers who make this about who scored points
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 30, 2010 1:46 PM in reply to fred17
Um, did you listen to what the GOP Congresspeople said? Why don't you lecture THEM?
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
JimmyBobby
January 30, 2010 2:52 PM
I didn't see any sparring. In sparring, both sides land blows. All I saw was some dumb-ass Republican make fact-free statements disguised as a question and Obama smack it flat onto the canvas.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
lousgirl84
January 31, 2010 9:29 AM in reply to JimmyBobby
Smack down for sure. The man is brilliant. My faith in him has never waivered.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
JEP07
January 30, 2010 3:46 PM
I wonder what the OTHER Jeb and Bush Sr. had to say during their visit to the White House today...
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
baba2nde
January 30, 2010 5:34 PM
It is incorrect to compare this event to British Parliament Q & A sessions. Notice that both supporters and detractors of the British PM are in the House chamber during Q& A. Supporters are important, if for no purpose other than emotional sustenance.
No, the event did not even compare to presidential debates or American-style town hall meetings, for the same reason. The president was in the arena of unified opposition if not personal hostility. Republicans could have gone overboard, light the president's fuse on national TV to portray him as an angry black man. In America, that would have ended his presidency.
This was far and away an unprecedented intrepid performance, not to be topped in a lifetime.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
wbgonne
January 30, 2010 5:44 PM in reply to baba2nde
All true. Good points.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
JimmyBobby
January 31, 2010 10:23 PM in reply to baba2nde
Well said and true.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
sbv
January 31, 2010 10:36 AM
When the G.O.P. House leadership last year announced its plan to cut federal spending by $75 billion annually, it enumerated specific new cuts of only $5 billion per year. A tax-cut-laden “stimulus plan” endorsed by Jim DeMint, the South Carolina senator and Tea Party hero, “would cost more than $3 trillion — more than triple the cost of Obama’s stimulus — over the next decade,” in the estimate of Jonathan Chait of The New Republic."
wait until the gop gets back in power and their answer for all is to privatize medicare and social security as proposed by the wisconsin rep. considered their intelligent rising star.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
jaleh
January 31, 2010 2:08 PM
If Mike Pence really is regarded as one of the deep thinkers for the GOP, I’m beginning to understand why they refused to admit Terri Schiavo was brain-dead.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Sabreen60
January 31, 2010 6:50 PM
I don't think this was a mistake nor do I think it didn't accomplish anything. What it accomplished, IMO, was showcasing the incredible intelligence of the President. The GOP made the mistake. The GOP underestimated the President and they got spanked.
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?
Tosh
June 6, 2010 9:33 AM
The clear issue is solving Medicare Crisis vs. adding 30M people on the unfunded healthcare roles.
The "haves" (ie 80% of the population with healthcare including the senior citizen Medicare recipients who vote, MA voters, etc) are going to consistently be against anything that ALSO tries to worry about the "have-nots."
The best political move for Obama is to worry about solving the problems facing the haves... do a good job of it... prove government works, and then come up with a lower cost solution to aid the have-nots.
m65 kamagra
Reply | Flag Abuse
Are you sure this comment violates TPM's Terms of Service?