Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people

Barack Obama is once again showing his enmity for common people in small town America. Politco's Ben Smith has quoted Obama assigning a negative connotation to faith and gun ownership in small town Pennsylvania.

As an aside, Obama took it a step further and implied that typical Pennsylvanians had strong racist and xenophobic tendencies. But I digress: Here is what Obama said.

"And it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations.

He made those remarks in an attempt to appeal to voters in towns such as Allentown, Bethlehem and Scranton that have higher than average unemployment due to global competition.

Well Senator, that is one heck of a broad brush stroke. I am from Pennsylvania, and know many wonderful people that reside in small towns. My first college was in North East PA (NEPA).

I warmly recall that when my mother had cancer, my classmate's mother, a person of faith, called her and prayed with her. She is still a friend of my mother's to this day. Prayer kept my mom's spirits up and helped her withstand chemotherapy.

Even though I am not a religious person, Obama's I find Obama's comments to be deeply offensive. My friend's mom and my own mother are not 'clinging' to religion - it is an essential part of their lives.

Unlike Obama, who has never held a full time job, my friend's parents work multiple jobs and struggle to put food on the table, pay their mortgage and healthcare costs. Prayer helps them cope with the reality of their situation. What's wrong with that Senator?

My bet is that Obama just turned off a massive portion of the electorate, and is becoming the real life embodiment the GOP's "elitist liberal democrat" caricature. Is that what his version of Chairman Dean's "50 State strategy" is?



Display:


What a fool he is and here is the complete post (2.00 / 8)

that Smith quoted

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mayhill-fo wler/obama-no-surprise-that-ha_b_96188.h tml


I didn't believe in god before the primaries and I still don't.
by NewHampster on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:21:26 PM EST

Not only that (2.00 / 1)

I hear he slips lattes, drives Volvos, and does other things one would associate with liberal elitists.  

That's snark, BTW.


Saxby Chambliss
by bosdcla14 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:14:05 PM EST
[ Parent ]

McCain and Clinton comments (2.00 / 2)

It's an unforced error by Obama.  There was no need to say what he did.  If he ends up the nominee, which still is an open question, he needs to stop that.


It's being reported that my opponent said that the people of Pennsylvania who face hard times are bitter," Clinton said during a campaign event in Philadelphia. "Well that's not my experience. As I travel around Pennsylvania. I meet people who are resilient, optimist positive who are rolling up their sleeves."

"Pennsylvanians don't need a president who looks down on them," she said. "They need a president who stands up for them, who fights hard for your future, your jobs, your families."

McCain's campaign also criticized the comment Friday, saying "It shows an elitism and condescension towards hardworking Americans that is nothing short of breathtaking."

"It is hard to imagine someone running for president who is more out of touch with average Americans," Steve Schmidt, a senior advisor to McCain, said.


http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/


by TomP on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:26:15 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: McCain and Clinton (2.00 / 2)

he can't be nominee now, it's non stop at CNN, McCain's on board, and it's true, it's what he really thinks.  his supporters also think it's true.  If there were more of them, maybe, but he needed to win those he holds in contempt.  And he's just lost each and every one of them.  It's sad, in that Hillary could beat him anyway, but he threw in the towel.  I mean, he knew he'd be quoted, look at his friend Randi who thought she could get away with calling Hillary a whore at an Obama fundraising event and all the girls would be, oh yeah, she's not hurting me by calling the first credible female presidential candidate a whore, and she found out otherwise.  This also corresponds with the sense many have of Obama's sense of his own superiority, so it has a ring of truth, unlike the pastor story, no one really thought that was a reflection on what Obama thinks.  What happened is that he just gave up, today, he's thrown in the towel.  


just say it: Medicare for All
by anna shane on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:46:58 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: McCain and Clinton (2.00 / 0)

The Clintonistas keep looking for the silver bullet, but this is not it.  Face it, he's the nominee. I don't like it much either, but I am also not really big on Clinton.  I am tired of seeing the partisian bickering over this stuff though.  Obama made a gaffe in my opinion, but it will not hurt him.  It's a friday evening black hole and the positive media he has will make this go away.  Only Fox will care and they are catering to an audience that's never going to vote for Obama anyway.


by reggie44pride on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:56:12 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: McCain and Clinton (2.00 / 1)

Hillary, who is basically a Republican, cannot be our nominee either.  


by Toddwell on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:07:01 PM EST
[ Parent ]

So that's why Elizabeth Edwards (2.00 / 1)

told national television that she prefers Clinton's health plan.

That's why acclaimed progressive economist, Paul Krugman calls all of Obama's proposals "to the right" of Clinton's.

Is your vacuous smear from ignorance, or just right wing gas?


by internetstar on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 07:55:56 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: McCain and Clinton (2.00 / 0)

Doesn't spinning so hard sometimes make you feel silly?

Or Dizzy?


by wrb on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:24:50 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: McCain and Clinton (2.00 / 1)

CNN on the situation room actually called Clinton out on her misinterpretations of what obama really said, and they didn't like her reply one bit! So, yeah, it's non stop but that doesn't mean it's all bad for Obama, and listen if one reads the paragraph prior to the religion, guns, immigrant ANTI TRADE comments, Obama stated that people for 25 years, through the Clinton administration and the Bush administrations had seen their jobs disappear and even though they were told the jobs would become plentiful again, that hadn't happened.

That's why Clinton and McCain are all juiced up, Obama is reminding people of how bad those administrations really were, that's when their lives changed and their's not been anything to replace those old times.


by Wary on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:05:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: McCain and Clinton (2.00 / 1)

Right here. It ain't gonna be pretty for Clinton when CNN gets fed up...then all that's left is Fox.

http://www.youtube.com/v/4G8dRMofHNs& ;hl=en


by bookish on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:02:45 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: in PA (none / 0)

I really doubt that.
Obama is fast on his feet.  His response clarifies the matter. And, after all, he spoke the truth.
by barnowl on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 06:38:55 AM EST
[ Parent ]

he has a slick team (2.00 / 1)

to clean up behind him, and redirect media attention by digging up old Clinton hit stories.


by internetstar on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 07:59:48 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Scandals are like busses for the Clintons (none / 0)

Another one will be coming along in a minute.


by ReillyDiefenbach on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 05:51:07 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: McCain and Clinton (none / 0)

HE `CAN'T BE NOMINEE NOW !!!!

You're so funny. We'll how this palys out. I'm confident that Barack Obama can and will be nominee, and that he can and will be a great President !!!


by hebi on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 08:15:45 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Oeps (none / 0)

HE CAN'T BE NOMINEE NOW !!!!

You're so funny. We'll see how this plays out. I'm confident that Barack Obama can and will be the nominee, and that he can and will be a great President !!!


by hebi on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 08:18:00 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: McCain and Clinton (none / 0)

I think I'll save this post for next Saturday. We'll see where the polls are. This is what, the fifth or sixth time you guys have declared Obama's candidacy dead in the water? My own hunch is you'll all be back to flailing away about Reszko.

We'll see.


by BlueinColorado on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:51:01 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: McCain and Clinton comments (none / 0)

Like Iraq, Clinton and McCain seem to be aligning quite nicely. What a cute couple.
Stop H8
by mikeinsf on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:22:30 PM EST
[ Parent ]

FRIENDS PARENTS WERE AT FUNDRAISER (2.00 / 1)

The quote was taken out of context completely.  


by regina1983 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:36:38 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: FRIENDS PARENTS WERE AT FUNDRAISER (2.00 / 2)

No it wasn't.

If anything the context is worse. He is at a multi-zillionaire fundraiiser in San Francisco, and the audience is laughing and chuckling at the plight of poor people.

Listen to the audio:

AUDIO OF OBAMA SF COMMENTS AT BOTTOM OF THIS ARTICLE

Subject comment begins at about 2:30, but to get the context listen to the whole thing.


by MediaFreeze on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:59:36 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: FRIENDS PARENTS WERE AT FUNDRAISER (2.00 / 3)

He clearly said right afterward:
"Um, now these are in some communities, you know. I think what you'll find is, is that people of every background -- there are gonna be a mix of people, you can go in the toughest neighborhoods, you know working-class lunch-pail folks, you'll find Obama enthusiasts. And you can go into places where you think I'd be very strong and people will just be skeptical. The important thing is that you show up and you're doing what you're doing."

This attack on him is so dishonest and transparent. I happen to be from the Appalachian mountains and it's true. I honestly can't figure out what is so objectionable about what he said. The fact that he said that skeptics weren't racist? The fact that he conveyed how he understood their frustrations and how they manifest themselves? Or the fact that he tried to engage in an honest assessment of some of the root causes of division in our country?

This attack is worse than a dishonest attack on a single politician, it represents a cynicism which seeks to squelch, for momentary political gain, the first honest public attempt in a long time to engage in a dialogue about the sources of our division.

You should be ashamed of yourselves.


Senator Obama will be formally nominated on August 28, 2008 - the 45th Anniversary of Dr. King's "I Have A Dream Speech."
by brimur on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:03:42 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Tail between legs (2.00 / 0)

I'm so ashamed that we distrust this speech making charlatan.  So ashamed, Not.


I didn't believe in god before the primaries and I still don't.
by NewHampster on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:11:29 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tail between legs (2.00 / 1)

I'll tell you. In doing the dirty work of the GOP, you are becoming them. You are *choosing* to not understand what he is saying and selectively quoting out of context. You and Hillary should be embarrassed.
Stop H8
by mikeinsf on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:05:41 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tail between legs (2.00 / 1)

I got the point of what he was saying and he was right in saying that we are distracted and willing to place blame where it doesn't belong.  Obama's mistake was lumping faith and the belief some have in owning guns in with the rest.  That's what HRC was referring to and she was right.  I am a person of faith, and I find it uplifting.  It's not a crutch, and I don't understand why a man who says he is a person of faith doesn't understand why some would be offended.  Most of his comments were on target, but those weren't.


by TinaH1963 on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:01:09 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tail between legs (none / 0)

But this should lead you to the conclusion that he simply misspoke. The one mistake is his choice of word: "clinging". But that is no reason to infer all these dastardly motives.


Senator Obama will be formally nominated on August 28, 2008 - the 45th Anniversary of Dr. King's "I Have A Dream Speech."
by brimur on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 11:29:45 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Obama comments (2.00 / 4)

I am being honest. He does comes off as elitist by criticizing religion and guns.  He sounds like he's deriding people of faith and people who feel passionate about owning guns.  I am a spiritual person by choice; I happen to attend a liberal church where most of the congregation are quite affluent and there is a certain level of elitism prevalent--now, don't misunderstand me, these are good people, but I often run into the attitude that people with white-collar jobs and college degrees are smarter than everyone else. I know Obama didn't mean to come off this way, but he did. I've said this before--many Obama supporters seem to feel that they are smarter than everyone else.  That may not be fair, but when you call low-income and older voters "low-information" voters, you open yourself up to the charge of elitism. Fundamentally, I don't think he is elitist, but I do think he's arrogant and sometimes patronizing, even though I do believe he has some valid points.


by TinaH1963 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 11:50:30 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I heard it. (2.00 / 0)

Obama was dead on correct in his comments.  It is unfortunate that pulling one sentence out of context  can be spun into such a viral negative; but there it is.  Frankly, when I heard about this, I began to question whether Obama was too intelligent to be President.  He speaks in paragraphs of coherent thoughts, but the media only reports sentences.


Nos causidicus Obama , ergo nos non suadeo
by rb608 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:15:25 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I heard it. (2.00 / 1)

Hereabouts, it would appear his daring to speak about realities instead of bromides is a fatal flaw.

Of course, it used to be that he was criticised for not being specific. Now he's being too specific.

Obama's right -- there is a segment of the US population -- usually the white population -- that votes for Abortion or Gay issues, but is screwed economically. (See, "What's the Matter with Kansas"). Obama is right to look at it. These are natural democratic populations -- who have been exploited. We won't win them back by exploiting in turn.

It's really sad though -- the glee over Obama's "gaffe" of speaking truth.

I hope after a 8 years of multi-millionaires helping themselves, America will be willing to listen to an "elite" if you will, who took his elite education and when into the city to use it for good.

And the pure Chutzpah of the Clinton campaign just boggles my mind in this. Democrats accusing democrats of being elitists. And the one accusing the other of being elitist are the ones with $111 million.

Who needs republicans.


Fight the Smears!
by Lettuce on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:48:36 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I heard it. (2.00 / 2)

Kinda reminds me of Democrats accusing Democrats of being racist.


by Dave B on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 11:07:59 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I heard it. (none / 0)

Find me a quote of Obama or any of his official spokespeople calling someone in the Clinton admin racist.

Find me a quote of either Clinton calling Obama's patriotism or committment to poor people in question.

For what it's worth, I can find a couple of the latter from yesterday. I have only heard Obama and his official spokespeople disavowing accusations of Clinton racism.

Note: I don't think the Clinton campaign has ever accused Obama of misogyny. But the attempts to use this to 'ruin' Obama for Hillary's chances are blatent and depressing as someone who cares most about seeng a Democrat elected.


Fight the Smears!
by Lettuce on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 08:45:07 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Jesse Jackson Jr. Kicked it off with (2.00 / 1)

"Hillary didn't cry about Katrina." Jesse Jr. is playing the race card.

Hillary is a racist because she cried in NH and not for Katrina.


by Dave B on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 09:17:28 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Jesse Jackson Jr. Kicked it off with (none / 0)

Jesse Jackson Jr. Isn't a member of the Obama campaign.

Any actual proof?


Fight the Smears!
by Lettuce on Sun Apr 13, 2008 at 12:11:47 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I heard it. (none / 0)

and sentence fragments.


Capitalization is the difference between "I had to help my uncle Jack off a horse..." and "I had to help my uncle jack off a horse..."
by igottheblues on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:11:02 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: FRIENDS PARENTS WERE AT FUNDRAISER (none / 0)

Yes.  It was.

And you should be ashamed.


by Drummond on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:30:31 PM EST
[ Parent ]

It is being taken out of context, here's why (2.00 / 3)

It's not surprising that Clinton-McCain campaigns are taking advantage of the, perhaps, poorly chosen words of Senator Obama.

But here they are, and I will put them into context.

So, it depends on where you are, but I think it's fair to say that the places where we are going to have to do the most work are the places where people feel most cynical about government..

He is talking about places in America that are most cynical about the Government, and how Democrats have had trouble winning votes there.

Um, now these are in some communities, you know. I think what you'll find is, is that people of every background -- there are gonna be a mix of people, you can go in the toughest neighborhoods, you know working-class lunch-pail folks, you'll find Obama enthusiasts. And you can go into places where you think I'd be very strong and people will just be skeptical. The important thing is that you show up and you're doing what you're doing.

Meaning you have to go to every community and work for votes.

But the truth is, is that, our challenge is to get people persuaded that we can make progress when there's not evidence of that in their daily lives. You go into some of these small towns in Pennsylvania, and like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, the jobs have been gone now for 25 years and nothing's replaced them. And they fell through the Clinton administration, and the Bush administration, and each successive administration has said that somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not.

It means exactly what it says. There are towns all through the 'rust belt' that are devestated and not only are jobs scarce, but so is hope.

So it's not surprising then that they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations.

And this means what it says too, but not in the way it's being taken by the diarist.

It's NOT surprising people have gotten bitter about their jobs being shipped overseas or someplace else. People do cling to their religion, it's free and it helps us get through hard times. Our Constitutional rights are free too, so we hold them dear.

And if people don't think that NAFTA and the fact that we are shipping our jobs overseas doesn't produce an "anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment", then they are just fooling themselves.

Poorly worded, yes. But it's the truth.


by DaveDial on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:43:51 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Let's put it in context then... (2.00 / 4)

Obama was talking to a crowd of multi-zillionaire Silicon Valley backers. These people are amoung the most self-important people on the planet. Obama was explaining to them why he is having trouble connecting with poor white working class people, and his reasoning is that these people are so twisted up by their poverty and hopelessness that they have embraced their guns, religion and bigotry, and can not even see clearly what it is that is in their own good--that being him... Obama... the guy that all those folks have just written big checks to.

The idea is to explain the lack of support amoung poor white people as being invalid due to confusion brought on by their hard economic condition. To flatter the rich supporters for being so enlightened as to see clearly the goodness of Obama. To appeal to these rich people that they are better than the poor people who can't see this clearly. And finally, he is appealing to the do-gooder nature of these rich supporters that by supporting Obama they are actually helping these poor white people who don't even know enough to vote for what is in their best interest, again him... Obama.

This is an appeal that works very well with these Silicon Valley types who have no problem at all in believing that anything they think is absolutely the only truly true truth.


by MediaFreeze on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:09:02 PM EST
[ Parent ]

He could have worded it better (2.00 / 1)

...it's true, Obama worded it better here:

And for 25, 30 years Democrats and Republicans have come before them and said we're going to make your community better.  We're going to make it right and nothing ever happens.  And of course they're bitter.  Of course they're frustrated.  You would be too. In fact many of you are.  Because the same thing has happened here in Indiana. The same thing happened across the border in Decatur.  The same thing has happened all across the country.  Nobody is looking out for you.  Nobody is thinking about you.  And so people end up- they don't vote on economic issues because they don't expect anybody's going to help them. So people end up, you know, voting on issues like guns, and are they going to have the right to bear arms. They vote on issues like gay marriage. And they take refuge in their faith and their community and their families and things they can count on. But they don't believe they can count on Washington. So I made this statement-- so, here's what rich.  Senator Clinton says `No, I don't think that people are bitter in Pennsylvania.  You know, I think Barack's being condescending.'  John McCain says, `Oh, how could he say that?  How could he say people are bitter? You know, he's obviously out of touch with people.'  

"Out of touch?  Out of touch?  I mean, John McCain--it took him three tries to finally figure out that the home foreclosure crisis was a problem and to come up with a plan for it, and he's saying I'm out of touch?  Senator Clinton voted for a credit card-sponsored bankruptcy bill that made it harder for people to get out of debt after taking money from the financial services companies, and she says I'm out of touch?  No, I'm in touch.  I know exactly what's going on. I know what's going on in Pennsylvania. I know what's going on in Indiana. I know what's going on in Illinois. People are fed-up. They're angry and they're frustrated and they're bitter. And they want to see a change in Washington and that's why I'm running for President of the United States of America."

But honestly, folks, despite this attempt to "Macaca" Obama, are you really arguing that a vote for the multimillionaire Clinton dynasty who sent everyones' jobs overseas, and who get the majority of their campaign donations from corrupt corporate interests, and who hired the PR firm of Blackwater, Monsanto, and paramilitary Colombia to run their campaign--is less elitist?

Obama, the son of a goat herder, the guy who turned away from high-level DC jobs to work in the inner city of Chicago, the guy who won't take lobbyist money, HE's the elitist?

Come on. That is pure projection.


by rhetoricus on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:51:24 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: FRIENDS PARENTS WERE AT FUNDRAISER (2.00 / 1)

Obama's ONLY mistake is that he CRITICIZED both the Clinton and Bush administrations from free trade as to why they didn't have jobs and government let them down:

You go into these small towns in Pennsylvania and, like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, the jobs have been gone now for 25 years and nothing's replaced them. And they fell through the Clinton administration, and the Bush administration, and each successive administration has said that somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not.
http://www.politico.com/blogs/bensmith/0 408/Obama_on_smalltown_PA_Clinging_relig ion_guns_xenophobia.html

And he is right on target, and that's why both Clinton and mcCain are furious and now making him out to be an "Elitist" yeah, what he's saying in so many words, these previous administrations have done to them and all the waiting for things to 'get better and return" has not happened.


by Wary on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:02:44 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I was at fundraiser 2 hours prior (none / 0)

in the Silicon Valley on the same day.  He spoke about guns at that event as well.  he actually responded to a question about the problem of inner city gun violence and the need for gun control.  you know what he said?  He talked about the need for "reasonable" gun control legislation because counterbalanced with the need to control inner city violence is a culture in largely rural America where guns are a part of life and must be respected.  he indicated that he had just arrived from Montana a few hours earlier where he said everyone seemed to have a gun, and he essentially went about explaining to the mostly ultra-liberal anti-gun crowd that it is part of their culture to have guns.  I think the comment was something along the lines of how fathers and sons have been going hunting for generations in the same way a father and son in other places plays baseball and that we have to respect that.  I think I learned quite a bit from that response about people who are not like me.  Condescending?  quite the contrary.  I'd call it incredibally enlightening.  I know a lot of you on this board are pro-Clinton and it is hard for you to get over the fact that she's losing, but I think you all are going to be very proud of this guy if you give him a chance as your President.  


by gabejack on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 08:23:57 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Context means a whole lot..... (none / 0)

Read the whole portion. It makes a huge difference and is quite striking in its honesty and truthfulness.

OBAMA: So, it depends on where you are, but I think it's fair to say that the places where we are going to have to do the most work are the places where people are most cynical about government. The people are mis-appre...they're misunderstanding why the demographics in our, in this contest have broken out as they are. Because everybody just ascribes it to 'white working-class don't wanna work -- don't wanna vote for the black guy.' That's...there were intimations of that in an article in the Sunday New York Times today - kind of implies that it's sort of a race thing.

Here's how it is: in a lot of these communities in big industrial states like Ohio and Pennsylvania, people have been beaten down so long. They feel so betrayed by government that when they hear a pitch that is premised on not being cynical about government, then a part of them just doesn't buy it. And when it's delivered by -- it's true that when it's delivered by a 46-year-old black man named Barack Obama, then that adds another layer of skepticism.

But -- so the questions you're most likely to get about me, 'Well, what is this guy going to do for me? What is the concrete thing?' What they wanna hear is -- so, we'll give you talking points about what we're proposing -- to close tax loopholes, you know, roll back the tax cuts for the top 1 percent. Obama's gonna give tax breaks to middle-class folks and we're gonna provide health care for every American.

But the truth is, is that, our challenge is to get people persuaded that we can make progress when there's not evidence of that in their daily lives. You go into some of these small towns in Pennsylvania, and like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, the jobs have been gone now for 25 years and nothing's replaced them. And they fell through the Clinton administration, and the Bush administration, and each successive administration has said that somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not. And it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations.

Um, now these are in some communities, you know. I think what you'll find is, is that people of every background -- there are gonna be a mix of people, you can go in the toughest neighborhoods, you know working-class lunch-pail folks, you'll find Obama enthusiasts. And you can go into places where you think I'd be very strong and people will just be skeptical. The important thing is that you show up and you're doing what you're doing.


by Yalin on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:25:42 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Context means a whole lot..... (2.00 / 3)

In order to be a successful mass communicator, you have to master the art of being succinct - especially in unscripted remarks. You have to be one step ahead and understand how easily your words will be taken out of context, because this is a TV world and relatively few people will stick around for the context.

My head aches at the thought of an entire presidential campaign of playing "W.O.R.M" (What Obama Really Meant). This isn't a fricking graduate seminar, it's a political campaign - and he showed poor judgment.


by Susie from Philly on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 11:28:25 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Context means a whole lot..... (none / 0)

He showed poor judgment for giving an answer that requires people to move beyond the standard 30 second soundbite?

Is that all you want in a leader, someone who has to distill a complex problem/issue into a nice bite-sized edible nugget of marketing blah?


by Yalin on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 09:34:07 PM EST
[ Parent ]

He's talking about the Guns, God & Gays crowd. (none / 0)

So Dems are fools for talking about that? It's all over the internets and folks like Howard Dean have talked about them so I guess there are a lot of foolish Dems.


My candidate lost fair and square. So did yours. Get over it and let's kick McSame's ass!
by RLMcCauley on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:02:12 PM EST
[ Parent ]

you forgot to mention that "bitter" (none / 0)

is a dog whistle for cannibals.  


4 years of McCain = 4 more years of Bush.
by ashriver on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:24:29 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 7)

are you saying people DON'T blame immigrants when they can't find a job? or that people DON'T blame trade policies?

or are you saying he should never actually say this no matter what kind of truth there may be?

its true and I thought we democrats understood this, Immigrants get blamed for way to much,

wow are we the GOP party now?

Obama doesn't back away from saying the truth even if people dont want to hear it, you are right we shouldn't vote for him


Dream for tomorrow but fight for it today.
by TruthMatters on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:21:49 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (1.75 / 8)

Some - not everyone, and not just in small towns. Obama is perpetuating a stereotype.


Fight for Democrats in Congress.
by owl06 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:23:15 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 2)

wait so you said some, did he say EVERYONE?

otherwise there would seem to be some truths in what he said no?

or do you think there isn't a xenophobia problem in this country? or do you think Obama shouldn't be talking about it?

so Obama said EVERYONE in small towns was like this?


Dream for tomorrow but fight for it today.
by TruthMatters on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:25:44 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (1.83 / 6)

read the quote. he's talking about people in depressed areas and then says, "they get bitter." That's a prime example of someone that is using a hammer instead of a scalpel.  


Fight for Democrats in Congress.
by owl06 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:31:15 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

I would say two things...  Obama was referring to people in small towns... the diarist infers that, apparently, only people in small towns are everyday people...

I live in a city, am I an every-other day person?


"If you ever post anything on that website again, I will shove a motherboard so far up your a$$...!" C.J Cregg
by JenKinFLA on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:36:53 PM EST
[ Parent ]

would write it off except that there is a pattern (2.00 / 2)

of remarks like this by Obama.

He's selfish and deceptive. His healthcare plan does not hold much kindness in it for poor people because they pay for insurance, but they don't receive peace of mind in return. They trade affordability for inadequate coverage which means many more people will die because they can't afford healthcare. people will still hesitate before going to the doctor. They still wont be able to afford drugs they need.

Things like these (below) will still happen..

http://www.latimes.com/features/health/l a-fi-healthinsure-sg,1,3627886.storygall ery

Thats the main reason I'm supporting Hillary, she's not a phony.


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:44:40 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: would write it off except that there is a patt (none / 0)

and people supporting Obama would take issue with the "Hillary is not a phony" line... I have seem posts which would indicate the opposite is true.

We all have our preferences, but, first of all, what the H3LL does this have to do with healthcare and secondly, are we not reaching a point of critical mass where we get so outraged over little things, the big things get a pass...?


"If you ever post anything on that website again, I will shove a motherboard so far up your a$$...!" C.J Cregg
by JenKinFLA on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:49:06 PM EST
[ Parent ]

The years around age six are crucial for developme (1.50 / 2)

The years around age six are crucial for development of one's conscience and moral compass.

I understand that like Bush, Obama had a very stressful childhood.

That puts him at high risk for narcissistic personality disorder. One of the symptoms of NPD is a contempt for 'common' people and a feeling that one is above the rules and behaviors that most of us live our lives by.

Not all of them are psychopaths, many are highly functional and enter law, politics, the clergy, anywhere where they can get the respect they feel they deserve.


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:54:40 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The years around age six are crucial for devel (2.00 / 1)

Oh, I see...  internet psychology rears its ugly head...

May I call you in for a consultation the next time I see a post referring to the Clintons as sociopaths?


"If you ever post anything on that website again, I will shove a motherboard so far up your a$$...!" C.J Cregg
by JenKinFLA on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:04:41 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The years around age six are crucial for devel (none / 0)

If I remember correctly, this person posted an entire diary on the subject not too long ago.  Obama has NPD because this diarist grew up/knows people with it and can therefore diagnose people via television sets.  I'm fairly certain they graduated in the same TV medicine class as the esteemed cat doctor Bill Frist.


And so, may evil beware and may good dress warmly and eat lots of fresh vegetables.
by thatpurplestuff on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:14:50 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Really got to you, did he? (none / 0)

Truth hurts.


by internetstar on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 08:01:44 AM EST
[ Parent ]

This is a dispicable use of pop psychology (2.00 / 1)

Based in pure speculation and ignorance.  Using psychological terminology as a weapon, based on woefully incomplete information, flies in the face of the spirit of the psychological community.  As a therapist, I find this statement unethical, and as a citizen I find it manipulative.


by nwgates on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:06:14 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I stand by my comments (none / 0)

...


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:29:40 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I stand by my comments (none / 0)

Gee, color me not surprised....

Your clear and utter contempt for Obama might be clouding your judgment though...  I would ask for a second opinion...


"If you ever post anything on that website again, I will shove a motherboard so far up your a$$...!" C.J Cregg
by JenKinFLA on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:35:39 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Yes, I'm sure you do (none / 0)

Some people go to school for years to make these types of discernments, but hey, I'll take your word for it.

You've convinced me.


by nwgates on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:22:26 PM EST
[ Parent ]

school of hard knocks.. (none / 0)

..


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:33:53 PM EST
[ Parent ]

What does that even mean? (none / 0)


by nwgates on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 09:51:30 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: would write it off except that there is a patt (2.00 / 1)

Obama supporters sure have mastered the whole 'changing the subject and turning it around I am rubber and you are glue five year old attempt at debating'.  It takes a whole lot to try and spin this one. But hey, you guys spun Randi Rhodes.


by apolitik on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:29:40 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: would write it off except that there is a patt (none / 0)

I haven't seen a single post saying anything about rubber and glue...

But hey, you guys seem to have mastered the whole changing the subject via ad hominem attack on the commenter or the candidate, so I guess we have all learned something this cycle.


"If you ever post anything on that website again, I will shove a motherboard so far up your a$$...!" C.J Cregg
by JenKinFLA on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:39:07 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: would write it off (none / 0)

Someone who says they are against NAFTA while she pushed it for her husband and her campaign manager tried to push the Columbia Free Trade Agreement is not phony?  You are very naive.  


by Toddwell on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:50:54 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: would write it off except that there is a patt (2.00 / 1)

He's selfish and deceptive.

Thats the main reason I'm supporting Hillary, she's not a phony.

Now that's productive. You could've made a point about healthcare without the name-calling and insults, but you couldn't resist, eh?
by Johnny Gentle Famous Crooner on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:06:33 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I uess I'm not that calculating... (2.00 / 1)

I'm only human..


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:30:38 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I uess I'm not that calculating... (none / 0)

it's "calculating" to NOT insult Obama? Insults are your default mode?

C'mon, man. I'm not asking you to start praising the guy, but can't we at least keep the insults out of it? On both candidate's sides?


by Johnny Gentle Famous Crooner on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:35:57 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I uess I'm not that calculating... (none / 0)

you're also biased....


"If you ever post anything on that website again, I will shove a motherboard so far up your a$$...!" C.J Cregg
by JenKinFLA on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:37:00 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I uess I'm not that calculating... (none / 0)

As if you are not? Or are you implying you are Messiah too?

Everyone in here is biased. Only some have the maturity to keep their bias away while reading other people's perspectives.


by Sandeep on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:43:57 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: except that there is a pattern (none / 0)

/the main reason I'm supporting Hillary, she's not a phony/

LMFAO.

You owe me a new laptop for spitting cola all over it.


by reggie44pride on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:58:48 PM EST
[ Parent ]

That is how you lose Rural Votes and mid west (2.00 / 1)

through the typical comments

Just Words


by indus on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:27:08 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 3)

Small point - As I understand it Obama made these remarks from the safety of a San Francisio mansion surrounded by millionaire donors.  Would he dare say such things in front of a Pa. crowd of ordinary people?


by Tolstoy on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:45:12 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (1.00 / 4)

I dare say he would not make those comments at a town hall meeting in a small town in PA. And, his patronizing, and contemptuous attempt to portray empathy is pathetic and laughable.

Would Obama say that about inner city youth in urban areas in PA? That they're "bitter" and hate immigrants, cling to their guns and religion?

Somehow I doubt he'd issue such stereotyped assertions there either.

Nope. Obama was in his element on Billionaire's Row in San Francisco, among the moneyed elitists who are paying for access in his White House. They'll get it, too. But those "bitter" people in those small towns in Pennsylvania won't get access. They don't have the money to get access from an elitist snob like Barack Obama--a man who made a deal with a corrupt political fixer to purchase a mansion Obama couldn't afford.


"I never give them hell. I just tell the truth and they think it's hell." Harry S Truman
by Tennessean on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:59:08 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

  1. enough of the name-calling. this is getting ridiculous already.
  2. "deal to purchase a mansion Obama couldn't afford" is false.

by Johnny Gentle Famous Crooner on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:11:57 PM EST
[ Parent ]

So the Chicago house is only worth $1.6M? (none / 0)

or three or four times that?


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:32:17 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: So the Chicago house is only worth $1.6M? (none / 0)

The sellers have stated on the record that he gave them the best offer. Is it worth more now? Yes. Home values have gone up. Have proof of anything else? Post it. If not, zip it.


by grover738 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 11:58:52 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 4)

The bottom line is he paints a broad brush stroke, stereotyping over half of America's population as hicks, and panting him and his supporters as the enlightened. It's an insult and his comment perfectly portrays elisist liberalism. Insulting those who are religious is out of bounds, and stereotyping the rural population is out of bounds as well. How would Senator Obama feel if Hillary started going around saying about African-Americans "Well, it's not a suprise they get bitter, all they do is hang on to playing the victim and blaming whitey, with entitlement sentiment"? While that statement is certainly not true, it mirrors Obama's in terms of stereotypes of a broad swath of Americans which are much different than his elisist liberalism would like to paint them as.


Hillary supporter for Barack Obama in 2008
by zcflint05 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:28:04 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (1.50 / 2)

Woe, standard Repug talking points. Are you even a DEM.?
by lion king on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:40:29 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 2)

I don't stand for trashing rural populations because someone believes they are "above" them, no matter which party that takes place in. Thank you.


Hillary supporter for Barack Obama in 2008
by zcflint05 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:55:36 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

That anyone here can make the leap that he feels he is "above" them is proving the anti-Obama-bias that you have.  Unless you can show me the line where he said that..


"If you ever post anything on that website again, I will shove a motherboard so far up your a$$...!" C.J Cregg
by JenKinFLA on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:07:12 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Was he a Harvard legacy? (2.00 / 1)

or wasn't he?


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:33:09 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Was he a Harvard legacy? (2.00 / 0)

oh, that's fabulous...  so now people from Harvard are now not everyday people...  Is that all people who went to an Ivy League school as well...?  How about all people who went to college period...

Seriously, we are almost knee deep in the Right wing talking point about intellectual elitism...  you're almost there....  come on.. a little further....


"If you ever post anything on that website again, I will shove a motherboard so far up your a$$...!" C.J Cregg
by JenKinFLA on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:42:15 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Doubtful! (none / 0)

He did undergrad at a small CA college and then transferred to Columbia; and since his father didn't attend Harvard Law it's rather unlikely any sort of legacy was involved.

But you knew all that.


by amiches on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:43:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Is Hillary a presidential candidate legacy? (none / 0)

or isn't she?


Senator Obama will be formally nominated on August 28, 2008 - the 45th Anniversary of Dr. King's "I Have A Dream Speech."
by brimur on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:11:02 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

he was speaking of people who live in small towns in Pennsylvania and in the midwest...  By what metric does this equate to "over half the population of America with you?"

Truth be told, these areas have been shrinking in population as people move toward the cities or suburbs around the cities.  The populations have been growing back a bit due to an influx of Hispanics.

I realize at this point we are relegated to dissecting and parsing every single word these candidates make, but, as I have lived in small midwestern towns in my life, I am trying to figure out what he said that is incorrect..


"If you ever post anything on that website again, I will shove a motherboard so far up your a$$...!" C.J Cregg
by JenKinFLA on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:43:46 PM EST
[ Parent ]

So, are you trying to say its okay to write off (2.00 / 1)

half of America?

All the people who can't afford to move to the cities?
The rural areas are losing most of the jobs that are moving away, the big cities have the diversity economically, but as gas gets more expensive the central city areas become extremely valuable real estate. So now, people like Rezko are forcing the people who live there out, so they can make millions on condos. But there is nowhere for them to move TO.

Its not just rural America that is effected by elitism and Social Darwinism, its the urban areas as well.


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:49:33 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: So, are you trying to say its okay to write of (none / 0)

First of all... way to bring up a Rezko reference where none was needed.... as usual, you win today's non sequitur award...

Secondly, how are you refuting my point...?  The comment I was referring to said that Obama had insulted over half of America.  I took issue with the math there because over half of America does not live in small towns in the midwest and Pennsylvania, which was the focus of Obama's remarks.  The cities remain the population centers in this country.  They have been for over half a century...  

Beyond that, aside from he fact that it was Obama that said it, which is enough for you to condemn it, what did he say that was incorrect?


"If you ever post anything on that website again, I will shove a motherboard so far up your a$$...!" C.J Cregg
by JenKinFLA on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:57:42 PM EST
[ Parent ]

You don't see how its relevant? (2.00 / 1)

you clearly know nothing about slumlords..


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:35:14 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: You don't see how its relevant? (none / 0)

you're clearly biased

But your concerns are noted....


"If you ever post anything on that website again, I will shove a motherboard so far up your a$$...!" C.J Cregg
by JenKinFLA on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:43:24 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

He's speaking of rural populations in general, which, mind you, make up about half the nation, and then telling us that all they do when they lose thier jobs is "cling" to religion and guns are typically, they are very racist. Just like "typically" white people are scared of blacks. See a pattern? This guy breathes elitist liberal...bottom line.


Hillary supporter for Barack Obama in 2008
by zcflint05 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:59:50 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

no, he was not.  That is an inference that you are making...  He specifically mentioned small towns in Pennsylvania and the midwest...

But again, I would like you to show me the metric by which you conclude that rural populations make up about (yes, I realize you have now changed it from over half) of the population...  The population centers of this country are the cities and the suburb around cities...  This has been the case for roughly half a century.

He also did not say they were "typically racist"... yet another inference you are making.  You apparently exaggerate to make your points, bottom line...


"If you ever post anything on that website again, I will shove a motherboard so far up your a$$...!" C.J Cregg
by JenKinFLA on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:12:14 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Oh, and "elitist liberal" was a Right-wing talking point used as a description of John Kerry, so thanks for that...


"If you ever post anything on that website again, I will shove a motherboard so far up your a$$...!" C.J Cregg
by JenKinFLA on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:32:26 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

Comments like Obama's reinforce that statement. Comments like that are elisist, no matter what party they come from. If we want to "stop right wing talking points" we probably shouldn't reinforce that stereotype by making comments about "clinging on religion" and insinuating xenophobia in front of multi millionaires in San Francisco. Just a thought.


Hillary supporter for Barack Obama in 2008
by zcflint05 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:56:32 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 0)

insinuating xenophobia...?  I hate to break this to you, but xenophobia is alive and well in America today.  Tom Tancredo ran for President based almost solely on xenophobia.


"If you ever post anything on that website again, I will shove a motherboard so far up your a$$...!" C.J Cregg
by JenKinFLA on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:37:10 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

/This guy breathes elitist liberal...bottom line/

I agree, but it's all over the left-wing.  Hillary Clinton does too, she just hides it better now because she's been the "working class" candidate this season, by some miracle/stroke of luck for her.


by reggie44pride on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:01:42 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

Obama supporters cling to Obama because their lives are spiritually empty right now.

Not so fun to be on receiving end of such a comment now, is it?


by catfish1 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:44:50 PM EST
[ Parent ]

everyday people (2.00 / 2)

when Hillary spoke about immigrants and jobs, she said a reason for immigration reform is the driving down of wages, that kind of competition that costs jobs with decent wages, and Obama claimed, with media help of course, that she was pandering to black voters.  Obama has the right to insult working people if he wants, but don't think he's taking the high road on what's really wrong, he's taking the pot shots at Hillary.  Clinton is using this quote in a speech in PA and it's covered on CNN.  This is not good news for Obama, neither that he thinks white out of work citizens are bitter, nor that we all know that's what he thinks now. Looks like this contest just ended.  


just say it: Medicare for All
by anna shane on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:11:55 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Hillay is so freaking desperate. Her backers should try to enjoy the rest of the day, because tonight Obama will be heard in full sentences. This attack doesn't even use actual phrases that he said. It fuses individual words together and adds some new ones. Hillary can't drop out soon enough! The $109 million ordinary gal. Christ!


by kitebro on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 09:49:23 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

What he said is very true. If it causes a problem he can give another speech similar to his race speech to explain further. The man is teflon, this won't hurt him.


by Becky G on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:23:51 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (1.75 / 4)

I hope that was snark. You can't be THAT deluded. No way, no how Wright has passed him by. The 527's are going to be SOOOO much fun if he's the nominee.


Fight for Democrats in Congress.
by owl06 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:25:51 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

You must of course mean, WHEN he is the nominee. It's very nice of clinton supporters to be so CONCERNED, but with your support we'll easily beat the Repugs this year. Again, thanks for supporting our democratic nominee.
by lion king on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:45:02 PM EST
[ Parent ]

no, he lost today (none / 0)

McCain is also quoting him and it's contempt, bitter, clinging to religion?  No, I would have preferred her to win simply by being the more competent, this way he lost it, but hey, that's the way of the world.  Mark this day on your calendar, he ought to have jumped on vice a while back, he may be tarnished goods now. Sunk not by his associates but by his contempt for poor people.


just say it: Medicare for All
by anna shane on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:17:26 PM EST
[ Parent ]

since I have never heard this before (none / 0)

from a Clinton supporter, it must be true.


4 years of McCain = 4 more years of Bush.
by ashriver on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:22:54 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Good thing... (none / 0)

Sen. Clinton has absolutely no "527 bait".


by tonedevil on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:57:13 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 3)

The McCain camp has already pounced:

Asked to respond, McCain adviser Steve Schmidt called it a "remarkable statement and extremely revealing."

"It shows an elitism and condescension towards hardworking Americans that is nothing short of breathtaking," Schmidt said. "It is hard to imagine someone running for president who is more out of touch with average Americans."


by alvic63 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:25:08 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (1.80 / 5)

And that will resonate. Obama should have known better.


Fight for Democrats in Congress.
by owl06 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:26:19 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 0)

You are crazy if you think Hillary understands everyday people.  She took in $111 million in the last six years, do you think she could possibly understand every day people?


by Toddwell on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:31:01 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

Do you think Edwards doesnt understand the problems of the poor because he is rich now.  This is nonsense.  Try HRC is a racist it seems more in line.

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:40:14 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Sorry... the spin is gone... (2.00 / 1)

people are beginning to figure this situation out...and Obama's silver tongue is slipping..


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:39:31 PM EST
[ Parent ]

everyday people (2.00 / 1)

you may see into her secret dark soul, like Donna Brazile, but Hillary has been working for the disadvantaged her whole political life, she was a teenager volunteer, her highest creds are for those who are too powerless to look out for their own interests, and her biggest supporters are working moms, disabled, the sick, children, the helpless. What do you want to bet John Edwards will endorse her now.  I wonder what Bill Richardson is watching on television. He sure backed the wrong horse, and sank his own ship by saying such nasty things about Hillary's 'tone.'  This is why it needed to play itself out, we simply did not know enough about Barack. Now I fear we know too much.


just say it: Medicare for All
by anna shane on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:22:58 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: everyday people (none / 0)

I hate to break this to you, because it kinda takes away from your argument, but Obama has a lengthy record of working for the disadvantaged too.

Secondly, what's more condescending --  saying that some small town residents are bitter about losing their jobs, or saying that Clinton's biggest supporters are helpless and powerless?


by jdusek on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:10:18 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

What a ridiculous argument/line of "reasoning."  I do not love the Clintons, but they are basically self-made.  Bill came from almost nothing and Hillary was not exactly born into millionaire status.  Just 20 years ago, they were fairly average people in terms of their income.  I think both Clinton and Edwards can understand the problems of the middle class just fine even though they are loaded now.  They were middle class for a lot of their lives.


by reggie44pride on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:06:07 PM EST
[ Parent ]

And interestingly (2.00 / 1)

we again note how McCain and Clinton supporters spin the same memes.


"This election is not about ideology, it's about competence." -Michael Dukakis
by MBNYC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:41:20 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: And interestingly (2.00 / 1)

no spin required, all you have to do is read what he said, everyone can spin it for themselves. this isn't a WORM moment, we all know what Obama meant, he said it clearly.  Out of work whites are prejudiced because they're bitter.  That is insulting and inaccurate.  The out of work and struggling are not lesser people, there is tolerance and kindness in every community, as well as selfishness and bitterness.  The guy is toast now.  Too bad, her win will be attributed to his attitudes and not to her being simply the best candidate.  But, we'll take the win, thanks.  


just say it: Medicare for All
by anna shane on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:28:34 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Heh. (none / 0)

Like those predictions haven't been made a million times in this campaign. Don't confuse what you'd like to be true with what is true.

On the other hand, stop, no, please do think that. It helps the cause of victory to have Clinton supporters feel too confident.


"This election is not about ideology, it's about competence." -Michael Dukakis
by MBNYC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:34:18 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 7)

It isn't saying much that you find Obama's statement offensive.  You've proven a thousandfold that you find everything about him offensive.

Your attempt to spin his entirely truthful and accurate statement into some kind of elitism is faultly, disengenuous, and as baseless as a hovercraft.


I'm as strong as a bull moose, and you can use me to the limit. - Teddy Roosevelt
by fogiv on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:26:13 PM EST

entirely truthful and accurate statement (1.40 / 5)

So everyone in a small town is racist and xenophobic? People 'cling' to religion? Whoa there buddy.

PS: Don't presume to know what I think.


Fight for Democrats in Congress.
by owl06 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:27:59 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: entirely truthful and accurate statement (2.00 / 0)

Of course not everyone.  You think the staement applies to EVERYONE?

Are lost of people in small towns racist and xenophobic.  Uhh, yeah.  People cling to religion much?  Uhh, yeah.

P.S.  Don't presume these things don't exist.


I'm as strong as a bull moose, and you can use me to the limit. - Teddy Roosevelt
by fogiv on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:33:30 PM EST
[ Parent ]

accurate statement (2.00 / 0)

stop and think, are stereotypes true? Even if they may be true of a few should an entire community be condemned to bitterness and clinging to religion and prejudice?  Should anyone ever assume what some other citizen is thinking when they choose a candidate? This is worse than Gerry's tacky remark.  Her remark was tacky but she didn't say anything insulting about the voters, although just thinking she knew what voters were thinking was plenty tacky. This isn't just tacky, it's the end of his campaign.  


just say it: Medicare for All
by anna shane on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:32:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: accurate statement (none / 0)

The end of his campaign?  Wish in one hand, crap in the other.  Tell me which fills up first.  That's ludicrous.

Only someone trying desperately to play "Gotcha" would assume that Obama meant to characterize EVERYOEN in rural PA.  Are you such a person?

Based on your "the end is nigh" analysis, the answer is obvious.


I'm as strong as a bull moose, and you can use me to the limit. - Teddy Roosevelt
by fogiv on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:44:19 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: entirely truthful and accurate statement (1.50 / 2)

No, not everyone.  He did not say everyone. However, there are many people in small towns that feel this way. Why don't you read his comments in context.  That way, you may be better prepared to reach informed conclusions.  


by pbonefullgrown on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:38:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

MORE RATINGS ABUSE (1.83 / 6)

You people that came over from Kos should really read this site's rules.


Fight for Democrats in Congress.
by owl06 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:44:06 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: MORE RATINGS ABUSE (1.33 / 3)

owl06:

Why don't you spend a little less time worrying about blog rules and a little more time developing sound, reasoned opinions?  Looking through your posts, it is obvious that you have not taken the necessary time to reach reasonable positions. For me, that makes you a troll.


by pbonefullgrown on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:53:13 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: MORE RATINGS ABUSE (2.00 / 3)

You have contributed ONE diary to this site EVER and are not following its rules.


Fight for Democrats in Congress.
by owl06 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:54:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: MORE RATINGS ABUSE (2.00 / 3)

And 5 comments.... WOW. Let's hand you the key.


Fight for Democrats in Congress.
by owl06 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:56:53 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: MORE RATINGS ABUSE (2.00 / 1)

Huh? You took the time to study my posting history? Why don't you use this time to read Obama's words in context?  Then, the quality of your postings may improve.  After all, quality is so much more important than quantity.  Don't you think?  


by pbonefullgrown on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:05:21 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: MORE RATINGS ABUSE (2.00 / 2)

I won't TR you, but I find your diary to be disgusting. You are literally re-enacting the right-wing's attacks on John Kerry and all of us back in 2004 (hell, in pretty much every election before and after).

Obama supporters were already derided as rich elitists in that obnoxious "$96" diary a couple weeks ago, and you're propagating this offensive myth. Since when do Democrats call other Democrats "elitists"?? What's next, you'll call him a fey pansy for bowling poorly?


by Johnny Gentle Famous Crooner on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:17:27 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: MORE RATINGS ABUSE (none / 0)

Several posters have called him a "pussy" (seriously, on this hypersensitive-to-misogyny blog) for 1) not going to Baghdad and 2) bowling funny so don't give them any ideas.


by amiches on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:46:40 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: MORE RATINGS ABUSE (none / 0)

Is reasonable argument something which doesnt make you flinch? Stop troll rating someone just because you cant stand up to an individual's opinion. Unless the person is using abusive language.

Your statement and actions in this diary makes one feel you are just focussed on troll rating "a person" irrespective of his or her arguments.


by Sandeep on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:04:01 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: MORE RATINGS ABUSE (none / 0)

Sandeep,

I'd like to address this question that you posed: "Is reasonable argument something which doesnt make you flinch?"

Yes, Sandeep, reasonable argument is something which doesn't make me flinch.  I categorically do not flinch when engaging, or even considering engaging in reasonable argument. Also, I do not troll-rate someone because I can't stand up to an individual's opinion.  I am completely capable of standing up to an opinion (or even the "person" holding an opinion); regardless of whether or not "abusive language" is being used.

Also, Sandeep, I take issue with your final statement: "Your statement and actions in this diary makes one feel you are just focussed on troll rating "a person" irrespective of his or her arguments." Nothing can be further from the truth, Sandeep. If you are the "one" that you were referring to, please take comfort in the knowledge that I do not troll rate irrespective of a person's argument.  The quality of the person's argument is of great importance to me when troll rating.  If you are not the one to which you were referring, please let the one know that this is not the case. Also, maybe the "one" doesn't appreciate you for presuming to know his/her position on the subject of my troll rating.

 


by pbonefullgrown on Mon Apr 14, 2008 at 07:54:30 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Exactly!
Stop H8
by mikeinsf on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:01:51 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Exactly!
Stop H8
by mikeinsf on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:02:00 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

Bob Barr and Joh McCain will split the anti-immigrant and NRA vote . . . so this isn't a big deal . . . unless you fall into one of those categories.


by FOB92 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:26:47 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 0)

It appears many people at mydd do so these days.


by mefck on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:29:41 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (1.60 / 5)

Oh you got me. I'm not supporting Obama, so I must be a hateful Republican! I guess that I won't get a sip of the latte or ride in the Volvo. </snark>


Fight for Democrats in Congress.
by owl06 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:37:14 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

I drink Mochas, but you can have a sip fellow DEM!

:o)


by FOB92 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:13:06 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Oh come the hell on. (1.77 / 9)

"Elitist contempt"? "Enmity for common people"? Really?

While your supporting a multi-millionaire Yalie married to a President who said she wasn't going to stand by her man like some little Tammy Wynette? Who said things like "Yeah, I coulda stayed home to bake cookies"?

Really, turn down the Outrage-O-Meter just slightly.


"This election is not about ideology, it's about competence." -Michael Dukakis
by MBNYC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:27:45 PM EST

Re: Oh come the hell on. (1.83 / 6)

Apples and oranges buddy. Saying that people "cling to religion" is NOT the same as talking about cookies and housewives.


Fight for Democrats in Congress.
by owl06 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:29:15 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Especially not (2.00 / 2)

when Obama says it, right?

Careful, your double standard is showing.


"This election is not about ideology, it's about competence." -Michael Dukakis
by MBNYC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:33:47 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Especially not (1.80 / 5)

Clinton didn't insult people's reglion. careful, your distain for people of faith is showing.


Fight for Democrats in Congress.
by owl06 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:38:22 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Snort. (2.00 / 1)

The only thing showing here, my friend, is your admirably athletic determination to smear Obama with whatever seems suited for the purpose.

That you're doing it on behalf of the actual elite candidate only adds amusement to what is already actually kinda funny.


"This election is not about ideology, it's about competence." -Michael Dukakis
by MBNYC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:46:07 PM EST
[ Parent ]

THANK YOU for posting this.. (none / 0)

Thats what the wife of an ex-Presidential candidate who met him recently felt too.


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:56:26 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Especially not (none / 0)

So let's get these arguments straight:

a) Obama's church is too extreme AND b) Obama thumbs his nose at anyone who practices religion.  Some serious mental gymnastics are required to jump from argument a to argument b.

Whahappen?!


And so, may evil beware and may good dress warmly and eat lots of fresh vegetables.
by thatpurplestuff on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:58:11 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Oh come the hell on. (2.00 / 1)

People do cling to religion.


My candidate lost fair and square. So did yours. Get over it and let's kick McSame's ass!
by RLMcCauley on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:38:15 PM EST
[ Parent ]

TROLL RATE ABUSE (2.00 / 2)

Thanks!


Fight for Democrats in Congress.
by owl06 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:43:09 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Oh come the hell on. (1.00 / 1)

"A little Tammy Wynette"? I never thought I'd see so many Democrats be so brazenly sexist.


Hillary supporter for Barack Obama in 2008
by zcflint05 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:29:45 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Dude (2.00 / 2)

Hillary said that.


by Bee on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:31:28 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Those were (2.00 / 1)

her exact words. She had to apologize to Wynette over them. It happened in 1993, I believe.


"This election is not about ideology, it's about competence." -Michael Dukakis
by MBNYC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:31:31 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Those were (2.00 / 0)

Oooohhhh.  Ouch.  That's gonna leave a mark.  ;)


I'm as strong as a bull moose, and you can use me to the limit. - Teddy Roosevelt
by fogiv on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:34:56 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Those were (1.75 / 4)

And that is equivalent to insulting people for being religious how?


Fight for Democrats in Congress.
by owl06 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:39:04 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Whose insulting anyone? (none / 0)

It's an impolitic remark, sure, but insulting to people of faith generally?

After he just gave a speech explaining why he wasn't going to dump his pastor of twenty years?

Sorry, I realize you're totally invested in making him look awful, but that fails the reality test.


"This election is not about ideology, it's about competence." -Michael Dukakis
by MBNYC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:49:46 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Crap. (none / 0)

"Who's", not "whose".


"This election is not about ideology, it's about competence." -Michael Dukakis
by MBNYC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:50:30 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Whose insulting anyone? (none / 0)

Exactly!  It absolutely amazes me to see the lengths that people will go to for a good smear.  First, Obama is considered to be too radical because his religious mentor said some things that the majority of people find offensive.  Following that, Obama has contempt for anyone that practices religion.  It's making my head spin.


And so, may evil beware and may good dress warmly and eat lots of fresh vegetables.
by thatpurplestuff on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:00:57 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Those were (none / 0)

"....Stand by my man like Tammy Wynette" was what she said.  There wasn't any "little" to it.


by Scotch on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:45:52 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Correct. (2.00 / 1)

Linky

I'm not some Tammy Wynette standing by my man.

Thing is, that doesn't make it any less condescending towards Wynette and women like her.


"This election is not about ideology, it's about competence." -Michael Dukakis
by MBNYC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:53:11 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Correct. (none / 0)

That's actually not the quote, it was:

"I'm not sitting here some little woman, standing by my man like Tammy Wynette."

Between "little" and "man", she poured on a mocking southern accent.  Get a youtube clip of it if you can; it's jarring.


by Mostly on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:44:21 PM EST
[ Parent ]

yep, too bad that was 15 years (none / 0)

ago...


DEMOCRATIC 08!
by rigsoHC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:32:00 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: yep, too bad that was 15 years (2.00 / 1)

Even worse, everyone still remembers it. You knew exactly what I was talking about, right?

It's laughable, frankly, to see Clinton supporters play the elitist card. You folks support the incarnation of the establishment, and here there's outraged sputtering that Obama is less in touch with normal people than a woman worth $109 million? Seriously?


"This election is not about ideology, it's about competence." -Michael Dukakis
by MBNYC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:37:11 PM EST
[ Parent ]

well, i cant speak to how well in touch (none / 0)

he is, but i know this is a bad quote for him that at least puts out the impression that he isnt in touch with normal people, and in politics, that's enough. unlike the diarist, i wont try to call him out as elitist or out of touch, but the implications in the comment stand on their own.

Now a little math for ya. If someone earns 109 million, keeps $57 million of it over 7 years, they are probably worth alot less than their 7 year pretaxed earnings, if it worked like that, id be worth hundreds of thousands....


DEMOCRATIC 08!
by rigsoHC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:41:57 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Oh come the hell on. (none / 0)

You can hardly say Hillary is an elitist when she lived and worked in Arkansas for 20 years, and was perfectly happy about it.  The cookies thing was completely in another context.  Your comparison is just not credible.  Where has Obama lived with people like she and Bill did in Arkansas on such an extended basis.  


by Scotch on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:43:13 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Oh come the hell on. (none / 0)

So sitting on the board of directors for Wal Mart, the largest retail chain in the world, isn't an elite position??? In Arkansa they lived in a mansion!
by lion king on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:53:24 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Oh come the hell on. (none / 0)

At the time she was on the board, it was run by an Arkansas family and was known in its early years for selling American goods.  Why don't some of you do some reading up on history before commenting.  And they did not live in a mansion in Arkansas.  The governor of any state lives in more than a shack.  Again, research never hurt anyone.


by Scotch on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:00:05 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Just folks. (2.00 / 1)

Partner at a major law firm, living in a mansion with servants, married to the AG who then became governor, and serving on the board of a Fortune 500 company.

That's non-elite in a place like Beverly Hills.


"This election is not about ideology, it's about competence." -Michael Dukakis
by MBNYC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:08:19 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Just folks. (2.00 / 1)

You're just not making your point.  I think it is a little light. No matter what, you are not going to win the point that Obama leans to the elite side.  He just doesn't match up in the ordinary people competition.


by Scotch on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:20:40 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Just folks. (none / 0)

Well in the ordinary people competion, he has won 30 states, more pledged delegates and more votes then the "ordinary" clintons. Are you tring to say the pople who have voted for Obama are not ordinary Americans??? Or is this the new talking point about how multi-millionaries are now "just ordinary folks"?
by lion king on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:34:17 PM EST
[ Parent ]

My point is (none / 0)

perfectly clear and in accordance with the known facts. The reason you refuse to understand it is that you refuse to understand; but that's not my fault nor that of my argument. It's yours.


"This election is not about ideology, it's about competence." -Michael Dukakis
by MBNYC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:45:49 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: My point is (none / 0)

Whatever you insist is the truth, is the truth.  Snort.  Okay whatever you say.


by Scotch on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:53:54 PM EST
[ Parent ]

What? (none / 0)

Are you denying her husband was a governor? That she was a corporate lawyer and partner at a major law firm? Had a political sinecure on a major corporate board? Went to Yale? Lived in a mansion with servants under the protection of state troopers?

I really love how all of these inconvenient facts get swept under the carpet when the campaign fantasies need to be polished to as high a luster as the Georgian silver. But that doesn't render said facts any less true.


"This election is not about ideology, it's about competence." -Michael Dukakis
by MBNYC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:15:11 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: What? (none / 0)

I am sorry. Arent we comparing Obamas elitism to hers.  You've lost track. How do all these arguments make Obama any less of the king of the elite?


by Scotch on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:17:11 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Hehe. (none / 0)

No, actually, we're not talking about how you're trying to smear Obama as an elitist, we're talking about how thigh-slappingly hilarious the attempt is.

Obama gave up a SCOTUS clerkship and a career in corporate law - like Hillary's career - to register poor and minority voters. Then, instead of going to Wall Street to make dozens of millions a year, he went into public service and academia.

Hillary has been snuggling up to power in its manifold forms for decades. She descended on New York in Air Force One, literally. She maintains two, not one, two separate mansions in tony Westchester's horse country and Georgetown. Her husband charges six figures for a speech and flies around the world on private jets to cuddle with dictators. Both have literally had dinner with The Queen at Buckingham Palace. Hillary probably hasn't had to make ends meet for thirty years. She's a true Georgetown aristocrat.

So no, we're not really talking about what a latte-drinking, Prius-driving body-pierced New York Times reading librul Obama is, though rightwing Clinton supporters want to have that conversation. We're talking about how silly it is for Clinton supporters to pretend that "our girl" is something she's not.

Is there anything else?


"This election is not about ideology, it's about competence." -Michael Dukakis
by MBNYC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:42:18 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Hehe. (none / 0)

Evidently not, save for the chorus of crickets.
by jwolf on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 11:07:43 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Yup. (none / 0)

That elitist Obama, registering record numbers of people to vote as a community organizer, while Hillary was the wife of a governor, a partner at a law firm and a board member of Wal-Mart.


"This election is not about ideology, it's about competence." -Michael Dukakis
by MBNYC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:57:11 PM EST
[ Parent ]

your elite is showing. (none / 0)

Can't you see that YOUR comment is elitist? Why would you assume that nobody in AR could possibly be elitist if they lived and worked in AR for 20 years?

What do you mean by "people like she and Bill did"?


by grover738 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 11:50:47 PM EST
[ Parent ]

i'd even be somewhat tempted to agree (2.00 / 0)

but he takes it to the next level. Guns and religion though? that's where it became an 'Oh, OH!' moment


DEMOCRATIC 08!
by rigsoHC on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:31:15 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 3)

In all seriousness this is something BO needs to work on and a lot harder.  working class voters have a real dislike for candidats they see as eitherelitist or using what they call PC.  This is way BO is doing so bad with Reagan dems.  I can tell you that voters like my mom and dad really have low threshold for statements like this and if you think it is nothing think again.

BO needs to go out and show some compassion for the needs of views of these votes much like Bill Clinton did.  All you have to do is look at the polls over the last three months to see that BO is not connecting with these traditional dems. I keep hearing about how BO is going to win and it is over but i dont see him or his campaign making in roads into these voters and IMHO if he doesnt he is going to lose to McCain.

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:34:11 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

I am a Democrat, who believes in God, owns Guns and am Gay. This is the first time in my life there has been a Democrat that has totally missed the boat on my vote.


"Do you know the difference between a War Story and a Fairy Tale?"
by RedstateLib on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:43:16 PM EST
[ Parent ]

lol (none / 0)


My candidate lost fair and square. So did yours. Get over it and let's kick McSame's ass!
by RLMcCauley on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:37:16 PM EST

You're from PA? Ed Rendell said you're a (1.50 / 2)

bunch of racists. Are you going to vote him out?


My candidate lost fair and square. So did yours. Get over it and let's kick McSame's ass!
by RLMcCauley on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:37:41 PM EST

Re: You're from PA? Ed Rendell said you're a (2.00 / 3)

thats different he was just telling it like it is.

how is it different don't ask me


Dream for tomorrow but fight for it today.
by TruthMatters on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:39:05 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: You're from PA? Ed Rendell said you're a (2.00 / 0)

He's a white guy who clings to his guns and religion?


My candidate lost fair and square. So did yours. Get over it and let's kick McSame's ass!
by RLMcCauley on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:48:55 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: You're from PA? Ed Rendell said you're a (2.00 / 0)

lol. Troll rated for pointing out what Rendell said. Comedy!


My candidate lost fair and square. So did yours. Get over it and let's kick McSame's ass!
by RLMcCauley on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:51:45 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: You're from PA? Ed Rendell said you're a (2.00 / 1)

No, troll rated for twisting what he said.  He did not say the state was a bunch of racists.  He said there are still some people in PA who will not vote for a black man.  The effort to twist everything said into a racist statement by Obama people this campaign is abhorrant.


by Scotch on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:55:48 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: You're from PA? Ed Rendell said you're a (2.00 / 0)

So you're saying that he said SOME people in PA were racists?


My candidate lost fair and square. So did yours. Get over it and let's kick McSame's ass!
by RLMcCauley on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:56:29 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: You're from PA? Ed Rendell said you're a (none / 0)

Ok. The answer to my rhetorical question is of course "yes".

Now is that OK for Rendell to say?


My candidate lost fair and square. So did yours. Get over it and let's kick McSame's ass!
by RLMcCauley on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:12:37 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 3)

I can't figure out why Obama would say that about religion.  Everytime he brings up other people's religious habits or how they use religion in their lives like this, people's minds automatically go to his own personal religious fiasco.  I mean what right does he have at this point to judge the religious views of others?  

Being from PA, I just don't think Obama fits in here.  I think he is out of his element in his visits to small towns.  He needs to at least change into something other than a suit or a shirt and tie, when he is bowling, or on the farm feeding a calf with a bottle.  We have our supply of Harvard graduates here just like everywhere else as well as outstanding speakers, but he has academia and formality written all over him, and he can't seem to shake it when he is talking to everyday working people.


by Scotch on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:38:27 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Is Mark Penn still with her campaign?
yep..some old company having problems with those pesky Unions? Penn inc..gotcha covered.
http://ezraklein.typepad.com/Bursoncache .jpg

"If you want to end war and stuff, you gotta sing loud"...Arlo Guthrie
by nogo war on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:38:56 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (1.75 / 4)

This diary has nothing to do with Penn. Since you bring it up, I recall that it was Obama who referred to unions as "special interest groups" during this campaign.


Fight for Democrats in Congress.
by owl06 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:40:06 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

Please explain that negative rating. You CANNOT troll rate simply because you disagree with someone's opinion. you people need to review the site rules.


Fight for Democrats in Congress.
by owl06 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:49:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

You responded to a thoughtful post with a putdown.  The first step in getting past the anger is to listen to the other side.  Obama keeps saying this, aren't you listening?


by TinaH1963 on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 05:06:57 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 0)

So please..do ya really go down that "contempt"road?


"If you want to end war and stuff, you gotta sing loud"...Arlo Guthrie
by nogo war on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:39:50 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 3)

another grossly generalization of a group of people.
another "typical" Obama's view of the world.
by JoeySky18 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:41:53 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Typical is scientifically proven. Odd that Dems are offended by what he said since we say that about the GOP all of the time.


My candidate lost fair and square. So did yours. Get over it and let's kick McSame's ass!
by RLMcCauley on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:49:45 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Are you a Republican? (none / 0)

You know what? I don't think you're even black. Your comment history shows you're here trying to make Obama campaign look bad.


by catfish1 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:03:46 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Are you a Republican? (none / 0)

That was non-sensical. Republicans are the ones that are overprotective of their guns and religion.


My candidate lost fair and square. So did yours. Get over it and let's kick McSame's ass!
by RLMcCauley on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:11:00 PM EST
[ Parent ]

That was a yes. (none / 0)

Your sig is part of your fraudulent mask.


by catfish1 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:35:26 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: That was a yes. (none / 0)

You don't even understand my sig.


My candidate lost fair and square. So did yours. Get over it and let's kick McSame's ass!
by RLMcCauley on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:42:03 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Neither do you, Repub! (none / 0)

Nice chatting with ya.


by catfish1 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:48:12 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Neither do you, Repub! (none / 0)

Neither do I?

That makes less sense then what you normally say.

Since your defending the GOP I guess I should thank you for your support.


My candidate lost fair and square. So did yours. Get over it and let's kick McSame's ass!
by RLMcCauley on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:30:37 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

From last Fall
http://thedisobedientmuse.blogspot.com/2 007/10/hillary-rodham-clinton-mark-penn. html
"If you want to end war and stuff, you gotta sing loud"...Arlo Guthrie
by nogo war on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:45:08 PM EST

pbonefullgrown (1.80 / 5)

You are abusing the TR rating privilege.  You cannot just randomly troll-rate a commenter/diarist just because you disagree with him/her.  I call attention to the management.  Please attend to this ratings abuse.


It does not take many words to tell the truth Chief Joseph - Nez Perce
by Gabriele Droz on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:50:34 PM EST

are we in for (2.00 / 1)

McGovern AND Mondale on the same ticket in 2008? Wow, Obama really can't help himself. First, he throws his granny under the bus, then he insults "typical" white people, and now this.


"there is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right in America"-William Jefferson Clinton, forty-second President of the United States
by DiamondJay on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:50:57 PM EST

Profoundly dumb, Barack. (2.00 / 2)

Hillary by 30 in PA.


by Scan on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:52:52 PM EST

Sick of being written of by his campaign (2.00 / 2)

He needs to do some travelling around the country and the world. Then maybe he can run again in four or eight years.


by catfish1 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:53:38 PM EST

Umm . . . (2.00 / 1)

I think progressives aren't too worried about the rifle rack and immigrant-hater vote.


by McTrollop on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:54:00 PM EST

I'm progressive and know many hunters (none / 0)

who hunted with their families growing up and continue to do so. Hunting gave them an appreciation for nature and the outdoors.


by catfish1 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:56:34 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Umm . . . (none / 0)

And i guess then that progressives, that you speak for, are not interested in keeping their votes.

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:11:17 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 2)

A few points:

1.  Obama is, himself, a religious person, so charging that he is somehow anti-religion is preposterous.

2.  The gun-toting, bible-thumping crowd plays for the other team; they don't vote in Democratic primaries.

3.  What Obama said was true.


by XoFalconXo on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:54:08 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

The gun-toting, bible-thumping crowd plays for the other team; they don't vote in Democratic primaries.

Agreed, but they do vote in the GE in in 2004 they voted for Bush over Kerry.  Just saying maybe we could consider the views of these voters instead of insulting them.

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:12:46 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Also, what he said was true. Not sure why we're avoiding stating true facts in this primary.


by amiches on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:52:21 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

and yeah...the media is already using this..
(screw'em)

MATTHEWS: OK. Let me ask you about how he -- how's he connect with regular people? Does he? Or does he only appeal to people who come from the African-American community and from the people who have college or advanced degrees?

cause everyone knows African-Americans and folks with degrees aren't "regular people"


"If you want to end war and stuff, you gotta sing loud"...Arlo Guthrie
by nogo war on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:54:35 PM EST

SDS, Weathermen, it's the 1960s all over again (none / 0)

The white elitists and the black power activists were a team in the late 1960s too.

It's like he so wanted to "turn the page" on all of this conflict, he never bothered to learn about it. And it's happening all over again. Some good things came out of it, but there was some violence as well.

Add the Weather Underground to your Netflix queue.


by catfish1 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:01:45 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Another day, another troll's diary on MyDD. (1.00 / 2)

Zzzzzzz.


by ReillyDiefenbach on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:57:44 PM EST

But then again (none / 0)

Your gig is to cop a sinister interpertation to EVERYTHING SEn Obama says or does.  Like this fiary you wove based on one out-of-context sentace.  Which, even lacking any context, obviously does not mean what you insist it does.  

So by all means, continue to wallow on.


Take your fear and shove it, it ain't workin' on us no more.
by Quicklund on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 05:58:53 PM EST

My Family In Iowa (2.00 / 4)

Would completely agree with this comment.  When Maytag left Newton (where it had been for many decades -- my great-grandfather worked for it his entire career)  a few years ago so that its products could be manufactured overseas by its now-foreign owners, there was a hell of disgust at "free trade" rules that allowed this to happen. At the same time, there was (and is) a lot of anti-immigration sentiment due to demographic changes and immigrants who were not integrating into English-speaking society.  It all boiled down to job losses, uncertainty over the future, and rapidly changing community demographics.  Even my mother, living in Newton and who has never voted Republican in her life, felt this way.

The reason this hits small towns disproportionately are manifold, but the most obvious is where the hell are you going to go for work when the only big employer in town packs up and leaves and suddenly a double-digit percentage of employed adults in the town are hitting the bricks?  That problem doesn't exist to anywhere near the same extent if you are in a metro area. Furthermore, demographic changes are far more apparent in a small town, and unsettling to many even if there was not economic upheaval.  And that's Obama's point, I think.

The people who are shocked at this comment are, I posit, the very elites who are out of touch with the places in America that have been so adversely affected by the economic upheaval that has been created by trade rules and the lack of a comprehensive immigration policy that is perceived as working for America. Sure, not everyone in small towns like Newton feels this way, but many do.


by Spirit of Fighting Bob on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:09:15 PM EST

Re: My Family In Iowa (2.00 / 2)

Do you actually think anyone wagging their finger at Obama for his "unfortunate" comment actually give a damn about exploring the meaning of what he said?

Of course not. It's just a way of trying to score points for the team. Find a quote, write a diary, post appropriately scornful comments. Bonus points awarded for mentioning any of the following:

  1. "So much for being above politics as usual"
  2. "Obamabot"
  3. "This is why we will lose to McCain."
  4. Elitist/volvo/latte (you nailed this one, Owl!)
  5. Obama/Obama supporters "just don't get it."

Be sure to check your scorecards.

This may be the only explanation for why so many commenters are rushing in to praise gun-owners and Reagan Democrats. FYI, Reagan Democrats have basically been republicans for coming up on 30 years already. They're gone. Stop throwing yourselves at them. You're rather naive to think they're all just waiting to dump McCain for Clinton if given the chance.


by Johnny Gentle Famous Crooner on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:31:47 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: My Family In Iowa (2.00 / 1)

First off.  Let me get this straight you want the candidates words to be put in context and not parsed in a way that can be used for political gain.  Funny but i read and have a long memory and this seems like a change of heart.  I am very glad you have come around to context and not just parsing what HRC says to call her a liar.

Next, you are just historically wrong.  These Reagan democractics have voted dem in the GE and they did so in 1992 and 1996.  You know the guy that BO supporters never stop smearing.

And we are not throwing our selfs at them we want them in the democratic party because we offer them the best policies for their future.  But wine and cheese liberal very seem to get this and think that talking down to them is OK.  

I guess we can just agree to disagree.  Reagan dems are democrats they are just not BO supporters and that is what you dislike about them.  They are just not smart enough to know they are wrong and you are right.

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:08:47 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: My Family In Iowa (2.00 / 2)

Funny but i read and have a long memory and this seems like a change of heart.  I am very glad you have come around to context and not just parsing what HRC says to call her a liar.

I'm going to assume you have mistaken me for someone else. I have NEVER called Clinton a liar, and have in fact asked others on dKos to lay off using that term.


by Johnny Gentle Famous Crooner on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:00:47 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 3)

I thought it was impossible for a Republican to win this nomination, but if Democrats on online sites like these are attacking their own nominees over stupid idiotic non-important statements like these, then maybe it really is possible.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with what Obama said. NOTHING AT ALL.  It's being misquoted and twisted, like always, and being made out to be bigger than it really is.

The media (online, print and blogs) is a joke.  I'm actually ashamed at how childish debate has become.  


by RussTC3 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:14:54 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist (2.00 / 1)

Like Bosnia.  Like LBJ. Like the hospital?

Just saying.

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:10:25 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist (none / 0)

The hospital thing was silly, and the LBJ comments were blown out of proportion. But do you honestly think the Bosnia fantasy is anywhere near the same league? That was the most astnoshing lie I've seen in quite some time. And she told it over and over.


Senator Obama will be formally nominated on August 28, 2008 - the 45th Anniversary of Dr. King's "I Have A Dream Speech."
by brimur on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:26:44 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

I think what Obama said is essentially true. Sometimes the truth hurts.


by mecarr on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:22:17 PM EST

Sometimes the truth hurts and (none / 0)

sometimes the truth costs you elections.


Sexism is real.
by grassrootsorganizer on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:42:41 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Drudgereport took this comment down (none / 0)

and the Obama camp says that can't confirm that Obama even said this.  

Unless there is audio or video, this "quote" may not be accurate.


by puma on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:27:05 PM EST

Huffingtonpost has audio (2.00 / 1)

Audio on Huffington Post.


by catfish1 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:54:14 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Drudgereport took this comment down (none / 0)

Just heard the audio on CNN


by bluestatedude on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:41:12 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (1.40 / 5)

"Typical Pennsylvanians are just another the typical white People.  They're all bigots." -- the gospel according to Obama.

Obama is out of touch of reality.  The reason perhaps is his exposure to too many sermons from Mr Jeremiah Wright, and that's why his brain convolution is a bit shallow (immature).

My advise to Obama... don't talk to much.


by SHIBAM8P on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:32:06 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt (2.00 / 3)

it's not so much what he said..which is bad, but where he said it...in "billionaire's row" of San Francisco. Obama always had a haughty elitist streak that was his disconnect from the Jacksonian voters, the Reagan democrats. I said it before and say it again, Jerome had linked a post by Michale Barone and a demographic chart, both say the same story, Obama's base are AA and academics and the "liberal elite" he does not connect with the regular democrats or the conservative democrats and saying such things and venues like this makes it all the more worse for him.


by tarheel74 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:45:25 PM EST

and Hillary's high level donors... (none / 0)

which far outnumber Obamas.  Can that really be regarded as a reflection of the candidate?  Is this just merely a right-wing style SF prejudice?  All we have to do is look at small donations to see who is funding Obama's campaign.

But I would actually prefer to judge my candidate on their proven integrity in situations like this:

The Los Angeles Times: "Flush with payments from well-funded campaigns, the ward leaders and Democratic Party bosses typically spread out the cash in the days before the election, handing $10, $20 and $50 bills to the foot soldiers and loyalists who make up the party's workforce. It is all legal -- but Obama's people are telling the local bosses he won't pay.

Or like this (from the front page):
In recognition of this tremendous enthusiasm, our campaign has asked the California Democratic Party to allow all persons who have filed to be a district delegate candidate for Senator Obama at the Democratic National Convention to participate in the caucuses this Sunday, April 13, 2008.

The Obama campaign sent a really clear message today: "we are listening." This is how elected (and would be elected) officials are supposed to act when there's a public outcry about something. I've spoken to many Obama voters about why they are supporting him and one of the common threads is that they feel he'd be far more responsive to grassroots pressure than Hillary Clinton would be.

These are the things that are done for the people without a regard to self-interest.


by Tenafly Viper on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:04:39 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: and Hillary's high level donors... (none / 0)

Well we can agree the The Obama campaign sent a really clear message today but it was one of talking down to and insulting working class voters.

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:33:00 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 3)

If you call bigots,  hateful religious zealots, and the NRA - the common people,  your world view must be pretty narrow and bleak.  

I grew up in rural Pennsylvania with a single mom who worked two jobs and made less than 10,000 a year.  My entire family still lives there and they are fabulous people.  The best people I know from there are ridiculously hard-working, practical almost to a fault, and deeply yet lovingly religious.  But the majority of people (at least in my area of PA) are overwhelmingly as Obama describes.

The only way you can take issue with that is if you've never seen that behavior in people,  or if you're just looking for something to be offended by.    

I know elitism after moving to San Francisco later in life.  Elitism is not building affordable housing for working class families because it might obstruct your precious view.  Elitism is kicking service workers out of the city after the dot com boom, and telling them they're good enough to work here but not live here.  

But elitism can also be the feelings found in the hearts of many people in rural PA.  Elitism is at the heart of white supremacy and it's feeling like you're better than immigrants because you are already a citizen.  That's a very powerful feeling for those who feel generally oppressed and worthless.  If even a fraction of that energy was directed into paying attention to political realities, we would all be much better off.


by Tenafly Viper on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:48:16 PM EST

There is a pattern here... (2.00 / 3)

Obama's campaign does not like poor people from these economically devestated places:

Remember Samantha Power's comments in Ohio:

We f*** up in Ohio," she admitted. "In Ohio, they are obsessed and Hillary is going to town on it, because she knows Ohio's the only place they can win.

"She is a monster, too - that is off the record - she is stooping to anything," Ms Power said, hastily trying to withdraw her remark.

Ms Power said of the Clinton campaign: "Here, it looks like desperation. I hope it looks like desperation there, too.

"You just look at her and think, 'Ergh'. But if you are poor and she is telling you some story about how Obama is going to take your job away, maybe it will be more effective. The amount of deceit she has put forward is really unattractive."



by MediaFreeze on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:54:02 PM EST

Hillary didn't have to tell me (2.00 / 1)

Obama would take my job away.

I saw for myself that she's thought more deeply and has more plans and more accomplishments that prove she can turn around the economy.

I'm still trying to figure out how much Obama understands about the economy.


by catfish1 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:58:13 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Hillary didn't have to tell me (none / 0)

So because Clinton has more plans for teh economy, teh Obama is going to take your job away.  I'm sure that taking your job away, catfish1, is his priority for day One of his administration.  Clinton has shown herself to be Pro-catfish1 through her experience and plans, while that mean Obama is obviously Anti-catfish1.


by GobBluth on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:19:30 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 0)

Does anyone remember the 3 G's from 2004?  The Republicans ramped up wedge issues that dealt with God, guns, and gays and were able to slide key demographics into their column.

Obama's point (I would imagine, since I'm not in his head) is that when people hit rough times in small towns, it's easy to get sucked into wedge issues instead of things that truly effect you.  If people disagree with that, then so be it, but this fake outrage like "Obama hates people that have guns and are religious" is completely dishonest spin.


And so, may evil beware and may good dress warmly and eat lots of fresh vegetables.
by thatpurplestuff on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 06:56:34 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

God, Guns, and Gays and you can be sure that McCains campaign manager (Charles Black who trained with the late Lee Atwater) knows how important these three G's are.  But not to worry BO and his crowd have a new and never used before plan to win the GE without winning Reagan dems.

Because that new plan worked so well for Kerry, Dukakis, McGovern, and Mondale.  Funny how the new plan seems alot like the old plan to win the GE that didnt work.

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:40:10 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

If you think that Reagan Dems are going to vote for Hillary in the GE, think again... they didn't vote for her husband (most of them were Perot voters), they aren't going to vote for her.  They haven't voted for a Democrat since Carter, and they sure as heck aren't going to start doing it now...

Oh, sure, they like the attention they are getting from the Hillary campaign, and just like that girl that loved to flirt with you in high school... when you ask her out to the big dance, she tells you that she likes you, "Just as a friend."  Trust me, Reagan dems aren't going to the big dance with Hillary or any other democrat, so don't buy your corsage just yet.


"This was never part of our arrangement, Specter" "I am altering the deal! Pray I don't alter it any further!" "This deal keeps getting worse all the time!"
by LordMike on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:04:27 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

It's not 2004 anymore...

Everyone here is all worried bout the "Reagan Dems" who love to flirt with our candidates, but aren't going to vote Democratic anyways (they haven't for 30 years, why start now?), but the "Wedge issue" politics that allowed Republicans to win in 2004 aren't going to work this year...

So, stop fretting over this garbage... that's all it is... garbage... and stop flirting with those Reagan Dems... they aren't going to going to vote for ANY Democratic candidate, no matter how much they "promise" they will, and will just break your heart...  It's no different than dating in high school... the best thing is to let them go, instead of pining for them all the time.... it's not going to change their vote one iota!


"This was never part of our arrangement, Specter" "I am altering the deal! Pray I don't alter it any further!" "This deal keeps getting worse all the time!"
by LordMike on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:14:32 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Obama campaign response:

http://thepage.time.com/obama-campaign-r esponse-to-clinton-mccain-attacks-of-bit ter-remark/

****

"Senator Obama has said many times in this campaign that Americans are understandably upset with their leaders in Washington for saying anything to win elections while failing to stand up to the special interests and fight for an economic agenda that will bring jobs and opportunity back to struggling communities.  And if John McCain wants a debate about who's out of touch with the American people, we can start by talking about the tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans that he once said offended his conscience but now wants to make permanent," Obama campaign spokesman Tommy Vietor said.

****


by alphaaqua on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:02:22 PM EST

The quote: (2.00 / 1)

"Senator Obama has said many times in this campaign that Americans are understandably upset with their leaders in Washington for saying anything to win elections while failing to stand up to the special interests and fight for an economic agenda that will bring jobs and opportunity back to struggling communities.  And if John McCain wants a debate about who's out of touch with the American people, we can start by talking about the tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans that he once said offended his conscience but now wants to make permanent," Obama campaign spokesman Tommy Vietor said.

And can someone explain to me how this is a response? What Obama said is that people "cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment," because they are poor. How is this "response" at all responsive to that statement?


by MediaFreeze on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:25:53 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The quote: (none / 0)

What a joke.  BO should have said i misspoke and am totally committed to the issue for working class voters.  But BO NEVER admits to a mistake or to misspeaking.  First he insults working class voters and then he uses some parsed elitist double talk to weasel out of his insult.  Really does his campaign think that working class voters are stupid.  And i dont think another speach in PHL is going to fix this.

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:44:41 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The quote: (none / 0)

"What Obama said is that people "cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment," because they are poor."

You know, if you're too stupid to read the whole quote in its context, you're not going to get what Obama was saying.  And this will be Obama's problem in his campaign--people too stupid to read.


by happycozy on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:23:01 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

That could have been the most insufficent response ever. Doesn't explain how he didn't mean what he said--just deflected to McCain. Not sufficent. If this picks up steam this could cost him big time.


Hillary supporter for Barack Obama in 2008
by zcflint05 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:27:25 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Bitter isn't the pill (2.00 / 3)

What is idiotic about these words is not that he assigns bitterness to those that live in such small towns, but that he ascribes religion, guns, and anti immigrant sentiments etc to them.

You go into some of these small towns in Pennsylvania, and like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, the jobs have been gone now for 25 years and nothing's replaced them.  And they fell through the Clinton Administration, and the Bush Administration, and each successive administration has said that somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not. And it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations.

And it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations."

(a) It is idiotic to think that a fondness for guns is caused by disapperating jobs.  Guns, and our fondness for them, have been around for a lot longer than that.

(b) It is idiotic to think that a fondness for religion is caused by disappearing jobs.  Religion too, has been around for a while.  Most of the people who "cling" to religion, have jobs.

(c) It is idiotic to think that antipathy to immigrants is caused by disappearing jobs.  Most people with xenophobic emotions have jobs.

(d) And finally, it is idiotic to think that antipathy to trade is caused by disappearing jobs when the candidate himself does a fine job demagoguing on trade.


If you follow history with a long enough arc, things always get better, and the truth always prevails...Gandhi
by SevenStrings on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:03:13 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 5)

In the extended comments he talks about how the economy suffered there during the Clinton years. Is that true? I thought the 1990s economic boom was quite well-distributed, unlike the period of growth we just had, where the benefits mostly went to the already wealthy.


by OrangeFur on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:04:55 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

To BO everything about Clinton's presidency was bad.  This is key to his campaign.  He has to smear and demean Clinton's presidency so he can push his way to the front of the line.

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:46:41 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

I know. It's pretty bad stuff.


by OrangeFur on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:30:27 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Obama doesn't spare any opportunity to trash the Bill Clinton legacy. How sad.


by bluestatedude on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:38:50 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

In the extended comments he talks about how the economy suffered there during the Clinton years. Is that true? I thought the 1990s economic boom was quite well-distributed, unlike the period of growth we just had, where the benefits mostly went to the already wealthy.

During the 1990's, the Rustbelt continued to rust, but most people did better. The wealthy, however, did the most better and their share of the nation's wealth skyrocketed just as it has since the 1980's. INEQUALITY BETWEEN THE RICH AND POOR GREW DURING THE 1990's. Now, growing inequality is certainly preferable to economic stagnation, but let's not pretend that Bill Clinton was some kind of savior to the poor.  


by RP McMurphy on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:23:43 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Good point.  This isn't about the economy, in general, but about trends within the economy.  The decimation of blue-collar work in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, and Illinois (and other places, of course), driven by jobs leaving the US for overseas production, is what he was talking about.  

Not whether the market is up and "the economy is good"...that's another generalization that, when you break it down past the societal level, shows a lot of inequity and a lot of failure to help people at the blue-collar level.  

He could have expressed it better, but why must we assume that people are too stupid to understand that what he was saying is about a righteous anger against a government that has done nothing (or SOMETHING in the WRONG direction) while jobs disappear.  


Torture me once, shame on you; torture me and get away with it, shame on us all.
by freedom78 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:30:20 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

I don't mind a reasonable amount of income inequality, so long as the poor and middle class are doing well. Do you have numbers that indicate that these towns actually lost ground in the 1990s?


by OrangeFur on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:29:35 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

John McCain's campaign is attacking Barack Obama for Obama's rather indisputable comments about the rise of anti-immigrant fervor in small town America. Obama said that the rise of such fervor has a lot to do with bitterness.
But wait - didn't John McCain say something similar in December to the New Yorker?

Anti-immigrant passion also owes much to the disproportionate influence of a few small states in the nominating process. National polls show that, as an issue, immigration is far behind the Iraq war, terrorism, the economy, and health care as a concern to most Americans; a recent Pew poll shows that, nationally, only six per cent of voters offer immigration as the most important issue facing the country. But in Iowa and South Carolina, two of the three most important early states, it is a top concern for the Republicans who are most likely to vote.
"It's the influx of illegals into places where they've never seen a Hispanic influence before," McCain told me. "You probably see more emotion in Iowa than you do in Arizona on this issue. I was in a town in Iowa, and twenty years ago there were no Hispanics in the town. Then a meatpacking facility was opened up. Now twenty per cent of their population is Hispanic. There were senior citizens there who were-'concerned' is not the word. They see this as an assault on their culture, what they view as an impact on what have been their traditions in Iowa, in the small towns in Iowa. So you get questions like 'Why do I have to punch 1 for English?' 'Why can't they speak English?' It's become larger than just the fact that we need to enforce our borders."

Sure, it's not exactly the same, but it's pretty darn similar. In fact, McCain seems to be saying something far more controversial. While Obama is saying economic hardship breeds anti-immigrant feelings, McCain is saying lots of rural people just hate Hispanics. That may or may not be true - but the fact that McCain's campaign is feigning outrage over Obama's truisms when their own candidate has made thematically similar statements strikes me as...what's the word...oh yeah - dishonest.  


A former hillary supporter.
by Cristalgirl on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:05:22 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Absolutely. McCain also understands the mentality of Small Town, USA. It's hypocritical for his campaign to criticize Obama's comments when he knows what Obama said rings true.

The sentiment that Obama is describing is a reality in many small towns. And there are plenty of rural residents who would not feel the least bit offended if someone said that they turn to faith in response to economic hardship, or that their attitudes towards immigration are a result of rising unemployment.

Christ, 80% of the country says that the we are headed in the wrong direction. Of course there are people who are bitter about their current situation!


by jdusek on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:26:14 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 3)

The issue is that Democrats--at least the SF/Seattle/Cape Cod/Boulder/Burlington/Madison Democrats--get off on this kind of stuff. In their world he is speaking truth to power.

What the Elitocrats (ECs) have never seemed to grasp is that the majority of America does not think the way that they do, about God, Guns, Gays, and a host of other things. I am not saying the left should capitulate to everything middle America wants or thinks, but it's like they won't even acknowledge that we get presidents like Reagan and Bush because so many people, including moderate Democrats, think the way that Obama criticizes.

"everyday" people as the thread labels them have no interest in being talked down to.  Yet, for my entire voting life, some in the Democratic party have insisted that we treat "everyday" people like they are hopeless rubes.  


by reggie44pride on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:07:05 PM EST

Obama eats children... (2.00 / 0)

...give me a break.

What Obama spoke is reality...you know it, I know it, the media knows it...yet the Media ignores the argument hes raising and instead fans the fire...my goodness, we are Rome.


"Let them eat cake"
by NCDEM29 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:33:13 PM EST

Read the whole speach (none / 0)

The "guns and religion" comment was stupid and he should apologize-- something Clinton doesn't know how to-- look at how she reacted to her lying on Bosnia.

But read the whole text before coming up with generalizations.  He isn't a 100 millionaire.  He's much closer to any of the folks he's talked to than the Clintons have been since the 1990s or McCain since the 1890s.

OBAMA: So, it depends on where you are, but I think it's fair to say that the places where we are going to have to do the most work are the places where people feel most cynical about government. The people are mis-appre...I think they're misunderstanding why the demographics in our, in this contest have broken out as they are. Because everybody just ascribes it to 'white working-class don't wanna work -- don't wanna vote for the black guy.' That's...there were intimations of that in an article in the Sunday New York Times today - kind of implies that it's sort of a race thing.

Here's how it is: in a lot of these communities in big industrial states like Ohio and Pennsylvania, people have been beaten down so long, and they feel so betrayed by government, and when they hear a pitch that is premised on not being cynical about government, then a part of them just doesn't buy it. And when it's delivered by -- it's true that when it's delivered by a 46-year-old black man named Barack Obama (laugher), then that adds another layer of skepticism (laughter).

But -- so the questions you're most likely to get about me, 'Well, what is this guy going to do for me? What's the concrete thing?' What they wanna hear is -- so, we'll give you talking points about what we're proposing -- close tax loopholes, roll back, you know, the tax cuts for the top 1 percent. Obama's gonna give tax breaks to middle-class folks and we're gonna provide health care for every American. So we'll go down a series of talking points.

But the truth is, is that, our challenge is to get people persuaded that we can make progress when there's not evidence of that in their daily lives. You go into some of these small towns in Pennsylvania, and like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, the jobs have been gone now for 25 years and nothing's replaced them. And they fell through the Clinton administration, and the Bush administration, and each successive administration has said that somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not. So it's not surprising then that they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations.

Um, now these are in some communities, you know. I think what you'll find is, is that people of every background -- there are gonna be a mix of people, you can go in the toughest neighborhoods, you know working-class lunch-pail folks, you'll find Obama enthusiasts. And you can go into places where you think I'd be very strong and people will just be skeptical. The important thing is that you show up and you're doing what you're doing.


by drjk on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:53:55 PM EST

Apologizing... (none / 0)

Doesn't make it go away. Ask John Kerry.


by soyousay on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:27:49 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Read the whole speach (none / 0)

Do you have a link to the full transcript?  This looks like an answer to a question or some sort of off-the-cuff remark.


by dwmorris on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:43:08 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 0)

This diary is a POS.  You don't parrot what you already know is going to be the GOP's talking points in the fall "Obama is an elitist".

"Hillary Clinton is a liar" diaries are the same thing - that's what they're going to go after her if she's the nominee.  Most people have enough sense not to stoke either one of them.


by Mostly on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:56:06 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

Obama is completely out of touch with ordinary Americans. He doesn't have a clue. Neither do his followers.


by Hunky on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 07:59:56 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

It takes a willful ignorance to interpret this as contempt for everyday people.

Fortunately, there's plenty of that, around here.


Torture me once, shame on you; torture me and get away with it, shame on us all.
by freedom78 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:05:12 PM EST

Wow - Read this ABC interpretation (2.00 / 4)

Could this be the comment the Clinton campaign was hoping for from Obama in the final 10 day countdown to the Pennsylvania primary?

Let's skip ahead to the general election - this is the kind of line that the right Republican opponent could turn into gold. If Obama wins the nomination, will the McCain campaign channel Rumplestiltskin and make this a successful talking point through the fall?

Grover Norquist, the anti-tax activist who leads an influential weekly meeting of conservatives, went as far as to argue that Obama's line would cost Democrats the White House.

"That sentence will lose him the election," Norquist told ABC News. "He just announced to rural America: 'I don't like you.'"

"Now you can vote against that guy not because you don't like him," Norquist added. "You can vote against him because he doesn't like you."

http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/TheNote/s tory?id=3105455&page=1


I didn't believe in god before the primaries and I still don't.
by NewHampster on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:17:18 PM EST

Re: Wow - Read this ABC interpretation (none / 0)

Quoting Grover Norquist without irony and with approval. This place is a swamp.


by amiches on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:02:00 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Norquist?? (none / 0)

You have dropped off into the far deep end, Bub.

Grover Norquist for gawd's sake.

Get help.


by Bee on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:35:49 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Great work

For McCain


by wrb on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:20:15 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

holy shit, leave for 4 hours and come back to all of this.

It was a stupid comment, he (being the one eloquent with words) should have framed his issues much differently


vote blue in 2008
by sepulvedaj3 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:25:09 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 0)

Ah, damn. I'm disappointed. Pastor-gate, NAFTA-gate, Tulza-gate, Rezko-gate, and baby-gate were way better scandals than this.
by sricki on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:30:50 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

I saw a Rezko diary earlier.  What is that, like six months now?  How long do you think this -gate will last?  I give it one day in the MSM, five days on redstate, and eight days on mydd.


by Skaje on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:21:35 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 0)

Nah, I'm thinking more like 2-3 days in the MSM, 3-5 days on RS, 10-14 days on MyDD, and until 2009 on Hillaryis44. Very little time (if any) in Freeperville because they're still too busy talking about what an unpatriotic Muslim he is. They don't have time for this sort of peripheral nonsense -- they need to find (or manufacture) videos of Obama hanging out in a mosque by November, so they're pretty preoccupied.

We need to name this gate ASAP, but for the life of me, I can't think of anything creative right now.

by sricki on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:09:17 AM EST
[ Parent ]

You people are too much (none / 0)

One clown in the blogosphere posts this and every freaking lemming says oh yeah, Obama has contempt...

No one buys it.

Try again.


by dannyinla on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:33:10 PM EST

The only thing they can pounce on... (none / 0)

because HRC is losing everywhere ELSE.  Period.

Here is what he said, the full context:

   OBAMA: So, it depends on where you are, but I think it's fair to say that the places where we are going to have to do the most work are the places where people are most cynical about government. The people are mis-appre...they're misunderstanding why the demographics in our, in this contest have broken out as they are. Because everybody just ascribes it to `white working-class don't wanna work -- don't wanna vote for the black guy.' That's...there were intimations of that in an article in the Sunday New York Times today - kind of implies that it's sort of a race thing.

   Here's how it is: in a lot of these communities in big industrial states like Ohio and Pennsylvania, people have been beaten down so long. They feel so betrayed by government that when they hear a pitch that is premised on not being cynical about government, then a part of them just doesn't buy it. And when it's delivered by -- it's true that when it's delivered by a 46-year-old black man named Barack Obama, then that adds another layer of skepticism.

   But -- so the questions you're most likely to get about me, `Well, what is this guy going to do for me? What is the concrete thing?' What they wanna hear is so we'll give you talking points about what we're proposing -- to close tax loopholes, uh you know uh roll back the tax cuts for the top 1%, Obama's gonna give tax breaks to uh middle-class folks and we're gonna provide healthcare for every American.

   But the truth is, is that, our challenge is to get people persuaded that we can make progress when there's not evidence of that in their daily lives. You go into some of these small towns in Pennsylvania, and like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, the jobs have been gone now for 25 years and nothing's replaced them. And they fell through the Clinton administration, and the Bush administration, and each successive administration has said that somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not. And it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations.

   Um, now these are in some communities, you know. I think what you'll find is, is that people of every background -- there are gonna be a mix of people, you can go in the toughest neighborhoods, you know working-class lunch-pail folks, you'll find Obama enthusiasts. And you can go into places where you think I'd be very strong and people will just be skeptical. The important thing is that you show up and you're doing what you're doing.

And if any of you can READ, then you know he blames past administrations for FAILURE.  Yes, failure to all the communities that LOST JOBS, still LOSING JOBS to Clinton's NAFTA, this horrible war that we are spending 10B a WEEK and not taking care of our own country.

Yes, folks losing their HOMES, JOBS, LIVLIHOOD, and they should not be bitter at what NAFTA did and what the BUSH Administration did?  

Get a clue, this means nothing because most folks will AGREE with what he said.


by tracey webb on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:43:52 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: You people are too much (none / 0)

This will be HUGE for Obama because McCain and Clinton are trying to spin political gold from this and they can't because once Obama starts talking about the real issue here, Clinton and McCain are going to like like game-playig fools.

This is HUGE like Rev Wright was HUGE... and look at how Obama capitalized on it.


by dannyinla on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:01:27 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: You people are too much (none / 0)

On my planet, people in small town America ARE bitter.... bitter about the crap that the government and politicians have been spoon-feeding them for years.  

If you live in the Rust Belt and are NOT bitter, there's something wrong with you.

And if you pretend that that's not the case, you are delusional.


by dannyinla on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 10:12:12 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 2)

What a foolish, condescending thing to say about the people of Pennsylvania, whose votes he will be asking for in less than two weeks.

You do not win elections by insulting voters or disenfranchising them. If Obama is foisted on us because of voter suppression, you can kiss the presidency goodbye in November.

Unbelievable.


by cc on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:38:48 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

I agree it wasn't politically smart. However, most PA Democrats do not live in rural areas and I doubt if suburban or urban Pennsylvanians will take offense.


We care about politics because we know politics matters for people's lives and opportunities.
by politicsmatters on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:46:49 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's (2.00 / 1)

The issue here is really the narrative that BO is just giving to McCain and his Rove trained team. BO is a northern liberal who is part of the blame american's and america first crowd.  He he should be very careful about what he says to stop meme like this.  And what does he do, he makes it worse. And working class voters are starting to see an narrative.  That BO is an elisist liberal who doesnt really care about working folk.

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:45:29 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

Empirically accurate, politically dumb.


We care about politics because we know politics matters for people's lives and opportunities.
by politicsmatters on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 08:45:33 PM EST

Or Howard Dean (none / 0)

or any Dem that talks about the Guns, God & Gays voter I guess.

Such short memories you all have.


My candidate lost fair and square. So did yours. Get over it and let's kick McSame's ass!
by RLMcCauley on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:03:10 PM EST

Re: Or Howard Dean (none / 0)

Obama didn't insult anyone. What Howard Dean said was that he wanted to go after a subsection of the Guns, God & Gays crowd AKA the Bubba vote (Hi Bill).

Obama is talking about that crowd, the wedge issue voter, the single issue voter, the Lou Dobbs voter, the voter that has been manipulated by the GOP for decades.

Democrats write books about them. I guess it's not OK to talk about if you're Obama though.

The lack of political acumen on this site is stunning at times.

And Clinton & McCain, who are actually out of touch, fell right into the trap.

I'm lovin it.


My candidate lost fair and square. So did yours. Get over it and let's kick McSame's ass!
by RLMcCauley on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 10:17:55 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Not fair i think you mean George McGovern.

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:03:34 PM EST

Guns, God & Gays. Look it up you so-called (none / 0)

Dems. You don't know anything about politics.


My candidate lost fair and square. So did yours. Get over it and let's kick McSame's ass!
by RLMcCauley on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:03:55 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

My biggest problem with the premise of your post here is your suggestion that Obama thinks there is "something wrong" with praying to get through hard times. He is in no way saying anything like that here. Unlike most politicians, who are loathe to touch, much less discuss frankly, any difficult, entrenched social issues, Obama is willing to engage on these terms. He is not being elitist or condescending but merely trying to describe the mindset of working class voters in economically hard hit states. Why you would choose to denigrate him for this is beyond me. If more people would be willing to engage with the root problems facing our society we would be a lot better off.


by wasder on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:14:15 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

here's the deal, Obama (and to be fair Hillary) have been for the greater part products of elitism. They grew up in affluent suburbs went to private schools and colleges and while Hillary comes from a Republican family and spent sometime in Arkansas same cannot be said about Obama who has spent his time in CA, NY, MA and IL. So Obama does not know that for large parts of Amercian society guns and god are integral to their daily lives. In rural NC most people love hunting, they like to chase out "critters" with their shotguns and on Sundays they go to church, religiously. Same for rural midwest and PA and hell for most areas of the country. What he said in the "billionaire row" of SF just highlights his disconnect with rural people. What's even more ironic is that the same Obama has been trying to pander to gun-owners in PA as well.
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/040 8/9398.html
Another instance of him wanting to have his cake and eat it too.
by tarheel74 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:16:32 PM EST

For those new to mydd (and how we do things here) (2.00 / 2)

In: Obama is an elitist snob.

Out: Obama is a fire-breathing black radical.

Just wait until next week when we take another Obama quote out of context to frame him as....(wait for it)...a tax and spend liberal!

Mydd: doing the rightwing's dirty work.


by Skaje on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:19:18 PM EST

Obama Responds (none / 0)

Senator Obama's comments in response to the Clinton and McCain campaign's attacks

TERRE HAUTE, INDIANA - At a town hall meeting in Indiana, U.S. Senator Barack Obama made the following comments in response to the Clinton and McCain campaign's attacks:

"When I go around and I talk to people there is frustration and there is anger and there is bitterness. And what's worse is when people are expressing their anger then politicians try to say what are you angry about? This just happened - I want to make a point here today.

"I was in San Francisco talking to a group at a fundraiser and somebody asked how're you going to get votes in Pennsylvania? What's going on there? We hear that's its hard for some working class people to get behind you're campaign. I said, "Well look, they're frustrated and for good reason. Because for the last 25 years they've seen jobs shipped overseas. They've seen their economies collapse. They have lost their jobs. They have lost their pensions. They have lost their healthcare.

"And for 25, 30 years Democrats and Republicans have come before them and said we're going to make your community better. We're going to make it right and nothing ever happens. And of course they're bitter. Of course they're frustrated. You would be too. In fact many of you are. Because the same thing has happened here in Indiana. The same thing happened across the border in Decatur. The same thing has happened all across the country. Nobody is looking out for you. Nobody is thinking about you. And so people end up- they don't vote on economic issues because they don't expect anybody's going to help them. So people end up, you know, voting on issues like guns, and are they going to have the right to bear arms. They vote on issues like gay marriage. And they take refuge in their faith and their community and their families and things they can count on. But they don't believe they can count on Washington. So I made this statement-- so, here's what rich. Senator Clinton says `No, I don't think that people are bitter in Pennsylvania. You know, I think Barack's being condescending.' John McCain says, `Oh, how could he say that? How could he say people are bitter? You know, he's obviously out of touch with people.'

"Out of touch? Out of touch? I mean, John McCain--it took him three tries to finally figure out that the home foreclosure crisis was a problem and to come up with a plan for it, and he's saying I'm out of touch? Senator Clinton voted for a credit card-sponsored bankruptcy bill that made it harder for people to get out of debt after taking money from the financial services companies, and she says I'm out of touch? No, I'm in touch. I know exactly what's going on. I know what's going on in Pennsylvania. I know what's going on in Indiana. I know what's going on in Illinois. People are fed-up. They're angry and they're frustrated and they're bitter. And they want to see a change in Washington and that's why I'm running for President of the United States of America."


by moffcz on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:22:17 PM EST

Re: Obama Responds (none / 0)

BO might want to make another speach in PHL.  

But what he should do is show some contrition and say he made a mistake and misspoke.  But we know that he is not going to do that.  And you wonder why working clas voters find him arrogant.

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:29:13 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama Responds (none / 0)

I LOVE how Obama preaches about Hillary and credit card laws when he voted against have credit card companies cap predatory interests rates. Come on Bambi, get real.


Hillary supporter for Barack Obama in 2008
by zcflint05 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:30:16 PM EST
[ Parent ]

What bothers me the most (2.00 / 4)

about his comments, is that he is insinuating people won't vote for him because he is black
Here's how it is: in a lot of these communities in big industrial states like Ohio and Pennsylvania, people have been beaten down so long. They feel so betrayed by government that when they hear a pitch that is premised on not being cynical about government, then a part of them just doesn't buy it. And when it's delivered by -- it's true that when it's delivered by a 46-year-old black man named Barack Obama, then that adds another layer of skepticism.

Playing the race card again?

by Coldblue on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:26:47 PM EST

I gather you were equally bothered (none / 0)

by Rendell's identical statement.


by Bee on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:38:52 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Not identical (none / 0)

but then Rendell wasn't campaigning that people should vote for him because of his race, was he?


by Coldblue on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:46:32 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Nor is Obama (none / 0)

A response to all this, not that you're in the least open.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc9PepjyD ow


by Bee on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:52:06 PM EST
[ Parent ]

the video is a tangental response (none / 0)

to the criticism of what he said, not the substance of what he said that I quoted.

I'm 'open' to a convincing argument: I haven't seen it.


by Coldblue on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:12:05 PM EST
[ Parent ]

You said Obama is (none / 0)

campaigning that people should vote for him because of his race

Where's your "convincing argument" for that assertion?


by Bee on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:23:32 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Actually I said (2.00 / 0)

Rendell didn't but your point is fair.

Bee, I could document the numerous instances where Obama has used his ethnicity as a campaign tool but I'm sure that you have seen them. No point in creating a diary within a diary.

Off topic, if you are who I think you are, you made a memorable impression :-)


by Coldblue on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:55:16 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Likewise (2.00 / 1)


by Bee on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:58:38 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I'm thinking (2.00 / 0)

http://www.sheetmusicplus.com/store/smp_ detail.html?item=7396046&cart=341694 4334551593&cm_re=289.1.4--Results+I tem--Title#

Click on "Listen"


by Coldblue on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 11:16:31 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I would like to personally apologize to Mark Penn (1.00 / 1)

... for suggesting that he was behind the plan to divide and destroy the Democratic Party.  It is now clear that Hillary's campaign is quite capable of doing that without him at the helm.   Suggesting that the Democratic nominee "looks down on" and "has contempt for" working class people... wow.


4 years of McCain = 4 more years of Bush.
by ashriver on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:32:52 PM EST

Re: I would (none / 0)

You know a story is big when BO supporters start blaming HRC for the words of BO. BO and his campaign never take any responsibility for their actions the just blame HRC.

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:35:55 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I would like to personally apologize to Mark P (none / 0)

If you want to blame, blame your hero who spoke those words.


by JoeySky18 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:54:30 PM EST
[ Parent ]

the problem isn't Obama's words... (none / 0)

it's the fact that certain people are trying to claim, without any evidence, that the person who will be the Democratic nominee has contempt for working people.  This strikes me as demonstrating the same level of intellectual honesty as the freepers who claim that people against the war hate the troops.  


4 years of McCain = 4 more years of Bush.
by ashriver on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:01:02 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Why are people in small towns considered to be (2.00 / 1)

"everyday people?"  What are the rest of us?  


by bigdcdem on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:34:36 PM EST

Whoa! Wait a Minute! (2.00 / 4)

they cling to...religion

This from a man who wants us to excuse his own clinging to a radical racist minister for twenty years?


by creeper1014 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:34:53 PM EST

And People Want Hillary To Quit? (2.00 / 3)

This guy is a comment away a lot of the time from sinking himself. Hang in there Hill!


by Ky Dem on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:38:16 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 4)

He must thought that it was a good hit piece on Clinton & GOP admin that let PA people fall through. But his problem is he always hit someone on the expense of the other.

He made joke to NH voters on the expense of IA voter about the corn & Burma.  He gave excuse for Wright, on the expense of his grandma. And now he hit Clinton Admin on the expense of PA voters.

He didn't see it coming, because he doesn't think there is anything wrong with it. He creates conflict every where he goes.  He has no clue on how to unify the country.  

I guess he will write a speech to address "PA Bitter".  If thing goes as plan, we will hear his second greatest speech of a life time on Tuesday.  And he will scramble away after the speech without taking question from reporters.  


by JoeySky18 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:48:20 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 2)

I hate to admit this but i went to dkos just to see what is up.  I have tried to stay away to keep my blood pressure down. Guess what BO is right and is being treated very very very badly by the mean press and HRC is a very very very bad person for talking about what BO said on tape.  I have seen seveal people banned in bullied in just a couple of minutes.

Reall classy.

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:49:02 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

That is just Soooooo out of character for them.  They have been exposed to poisen, and are slowly dying.  Don't go near there.


by Scotch on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 09:56:13 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

I will try to stay away?

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:18:25 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Well, back to step 1 for you, then. :)


by OrangeFur on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:34:15 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Once Again, Obama Has Been Upfront with America (2.00 / 1)

Here are Obama's full comments, in case anyone wants to give Obama some credit. Obama is so heads above Clinton this. She is still selling a bag of beans from her 100 million dollar estate - Obama is trying to confront the differences that exist in America. Mentioning race, confronting difference, is not playing the race card....its being upfront about the conversation that needs to happen.

OBAMA: So, it depends on where you are, but I think it's fair to say that the places where we are going to have to do the most work are the places where people are most cynical about government. The people are mis...they're misunderstanding why the demographics in our, in this contest have broken out as they are. Because everybody just ascribes it to `white working-class don't wanna work -- don't wanna vote for the black guy.' That's...there were intimations of that in an article in the Sunday New York Times today - kind of implies that it's sort of a race thing.

Here's how it is: in a lot of these communities in big industrial states like Ohio and Pennsylvania, people have been beaten down so long. They feel so betrayed by government that when they hear a pitch that is premised on not being cynical about government, then a part of them just doesn't buy it. And when it's delivered by -- it's true that when it's delivered by a 46-year-old black man named Barack Obama, then that adds another layer of skepticism.

But -- so the questions you're most likely to get about me, `Well, what is this guy going to do for me? What is the concrete thing?' What they wanna hear is so we'll give you talking points about what we're proposing -- to close tax loopholes, uh you know uh roll back the tax cuts for the top 1%, Obama's gonna give tax breaks to uh middle-class folks and we're gonna provide healthcare for every American.

But the truth is, is that, our challenge is to get people persuaded that we can make progress when there's not evidence of that in their daily lives. You go into some of these small towns in Pennsylvania, and like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, the jobs have been gone now for 25 years and nothing's replaced them. And they fell through the Clinton administration, and the Bush administration, and each successive administration has said that somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not. And it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations.

Um, now these are in some communities, you know. I think what you'll find is, is that people of every background -- there are gonna be a mix of people, you can go in the toughest neighborhoods, you know working-class lunch-pail folks, you'll find Obama enthusiasts. And you can go into places where you think I'd be very strong and people will just be skeptical. The important thing is that you show up and you're doing what you're doing.


We don't need a thinker. We need a doer: someone who'll act without considering the consequences. (H.J. Simpson)
by Newcomer on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:01:59 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

Check out Obama's response. I think he really hits it, since he uses the "bitter" language and places it in the context of policies that have hurt the American people.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc9PepjyD ow


We care about politics because we know politics matters for people's lives and opportunities.
by politicsmatters on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:07:17 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

No doubt this speach will stop the whole narrative that BO was talking down to working class voters.  I am sure all these Reagan dems are on youtube right now saying "that BO he sure give a great speach about how i am bitter".  

Seriously the right wing will kill him on this.  What he needed to do is fing apologize.  But NOOOO he doesnt do that.  However, when HRC or Ferraro or anyone else says something wrong there is our man BO damanding someone else has to apologize.  Do you not see the double standard?

david


by giusd on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:15:47 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

Please say it right the first time, Obama.

Presidents should be polished and professional at all times.


by mjc888 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:21:06 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

So Obama's new message is "Keep bitterness alive (until I'm elected)."


by dwmorris on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:51:37 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

God Damn America, sounds bitter, except Reverend Wright had a job.  What's his excuse?

Maybe Obama should ask Pennsylvanians why they are bitter, or if they are bitter, before saying that they are bitter and listing all the supposed reasons why.  What does he know about it?  What does he know about the towns he visits, and their people? His campaign wrote up a summary and some talking points for a speech.  That's all.  He is there for an hour and then gone again.  

Try again, Mr Obama.  Only this time, try to get it right.


by Scotch on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:07:23 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

That's what he said tonight - Watch it http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc9PepjyD ow


We care about politics because we know politics matters for people's lives and opportunities.
by politicsmatters on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:17:51 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

Obama responded beautifully -- I know why you're bitter. And he tells the tale - tonight in Indiana.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc9PepjyD ow


We care about politics because we know politics matters for people's lives and opportunities.
by politicsmatters on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:18:49 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

You just posted this above.

Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder.


by mjc888 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:23:09 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

I can't be the only one that finds his candid talk refreshing. I mean I'd rather a cadidate tell it like it is--and perhaps put his/her foot in their mouth--then give me some pre-polled, parsed politico speak sound bite that says nothing at all.

PS grew up in PA (philadelphia, 21 years there) and went to undergrad and grad school in PA (scranton/pittsburgh)


by bigdaddy on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:22:14 PM EST

You are becoming GOP (2.00 / 1)

True to form, some of the loudest bloggers on this site have taken a quote and completely twisted it out of context in order to prove that Obama is the villain they want him to be. I'm losing track, but so far I think they have him at Sexist Black Supremacist Who Wields Enormous Power Over The Democratic Party And All Cable News Channels (excluding FOX, of course). Now, lo! he's an elitist! Now, a thinking person might wonder how a former community organizer from a troubled, humble background (and who has by far the lowest income of the remaining candidates running) could be an elitist. Not to worry:. we have our own GOP Opposition Research Staff right here. They're more than willing to misunderstand whole speeches and present to all damning quotes that fit their preconceptions. Shameful.
Stop H8
by mikeinsf on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:32:00 PM EST

Obama's response (2.00 / 1)

In Indiana:

"When I go around and I talk to people there is frustration and there is anger and there is bitterness. And what's worse is when people are expressing their anger then politicians try to say what are you angry about? This just happened - I want to make a point here today.

"I was in San Francisco talking to a group at a fundraiser and somebody asked how're you going to get votes in Pennsylvania? What's going on there? We hear that's its hard for some working class people to get behind you're campaign. I said, "Well look, they're frustrated and for good reason. Because for the last 25 years they've seen jobs shipped overseas. They've seen their economies collapse. They have lost their jobs. They have lost their pensions. They have lost their healthcare.

"And for 25, 30 years Democrats and Republicans have come before them and said we're going to make your community better. We're going to make it right and nothing ever happens. And of course they're bitter. Of course they're frustrated. You would be too. In fact many of you are. Because the same thing has happened here in Indiana. The same thing happened across the border in Decatur. The same thing has happened all across the country. Nobody is looking out for you. Nobody is thinking about you. And so people end up- they don't vote on economic issues because they don't expect anybody's going to help them. So people end up, you know, voting on issues like guns, and are they going to have the right to bear arms. They vote on issues like gay marriage. And they take refuge in their faith and their community and their families and things they can count on. But they don't believe they can count on Washington. So I made this statement-- so, here's what rich. Senator Clinton says `No, I don't think that people are bitter in Pennsylvania. You know, I think Barack's being condescending.' John McCain says, `Oh, how could he say that? How could he say people are bitter? You know, he's obviously out of touch with people.'

"Out of touch? Out of touch? I mean, John McCain--it took him three tries to finally figure out that the home foreclosure crisis was a problem and to come up with a plan for it, and he's saying I'm out of touch? Senator Clinton voted for a credit card-sponsored bankruptcy bill that made it harder for people to get out of debt after taking money from the financial services companies, and she says I'm out of touch? No, I'm in touch. I know exactly what's going on. I know what's going on in Pennsylvania. I know what's going on in Indiana. I know what's going on in Illinois. People are fed-up. They're angry and they're frustrated and they're bitter. And they want to see a change in Washington and that's why I'm running for President of the United States of America."


We care about politics because we know politics matters for people's lives and opportunities.
by politicsmatters on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:34:19 PM EST

Re: Obama's response (none / 0)

This statement is COMPLETELY DIFFERENT than the one he made in San Francisco.  He said:

"And it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations."

Because of their frustration they cling to guns or religion?

Where I live in South Dakota, hunting/guns are a way of life, just like in Pennsylvania.  People are worried about losing the right to hunt, and Republicans prey on those fears.  It has NOTHING to do with the frustration of their daily lives.

Same goes for religion.

And what's the deal with - antipathy to people who aren't like them?  This is due to their misplace frustration, or is it their way of life???  I say it's their traditional way of life.

How about their anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment?  Is he implying that it's misplaced anti-sentiment?  It sure looks like it.

His statement does not address these things.  He just went and made a totally different point to justify a stupid statement.  People who live in Rural America like me won't buy it.  But the urban elites will bite hook, line, and sinker.


by Dave B on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:58:53 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Oh, and (2.00 / 0)

I like how the same people who have been on his back for going to a church they don't like can claim he is against religion. Not that consistency is a concern, but how could someone belong to a church for 30years and still hate religion? Is that like being half-white and still hating white people?
Stop H8
by mikeinsf on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:34:21 PM EST

Today helps with the context (2.00 / 1)

He is religous in a congregation that preaches hate, which he says he didn't hear, but now he is elitist understands the hate that those who have turned to "religion" due to economic downturn have...he gets why the are like they are..

No one mentioned the other thing he said this week, that he understands foreign policy due to a college trip to Pakistan, where he met the "real people".

Does anyone think this will stand up to real scrutiny in the GE?  


by blustateguy68 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:48:36 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

It's worthwhile to spend a moment analyzing the ugliest sentence Obama uttered:

And it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations.

What do all of the things that Obama says people "cling" to have in common?

They are, obviously, by Obama, being held in a very real disdain. He is, without question, being disparaging of each item in that list. Each of those things are things people "cling to" because, in their bitterness, they are turning to something negative.

And what heads that list? Guns and religion.

Basically, the man has gone out of his way to besmirch two things that tens of millions of voters hold very dear.

The clear meaning of the statement stands on its own. No amount of "context" could possibly make it go away.


by frankly0 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:39:58 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

No he hasn't disparaged them. From Obama in Indiana friday 4/11 --

"And for 25, 30 years Democrats and Republicans have come before them and said we're going to make your community better. We're going to make it right and nothing ever happens. And of course they're bitter. Of course they're frustrated. You would be too. In fact many of you are. Because the same thing has happened here in Indiana. The same thing happened across the border in Decatur. The same thing has happened all across the country. Nobody is looking out for you. Nobody is thinking about you. And so people end up- they don't vote on economic issues because they don't expect anybody's going to help them. So people end up, you know, voting on issues like guns, and are they going to have the right to bear arms. They vote on issues like gay marriage. And they take refuge in their faith and their community and their families and things they can count on. But they don't believe they can count on Washington.


We care about politics because we know politics matters for people's lives and opportunities.
by politicsmatters on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:47:17 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Damage control.

Obama said what he said.

I'll bet he wishes he didn't.


by frankly0 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:50:18 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

If his own ideas get half the play that his opponents' misinterpretations of his words have gotten, he'll be thankful for this dustup.

I just hope that everybody gets to hear what Obama has to say about this subject, not just what McCain or Lou Dobbs thinks.


by Ddeele on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:59:33 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

Check yourself. The term "everday people" is itself elitist. And what are you? An every-other day person?  


"As Putin rears his head and comes into the air space of the United States of America, where-where do they go? It's Alaska. It's just right over the border."
by fugazi on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:41:20 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

What? and "regular folk" is what irregular?


daninpa
by daninpa on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:11:15 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Exactly. Those "everyday people" are not like you and me. They're so ... everyday!


"As Putin rears his head and comes into the air space of the United States of America, where-where do they go? It's Alaska. It's just right over the border."
by fugazi on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:14:46 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Obama responds... (2.00 / 1)

to Hillary and McBush
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc9PepjyD ow

Capitalization is the difference between "I had to help my uncle Jack off a horse..." and "I had to help my uncle jack off a horse..."
by igottheblues on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:51:41 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

NC is obviously a bunch of elitists ...
http://www.pollster.com/08-NC-Dem-Pres-P rimary.php
"If you want to end war and stuff, you gotta sing loud"...Arlo Guthrie
by nogo war on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:53:39 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

: All right, Gloria, he's already being hammered by Hillary Clinton and John McCain for that matter for supposedly being an elitist and speaking ill of the people of Pennsylvania by suggesting that the economic problems there are causing them to become bitter and buying guns and becoming xenophobic and all of that. What do you think? Is this a real issue out there? GLORIA BORGER: Well, Hillary Clinton said today, you know, I don't see bitter people out there, I see struggling people or whatever it is, but she said the people aren't bitter. But I think the people are angry – and maybe Obama's terminology was in artful but I think he's expressing a sentiment of mad-as-hell-voters, not going to take it anymore, that we've seen throughout this election. And that's why perhaps voters are saying over and over again that they want to change. So I think Hillary Clinton is trying to make him into the elite candidate but he's talking about people being angry. BLITZER: All right, and Hillary Clinton responded to the Obama comments this way; Jeff. Let me play her little sound bite. HRC: It's being reported that my opponent said that the people of Pennsylvania who faced hard times are bitter. Well, that's not my experience. As I travel around Pennsylvania, I meet people who are resilient, who are optimistic, who are positive, who are rolling up their sleeves. They're working hard every day for a better future for themselves and their children. Pennsylvanians don't need a president who looks down on them. BLITZER: All right, Jeff. What do you think? JEFF TOOBIN: I think that is so ridiculous. I mean that is not at all what Barack Obama said. I just think this is an example of how a campaign between the two of them can be purely destructive. And not elevate either candidate. I mean, Hillary Clinton is clearly distorting what Obama said. And by the way, what Obama said is factually accurate. It's been true throughout history that people who have economic problems lash out against various others. I mean, I just think it is an embarrassing for the Clinton campaign to hang on this as if it's some sort of gaffe by Obama. BLITZER: It's not just the Clinton campaign, Jack it's also the McCain campaign. They issued a statement saying it's a remarkable statement and extremely revealing it shows an elitism towards and condescension towards hard working Americans that is nothing short of breathtaking. It is hard to imagine someone running for president who is more out of touch with average Americans. JACK CAFFERTY: Really? And this is from John McCain? BLITZER: No, this is from Steve Schmidt a senior adviser for John McCain. CAFFERTY: Look, Jeff's right. They call it the rust belt for a reason. The great jobs and the economic prosperity left that part of the country two or three decades ago. The people are frustrated. The people have no economic opportunity. What happens to folks like that in the Middle East, you ask? Well, take a look. They go to places like al Qaeda training camps. I mean, there's nothing new here. And what Barack Obama was suggesting is not that the people of Pennsylvania are to blame for any of it. It's that the jerks in Washington, D.C., as represented by the ten years of the Bushes and the Clintons and the McCains who have lied to and misled these people for all of this time while they shipped the jobs over seas and signed phony trade deals like NAFTA are to blame for the deteriorating economic conditions among America's middle class. I mean, I'm a college dropout and I can read the damn thing and figure it out. BORGER: You know, in this case the Hillary Clinton campaign and the John McCain campaign have the same goal and that is to portray Obama as this sort of (inaudible) elitist who doesn't understand the real working class people or independent voters. And so they're both on the same side on this one and it's obvious why. BLITZER: Go ahead, Jeff. TOOBIN: I just think it's remarkable that Barack Obama, this guy who grew up in a single-family household with no money, who lived in Indonesia, who came from very modest upbringings, somehow he's the elitist? That's really a pretty extraordinary sort of contortion of his background. I mean. BORGER: It's that Harvard, Yale thing. CAFFERTY: He did not make $109 million in the last eight year did he? BORGER: Right. BLITZER: No, this is from Steve Schmidt a senior adviser for John McCain. CAFFERTY: Look, Jeff's right. They call it the rust belt for a reason. The great jobs and the economic prosperity left that part of the country two or three decades ago. The people are frustrated. The people have no economic opportunity. What happens to folks like that in the Middle East, you ask? Well, take a look. They go to places like al Qaeda training camps. I mean, there's nothing new here. And what Barack Obama was suggesting is not that the people of Pennsylvania are to blame for any of it. It's that the jerks in Washington, D.C., as represented by the ten years of the Bushes and the Clintons and the McCains who have lied to and misled these people for all of this time while they shipped the jobs over seas and signed phony trade deals like NAFTA are to blame for the deteriorating economic conditions among America's middle class. I mean, I'm a college dropout and I can read the damn thing and figure it out. BORGER: You know, in this case the Hillary Clinton campaign and the John McCain campaign have the same goal and that is to portray Obama as this sort of (inaudible) elitist who doesn't understand the real working class people or independent voters. And so they're both on the same side on this one and it's obvious why. BLITZER: Go ahead, Jeff. TOOBIN: I just think it's remarkable that Barack Obama, this guy who grew up in a single-family household with no money, who lived in Indonesia, who came from very modest upbringings, somehow he's the elitist? That's really a pretty extraordinary sort of contortion of his background. I mean. BORGER: It's that Harvard, Yale thing. CAFFERTY: He did not make $109 million in the last eight year did he? BORGER: Right.
Stop H8
by mikeinsf on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:55:36 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

Jeffrey Toobin's commentary on this is simply contemptible in its pro-Obama, anti-Hillary bias.

The man should be fired.


by frankly0 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 10:58:17 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Yeah... he's... a .... Judas... does... not... believe... in... international celebrity... Hillary...
Stop H8
by mikeinsf on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 11:05:20 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

the McCains and the Clintons are each worth many tens of millions of dollars, and they and their campaigns try to spin this by calling Obama an elitist.

And what's even funnier, there are a bunch of poor fools posting here who are siding with the bazillionaires.  

Funny stuff.  

It's MyDD meets Comedy Central.


by dannyinla on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:59:19 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (1.00 / 2)

Obama does it again - makes his detractors look small minded and petty - which they are.
Congrats to Obama for shedding light on the truth, sticking by it and demonstarting that in terms of intellectual integrity Hillay Mcain and Fox news patrol the same gutter politics for stupid people.
by dbeall on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 11:28:16 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

PRAISE OBAMA! I AM A FILTHY, BIBLE THUMPING, HICK RACIST! I AM UNWASHED AND READY TO COME TO YOUR GLORY, FOR ONLY YOU CAN SAVE ME FROM BEING A HICK WHO HATES MINORITIES! PRAISE OBAMA!


Hillary supporter for Barack Obama in 2008
by zcflint05 on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:28:22 AM EST
[ Parent ]

This will loose him Pennsylvania (none / 0)

Although I do wonder why he clung onto Rev. Wright. Was he bitter?

And frankly, it seems so out of character for him.


by ann0nymous on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 11:37:19 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 3)

I don't get what's "elitist" or "condescneding" here... I'm one of those people that was supposedly "insulted", and I'm pretty darn bitter... and I'll cling to anything that will get me through the next day, sometimes...

If the truth is considered to be a "gaffe" or "elitist" then maybe I should just get out of politics...

C'mon, Hillary, you mean those out of work steel workers and miners are not bitter?  If you really believe that, than it's YOU who are out of touch...

Why can't politicians say the cold hard truth?  Why do they always have to pretend that everything is great and nothing is wrong?  That kind of blind optimism is what causes most of the problems we have in Washington...

Times are bad in the US... I guess I'll never be a politician, 'cos you aren't allowed to say that... you'll be somehow labeled as an elitist....


"This was never part of our arrangement, Specter" "I am altering the deal! Pray I don't alter it any further!" "This deal keeps getting worse all the time!"
by LordMike on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 11:42:21 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Apparently, according to you and Senator Obama, you all are "clinging" to religion, guns, and racism because you are simple minded peons who live in the boonies so you have nothing else.


Hillary supporter for Barack Obama in 2008
by zcflint05 on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 11:55:21 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Umm.... yeah... you obviously didn't read my comment... I'm one of those "hillbillies" that is supposed to be somehow insulted by the truth of the economic situation in the rust belt where I have lived all my life...

Yet, somehow, I don't find the truth to be condescending....


"This was never part of our arrangement, Specter" "I am altering the deal! Pray I don't alter it any further!" "This deal keeps getting worse all the time!"
by LordMike on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 11:59:24 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

So, everyone in the boonies is a racist pig who's too obsessed with Jesus and religion? That might be a message that plays out well with you, but I can virtually guarentee that it won't with the rest of the country. Those 527''s will love this quotation in ads running in key swing states like Michigan, Ohio, and PA, especally with the economies in those states.


Hillary supporter for Barack Obama in 2008
by zcflint05 on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:12:54 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Your "concern" is noted by this church going Catholic....

I've seen the pews fill up when the jobs go down... Again, if people are afraid of the truth then they really aren't going to vote for their best interests anyways, are they?

You keep talking down to me like the "elitists" you supposedly condemn... you forget that I'm the one that Obama's original comments were directed at...


"This was never part of our arrangement, Specter" "I am altering the deal! Pray I don't alter it any further!" "This deal keeps getting worse all the time!"
by LordMike on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:18:06 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

No, according to YOU.

Obama didn't say these people are "simple minded peons".

He said nothing about their intellect.

He said nothing about them being simple.

Those are YOUR words, and I suspect they reflect your personal biases against rural America.

Who's being contemptuous now?


by jdusek on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:39:06 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

It's just the GOP trying to create a controversy against our candidate. Just a lot of silliness.


"As Putin rears his head and comes into the air space of the United States of America, where-where do they go? It's Alaska. It's just right over the border."
by fugazi on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:09:48 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

"As an aside, Obama took it a step further and implied that typical Pennsylvanians had strong racist and xenophobic tendencies."

Funny, when Gov. Ed Rendell implied the exact same thing, no one here batted an eye... in fact most agreed with him.


"This was never part of our arrangement, Specter" "I am altering the deal! Pray I don't alter it any further!" "This deal keeps getting worse all the time!"
by LordMike on Fri Apr 11, 2008 at 11:56:55 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

We do lead the nation in White Separatist Organizations


by kmwray on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 09:38:21 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Why this won't help HRC (2.00 / 1)

Nobody fights back against attacks than Obama:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc9PepjyD ow

He didn't phrase what he said well. A rare mistake. But nobody recovers and fights back better. He nails it in that response.


by grover738 on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:05:40 AM EST

Re: Why this won't help HRC (none / 0)

Anytime a politician makes this kind of condescending gaffe and then has to spend days and days trying to do damage control is always good for the other candidate.

Not only that, the superdelegates are watching.  They are watching this Homer Simpson moment and asking themselves can this guy be trusted to open his mouth in an unguarded moment or under pressure against John McCain ... what do you bet a great number of them are shaking their heads and answering "NO."

Oh, and all that money he has spent in Pennsylvania is to no freaking avail.  Whoever was on the bubble has seen the bitter Barack and they don't want any thing to do with him and his nasty entitled wife.


"Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but they are not entitled to their own facts."
by beebop on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 07:30:03 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Why this won't help HRC (none / 0)

1) this is much less of a gaffe than HRC's repeated Tuzla misstatements, which were out of the news until BC brought it back up. So I don't see it moving any superdelegates.

2) Obama's efforts in PA are working. HRC started with a 20 point lead. It's now down under 10 points. Why is it that the more states see of Obama and Clinton, the more they like Obama? Anything under a 20 point win by Clinton shows a clear shift towards Obama in PA.

http://www.pollster.com/08-PA-Dem-Pres-P rimary.php


by grover738 on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 10:27:31 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Obama bots respond:

WELL SOME PEOPLE AT HIS CAMPAIGN RALLY IN INDIANA LOVED IT...CONTROVERSEY'S OVER!


Hillary supporter for Barack Obama in 2008
by zcflint05 on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:15:27 AM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

I am in PA right now.  Let me assure you, people ARE bitter about what has happened to this state for the past twenty years!  How disingenuine that Clinton tries to seize this and tells how Pennsylvanians are not bitter but very optimistic people.  I don't see the optimism around here.  


by sbbonerad on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:30:52 AM EST

Re: Dems Heading for Defeat - Big Time (1.00 / 1)

Photobucket


by johnnygunn on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:49:04 AM EST

Re: Dems Heading for Defeat - Big Time (none / 0)

I assume this is what you are hoping will happen. Then you will be vindicated in your blind support for Hillary and hatred for Obama.

It makes me really sad that on election night 2008 you and few other "Democrats" will be sitting in front of the tv with this map. When Obama wins MI "shit", got one wrong. Then MN and WI, PA, NJ, ME, NH. You will then hold out hope that he loses the rest. But no. He wins OH, VA, IA, NV, CO, NM, too. And probably even more.

That night, as happy as I will be for Obama and this country, I will still feel sorry for those few of y'all who couldnt see past your hatred.


by BlueGAinDC on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 11:21:15 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Dems Heading for Defeat - Big Time (none / 0)

You are the bigot for saying that I hate Obama when, in actuality,
I am only saying that he will lose.

That has been the greater part of the rebuttal from the Obama camp to criticisms and challenges - that we hate Obama or, worse, are racists.

Well, I have news for you Bubba Georgia, the Republicans aren't going to be nearly so intimidated by that approach. In fact, if you look at the Lamont results you might get an inkling as to what may transpire with an Obama nomination.  Despite all the screaming about "LIEbercrats" - Lamont lost - lost handily.

So, go ahead.
Scream, "Hater!" at he top of your lungs.


by johnnygunn on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:51:18 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Dems Heading for Defeat - Big Time (none / 0)

but you do hate Obama. Be honest.
Stop H8
by mikeinsf on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 06:05:06 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Dems Heading for Defeat - Big Time (none / 0)

seriously, a bigot? wow. I didn't call you anything, especially not a bigot. Perhaps you arn't one of the one's that has the real anger for Obama. I doubt its cause its black, I just think your really upset that Clinton won't ever be president.

You are supposedly a Democrat or a supporter of Democrats. Being on this site, I would expect to be able to talk to you not as a Republican, but as someone who wants democrats to win.

You don't want a Democrat to win if its not your first choice. I personally believe that is sacrificing core values. Any Democrat is better than John McCain. That much should be clear. If its not, I'm not exactly sure this is the site you want to be in. There are a lot of Clinton supporters here, but I suspect that when she drops out this site will rally around our nominee.

You however, will probably continue to post your map of Obama losing and complain about how you were right and we were wrong.

I don't call you a hater because I think it will change your mind. Your mind seems already made up. If it can't be Hillary it shouldnt be any Democrat, right?


by BlueGAinDC on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 08:04:07 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Lamont & Lieberman - check the new polls (none / 0)

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2007/09/13 /poll-lamont-would-beat-l_n_64298.html

Welcome to 2008. A large portion of 2006 Lieberman voters could now be fairly categorized as "bitter".


McCain housing policy shaped by lobbyist.
by obsessed on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 10:04:42 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 3)

Hmm.  The headlines don't sound so bad to me.  The current ABC News headline is "Obama says voters are angry, bitter over economic inequalities".

Yes, we are.  Because Bush and the GOP have driven our country into a ravine.  That Obama is talking about this is a good thing.

Remember, this is basically the message that Edwards spent most of his time talking about.  This is a fundamental message of the democratic party, especially for this election: the GOP has been pulling the wool over the voters' eyes while destroying our economy.


by barath on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:52:49 AM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 3)

I think the Clinton Campaign has really stepped in it this time.  He tells the truth, which by the way the Democrats living in small cities and  towns know its the truth- they live with these people, and she acts like we are living in Stepford.

I live in PA and I lived in the country when I moved here.  While the people were nice they were seeking someone to blame.  They often settled on politicians, but not always.

Saying that people vote guns and anti-gay to show their anger is just telling it like it is.  The Democrats voting out there know this is true and for the Clinton campaign to spin that as elitism is a major error.  She is so out of touch if she thinks voting Democrats don't realize, and are themselves, pissed off by the actions of their governemnt and the inaction on economic issues that really matter.  

When they debate and she states that everyone is smiling and everything is rosie she is not going to be able to breathe as the oxygen will be sucked out of that place.


daninpa
by daninpa on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:08:33 AM EST

Can we have a moment (2.00 / 3)

for context?

<quote>
    "So, it depends on where you are, but I think it's fair to say that the places where we are going to have to do the most work are the places where people feel most cynical about government. The people are mis-appre...I think they're misunderstanding why the demographics in our, in this contest have broken out as they are. Because everybody just ascribes it to 'white working-class don't wanna work -- don't wanna vote for the black guy.' That's...there were intimations of that in an article in the Sunday New York Times today - kind of implies that it's sort of a race thing.

   Here's how it is: in a lot of these communities in big industrial states like Ohio and Pennsylvania, people have been beaten down so long, and they feel so betrayed by government, and when they hear a pitch that is premised on not being cynical about government, then a part of them just doesn't buy it. And when it's delivered by -- it's true that when it's delivered by a 46-year-old black man named Barack Obama (laugher), then that adds another layer of skepticism (laughter).

   But -- so the questions you're most likely to get about me, 'Well, what is this guy going to do for me? What's the concrete thing?' What they wanna hear is -- so, we'll give you talking points about what we're proposing -- close tax loopholes, roll back, you know, the tax cuts for the top 1 percent. Obama's gonna give tax breaks to middle-class folks and we're gonna provide health care for every American. So we'll go down a series of talking points.

   But the truth is, is that, our challenge is to get people persuaded that we can make progress when there's not evidence of that in their daily lives. You go into some of these small towns in Pennsylvania, and like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, the jobs have been gone now for 25 years and nothing's replaced them. And they fell through the Clinton administration, and the Bush administration, and each successive administration has said that somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not. So it's not surprising then that they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations.

   Um, now these are in some communities, you know. I think what you'll find is, is that people of every background -- there are gonna be a mix of people, you can go in the toughest neighborhoods, you know working-class lunch-pail folks, you'll find Obama enthusiasts. And you can go into places where you think I'd be very strong and people will just be skeptical. The important thing is that you show up and you're doing what you're doing." </quote>

Essentially he is making the point that the Democratic Party has to take it's message directly to the voters and not pander or back down. He is making a case for the 50 state strategy. Isn't that what this site is about?


"Live your beliefs and you can turn the world around." --Thoreau
by Populista on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:12:55 AM EST

Obama is a gaffe machine (2.00 / 1)

He has a mini-scandal every other week and this is before the real dirty politics. He makes these boneheaded, offensive remarks without being provoked. Imagine the kinds of gaffes he'll make when being attacked by faceless 527's during general.


by axian on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:24:10 AM EST

Re: Obama is a gaffe machine (none / 0)

This is a joke right?  Is this in comparison to the week long Bosnia gaffes, which were conveniently revived by Bill yesterday?


by barath on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:51:57 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 2)

I have quickly gone through many comments - and I have yet to see one from some one who is genuinely offended.

The anti Obama comments are simply from un unobjective people and not from the actual people the comments were about.

Hillary panders and works with Mcain, Obama wants to make sure the Washington does what the people demand. This is not tough


by dbeall on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:46:52 AM EST

Maybe We Deserve the Republicans (2.00 / 1)

Seriously, do you people even believe what you are saying?  People in small towns have a RIGHT to be bitter.  There is a serious lack of opportunity and upward mobility in this country.  It's like some dirty little secret to so many here with fancy computers and internet access, but some important and growing fraction of America has fallen behind.  They're pissed.

And yet, to succeed in today's Democratic party and with today's media, you have to keep adhering to the notion that nothing is wrong.  Why, rural Americans are the salt of the earth, they're "resilient..."  

If that's true, they don't need government.  And so, Washington will wallpaper over the problems in this country yet again.  All of you will be pleased because that "elitist" community organizer, Barack Obama, won't be president.  Instead, we'll get the working class aristocrat, Hillary Clinton.  It's not the end of the country if we fall for this line of crap, but it certainly  does augur our precipitous decline.


by zadura on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 02:34:10 AM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

I think that more than what he said,it is where he said it which speaks volumes about Barack Obama.If he had been genuinely concerned about the people who have been hurt by the economic down turn,he should have spoken about it during the Penn bus tour rather than in a closed door meeting of fellow"elitists".This clearly shows his contempt for people who do not belong to his class.Having been exposed,what has followed is the typical spin and cover up.

Clinton was right..this guy has speeches for every occasion.


by Rajesh on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 05:15:43 AM EST

Nothing Obama can say (none / 0)

can rectify a statement which glaringly reveals his disconnect with working class America.


by internetstar on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 08:04:41 AM EST
[ Parent ]

This is Worse than Jeramiah (Bullfrog) Wright (none / 0)

Obama could spin and rationalize that association.
This is straight from his own mouth.  It is not a gaffe.  He
told the wealthy elite exactly what he thinks about small town Americans.

I am deeply upset that this man could be our candidate.


by internetstar on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 08:09:46 AM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

Axelrod planned this moment. It wasn't initially spun very well, but now it looks brilliant after McCain and HRC pounced on it to show their lack of understanding the problems of Middle America.

I agree that Obama's premise is a little complex for an uninterested voter that would prefer to watch Bass fishing over World News Tonight . . . but for those of you that bit on this trap:


NO 100 year WAR, NO McConnell run Senate, & NO GOP-led Supreme Court!!!
by Veteran75 on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 08:22:42 AM EST

HIllary employs Union Buster Mark Penn & .... (none / 0)

...was a member of Walmart- Brad for several years when they routinely referred to Unions as "blood suckers," and said nothing.

And McCain and his wife are multimilionaires. And McCain grew up the son of an Admiral in the US Navy.

What the hell does he know about working people? Other than the guy who drives him around everywhere


by Hesiod Theogeny on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 08:58:20 AM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 1)

The guy could have walked into a partnership track at any law firm in the country after law school, instead he goes home and fights for better housing. You're right he's an elitist.

Obama's speech in Indiana the other day responded to the "criticism" larded on by the other two candidates.

Just so we are clear, McCain and Clinton have been towing the finacial sector's barge of BS for their entire careers.  I want a president who owes nothing to Wall Street


by kmwray on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 09:34:45 AM EST

Hillary and McCain two peas completely cluless!! (2.00 / 1)

What a complete distortion of what he said?  It always surprises me how Hillary and McCain supporters (who now I consider one in the same) completely do not understand the mood of the country.  Maybe its the million dollar bribes the Clintons got from Colombia to ship more American Jobs overseas?  One thing is certain, whoever posted this excuse for a diary has never been laid off because it is a very bitter experience.


by HGM MA on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 10:50:32 AM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (2.00 / 2)

Unlike you, diarist, I don't have contempt for small town Americans. In fact, I think they are much smarter than you give them credit for. You think by twisting Obama's words you can convince us all that "dumb" Americans can't understand what Obama meant.

But it was clear, and should not be apologized for. If Hillary had said this, you would be cheering for her. Why? Because its the same thing we've all been wanting our party to understand for the last decade.

We need to convince voters to leave the wedge issues aside that Republicans have convinced them is more important than their economic situation. Obama said that he understood why their were drawn to these issues. He didn't insult them by saying they were just duped by the Republicans. He said it was natural for them to be bitter about their situation and turn to religious issues, xenophobia, and gun issues, because that's what Republican politicians were offering them.

Had it not been for all the anti gay-marriage legislation in 2004, Kerry would have won. We all knew this right afterward. You are choosing to forget this because you think that your candidate may still win if you can do the Republican dirty work and tear down our candidate.


by BlueGAinDC on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 11:29:42 AM EST

Re: W.O.R.M. (none / 0)

I go into these small towns in Pennsylvania and, like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, no matter how much I spend or puff or lie, or how sexy I look, I can't get those damn rubes and rednecks who are ruining the democratic party to vote for me. So it's not surprising then that I get bitter, and I cling to my affluent Harvard-educated elitist condescending views of these voters as gun-toting boors or religious fanatics or racist bigots as a way to explain my frustrations about not getting those votes away from that bitch.


On to the Convention Floor!
by oh puhleeze on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 12:26:42 PM EST

Re: W.O.R.M. (none / 0)

You have serious issues. Are you deliberately being obtuse or are you totally unaware that Barack leads your candidate with over 700,000 votes?
So yes I would say soon- to -be -president Barack Obama, has taken quite a few votes a way from Ms. Clinton in all areas of the country.
"Beauty, more than bitterness, makes the heart break." Sara Teasdale
by april34fff on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:07:47 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

You know, I expect the Republican slime machine and elements of the mainstream media to take quotes like that completely out of context to mislead.  I even expect it from Clinton who's in a tough race and clinging to any opportunity to salvage a doomed campaign.

But when posters here, most of whom are educated, take a sentence which by itself creates the impression the opposite of the what he actually said, I lose patience.  I know you're not stupid.  I think you must be doing this deliberately, to make debate points.  It's not a pretty sight, and you should be ashamed of yourself.


by Drummond on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 01:29:29 PM EST

Perceived elitist's usually get crushed in Nov. (none / 0)

http://securingamerica.com/ccn/node/1519 0

Great diary, owlo6.

I hope you don't mind the link to a diary that points out the historic consequences of running a Dem who is perceived as intellectual, snobbish, and (in some cases) even "effete".


by Clarkin08 on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 02:50:04 PM EST

re (none / 0)

Will Kerry and Obama be going windsurfing anytime soon?


by rossinatl on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 02:53:18 PM EST

This diary is ridiculous and shameful. (2.00 / 1)

Also misleading and deceitful.

Bravo - I hope you're proud of yourself.  Karl Rove certainly would be.


by toom on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 04:05:06 PM EST

Ah, Hell, Maybe We Should Give Up (2.00 / 0)

It's like trying to fight a zombie army. Just hand her the prize and so she could finally lose and we could move on. It's pretty clear that the Party's can't really do much until they finish this unhealthy journey with the Clintons.


Stop H8
by mikeinsf on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 06:00:00 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

He has stepped in deep doo doo this time.  Not only is he dissing blue collar, rural workers on guns and religion, but he is also calling them racists and xenophobic.  Amazing!!  

How is this going to play out in the general election.  There is the Wright issue, now this.

I wonder if the superdelegates are paying attention.


by tricia19 on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 06:04:20 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

Jeez..
For Sen. Clinton to say PA voters are not bitter is condescending.
..for anyone to take what Obama said as
"Not only is he dissing blue collar, rural workers on guns and religion, but he is also calling them racists and xenophobic.  Amazing!! "

is clearly a member of the dwindling number of folks involved in their local Young Republicans Club..

Sen. Clinton's most fervent supporters would not use this language.


"If you want to end war and stuff, you gotta sing loud"...Arlo Guthrie
by nogo war on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 06:26:49 PM EST

Did Obama ever have to work an hourly (none / 0)

job?  I sense that he benefitted from generous scholarships from middle school onward, and never really had to work for an hourly wage.  But I am not sure - this is just my recall of his bio.  

His comments strike me as coming from someone who never did.  I remember working minimum wage jobs through high school, then a bit better in college working my way through -- delivering newspapers, stacking books at the library, working retail at the local mall.  I swear that I learned more about people working in these jobs than I ever did in my fancy college.  To say that people have their religion as a crutch for their bitterness, to say that they ALL own guns and ALL hate foreigners -- that is simply ignorant and out of touch.

Perhaps Senator Obama did indeed spend too much time in the pews of Jeremiah Wright.


by activatedbybush on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 07:08:01 PM EST

Re: Did Obama ever have to work an hourly (none / 0)

Well all I learned from my retail and waitressing jobs was that I needed to get myself educated and fast.

Are you seriously knocking him for winning scholarships?  Seriously?

The true Republican trust fund and corporate elites have successfully used this word to split Democrats between those who are educated and those who are not educated or feel guilty about their education.  Why are you falling for their BS?


by Renie on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 09:45:21 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Not at all (none / 0)

But there are other lessons to be learned in holding down jobs and paying some of your own way.  I earned plenty of scholarships, but worked as well.   His comments suggest that despite humble origins he is not very plugged in.  


by activatedbybush on Sun Apr 13, 2008 at 02:00:35 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Did Obama ever have to work an hourly (none / 0)

job?  I sense that he benefitted from generous scholarships from middle school onward, and never really had to work for an hourly wage.  But I am not sure - this is just my recall of his bio.  

His comments strike me as coming from someone who never did.  I remember working minimum wage jobs through high school, then a bit better in college working my way through -- delivering newspapers, stacking books at the library, working retail at the local mall.  I swear that I learned more about people working in these jobs than I ever did in my fancy college.  To say that people have their religion as a crutch for their bitterness, to say that they ALL own guns and ALL hate foreigners -- that is simply ignorant and out of touch.

Perhaps Senator Obama did indeed spend too much time in the pews of Jeremiah Wright.


by activatedbybush on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 07:08:01 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (1.00 / 1)

Jesus, are you full of crap with your FAKE outrage and your FAKE feeding-frenzy nonsense. I am so sick of this season's BULLSHIT. Barack is a candidate of unusual quality, and next to him Bill and Hillary look like tired, run-of-the-mill hacks. Stick it, the whole damned bunch of you.  


by Cismontane on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 07:29:26 PM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt for everyday people (none / 0)

As somebody who lives in PA, I kinda resent Barrack telling tales about me and my fellow Pennsylvanians behind my back.  I'd rather he said it to our faces, and asked for some feedback to see if he really was correct.  But he went to a bunch of people out in California and they all wagged their heads and felt sorry for him having to deal with us little ole bigoted, gun toten, religion clinging, bitter people.  And then they gave him some money for his pain.  


by Scotch on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 08:41:54 PM EST

Another $20 for Obama (none / 0)

This diary earns the Obama campaign another Andrew Jackson from me.


by fwiffo2 on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 10:23:24 PM EST

That's not elitism (none / 0)

Elitism is when you're worth $109 million dollars, sell yourself as understanding what it's like for working people and run you're campaign like you're the only one who can save us.

That's elitism.


by jaywillie on Sat Apr 12, 2008 at 10:48:49 PM EST

Grandma's recipe for Character Assination (none / 0)

3 tsp of Gotcha

2 tsp of no context

1 chopped sound clip (May substitute with video)


"Let them eat cake"
by NCDEM29 on Sun Apr 13, 2008 at 09:11:23 AM EST

Re: Obama's elitist contempt (none / 0)

Well, he has apologized now. He said he's sorry if he offended anyone by calling them "bitter" and saying they "cling" to their guns and religion and are racists and xenophobes, and are too stupid to see that I am the "one!"

Yes, Obama has now apologized. He said he didn't "say" it right.

Right before he said he stood by his remarks.

Wow. Thanks Barry. I appreciate that sincere apology. [snarky]

As someone rightly said. It's kinda like saying, "I'm sorry you got mad when I called you fat."

Obama is a narcissistic ass.


"I never give them hell. I just tell the truth and they think it's hell." Harry S Truman
by Tennessean on Sun Apr 13, 2008 at 10:27:30 AM EST


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