First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Paul Timmons, Little Rock — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:25:47 GMT

The msm, as usual, is missing the mark on this one. I believe most people, whether they favor Bush or not, agree with his statement. I think most Americans are smart enough to understand that appeasement is a very dangerous strategy, especially when dealing with individuals who would not hesitate to lie and cheat to get their way. Bush's statement was indeed very general and it is a stretch to say that he was aiming it at any one person, as opposed to the left overall. In the end, though, so what if he was speaking specifically about Obama? Is Obama above criticism? Isn't it Bush's job to speak out when he sees dangerous philosophies being endorsed by candidates for the presidency?

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Lopp Jones — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:26:37 GMT

Those who do not study history, are condemned to repeat it. Obama and the Democrats show again and again that they are incapable of learning from recent (or even older) foreign policy errors.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Calfornia Voter — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:26:39 GMT

Dana Perino must have a tough time waking up every day. As she's brushing her teeth in the morning, she has to say to herself, "I will spend my day lying."

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Bearcat — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:27:45 GMT

President Bush doesn't have to apologize for anything he said, he's not running for reelection. Just a bunch of hybe from the Obama camp. If Bush is not scared of the terrorist around the world, he sure is heck ain't scared of Obama and the Democrats. This Texan is/has been in the Middle East numerous times.
President Bush said exactly what he wanted to. Speech writers that do this stuff for a living have been writing, rewriting, correcting, changes and more changes for days / weeks now. Plenty of staff writers to analyze and proof read each and every word.
Obama followers and all the Democrats sounding as if their so outraged by Bush's comments. Please spare me, what's outrageous is their sorry exaggerations.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

AMerican Center — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:28:31 GMT

Wow... talk about overreaction. The media is so unsure of their candidate that any perceived slight gets an instant overreaction. The great unwashed masses most likely would not have heard Bush's speech and if they did they wouldn't have connected those statements to be a slam against obama. Now they do, thanks to the media. The media will probably be doing a lot of this 'swat team' action because many of them thought that Kerry did not answer back to the Swift Boat Veterans soon enough or forcefully enough. They think voters were deceived by the Swift Boaters because of a weak response, not because they were believable. The media is not about to let this happen again.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Carly Simon — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:29:05 GMT

Obama! You're so vain. You probably think this song is about you.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Eric, Salinas, CA — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:29:14 GMT

"Warmonger" Bush's despicable statement yesterday slamming Obama and others for wanting to negotiate with terrorists had discrepancies.

He talked about a Senator who said he might have talked Hitler away from attacking Poland. That was a limp wristed anti-war republican Senator, the Peace Pansies of the Greatest Generation.

Next he talked about what kind of clever argument one could use to get terrorists to listen. "Warmonger" Bush used cold hard cash, our taxpayer money, to bribe the Sunni terorists, with American blood on their hands, to fight Al Qaeda.

Just keep the hypocrisy coming and Obama will turn the electorate map a deep shade of Blue!

Go Obama 08/12!

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Pat, Boston, MA — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:29:14 GMT

Exciting political news this Friday morning:

~Finally, someone in the media besides Keith Olbermann (Matthews) takes aim at a stupid, uninformed, lunatic right wing moron;

~The entire Democratic Party and most of the media finally taking a stand against President Bush’s nonstop historical inaccuracies;

~Congress is going after the architect Karl Rove and threatening to throw him in jail;

~The Clinton campaign sees the writing on the wall, which means the primaries are winding down.

~Barack Obama is going to make a speech today, attacking the dreadful Bush/McCain foreign policies over the last 7 years.

Folks, we have a nominee. We've been waiting a long, long time for this day.

Change is coming. I can feel it.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Pret Weesle — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:31:23 GMT

Hitler was not even as brazen as Ahmadenijad to announce to the world that he intended to exterminate Jews. So what exactly is Obama going to negotiate when he sits down with Ahmadenijad? A part of Israel, all of it? So what is so controversial about Bush comparing Ahmadenijad to Hitler? The atmosphere of appeasement in the 1930s, and the isolationist tendencies of the country at that time, draw a reasonable comparison with the times now.

Bush is rightly indicating that Iran's position signals danger, which will not go away by imagining the Iranian government is as interested in peace and coexistence as the Americans are.

The object of life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

arem, Buffalo NY — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:33:25 GMT

Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) promised Thursday that his administration “will set a new standard for transparency and accountability,”
----------------------------------------------------

Well, at least the transparency part is working-people are beginning to see right through him.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Eric, Salinas, CA — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:33:29 GMT

"Lame Duck" Bush showed his power yesterday, making sure to be thousands of miles away before cowardly attacking Barack Obama.

"Hypocrisy" McCain jumped in on dogging Obama about negotiating with the enemy yet I saw a news story today that he had the exact opposite position in 2006 that he's spouting now.

It's long past time to get the liars and lobbyists out of our government, we've seen what a mess the repugnant ones can make of our great democracy.

Go Obama 08/12!

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Kenn Dahlston — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:33:32 GMT

What is interesting is that you don't see a single Jewish Senator or Congressman commenting. We have to heard from Schumer, Koch, Bloomberg, Frank, Weiner, or Feinstein. Cat got their tongues? There will be a mass exodus of Jews form the Democratic Party.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Eric, Salinas, CA — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:34:09 GMT

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Lewis Balck, NYC — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:34:11 GMT

Barack Obama is the next Neville Chamberlain.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Ron, TX — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:34:39 GMT

"Pro-choice women are angry at NARAL" should read "traditional feminists" and not "pro-choice women". Emily's List's sole purpose is the promotion of Democratic WOMEN into political office. They could care less how pro-choice a man is, even if that man (Obama) actually has a STRONGER pro-choice record. They didn't care that NARAL endorsed before the end of the primaries, because Emily's List endorsed Hillary LONG before the end of the primaries. They cared that NARAL endorsed a man.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Gerald, Texas — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:34:53 GMT

I hope George Bush continues to keep give us, (Democrats) treats that have been gift-wrapped.

Also, the is now NO WAY that John McCain can attempt to separate himself from GWB from this point forward. I'd say they are Siamese Twins!

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Wallace Harris, Chicago, IL — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:35:26 GMT

Of course Barack Obama can talk some sense into these terrorists! He was a "community organizer" for heavens sake! The man has street cred!

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Deborah Greenlawn, NY — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:36:36 GMT

Politicians are political, so Pres. Bush's comments and the reactions to them are spot on. DIPLOMACY and APPEASEMENT are not the same.

Another angle: Do you think while the administration
is constantly talking to Israel's reps. and members of the Knesset, press, etc. that Israelis have voiced alarming fear of the current circumstance in their backyard-Iraq, Iran, Hamas...-more than usual? Could
this have also been Pres. Bush's way that nothing less or more than a Hitler will keep the U.S. from keeping Israel safe? An assurance if they've voiced concern
over (ERRONEOUS) reports that the new candidates for pres. here will talk to terrorists? After all, ISRAEL can't just get on Air Force One and fly thousands of miles away. And we do tend to think it is ALL about the
campaign and the candidates. Governing and foreign policy are more serious than anyone's campaign or nominee.

The Pres. also showed he can still flex a muscle-WV, HRC, super delegates knocked right out of the picture.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Anthony, Providence, RI — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:37:42 GMT

Did anyone else see Matthews slam Conservative Radio Talk Show Host #37 yesterday on Bush's "Chamberlain" stretch? Hysterical. As Matthews noted, there is a different between talking and appeasing.

On another note, as an Obama support, I implore my fellow Obama supporters to stop with the "bad winners" type of language. We should take a cue from Obama. Act like you've been there before, show some class. Besides, the only way to beat McCain, a formidable candidate in my estimation, is to have a united Democratic party.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

GOP-HELPFUL? — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:39:16 GMT

My Fellow Americans:

Lend me your ears. How much of a shame it has become that the leader of the free world decides to wage war on his own country.

To land in a foreign country and blast negative comments towards another part of it's own government.

This is admonition in the worst form; some could wonder if it's treason. Will, maybe that's a bit too far...but yet one can think about it.

Then I think to myself ..what a mess the attackers of 911 has created. The terrorists has already won.

They used two weapons - planes and fear. Their purpose as far as I knew, they wanted to strike the symbols of our might. WTC and the Pentagon...Financial Power and Military Might.

Their goal was for our destruction and to destroy our way of life.

They are accomplishing that; but not by themselves, but with the help and the mighty power of fear.

It was fear that caused the Republican Party to strip us of how liberties; it was fear that caused them to wage war on 1 country and then another.

It was fear that caused this administration to ease drop on it's our people...to develop the Patriot Act has an excuse to quail and prevent any Patriotic American from spreading the truth and the nasty well of the GOP.

Fear was used as the weapon by the GOP to monopolies the oil prices; thereby the gas and food prices...then there is greed. The terrorist knows who greedy we can become. so the GOP continued to use fear, to use as a calices to change, create or ignore laws that would or would not benefit the GOP and it's base

No terrorist organization...caused millions in our country not to have healthcare. Nor, did they cause the gas and food prices to go up. Nor did they misled us and lie to us. Nor did they take our liberties, nor did they create Abdu Grub (the terrorist prison) nor did they allow hundreds of thousands to lose their home; tens of thousands to lose their jobs, nor did they invade a country and are responsible for thousands of death.. Nor did they cause the deficit to break records and will become a liability to our children and their children.

Nor did the overstretch our military and caused them to be weaker more than ever before;

There are plenty more the GOP has done to this country that the terrorist had nothing to do with (in the first person sense).

YOU THINK ABOUT IT....THE GOP has become in a funny sort of way the Terrorist’s WAR MACHINE...the terrorist are winning; by using U.S. against U.S. NOW. the GOP still wants to use "fear" for the next 4 years to continue us down this same road of destruction designed and planned by the people that we think are our enemy.

It’s time for American to end this fight; we need to vote a Democrat in every governmental office of the land.

Thank you and God Bless America.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Pat Huntington NY — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:39:22 GMT

Appeasment is not what Obama favors. Again, the Republicans are taking it upon themselves to place false lables on the Democrat's nominee. Obama merely said, he would first try one on one dialogue with these people. And if that didn't work, he would not hesitate to strike at them if the need arises. This is not appeasement as that word is used to describe pre-WWII Europe.

Republicans suck, plain and simple!

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:39:38 GMT

Paul Timmons - I disagree.

True, appeasement has it pitfalls, but I think most people are smart enough to see how the Chamerlain analogy has been over-used for decades.

Was it appeasement when Nixon went to China? Or when Reagan among others negotiated arms with the Soviets?

To label any discussion with someone other than our closest friends as appeasement basically puts us on a road in which we'll never talk to anyone again except our NATO allies and a few others.

Had there been more discussion with Hussein's government prior to the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, there's a good chance that invasion wouldn't have happened, and a whole string of events might have been avoided. As a reminder, our ambassador at the time was an H.W. Bush appointee with no diplomatic experience who in 1990 missed what the Iraqis thought was a clear signal of their intent to invade. The Iraqis thought they had an understanding with the U.S. that the invasion, while not desirable to us, wouldn't lead to the type of response it did.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Expelliarmus, OH — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:40:39 GMT

The overall tone of this illustrates that the shift has begun. Democrats are already beginning to gradually close the rift and focus on what they truly seek: a Democrat in the Oval Office and an end to disastrous neocon policies.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

LB, Virginia — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:40:56 GMT

All of you so far are way off on this: in 60 years, no American president has made such outrageous statements, it isn't done. Bush is a disgrace to this country and to the memories of the men and women lost to the stupid war. Thank GOD that the Democrats will prevail in the fall and rectify what Bush and his cronies have wrought. It is my deepest wish that he and the whole lot of them be arrested for war crimes!

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

MSierra, SF — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:41:37 GMT

'..."They're the government; sooner or later we are
going to have to deal with them, one way or another
...'

Dear John ........

From Huff Post:

'...Exclusive Video:
McCain Was For Talking To Hamas Before He Was Against
It...

May 15, 2008 10:58 PM

Two years ago, in an interview with James Rubin for
Sky News, Sen. John McCain expressed a willingness to
negotiate with the terrorist group Hamas -- the very
group that McCain has been relentlessly using to smear
Sen. Barack Obama over the last several weeks.

Rubin has written an op-ed in Friday's Washington Post
about his exchange with McCain, and The Huffington
Post has obtained exclusive video. Here's the key
excerpt:

RUBIN: "Do you think that American diplomats should be
operating the way they have in the past, working with
the Palestinian government if Hamas is now in charge?"

McCAIN: "They're the government; sooner or later we
are going to have to deal with them, one way or
another, and I understand why this administration and
previous administrations had such antipathy towards
Hamas because of their dedication to violence and the
things that they not only espouse but practice, so . .
. but it's a new reality in the Middle East. I think
the lesson is people want security and a decent life
and decent future, that they want democracy. Fatah was
not giving them that."...'

The video:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/05/15/exclusive-video-mccain-wa_n_102031.html

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Margaret, Columbus, Ohio — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:41:46 GMT

The probelm with the 'gift' is that, once again, Obama did not counterpunch hard enough. Virtually every Dem that came to his defense looked stronger, especially Joe Biden.

Obama needs to grow a pair fast. Sitting in the Oval Office with his 'present' (instead of 'veto') pen scares the crap out of me.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Mike, Albany — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:41:57 GMT

"Now, McCain’s past (and possibly contradictory) statements on Hamas are gaining fresh scrutiny today with an op-ed by Jamie Rubin in today's Washington Post. "

Possibly?!

How about "definitely"?

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/05/15/exclusive-video-mccain-wa_n_102031.html

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

AndYesIAmAnObamaSupporter — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:42:30 GMT

CHUCK TODD !

Please take the lead on this! I don't understand why this is not being shown in the Media. McCain said similar things about meeting with Hamas. So, he's either a hypocrite , confused and has memory loss or he's a liar. look at this.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/05/15/exclusive-video-mccain-wa_n_102031.html

If this were a Democrat , it would be posted everywhere and played non stop all day long! C'Mon you guys !

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Long Tall Texan — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:43:03 GMT

While we are on the subject of President George W. Bush's comments about Nazi "appeasement" before WWII, lets examine the connections that Bush's own family had with Nazi financiers:

George Bush's grandfather, the late US senator Prescott Bush, was a director and shareholder of companies that profited from their involvement with the financial backers of Nazi Germany.
The Guardian has obtained confirmation from newly Files in the US National Archives indicate that a firm of which Prescott Bush was a director was involved with the financial architects of Nazism.

His business dealings, which continued until his company's assets were seized in 1942 under the Trading with the Enemy Act, led more than 60 years later to a civil action for damages being brought in Germany against the Bush family by two former slave labourers at Auschwitz.

The evidence has also prompted one former US Nazi war crimes prosecutor to argue that the late senator's action should have been grounds for prosecution for giving aid and comfort to the enemy.

Declassified documents from the National Archives show that even after America had entered the war and when there was already significant information about the Nazis' plans and policies, he worked for and profited from companies closely involved with the very German businesses that financed Hitler's rise to power. It has also been suggested that the money he made from these dealings helped to establish the Bush family fortune and set up its political dynasty.

Remarkably, little of Bush's dealings with Germany has received public scrutiny.

Brown Brothers Harriman (BBH), acted as a US base for the German industrialist, Fritz Thyssen, who helped finance Hitler in the 1930s before falling out with him at the end of the decade. The Guardian has seen evidence that shows Bush was the director of the New York-based Union Banking Corporation (UBC) that represented Thyssen's US interests and he continued to work for the bank after America entered the war.

Bush was also on the board of at least one of the companies that formed part of a multinational network of front companies to allow Thyssen to move assets around the world.

Thyssen owned the largest steel and coal company in Germany and grew rich from Hitler's efforts to re-arm between the two world wars. One of the pillars in Thyssen's international corporate web, UBC, worked exclusively for, and was owned by, a Thyssen-controlled bank in the Netherlands. More tantalising are Bush's links to the Consolidated Silesian Steel Company (CSSC), based in mineral rich Silesia on the German-Polish border. During the war, the company made use of Nazi slave labour from the concentration camps, including Auschwitz. The ownership of CSSC changed hands several times in the 1930s, but documents from the US National Archive link Bush to CSSC, although it is not clear if he and UBC were still involved in the company when Thyssen's American assets were seized in 1942.

Three sets of archives spell out Prescott Bush's involvement. All three are readily available, thanks to the efficient US archive system and a helpful and dedicated staff at both the Library of Congress in Washington and the National Archives at the University of Maryland.

The first set of files, the Harriman papers in the Library of Congress, show that Prescott Bush was a director and shareholder of a number of companies involved with Thyssen.

The second set of papers, which are in the National Archives, are contained in vesting order number 248 which records the seizure of the company assets. What these files show is that on October 20 1942 the alien property custodian seized the assets of the UBC, of which Prescott Bush was a director. Having gone through the books of the bank, further seizures were made against two affiliates, the Holland-American Trading Corporation and the Seamless Steel Equipment Corporation. By November, the Silesian-American Company, another of Prescott Bush's ventures, had also been seized.

The third set of documents, also at the National Archives, are contained in the files on IG Farben, who was prosecuted for war crimes.

A report issued by the Office of Alien Property Custodian in 1942 stated of the companies that "since 1939, these (steel and mining) properties have been in possession of and have been operated by the German government and have undoubtedly been of considerable assistance to that country's war effort".

Prescott Bush, a 6ft 4in charmer with a rich singing voice, was the founder of the Bush political dynasty and was once considered a potential presidential candidate himself. Like his son, George, and grandson, George W, he went to Yale where he was, again like his descendants, a member of the secretive and influential Skull and Bones student society. He was an artillery captain in the first world war and married Dorothy Walker, the daughter of George Herbert Walker, in 1921.

In 1924, his father-in-law, a well-known St Louis investment banker, helped set him up in business in New York with Averill Harriman, the wealthy son of railroad magnate E H Harriman in New York, who had gone into banking.

One of the first jobs Walker gave Bush was to manage UBC. Bush was a founding member of the bank and the incorporation documents, which list him as one of seven directors, show he owned one share in UBC worth $125.

The bank was set up by Harriman and Bush's father-in-law to provide a US bank for the Thyssens, Germany's most powerful industrial family.

August Thyssen, the founder of the dynasty had been a major contributor to Germany's first world war effort and in the 1920s, he and his sons Fritz and Heinrich established a network of overseas banks and companies so their assets and money could be whisked offshore if threatened again.

By the time Fritz Thyssen inherited the business empire in 1926, Germany's economic recovery was faltering. After hearing Adolf Hitler speak, Thyssen became mesmerised by the young firebrand. He joined the Nazi party in December 1931 and admits backing Hitler in his autobiography, I Paid Hitler, when the National Socialists were still a radical fringe party. He stepped in several times to bail out the struggling party: in 1928 Thyssen had bought the Barlow Palace on Briennerstrasse, in Munich, which Hitler converted into the Brown House, the headquarters of the Nazi party. The money came from another Thyssen overseas institution, the Bank voor Handel en Scheepvarrt in Rotterdam.

By the late 1930s, Brown Brothers Harriman, which claimed to be the world's largest private investment bank, and UBC had bought and shipped millions of dollars of gold, fuel, steel, coal and US treasury bonds to Germany, both feeding and financing Hitler's build-up to war.

Moral: A President whose family has ties to Nazi financiers has a lot of gall standing in front of a Jewish auduience in Israel comparing current American politicians to Nazi Appeasers.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

obama 08 — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:43:13 GMT

Does anyone really care what GWB says anyway?

I mean, everyone knows this guy is a complete joke.

Who cares what he says.

Don't know about all of you, but I stopped taking serious anything out of GWB mouth a LONG time ago.

At least we only have a short time left to deal with GWB and his GOP minions.

McSame is toast.

Obama 08

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Vnd, New York — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:43:26 GMT

Bush was probably talking about Jimmy Carter but now that Obama has jumped at the charge (he's so vain), let the games begin.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

A LIFELONG DEMOCRAT — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:43:27 GMT

Go ask the Brits how they feel about pacifism. Ask them how they feel about Neville Chamberlain.
Bush, I'm sorry to say is correct about this one, and Obama is completely out in left field.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

BJ, CA — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:43:52 GMT

The GOP is a bunch of idiots...
McShame...
didn't we sit across a table to end Vietnam, to end the Korean conflict, to end WW2...
What is your logic...?
Is it your life goal to continue war...

If you so wanting war...go pickup a gun and get to front lines yourself...don't keep creating turmoil
so you can send others off to die..you hypocrit...
You have no love in your bones..I feel sorry for you...

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Liseycat, Forest Hill, MD — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:44:08 GMT

Dictionary.com defines appeasement as:to bring to a state of peace,quiet, ease, calm, or contentment;

I think a state of peace in the Middle East would be a good thing.

If Bush meant this definition - to yield or concede to the belligerent demands of (a nation, group, person, etc.) in a conciliatory effort, sometimes at the expense of justice or other principles - then he obviously doesn't understand the meaning of appeasement. TALKING is not appeasement.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Sally, Virginia — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:44:16 GMT

Does the media look at Obama and see a halo above his head? Can nothing be offered as a valid point of discussion regarding his policies? When I heard Bush's remarks, the person I thought he must be referring to was Jimmy Carter. Why are Obama's people so sensitive to ANY perceived slight? This is going to be a long campaign if someone can't make a single comment without fear of the Obama camp misinterpreting it and imagining 'attack' where there is none.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Richard, Florida — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:44:37 GMT

Disenfranchised Florida voters are planning on attending Obama's May 21st Tampa rally and turn their backs on him... just like he is doing to them..

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Gregory Peek, Birmingham, Alabama — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:44:54 GMT

Once upon a time there was a place called America, a land of abundance and dreams, of people with ideas so lofty and labors so fruitful that their success and benevolence could scarcely be contained.

But, because America was a reality and not fiction, its very survival was threatened from within by persons inflicted with greed and cynicism and lust for power. The price of greed was the denial to many of the basic necessities of life. The fulfillment of lust for power was unnecessary, unprovoked and unconscionable war. Many of noble spirit and pure heart believed their own sacrafice would bring America security. Their death and disfigurement came, instead, in a war that brought the burden of enormous debt, economic crisis, military exhaust and global disdain that compromised every facet of national security.

Then came 2008, and survival was still an option.

I am John McCain, and I DISAPPROVE this message.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Sharon in CT — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:45:05 GMT

Silly me, I thought he was talking about Jimmy Carter who has been insistent on interferring with every administration's foreign policy since he was voted out of office. Does everyone jumping to Obama's defense mean "guilty conscience".?

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

DebC, West Yorkshire, UK — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:45:31 GMT

I think Republicans should pick up a dictionary - judging from most of what I read and hear (like that wonderful beat down Chris Matthews gave that right-wing radio tool), none of them knows what the word "appease" means. Nothing the Democrats have suggested can be described as "appeasement".

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Be Real, NY, NY — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:45:45 GMT

you idiots don't even know what appeasement is. Let me spell it out for you:

Its alleged practitioners are usually held to be willing, in an ignoble or cowardly fashion, to sacrifice other people's territories or rights in an attempt to buy off an aggressor or wrong-doer. Moreover ‘appeasement’ is supposed never to succeed for long: the aggressor always returns demanding further concessions. And the implication is usually that refusal to ‘appease’ would, by contrast, have a happy ending as in any morality play.

How would what Barack has suggested amount to Appeasement? He is not giving anything away. He is talking to our enemies just like George Washington did with the English all the way to Ronald Reagan with Gorbachev. This isn't a new idea "talking to your enemies". It only seem that way because of Bush shoot first, shoot second, and see if everyone is dead. Even the Israelis want a dialog. They are the one's we are suppose to be protecting right? I'm glad you idiots aren't in charge.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

BJ, CA — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:46:13 GMT

Bush knows one thing....killing..
and that's giving him to much credit

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

tired of idots — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:47:52 GMT

Since when did talking become appeasement. Bush and the republicans still have not learned that going out half cocked, guns blazing only lands us in situations say like the war in Iraq. I don't understand how so many people are hungry for more war and do not even want to discuss the possibilities of peace. Even more strange is that republican claim a hold on religion. Do they forget that Jesus was always on the side of peace. It is very dangerous to stereotype, label, and then actively spew hateful statements against groups of people that you have not ever had a conversation with. I think that xenophobia underlies much of the republican rhetoric.

One more thing, didn't George Bush and his people sit down with Kim Jon Il who actually tested two nuclear weapons. Whereas, Iran, given in a report by the FBI has stopped trying to make nuclear weapons since 2003. Moreover, none of the weapons found in Iraq have been traced to Iran, given in another government report. Let us please think about the facts and stop being so thoughtlessly stubborn.

By the way, the "Straight Talk Express" has a few flats.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Brother Odd — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:48:00 GMT

Bush has done nothing right in his entire presidency.
This is just the kind of bone head statement I expect from him. Does he forget that 911 happened on his watch? Does he realize how many countries have lost respect for us in his term? Does he remember that before he got in office the economy was good? My company was booming. My son in laws still had their jobs here in America. We were not paying $10.00 to fill a push mower gas can. Over 4,000 more young men and women were still alive. He has been a cancer to America. While I am not an Obama supporter, Bush was wrong to make that statement.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Robert, Madison, Wisconsin — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:48:03 GMT

Appeasement is overused foreign policy catch word that often is either misused or a case of distortion of facts to create drama.

Just because you talk to your enemies does not mean your going to appease their wishes.

What happened with Hitler clearly was Appeasement. But what Barack is saying is not necessarily appeasement.

Talking with Hama's or Iran is no different than talking with NK about moving away from the nuclear weapons program.

I think McCain and Bush are going to regret this assertion. It ties them closer together at time when Bush popularity is at all time low.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

BJ, CA — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:48:32 GMT

Bush knows one thing....killing..
and that's giving him to much credit

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Matt, Idaho — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:48:48 GMT

First Read,

Please adjust your delegate count to include Jack B. Johnson of Maryland, who switched from Clinton to Obama. He is a pledged delegate, not a super, you should be jumping all over this, but I havent seen my posts show up once.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/12/AR2008051202554.html?hpid=topnews

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Pete - Albany, NY — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:49:08 GMT

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Hey, Dub and McFlipflop, look at the bright side...at least Kevin James will always have your back!

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Geoff in Brooklyn — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:49:08 GMT

QUESTION: regarding the pledged delegate count, is FIRST READ factoring in the 8 pledged Edwards delegates that have publicly stated they will vote for Obama? If not, why not?

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

republican rhetoric is null and void — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:49:32 GMT

I, for one, firmly believe that there is no larger terroist organiztion in the world than the American Republican Party. What is a terrorist? A person or group who uses fear to try to accomplish an agenda. The republican party can not deliver on solutions( because they create the problems), so they maniputlate the poor, uneducated millions with fear.
Isn't it interesting that Osama Bin Lauden is only important around election time? What a funny hee-haw joke. The sleazy republican rhetoric doesn't impress me at all - it is laughable. MOST of the people I know are having a hard time keeping their RPM's down while we wait for the starting shot that signals we can zoom to the polls and mark our ballot for Senator Obama!

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Pat Huntington NY — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:50:18 GMT

Obama NEVER USED THE WORD APPEASEMENT!!!

Its the republicans who are using the term.

Obama's stand on this is to try something never done before...sit people like Chavez and Iran's leader down, and stare them right in the face and say, in essence, cut the nonsense already...and if they don't, then he'll make them pay. That doesn't like appeasement.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

MSierra, SF — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:51:07 GMT

Paul Timmons, Little Rock: '...The msm, as usual, is missing the mark on this one. I believe most people, whether they favor Bush or not, agree with his statement...'

Acutally Paul, MOST PEOPLE DON'T FAVOR Bush
Didn't Bush LIE about WMDs ?
Didn't Bush LIE US INTO IRAQ ?

'... I think most Americans are smart enough to understand that appeasement is a very dangerous strategy, especially when dealing with individuals who would not hesitate to lie and cheat to get their way...'

Didn't BUSH LIE to get us into Iraq ?
Didn't he fake the intelligence to get us into Iraq ?

Isn't Bush LYING ABOUT IRAN ?
The Bush regime is trying to say that Iran has nukes .... THEY DON'T
The Bush regime is trying to say Iran is killing Americans in Iraq........ THEY'RE NOT

The criminal we have to stop appeasing is GEORGE BUSH

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Valerie,CT — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:51:16 GMT

To those defending GW's remarks:
There is a time and place to say things. GW is certainly entitled to his opinions, however his comments were inappropriate when stated on foreign soil and during Israel's 60th anniversary. He displayed absolutely no class what-so-ever, and that my Americans is a reflection on all of us.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

BL, Cincinnati OH — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:51:26 GMT

Those who do not study history, are condemned to repeat it. Obama and the Democrats show again and again that they are incapable of learning from recent (or even older) foreign policy errors.
Lopp Jones (Sent Friday, May 16, 2008 9:26 AM)

Which policy errors would that be?

Removing from power the Sunni leader in Iraq that kept Iran in check?
Disbanding the million man Iraqi army putting all those men out of work, without a paycheck, and removing a system of controlling those men?

But hey, I guess we shouldn't talk to people.

I guess Bush shouldn't have talked to North Korea or Libya, which resulted in their dismantling of their nuclear programs.
I guess Reagan shouldn't have talked to Russia ending the cold war and opening up eastern Europe.
I guess Kennedy shouldn't have talked to Russia to get the nukes out of Cuba.
I guess Nixon shouldn't have talked to China.

The problem is people like you don't understand the difference between talking/diplomacy and appeasement. People like you don't understand that you will not win against terrorists and countries like Iran by threats and force. You only further their cause and propaganda by doing so. You only increase the recruitment ability of terrorists when you threaten Islamic countries. Anyone who thinks that threats and intimidation is the way to deal with Islamic radicals simply doesn't know what they are talking about.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Linda. Boston, MA — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:51:35 GMT

"I think most Americans are smart enough to understand that appeasement is a very dangerous strategy, especially when dealing with individuals who would not hesitate to lie and cheat to get their way."
***************************

But "appeasement" is not a part of ANY of the Democrats policies. You need to learn what the definition of "appeasement" is before parroting the Repubs talking points as if you actually know something. Appeasement is giving things away, without receiving anything in return, in order to placate another government. Talking is NOT appeasement, it's DIPLOMACY (and not of the 'cowboy' variety). Go get educated.

"Those who do not study history, are condemned to repeat it. Obama and the Democrats show again and again that they are incapable of learning from recent (or even older) foreign policy errors."
***************************

This has to be the most ridiculous and contradictory statement I've heard in a long time. And if this is the kind of logic the Repubs are going to be using to formulate their arguments, then I can't wait for these debates to begin. You say that the Democrats are incapable of learning from recent foreign policy errors? Well those errors have been made by YOUR President. Bush has had the worst foreign policy in decades, and has done done more damage to our global reputation than any President in recent history. And yet, McCain is the one who wants to continue those same policies!!! HE is the one incapable of learning from Bush's mistakes. The Dems are the ones who want to take a DIFFERENT approach - one taken by Presidents who were far more effective than bush ever was. The Dems want to bring back the kind of foreign policies that have proven to be effective, while McCain wants to continue those that have failed us miserably.

Did you know that George 'Dubbya' Bush has a lower approval rating than NIXON!??!! And you ditto heads are actually trying to defend his lame-ass policies?

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Lyn, MD — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:51:51 GMT

Mark, could you explain the reason why MSNBC has not included the Edwards deegates that came out for Obama yesterday when everyone else did ( I believe it was 7). They were confirmed by CNN.

Thank You

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Deborah Greenlawn, NY — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:53:46 GMT

As CHRIS MATTHEWS showed, one of the most important
things in this country is to seriously ramp up
the EDUCATIONAL systems-with an emphasis on HISTORY!

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Amy B Portland, ME — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:53:55 GMT

Chris Matthews has almost redeemed himself in my eyes with his incisive rebuke to the right wing blowhards -
and its ABOUT TIME voices in the media counter the false information the Bush administration puts out. Fact: talking to a hostile government is not appeasement. Chamberlain isn't criticized by history for talking to Hitler, his mistake was giving Hitler half of a country. An error, in hindsight, much like Bush's error to invade Iraq without his eyes closed.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

MSierra, SF — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:53:58 GMT

Calfornia Voter: '...Dana Perino must have a tough time waking up every day. As she's brushing her teeth in the morning, she has to say to herself, "I will spend my day lying."...'

Hillary does THAT EVERY DAY !!
So does Slick Willie
The Clintons have turned lying from a lifestyle into an art form

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Lisa, New Britain, CT Inspired by Obama — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:54:14 GMT

On supporters (and the need to get this off my chest)...I find it interesting that I am seeing an increasing number of posters saying that they are not going to vote for Obama because of his supporters (I guess many of us are rude and nasty as a general rule.)

To this I say, why would you reject or support a candidate because of supporters? This sounds like a straw man kind of argument to me. I think you have to explore your real reason.

I can place a virulent anti-Obama posting here and pretend to be a Clinton supporter. But I would never do that. Clearly if you become a regular on any blog, then you know that trolls are everywhere. Liars or false postings are everywhere. I take it all with a grain of salt. I support or don't support candidates because of their stance on issues, their leadership abilities, their campaigning, their managment skills, and for the strength of their characters. Supporters on both sides often make me cringe but they don't inform my vote and I also don't see to silence their voice. Even when inartful, they have a right to speak.

I have tried to limit my attacks to Clinton and her immediate surrogates (which include some family-members). I have tried NOT to attack her supporters on the blogs. In fact, I have seen hateful and inaccurate and hurt postings on both sides. Largely I have ignored them...at times I have gingerly spoken up at them.

It is incredibly disengenuous to pretend that only Obama or only Clinton supporters have been emotional, hateful, or over vigorous in support for their candidate.

But choose to vote as you will, you have that right...just realize the issues are larger than perhaps poser supporters.

Off my soapbox

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:56:30 GMT

Republicans are often scared of any two-bit dictator who comes along. And the Iranian president isn't even a dictator. In fact he doens't seem to have much real authority among the clerical bureaucracy that seems to run the country.

Really sad for people (the Republicans) who sometimes have political control of a superpower. It will be interesting to see how foreign policy changes when we dump the guys who hide under their beds at night, worrying that Hugo is the next Stalin and Raoul Castro is the next Hitler. Or wait, we already used the Hitler anology.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Elise — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:56:53 GMT

There is nothing wrong with George Bush speaking out against terrorism - but don't stand on foreign soil and bash your fellow countrymen in the process. What in the world was he thinking? He wasn't thinking - and it doesn't help down the road.

Here is hypocrisy at it's greatest. He slams Obama for agreeing to talk to enemy forces, but isn't that what he's doing right now with the peace talks?

God bless the future president who has to clean up after Bush.

Obama 08

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

SANDRA — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:57:39 GMT

WQW EVERY ONE OF THESE COMMENTS ARE NEG AND AGAINST BUSH HAS A LOT OF NERVE THE WAT HE HAS SCREW THE COUNTRY AND THE WAR THAT NO ONE WANTS TO BE IN. I WILL ADD THAT SEN OBAMA IS HATED BY A LOT OF PEOPLE ,I DON'T KNOW IF IT IS HIS RACE OR SOMETHING ELSE BUT SEN OBAMA WILL MAKE A GREAT PRESIDENT AND HE WILL DO A BETTER JOB THEN BUSH IN 8 YEARS. OH WHY IS BUSH OVER SEA WHEN THE COUNTRY IS IN TROUBLE AND SOLDERS ARE DYING EVERY DAY BLOOD IS ON HIS HANDS.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

dcortez, houston, texas — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:57:44 GMT

if the shoe fits, wear it.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Lisa, New Britain, CT Inspired by Obama — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:58:16 GMT

Your first paragraph in this article is entirely "on the money". Obama v. Bush, I love it. Let's just start drawing the contest now. McCain and Clintons, have fun on the margins. Let the real race on the issues begin. To that I say, BRING IT ON! (and I think you'll see just how much of a walk softly but carry a big stick kind of fighter Obama can be)

and let's see just how united this Party can get.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Sick of corruption, sick of the Clintons — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:58:49 GMT

These Bush supporters crack me up. Oh yes, Bush is so tough. He won't back down from anyone. He's a regular John Wayne.

Question: if George W. Bush is so tough, and doing such a good job of protecting America, why is Osama bin Laden still walking around?

Six years have passed since bin Laden attacked us and killed thousands of our fellow citizens. Not only is he still alive, thumbing his nose at all of us, but Bush is stupid enough to actually mention him in his Israel talk. You would think one of his handlers would have advised him not to mention the terrorist that he let escape unpunished, after launching the worst terrorist attack in our nation's history!

What is that, if not appeasement?

Why do I get the feeling that if Obama had been president the last four years, bin Laden and his soldiers would have been wiped out by now?

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Eric, Salinas, CA — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:59:00 GMT

"Hallucination" McCain knows he's toast in November so he's preparing himself for his retirement. It looks like his new career choice is to be a comedian, must have caught the comedian bug with all those visits to The Daily Show with Jon Stewart.

His stand up comedy routine called "2013" will go down in political history as the most hilarious bit of political prognostication ever. His crystal ball of republican dung unfortunately told him what he wanted to hear, well what pander he thought people wanted to hear, but it did not tell him the truth that he will be the big loser in November as Obama cleans his clock and turns the electorate map Totally Blue!

Go Obama 08/12!

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Ed Mc - Atlanta — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:00:03 GMT

Lopp, you think the Democrats are incapable of learning from recent foreign policy disasters? Bush, McCain and the republicans that support their policies are the definition of ignorant foreign policy. IF Bush had had any meaningful dialogue (by meaningful I mean speaking AND listening)prior to invading Iraq, there is the possibility that he would not have had expectations that we would be greeted with flowers and cheers instead of the roadside bombs and mortars we now face. IF he had not diverted the majority of our forces to Iraq, we would likely have captured or killed Osama Bin Laden, our primary objective. IF our troops weren't spread so thin, maybe those now opposing us would have more reason to listen to his threats. But thanks to Bush and his supporters the once mighty U.S. is but a shell of its former self and the President of the United States is now viewed as an ignorant impotent fool.

History teaches us that dialogue is not appeasement, and that bluster is not valor. The distinction appears lost on Bush and his Republican toadies.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Fredman — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:00:26 GMT

What GW should have said!

Son, we live in a world that has walls, and those walls have to be guarded by men with guns. Whose gonna do it? You Hillary? You Osama Obama? I have more responsibility here than you could possibly fathom. You weep for Saddam, and you curse Carl Rove. You have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know. That water-boarding terrorists, while tragic, probably saved lives. And that my existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, saves lives. I know deep down in places you don’t talk about at parties and body-piercing gatherings, you want me on that wall, you need me on that wall. We use words like honor, code, loyalty. We use these words as the backbone of a life spent defending something. You use them as a punch line. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to a bunch of limped-wristed tree-huggers who rise and sleep under the blanket of the very freedom I provide, and then question the manner in which I provide it. I prefer you said THANK YOU, and went on your delusional kumbaya singing ways, Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a weapon, and stand a post. Either way, I don't give a damn what you think! You friggin' people. You have no idea how to defend a nation. All you did is weaken a country today, that’s all you did. You put people's lives in danger. Sweet dreams, son.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Mark,Seattle — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:00:31 GMT

Bush was right? History repeats itself? I hope it does repeat itself. Like when Reagan went to Russia, when Nixon went to China. Yeah those consequences were horrible! We should definately use the Iraq model for foriegn policy. That worked out oh so well! Why wait for the UN to negotiate inspections. Why try to talk to Sadam. Saber rattling and convincing innocent people that democracy works by putting a gun in there freakin' face is the only way to go! If we had negotiated with the Iraqi government we would all be dead by now with all the weapons of mass destruction they had stockpiled over there. 26% of you are still brainwashed and ignorant enough to believe that right? Well 26% of you should grab a gun and head to Iraq or SHUT THE HELL UP!

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Lisa, New Britain, CT Inspired by Obama — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:01:07 GMT

I appreciate Clinton's defense of Obama v. Bush on this. I had forgotten that she had also drawn distinctions between herself and Obama on this in earlier sparring (e.g., debates). And yes, I can fully understand her supporters both wanting to and remaining loyal to her. That was never the issue. I suspect we all understand that.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Yola, CT — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:01:20 GMT

President Bush is a gift that keeps on giving! Please ask him to stop!

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Eric, Salinas, CA — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:01:25 GMT

Great morning article Chuck, Mark and Domenico, what I like to call the Morning Bone. You give us so much good meat to chew off that bone you toss us to comment upon. Thanks to the reader comment posters as well as we've kept them busy the past few weeks.

Go Obama 08/12!

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Margaret, Columbus, Ohio — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:01:57 GMT

It may turn out that Brad Ellsworth is one of the smarter superdelegates. Killing two birds with one stone, he voted his district keeping them happy and voted his conscience, keeping himself happy. He gets to sleep at night.

Smart guy.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

campdog — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:02:05 GMT

The worst thing Bush and the neocons ever did was create a political environment that is supportive of a similarly destructive and arrogant neoliberal administration.

I'm sick of radicals, right or left.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Chriss, CT — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:03:28 GMT

McCain is the one who said he would talk with Hamas, not Obama or Clinton. At least he was for it before he was against it:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/05/15/exclusive-video-mccain-wa_n_102031.html

One should read about Bush's Nazis ties and his anti-Semitic remarks:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/larisa-alexandrovna/all-the-presidents-nazis_b_102022.html

Why would HRC supporters claim to support McCain over Obama when that results in more loss of life and limb for our valiant soldiers, as well as continued loss of rights and perhaps leading to at least 50 years with Roe v. Wade overturned?

Do you want the blood on your hands? Do you want fewer rights? Do you want to lose the right to choose even if that means no exceptions to abortion resulting in a ten year old rape victim having to bear a baby?

Also, those who claim "we" have never talked to dictators are not only wrong but "we" have installed and supported dictators throughout our history. Take a class. Get informed. Vote Obama.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Cory, San Diego, CA — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:04:04 GMT

The real story is the coverage of the President's commments by the pro-Obama media. Isn't it unethical for a journalist to make an assertion based upon their gut feelings when the only actual evidence involved runs counter to those feelings (the administration said that Bush's comments were not directed at Obama and unless MSNBC has evidence otherwise, their journalists are acting unethically and lying to the American people)? The overreaction on the part of the media and the Dems speaks volumes. Why are you all being so defensive? Can't handle the truth? The Dems have always wanted to appease our enemies.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Walt, Ohio — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:04:08 GMT

I do not believe Bush knows what "appeasement" means. Certainly not the right wing talking heads; as proven on Chris Matthews show.
John McCain caught in a lie about talking to Hamas.
Wow. I am amazed that we have been so gullible about these republicans. (Not).
Fear mongering and hate rhetoric can manipulate populations who are gullible; who do not question policies because it feeds into their preconceived biases and their "picture" of the world...
Kind of like Nazi Germany and the rise of Hitler in the early thirties.
We must defeat these fear mongering, lying hate mongering Republicans. John McCain, with his lies about his objection to talking with Hamas, is the new standard bearer for this brand of politics. He and this vile morally bankrupt machine must be defeated.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

tom — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:04:17 GMT

First super today goes to Obama. Rep. Pete Stark, chairman of the House Ways and Means Health Subcommittee, endorses Obama

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Lisa, New Britain, CT Inspired by Obama — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:04:45 GMT

Hey Bearcat,

President Bush doesn't have to apologize for statements because he's not running for President? Are you kidding? How about because he IS the President. Or does being President (paraphrasing Love Story) mean never having to say you're sorry again.

Well, since we ask our fellow Dems to apologize for voting for the war, I think many of us in this country want Bush to apologize for STARTING this war that has bankrupted this Country and that we can't seem to get out of...how is that for needing an apology from Bush.

Hey, I'll even excuse him on this non-apology if he apologizes for the big guns and over 4000 lives lost and countless other lives forever changed for the worse.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Desiree, New York — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:04:51 GMT

I actually thought he was talking about Jimmy Carter at first because he recently meant with Hamas but then most of the media reported before he even finish talking that it was a shot at Obama maybe a little jumping to conclusion.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Kevin Prevost Cheboygan, Mi. — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:06:00 GMT

I am so very sick and tired of all the whining and wheedling I hear from all of you liberals. Bush owes no one an apology, you need not apologize for making an accurate statement. What do all of you libs think, that if Obama gets elected all of the world's tyrants will stand down because he is so very special and messianic? What a load that is. The guy is vapid and feckless at best, an appeasing Marxist at worst. He is one of the "blame America first" crowd and he makes me sick, along with Pelosi, Reid, Kennedy, Schumer, Durbin, Kerry, etc. etc. the list goes on forever. While I don't agree with a lot of things W Bush has done in the last 8 years at least he knows our enemies and realizes that peace can only come through victory. Obama is conceivably more of an appeaser than Jimmy Carter and we all know he never met a dictator he didn't love. Obama needs to remain a community organizer in Chicago wher he can do the least amount of harm possible to America. Obama is a little kitty baby whiner and I'm sick of this bs where if anyone criticizes him they must be racist, what crap. He needs to grow a set and quit crying foul everytime someone says he's wrong. By the way he is woefully ignorant of what America is truly all about, as are most politicians... it's time for another tea party. God Bless America.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

drjohn — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:06:05 GMT

You're missing it completely.

This is gold for McCain. Given the level of vitriole over this remark, I'd say that Bush struck the heart of the target and has given McCain a blueprint- a giant, red, sensitivity button with Democrats screaming "Don't push it!"

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Truth for Our Times — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:06:27 GMT

The GOP is about to lose again...
Human rights..people being kind and giving to each other.. not being taking and mean to each other...
I wonder how you'll vote....
Also remember, mean people need to be loved but not followed...

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Dan, Justin, TX — Sat, 17 May 2008 02:29:42 GMT

Chuck Todd is so caught up in his liberal bias that he can't see that Obama swallowed bait that wasn't even intended for him. Anyone heard the phrase "If the shoe fits ..."? He must resemble Bush's remarks. Why else would he respond so defensively when his name wasn't even mentioned. Obama will keep openning his mouth exposing his lack of understanding and experience paving the way for a McCain landslide.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

antidote, Chicago, IL — Sat, 17 May 2008 02:49:09 GMT

The Bush/McSame Ten Commandments:

ONE: 'You shall have no other gods before Mammon'

TWO: 'You shall not make idols, but instead bow down at the temple of corporate wealth'

THREE: 'You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, you may substitue the term 9/11'

FOUR: 'Remember the Sabbath day, Texas Plays Oklahoma.'

FIVE: 'Honor your father and your mother, by sending 4000 soldiers to die to avenge the attempt on Daddy's life'

SIX: 'You shall not murder, get Blackwater to do it instead'

SEVEN: 'You shall not commit adultery, except to get in bed with big business'

EIGHT: 'You shall not steal ... at least not from the rich'

NINE: 'You shall not bear false witness, unless it's get us into war under false pretenses'

TEN: 'You shall not covet your neighbor's possessions, you may however covet their cheap labor and their oil

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Gary G, Barstow, CA — Sat, 17 May 2008 02:51:37 GMT

Didn't Condi Rice just talk with Iran? How about Bob Gates? Someone above noted that the Bush Administration has talked with North Korea.

Obviously, you GOP folks out there must agree that Obama has learned how to appease from the masters.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Elinor — Sat, 17 May 2008 02:53:21 GMT

I agree that Bush's speech was a gift to Obama. It reminded people of the old politics, guilt by association, and we know how well that's been working out for the GOP in the last three special elections. I can't speak for all America, but here in NYC, the mere mention of Bush evoke shudders. I think McCain is going to have trouble with his right wing. The fact he wound up the week w/the NRA as opposed to Global Warming, ending the War, etc. tells me he's having trouble lining up the right. Until he solidifies that part of the party, he can't move it into more progressive areas, and until the GOP adds some new ideas, as Tom Davis put, the brand is unsaleable. I'd also like to add something to Bob Herbert's remarks on Hardball re. McCain's age: vis-a-vis Bush. The Pres. makes him look old. Voters don't want old. They want vigorous: Obama.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Gary G, Barstow, CA — Sat, 17 May 2008 03:01:38 GMT

By the way, didn't the Right pillory the Dixie Chicks--entertainers, not even politicians!--for saying they disapproved of Bush at a concert in England a few years ago?

The Dixie Chicks were called cowards and they took a lot of hits for not criticizing Bush in the U.S.

So, where are all these folks on the Right now that he has done the same? Of course they're going to criticize Bush for being a coward too, right?

The Right loves to talk about how principled they are...I'm waiting...waiting...still waiting...

He should know better.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Matt, Boston MA — Sat, 17 May 2008 03:25:38 GMT

MSNBC and NBC in general have lost their credibility to comment on these issues. They are so in the can for Obama. Chris Matthews has become a discraseful journalist.

Bush could not have been referring to Obama, because Bush himself has had Ambassador Crocker meet with Iran, he would have to be criticizine himself.

Anyone not in left field notes that he used the term "terrorists and radicals" which refers to Hezbollah and Hamas, whom Obama has not advocated negotiating with, only Iran.

So, Bush then could only be referring to Carter, if anyone specifically. Besides, who, if anyone, is not really the point. He was referring to anyone who wants to negotiate with "terrorists and radicals." Obama seemed to believe himself in that category, which is astonishing and tantamount to an admission of guilt.

Chuck Todd is way off here. Most Americans agree with Bush on this. It really is starting to look like the Democrats are only going to run against Bush, and that will not stick. Everyone knows that McCain disagrees with Bush on just about everything. It is a recipe for an "L" in November.

Especially if Obama keeps self-selecting himself as an appeaser.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Matt, Boston, MA — Sat, 17 May 2008 03:32:59 GMT

Every leftist on this site forgets that it was Bush the "Unilateralist" who demanded six party talks with North Korea and has sent Crocker to speak with Iran directly as well as Syria. It was a news item on this web site, people.

Read some newspapers, Bush does talk with enemies all the time. He screwed up Iraq, but that is not the only policy he has had. Democrats do not give him fair credit for doubling Education spending and adding to Medicare. They are so blinded by leftist rhetoric which has become hateful and divisive.

Obama whines about a new smear everyday, while committing a gaffe every other day. "Sweetie", "57 States", lies about "dead silence" in his Michigan speech caught on YouTube. He has, disappointingly enough, turned out to be just clever marketing.

He refused press conferences to avoid tough questions, while McCain has a Q and A every SINGLE day on his bus. Obama has turned into a disappointing hypocrite.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Ann, MI — Sat, 17 May 2008 11:25:28 GMT

Appeasement is giving someone something they want. Talking to someone is having a conversation. Its also called communication. It is not appeasement. It has never meant appeasement. It will never mean appeasement.

the Bush White House has negotiated with Libya, Iran and North Korea. Does that make them appeasers? Or does it mean that it is better to keep your enemies where you can see them?

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Rockyspoon, Idaho — Sat, 17 May 2008 11:42:58 GMT

There are truly a bunch of Liberal Kool-Aid drinking posters on this site, who have about as much wisdom as a fire ant. All they spew is DNC talking points, employ name calling, and revel in some nasty, ill-conceived comparisons. I say to all of you: Shame on you! Go get educated. Get a life!

For anyone to say that "Obama's stand on this is to try somethig never done before" is a totally uneducated comment. Dig into your history books, please! For anyone to say that "there is no larger terroist (sic) organization in the world than the American Republican Party" is simply a hate statement.

I could go on and on and on, but I don't have all day refuting the blatant lies and stupidity of (apparently) Democrats or Ultra Leftists posting here.

Obama's ill-conceived perceptions on foreign policy make him dangerous and subject to a landslide loss this fall. And that's just the beginning--with the dirt that will soon be coming out about Obama and his whitey-hating wife, McCain's win will make Reagan's 49-state landslike look like a loss. Just wait and see, folks.

First thoughts: Bush's gift to Obama

Christopher Dye, Plainfield, NH — Sat, 17 May 2008 12:10:14 GMT

Chuck -

McCAIN'S BUBBA CAMPAIGN. As others may have observed, the Repubs are now clear that they want Obama as the Dem nominee because they think they can easily beat him with a racist/Bubba campaign. Clinton has proved that. So why not help the feckless Dems finally nail down Obama's nomination so they can start their racist attacks in earnest ASAP. They can't make these attacks before he locks up the nomination because their success would support Clinton's argument that she should be the Dem candidate because she is not vulnerable to them; ie. if the Repubs attack Obama now Clinton may be the nominee.

Chuck, Bush's remarks were not an accident. Unifying the Dems behind Obama to secure his nomination now was their goal. You point out all they ways in which Bush's remarks achieve this without recognising his intent. In this respect, you like others continue to underestimate how good Bush, Rove and their allies are at crafting winning electiion strategies. The Dems' major weakness is that they will forget this because things look so good for them now.

McCAIN'S & REPUBS' GREATEST WEAKNESS. It is that they will not be able to win control of Congress even if McCain wins the presidency, and thus we will have gridlock for at least 4 years. The Dems CAN win control of Congress. This is why Obama is so threatening to the Repubs and particularly their neo-conservative allies: If he wins he will really be able to effect much OF The change he is promising, which means rolling back virtually everything the conservatives have done inthe last 8 years.