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That didn't take long.
Florida gubernatorial candidate Rick Scott (R) -- who, according to polls, is losing ground in his primary race against Bill McCollum (R) -- is up with a TV ad criticizing President Obama's remarks on the mosque near Ground Zero.
But he isn't the only Republican trying to score political points off of what Obama said Friday night. Here's a release from Sharron Angle's (R) Senate campaign in Nevada: "As the Majority Leader, Harry Reid is usually President Obama's mouthpiece in the U.S. Senate, and yet he remains silent on this issue. Reid has a responsibility to stand up and say no to the mosque at Ground Zero or once again side with President Obama---this time against the families of 9/11 victims. America is waiting.”
And now Reid's Senate spokesman, Jim Manley, replies that the mosque should be built somewhere else. "The First Amendment protects freedom of religion," Manley said, per the Washington Post. "Sen. Reid respects that, but thinks that the mosque should be built someplace else." Manley added, "If the Republicans are being sincere, they would help us pass this long overdue bill to help the first responders whose health and livelihoods have been devastated because of their bravery on 9/11, rather than continuing to block this much-needed legislation."
But the response from Reid's office precisely hits at why fellow Democrats were upset with Obama wading into the mosque issue with little back up -- it has put them on the defensive.
*** UPDATE *** We wrote that McCollum had been gaining ground on Scott in the polls. But a new St. Petersburg Times/Miami Herald/Bay News 9 shows Scott with a 10-point lead over McCollum.
Leave a Comment:
I'm SHOCKED, SHOCKED, I say -that a losing Repub would dwell in the gutter for political gain. I mean, really, we just don't SEE that anymore!
Snark meter off the charts today!
This is one of those no-duh moments. The Republicans were going to do that with or without the President(who did do the right thing for a change).
The youtube video also left me non-plussed. Conservative riff-raff. It is trying to link Islam and being Muslim, equates to being a terrorist. Actually, there are terrorists who use Islam to justify their terrible actions against humanity, but that is the minority, not the Majority.
Hell, Repubs would politicize the fact that Obama pulled on his left sock before the right one, showing his obvious non-bipartisan preference for his left foot over his right one.
These people are way beyond reason, and have no intention of hiding their ignorance under a bushel. Which is a good thing, what with November approaching and all.
I agree drive-by.
People like Sharron Angle actually give the Democrats hope, it is the Tea Party who has done so much for the GOP who might end up causting it the next election.
Will someone do me a favor... and wake me when FR finally decides to report on something of substance like say... 'Snooki & The Situation'?
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Didn't Sharon Angle just bait Obama's mouth piece Reid into saying it should be built somewhere else? Did I read that somewhere, Mark?
Anyway, I thought this mosque horse may have been at least placed in hospice by now, but it evidently needs a little more beating. In the spirit of ethnic diversity and global appreciation for our concerns, not to mention cleaning up some horse poop:
The above are but a few of the exerts from an opinion written by Raheel Raza and Tarek Fatah in the Ottawa Citizen. Both are members of the Muslim Canadian Congress.
Libs, please feel free to tell them what they know, what they think, etc. You know - the usual stuff.
It may very well be insensitive; but when did we become so thin skinned that insensitivity to some becomes an issue wherein we forget one of the fundamental principles of our history? I'm thinking that it's a lousy idea; but I understand why Obama has to defend their right to build it. He took an oath to defend the Constitution-not the bad choices of the people protected by it.
What on earth was President Obama thinking? Did his advisors actually tell him to go “Pro Ground Zero mosque” with 90 days until the midterms when Democrats are about to get sliced up like a Hibachi Steak at Benihana?
Did someone on his team point to Iran and said, “Don’t worry Mr. President, we can win with 32% of the vote, Ahmadinejad did it, so let’s go pro Ground Zero mosque today?”
Read this article which satirizes the whole mess.
VERY FUNNY stuff.
http://www.dailygoat.com/?p=2653
HA!! You libs let Murray lead you around with a leash....WHO politicized this???....Republicans?!?!...I think not. Obama is the one who had to weigh in after weeks of staying out of it. Unlike you kool-aid drinkers, just because Obama takes a side doesn't mean everyone has to agree with him....see....that's what taking a side means. I actually thought he grew a pair by...but then alas...the next day he was back tracking. This would have been a non-event if the liar in chief had kept his mouth shut or stuck to his guns. One thing you CAN rely on with this guy...he is always headed the wrong way.
Hobie- Pamela Geller, a conservative blogger, politicized this originally aided by the NY Post. See the history: http://www.salon.com/news/politics/war_room/2010/08/16/ground_zero_mosque_origins
So who will be the first Republican to call for repeal of the First Amendment?
There's a few who already have except they don't realize it--Gingrich, and a couple others who demand that no other mosques be built in the U.S. Gingrich's 2012 campaign slogan--no more mosques!
There was somone on Morning Joke this morning putting forth the idea that the whole world is watching this mosque thing, to see just how civilized we are and how much we believe in our constitution, and just how much we mean it when we say we are fighting terrorism, not the Islam faith.
Thanks to dimwits like Newt, I'm afraid we may not be too convincing.
Newt Gingrich, is an idiot, kinda like Sarah Palin is an idiot. Except the American people know he is an idiot from beforehand. He really doesn't have a shot at 2012 Presidency, and by some miracle he gets the Repub nom, Obama should keep his seat by a good margin. The Tea Party doesn't have enough gusto to keep so many people long enough for that long, unless something changes.
This movement will either A) die out, B) become an excepted part of the American political scene then die out, C)destroy both itself and the GOP. They just might cost to many votes for the GOP and not get enough for itself.
In Michigan,
You enjoy Obama's policies? Kind of like Jenny's policies there in Michigan. Same principles.......
I don't know why they keep digging up Newt. Who does he represent? The immoral minority? I'm getting really sick of listening to these idiots. The Republican party is in shambles. They have no leaders, no ideas, no common sense. By the time november rolls around, I wouldn't be surprised if they lost all their seats. I'm not fond of the Democrats, but there isn't much choice.
Harry Reid's reflects more of what Muslim Hater in Congress are not listening to i.e. insurance for for the people who so deserve it. Haters reveal in demagoguery.
Beverly you mean those of us who actually work and pay our taxes? We already have insurance thankyouvery much. And it would be a lot cheaper if people would get their own insurance (and jobs for that matter) and quit getting "free" medical care on my dime.
Larry
I pay federal income taxes for your information. Just because you have insurance doesn't mean you should deny those who don't it You are making not sense what so ever. What are you going do when your premiums keep rising and you need to make a fundamental choice between it and other essentials? Or what would happen if you should lose your insurance and go to the emergency room? Multiple that times millions of others like you; and you get a recipe for an increased deficit and a continued failing economy.
Stop the insensitivity and madness.
Beverly
"He who will not work will not eat"....... If a person decided that they did not want to work but instead live off welfare and every other "entitlement" the gov't is giving out then no I will not feel bad for that person.
This country (nor life) was not built on the belief that you are entitled to everything. It was built on the belief that you are guarenteed the life (again protect the unborn) liberty (if you are here LEGALLY) and the PURSUIT of happiness (notice the word PURSUIT) some will make it and make a better life.... others will fail. That is life.
It is up to individuals to help others out. Thats part of the reason there was no Federal income tax until Woodrow Wilson (one of the worst presidents of this country ever).
Larry
Beverly
"He who will not work will not eat"....... If a person decided that they did not want to work but instead live off welfare and every other "entitlement" the gov't is giving out then no I will not feel bad for that person.
I think your greedy, selfish, Republican leaders are making that quite obvious. They want the business to stop creating jobs until the President is out of office; they don't want a jobs bill, they want to repeal healthcare which factors into good nutrition ,(in case you didn't know it); they want the country to be similar to the Depression of 1929 when people were standing in soup lines and carry a stick like a hobo.
You are clueless
Bev,
Are you talking about the "Let's Move" that Michele Obama wants? The program that will take more money from Food Stamps?
"they want to repeal healthcare which factors into good nutrition"
Bev,
You might to take a look at this? This is priceless.................
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100816/ap_on_go_pr_wh/us_ground_zero_mosque_reid
"Harry Reid's reflects more of what Muslim Hater in Congress are not listening"
That logic only applies if all places of employment offer insurance to all employees. Believe it or not there are places of employment that dont offer health insurance to their workers. Why is that? its too expensive. Why? Because insurance companies.
Actually - those are entitlements by definition. You are entitled to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness with no contribution whatsoever.
Also - the people of this country are entitled to an education (K-12) and safety and security (military and local police) also.
You and your ilks idea of everyman for himself doesnt hold water.
Are they going to remove the Catholic churchs around ground zero as well? If a community can't be built, why should a church be an exception. First Amendment as much as some may hate it, state freedom of religion. Just because you may not understand or like it, doesn't mean people don't have the right to whomever they see fit. What if a Mormon Temple was being built, would we still have this issue? The repubs are making a big mistake by equating Islam w/ terrorists. Just because some have hi-jacked the religion to suit their views, doesn't mean all Muslims are terrorists. That like saying all Mormons are polygamists, all Catholic Priests are pedophiles and so forth.
When you paint w/ such a wide brush, your bound to make a mistake.
Its about time someone from the conservative side stand up and actually say what evryone is already thinking:
Barack Obama wants the mosque built right next to ground zero..... Hell to be honest I bet he wants the d@mn thiing ON ground zero just so he can remind the American people (and especially people like me who had a complete lack of common sense and voted for the traitor) just how much he hates this country.
Larry, dude, don't go using the past tense when referring to your complete lack of common sense. You should TOTALLY be using the present tense there, buddy!
Do you realize what a trophy a mosque next to Ground Zero would be for the Islamic terrorists? What a victory lap they'd be running if it ever got built? It won't be though. There's not a construction company that will build it, or a bank that will fund it, because if they did, it would be the last thing they'd every do, because you Obama-lovers, Conservatives can boycott things too.
Of course, knowing Obama, he would use the Army Corp of Engineers to build it, with taxpayers dollars to fund it.
I always thought they'd know we are Christians by our love, by our love...
http://my.homewithgod.com/heavenlymidis2/onespirit.html
So much for that.
The terrorists are already taking a victory lap everytime they see republicans want to shred the Constitution out of fear.
Poor Larry.....the usual fear and hate comments.
Yes, I'm sure Osama bin Chicken-S*** is sitting in a cave right now getting the baloons and cake ready for his big party when the cut the ribbon on this center.
Get real!
Oh stop - the man does not hate the country. Why some of you folks insist on spouting this nonsense defies logic. Just because you do not like what he said, does not mean he hates this country. Seems to me he is the only one standing up for the principles this country was founded on. No where has it been reported about him "wanting" the mosque built there, he just said they had the right. Oh wait, that's right, you only have rights when the hard-right says so.
Larry I'm very sad for your lack of understanding. Our President understands and quoted history he did not say anything to detract from the bravery and sad loss of 9/11. The victims were from multiple ethnic and religious groups; building a temple, mosque synagogue or church will not take away from the memories. It may actually serve a much needed place for the area; perhaps if we listened and gained understanding we could promote some healing instead of irrational ignorant anger.
So Jon youre saying I should love the fact that people who want me dead because I worship Yahweh are trying to build another mosque this time on the same site that THEY drove planes into and killed over 300 innocent people?
Terrorists flew planes into the former Burlington Coat Factory?
Dumbass, how many freakin' times do we have to tell you...THEY AREN'T BUILDING ON GROUND ZERO...THEY'RE BUILDING 2 BLOCKS AWAY!!!
I wonder if the right wingers, especially Larry in Minot think that EVERY mosque ought to be closed that is proximate to the sight of the WTC as well as the Pentagon?
JoAnnaSmith:
Obama this, Obama that, knowing Obama did this or said that ..........wwaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!
Actually THEY aren't building anywhere. THEY are hiding in caves. THEY are not the same people who want to build the mosque. THEY just happen to be followers of a religion along with about 20% of the world population. There are something like 7 Million AMERICANS that also happen to follow that religion.
well, folks,it's official-
Obama's sinking fortunes have cracked the mind of CA.
I wonder how many others will follow.
no joe:
Wwaahhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!! Keep them coming no joe.
Jody,
Really???? geezzzzzzzzzzz...................
"The terrorists are already taking a victory lap everytime they see republicans want to shred the Constitution out of fear."
how about all you who are so upset about the mosque near ground zero, if your this mad about this mosque, then lets protest in front of every catholic church, because those nasty priest have inflicted more terror in children then the terrorist did at ground zero, but wait a minute, those are American Catholic priest and the abuse the put upon children was i guess OK!! according to the post of today. you talk like your proud American, how proud are we that we forget about priest abuse, and Catholic church turning a blind eye to it all, as well as the Holocaust.
catholic church gets a pass but a mosque is evil. you all have a nasty double standard.
you all will give a nasty priest a pass but not a Muslim, your all are very sick sick!!!!
Jeff,
Like I've mentioned before, I really don't care where this Mosque is at. I find it that over 60% would like it moved, heck even Harry Reid said so today. Now that's classic for Reid to speak up now, he must be up for re-election. Funny how politics works and both sides. I think this should be a local matter. Obama was wrong for commenting on it. He opened the door and this is what we have.
I think the priest issue has been and continues to be solved by authorities and the Church. Unless I missed it, where did someone say the Mosque is evil? I'm trying to figure our the Holocaust rant though, what do you mean by that?
Larry-Not everyone is thinking that.
Sure it is. And every catholic mass is a trophy service for child molesters. And every protestant church service is a celebratory service for Oklahoma municipal building bombings.
So because a fractionally small group would perceive the building of a mosque as a trophy - it shouldnt be done?
I love arguing with you people - such bullet proof logic.
Larry Minot
have you ever been to New York? have you seen how long the blocks are? It 2 blocks away, no one would be able to see it because its blocked by all the other building. You need to get out of your cave sometimes.
JoAnnaSmith
For once I agree w/ you. Just because a small segment of a religion doesn't all its adherents such. Not all priests are pedophiles, not all evangelicals are domestic terrorists
Why don't the Democrats quit whining and stand with the President. Stop cowering every time a Republican flaps his jaws - it's all they do. How about fight back instead of rolling over. The Republicans have no shame anyway, but when they start spewing crap like this, Democrats do not fight back and leave the President hanging. At least the President is not afraid of Republicans. DEMOCRATS - you need to grow a pair.
The President said they had the right - if the President of the United States does not stand up for American values then who the hell will. Republicans - yeah right.
Hypocrits - Republicans can't fund a bill to help 9/11 first responders but they are oh so concerned about the 9/11 hallowed ground. Oh please.
Seriously? Do you ever disagree with him or do you feel he can't do no wrong. We understand that they have every right to build a Mosque there...no question. What you fail to understand is people in NY feel its insensitive because of 9/11.
JFK2112
Did the Repubs feel any guilt about dragging the economy into a ditch?
The Republicans are politicizing the mosque issue?! Too funny.
You just know the White House political operatives phones where ringing off the hook Friday night with irate Democrats running for (re)election screaming "You have got to be kidding! We're losing the House , do you want to lose the Senate at the same time?!?" So what are you knuckle-heads doing for damage control???". We found out soon enough when Obama had to walk it back on Saturday. Too little. Too late.
Talk about working hard to lose the election, that's Obama.
There was no "walking back". On Friday he stated that the Constitution guarantees the right to practice your religion and build on your property. Because people made incorrect assumptions about what he meant, on Saturday he said his comment was about Constitutional rights, not whether it was the right thing to do. That was not "walking back", it was a clarification of the subject of the comment, that's all.
Some people cannot make the distinction, or choose not too. Anything to attack the President.
Or anything to protect him right?
JoAnnaSmith:
Wwahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!! Obama this, Obama that. Wwaahhhhhhhh!!!!!!
Wow, you really do hate Obama..... shocker
I never read conservatives comments anymore revolveing Obama. I look for his name in one of your comments, and skip on. No credibility if everything is Obama's fault.
P.S. Bush caused a hell of a mess, but he did not cause everything that is wrong with the country. You and you ilk however, view that Obama, or is Obummer I forget, caused everything wrong with this nation and is a Commie Muslim born somewhere not in the USA.
But Heart, President Obama said "Let me be clear!" before he endorsed the mosque. Are you telling us Mr. Obama wasn't perfectly clear? Well, you're probably right, because the White House is still trying to come up with the right story of what Obama meant. There are a couple of dozen elections this fall that are dependent on it for the Democrats, so lets see if the White House can wordsmith this one correctly and I'm certain when they are done, they'll be "Perfectly clear".
"Talk about working hard to lose the election, that's Obama."
JoAnna- sounds to me like that would be a GOOD thing in your eyes, right? Why all the negativity, kiddo?
Your pal- Drive-thru.
Well that's good. It's always best to ignore anything that might challenge your mind, make you think, give you a different perpective. It's always better to be comfortable with you own dogma and ignore anything that would get you out of your comfort zone. Makes you kind of like a mushroom.
How's that 15%+ unemployment working out for you in Michigan? Things getting better with Obama?
JoAnnaSmith:
Wwaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!
Obama is the gift that keeps on giving. The Libs are whining "Why does America hate Obama after all he's done for them". Well, I guess people aren't looking at it that way. Obama keeps stumbling around, showing his inexperience, his arrogance, showing his political inflexibility, and Americans are realizing they made a mistake, got caught up in the moment, and elected someone that is clueless. No matter, the country has gone through worse, Obama will just be another footnote in history. A bad footnote, but a footnote none the less.
May I repeat: that's all GOOD in your eyes, right? C'mon, JAS1- lighten up and enjoy yourself! Turn that frown upside down- November's a comin!! (oh.........)
Your pal, Drive-thru.
Bush is the gift that keeps on giving. The Repubs are whining "Why does America hate Bush after all he's done for them". Well, I guess people aren't looking at it that way. Bush keeps stumbling around, showing his inexperience, his arrogance, showing his political inflexibility, and Americans are realizing they made a mistake, got caught up in the moment, and elected someone that is clueless.
SeewhatIdidthere?
Mark, I'm ashamed of you.
No out of state Republicans politicized this issue.
OBAMA politicized this issue On Friday night when he weighed in on it.
Now, he's made it a national issue-another one he is on the wrong side of-like HCR, terror trials, etc., etc., etc.
Right, it had nothing to do with months of pounding this drum on TV and talk radio, and Republicans crying about it weeks before any Democrat of national standing said a word. Congratulations Conservatives, you've once again exposed yourselves for the win-at-all-costs moral relativists that you are.
Guess you missed Sarah Palin, Newt Gingrich, Jon Cornyn, Sharron Angel--all politicized the mosque weeks ago.
No Joe -- I guess you missed Newt Gingrich (GA and DC) and Sarah Palin (AK and elsewhere) weighing on on this well before Obama's speech on Friday.
Fact of the matter is, you have a candidate for Florida governor weighing in on a matter affecting NYC -- in the form of a TV ad. Perhaps I'm wrong, but that's policitizing an issue.
Mark,
Stop confusing him with facts...they'll only interfere with his FAUX Noise talking points!
WRONG!!!!
no joe:
Wwaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!
Keeping us on the side of truth! Thanks Mark!
Mark,
I say you are doing a good job. It's the Right wing media ginning the issues up. Is there anyway we can DE-FOX the right wing nut's here?
I wish our president would have said nothing but if he just had to jump on the podium, this is what I wish he had said:
"We all understand that any religious group, under the 1st amendment, has the right to construct a facility, church etc. on property they own. However, I would like to go on record for the American people in saying that this decision by Imam Rauf and his congregation is insensitive and will invite in turn a voluble response from Americans exercising their first amendment rights. I speak for a majority of Americans, nationwide and especially in the city of New York when I encourage you to reconsider your plans and work with the state of New York to find a suitable site in a less sensitive area."
But, no, the president has to find a way to PARTICIPATE in the politicization of the issue, be completely inept in the process and make it an issue of national exposure starting at the top.
And yes, the issue is being politicized. I challenge anyone to come up with a significant issue that isn't politicized these days. Politicians just have a way of doing that and the media (yes Mark, you and First Read, too) are the means with which they do it.
Know what, mark? I DID miss it. In the case of Palin, it is no surprise-I change the channel whenever she comes on. (long, boring story-in sum,I can't stand her.) In the case of Gingrich, I guess he appeared on some program I don't watch-I don't recall reading about it on First Read, either, but I could have missed that, too.
Neither, it would seem to me, have the same pulpit that the president has. Correct me if I'm wrong, but HIS is the voice that everyone heard, is it not?
Anyone know what's wrong with CA?
Nice job Mark!
You of all people should know by now about NoJo's selective reading skills... lol
She NEVER let's her 'ALL THINGS OBAMA HATE' cloud her judgement...
If I remember correctly this is not the FIRST time she's 'jumped the shark'!
Richard said (that our President should have said) - “I would like to go on record for the American people in saying that this decision by Imam Rauf and his congregation is insensitive and will invite in turn a voluble response from Americans exercising their first amendment rights.”
And, Richard, what message do you think the 1.5 billion Muslims around the world would hear?
Very special thanks to MSNBC, Mark, and the crew for doing their part in keeping this important story front and center.
Everyone's weighing in now...even the Senate Majority Leader. Has Madame Speaker had her say yet?
Senator Reid's comments were most welcome.
It's good to know that at least some prominent Democrats actually have an opinion on whether or not the proposed mosque near Ground Zero should be built, and are willing to speak out...and not to simply point out the obvious, and remind one and all that the developers have the right to build to build it anywhere they like.
At least Reid isn't employing every possible tactic to avoid directly answering the question of whether it should be built at the proposed location.
He should put in a call to Jerry Nadler and Anthony Weiner.
Like President Obama, apparently they're also unable to hear their constituents...maybe they'll listen to Harry.
Dennis:
That would be an interesting guage of how much they respect Barack Obama, wouldn't it? My guess is that those 1.5 billion Muslims would have no regard for any protest about the insensitivity. They would ignore us.
Or do you think they would hold a grudge?
Thank you Mark Murray!
Richard,
I would guess that if our President did gain any ground / respect with Muslims it would be lost or at least greatly reduced.
I don’t think they would hold a grudge but I believe they may look at his early statements as just more vacant words from the Americans.
Mixed Bag,
Oh...........but you didn't post the WHOLE story. Here let me do for you:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100816/ap_on_go_pr_wh/us_ground_zero_mosque_reid
This is the part you CHOOSE to leave out:
"The First Amendment protects freedom of religion," said Jim Manley, a Reid spokesman. "Senator Reid respects that, but thinks that the mosque should be built some place else."
So Mix Bag, which story is correct? Now would say Reid is Flip/Flopping too??? The aritcle above is from the AP.
"It's good to know that at least some prominent Democrats actually have an opinion on whether or not the proposed mosque near Ground Zero should be built, and are willing to speak out...and not to simply point out the obvious, and remind one and all that the developers have the right to build to build it anywhere they like."
Probably not now..................
"Like President Obama, apparently they're also unable to hear their constituents...maybe they'll listen to Harry."
Larry, Minot, N.D.
Its about time someone from the conservative side stand up and actually say what evryone is already thinking:
Barack Obama wants the mosque built right next to ground zero..... Hell to be honest I bet he wants the d@mn thiing ON ground zero just so he can remind the American people (and especially people like me who had a complete lack of common sense and voted for the traitor) just how much he hates this country.
Republican'ts will not stand up for America they are too in love with keeping Bin Laden's image alive.
BiC: Republican'ts will not stand up for America they are too in love with keeping Bin Laden's image alive.
What federal prison did Obama put Osama in after Barack captured him?
Why do you keep talking about Republicans when talking to me? Im neither a Dem or a Rep.
Im an independent CONSERVATIVE that believes this country needs to return to the days of the Founding Fathers:
Small Government, personal responsibility (for everything from Healthcare -- get your own, to Education -- its not the govt's job to teach I mean indoctrinate our kids, to Retirement -- again not the job of the gov't) to (the two most important things) protecting the lives of the unborn children that have no chance to fight for themselves and (THE MOST IMPORTANT) placing God back in to His place as God of this country and to start turning to Him and Him alone (not the gov't)
Those are MY values..... So call me whatever but those are the things that will put us back on the top of the world not more govt.
Bush had 6 years to capture Bin Laden; Bush declared he wasn't worried about him after allowing him to escape in Tora Bora.
John McCain said he knew where bin Laden was hiding and he would get him....IF ELECTED PRESIDENT. Where is McCain helping to track down bin Laden?
Because you do not categorize yourself as a repub thus giving you the advanatage of attacking anything democratic while not being bound to the incompetence of the repubs.
And judging from your statement - you're a tea bagger all day long.
Obama and all of the people at the local level in New York need to wake up and smell the coffee. Of all of the cities in the U.S., why do the muslims have to build that HUGE mosque in New York, and more tellingly why in that particular spot in New York. BECAUSE, you idiots, it's the closest spot to 911 and therefore the biggest insult they can think of.
Another thing Obama and New York need to realize is that the mosque will sign up every muslim in New York and then sue for sharia law. Their members will be exempt from federal and state laws. Next thing you know, we'll all be eating falafal and wearing burquas. Thank God I don't cheat on my husband or I would be flogged and shot to death in Times Square. Oh, I forgot, I wouldn't actually need to cheat; It would just take an @!$%# man to SAY I was cheating.
THIS IS THE U.S. WE DON'T WANT THE DEGENERATES WHO WANT TO DESTROY OUR COUNTRY CURLED UP NEXT TO US LIKE A SNAKE WAITING TO STRIKE, ESPECIALLY NOT NEAR THE 9/11 SITE.
It took Spain 750 YEARS to get rid of the Turks. Is that what we want; 750 years of occupation by a bunch of terrorists?
Obama is pro-muslim...wake up people. He will open the door and invite in the fox to the hen coop. As for the New Yorkers on that panel who are approving this mosque location, they are the worst kind of liberals. They are totally disregarding the welfare of their citizens in favor of " freedom of religion".
Judy,
Just say it...you hate Muslims. Go ahead...just say it.
There are something like 600,000 to 900,000 Muslims in New York. There are mosques all over the city including within a few blocks of ground zero.
judy in mich
Obama is pro-muslim...wake up people. He will open the door and invite in the fox to the hen coop. As for the New Yorkers on that panel who are approving this mosque location, they are the worst kind of liberals. They are totally disregarding the welfare of their citizens in favor of " freedom of religion".
I'm proud we have an American President who advocates freedom of religion for all. Also you could spare US the history lesson; the community center is not for terrorist. Plus, it's wrong in the 8th century Muslim armies invade and occupy most of Spain (At this time Jews made up about 8% of Spain's population). Under Christian rule, Jews had been subject to frequent and intense persecution, but this was alleviated under Muslim rule. Some mark this as the beginning of the Golden age of Jewish culture in Spain.
"this is the u.s. we don't want the degenerates who want to destroy our country curled up next to us like a snake waiting to strike" judy- please leave sarah and the other tea baggers out of this...
Spain had to repel to the Moors, not the Turks. But nice try though.
And even then it was accomplished by bible thumping kings on the backs of the working class.
Oh Judy-what are they putting in the water in Michigan that makes you so crazy?
Geeezus!!! Enough with the pro muslim rant!!! Bush was/is evangelical. He must love the killing of Dr.s yada yada yada.
3 words. Mountain Meadow Massacre. Look it up.
Also, if anybody has the right to bitch it would be, IMO..the Native Americans!!
The U.S. Constitution was written so that our people could be secure in knowing our Government would use it to run our Country. It gives a bill of rights as well and helps protect U.S. Citizens from all Enemies both Foreign and Domestic.
I would think constructing anything Religous of nature that allows Muslims to worship at ground Zero would be sending a message that if you KILL AMERICANS, it's OKAY and we will build your a Mosque to use to Laugh in their faces.
New York was Built many decades ago, where was the idea to build that Mosque there then?
I as well as my community are done with Obama. We will not condone desecrating hallow ground for the sake of our enemies.
Mr Collins-you might want to walk around that HALLOWED ground someday. It's kind of funky, just like the city. You want porn?-it's right there on "Hallowed Ground"-you want fast food? That's there, too. Take a walk around-all kinds of everyday commerce going on-grab a burger as you visit-pick up a copy of "Debbie Does Dallas"-buy an umbrella. Welcome to New York.
In other words, the U.S. Constitution applies to everyone EXCEPT those they do not like. Timothy McVeigh was a Christian, does that make all Christians radicals? Did we fear all Christians after the Oklahoma City bombing? Of course, not. A person who uses fear of Muslims as a political tool is disgusting if not worse.
Repeating this mornings quote seems appropriate: "The most persistent threat to freedom, to the rights of Americans, is fear." George Meany.
No in other words if a rapist murdered your child or a bomber killed your family, would you then say it was okay for them to come to your house and build a church?
Just because you are a Muslim is no excuse to say we have a right to build a mosque at ground zero.
You do have intelligence do you not?
I would hope you see the overall picture and not the tunnel vision you are currently seeing through.
Mr. Collins,
So here we go again, reinforcing al Qaeda’s message that we’re at war with Muslims.
Mr. Collins you do have intelligence do you not?
You do understand that Muslims were among the innocent victims of 9/11, don't you? Does Eric Rudolph speak for all Christians? Were the Crusades a clear look into the purpose of Christ?
I would hope you see the overall picture and not the tunnel vision you are currently seeing through.
It's not AT Ground Zero. How many blocks away would be sufficient, 5, 10, maybe a mile, maybe 20.
Jody maybe in their own country? That would be best..... they have absolutely no right here....especially that close to Groud Zero.
When you come here to inflict pain, death and dmage to America you are not welcome here.
What if you're born in this country but raised as a Muslim? Are you suggesting that it is impossible to be a citizen of this country and a Muslim at the same time?
Larry. This is their country. There are something like 7 million Muslims that are American citizens. And you are right Al Qeada is not welcome here. The other 99.99999% of Muslims on the other hand are welcome.
Larry, you've made yourself clear. I'm not a Christian in your eyes because I don't believe everything you believe. Muslims don't belong here at all. Your bigotry comes through loud and clear. Please keep it in North Dakota where there's hardly anyone around for it to hurt.
McVeigh didn't commit his act in the name of Christianity, Jody, and I challenge you to support any contention that he did. Christians, as far as I know (yeah, there is probably some creep out there) did not claim his acts as supportive of and in the tradition of Jesus Christ.
Whether it applies widely to Muslims or not, the 9/11 perpetrators committed their acts in the name of Islam. As do the Taliban when they stone a young couple for adultery. The Fort Hood shooter is on record as committing his acts for Islam in introducing his fusillade with "Allah akhbar".
Other Islamists.record videos prior to suicide bombings and say they will be successful "inshallah" or "god willing".
I'm assuming, like the vast majority of Christians who would disown Timothy McVeigh, that those 1.5 billion Muslims Dennis talks about elsewhere here also disown the terrorists that act in their name. They also undoubtedly would demand that we act with the greatest sensitivity around their shrines and mosques and places of significance in the national memory.
Except islam extremist arent trying to build a mosque in NY - normal, everyday muslims are. Your analogy is faulty and in bad taste.
Cripes...the old "fear" and go crawl under your bed and quake is still permeating the chicken chit right!! Yup..go and buy duct tape and plastic up your winders cuz those evil "Islamic" folks want a community center. Gasp!!! The land of the free and the home of the brave? Not anymore I guess.........
I also would like to point out that Politics are wicked. The Government uses parties to throw off the real scent of their dark deeds.
Be it a Democrat or a Republican does not matter. The real question that has been pondered since the founding of America is how many people are willing to stand up for their beliefs?
Stop tossing political rocks and use your brains.
You can differentiate between a muslim extremist and a muslim and yet you are telling us to use our brains?
All you mosque haters......war-mongers......
What about the Mosque, reportedly in the Pentagon? Remember that the Pentagon was also hit on 9/11, and lives taken? Is the Pentagon Mosque OK with ya'?
Hypocrites!
Great point!
I'm not sure, but ear wax may have a different purpose than what you are using it for.
Chilled and Jody, I heard this clarified today. There is NOT a mosque in the Pentagon (whew, that would be pushing separation of church and state). There is a prayer room. I do find that offensive and a violation of the Constitution. Can we have a synagogue, a shinto shrine, a Catholic church, etc, there?
I think the prayer room is open to any religion.... It was made for those serving at the pentagon, sort of like having a chapel in a hospital.... But god forbid (whichever god you pray to) that we don't have clearly defined and segregated areas for different religions to pray in, because it would be discrimination to ask everyone to share a common area....
Wow so that is five stories that First Read had about the Mosque today.
Give it a rest. Much like the Sharrod story, this Mosque story in inconsequential in the big picture. Obama supported their first amendment rights, GOP cried fowl. End of story.
First read political unit, are you going to post anything else of value today?
First Read - The first place for KEY political news and analysis from the NBC News Political Unit. WRONG.
Ok, I'll contribute to the 'dialogue", regarding Reid's quote about the 911 benefit bill, maybe if he wrote that "The Mosque should be moved someplace else", the republicans will vote for the 911 responder benefits.
GW brought us 9-11 though sheer negligence, and now it's party over country as they play it once again for political gain...how shocking! It's the 1st Amendment people! The Constitution apparently only matters when it's convenient to a cause. With all these changes the Grand Obstructionist Party repub's are proposing, best leave their copies at home. The reality is that conservatives are the ones treading on our founders.
Your right wing paranoia is amazing...and your cowardice.
JoAnna Smith the dumb 1
What federal prison did Obama put Osama in after Barack captured him?
What do you know about symbology?
You asked me in a previous to Duck and cover.
Why because you right wing nuts and racist Tea Baggers have gun
You know, the funny thing about this issue is that we know how at least ONE Founding Father would have thought about it. Trust the Republicans to only drag out the Founders when they think it benefits their cause, and accuse others of tramping on the Constitution since they are the ones solely responsible for doing this daily. I write this for all right wingers, especially Larry in Minot, since I am tired of waiting for him to admit his ignorance of the founding of the country and the intent with the Founders about whether this is a Christian Nation. The Treaty of the Peace and Friendship between the United States of America and the subjects of Tripoli of Barbary was authored by American Diplomat Joel Barlow in 1796. It was sent to the floor of the Senate June 7, 1797. The article that is of importance is Article 11, which reads: "As the Government of the United States of America is not in any sense founded on the Christian religion; as it has in itself no character of enmity against the laws, religion or tranquility of Musselmen, as the said States never entered into an war or act of hostility against any Mahometan nation, it is declared by the parties, that no pretext arising from religious opinions shall ever produce an interruption of the harmony existing between the two countries." This treaty was considered significant, and was met with enthusiasm by the President who signed it, and proudly proclaimed it to the nation. Who was the President? John Adams. President Obama is correct in what he has said about this, and only those who have no understanding of the Founding of the country think otherwise.
Excellent!
Some interesting things happened, related to this, in 1801 or 1802 I believe. So, Nude Guy Yawning, how about you exercise your prodidgious research talents and provide us with some of the rest of the story.
Like the wars, the slogan "millions for defense and none for tribute" (coined by Adams, I believe) that resulted from our adversaries disdain for the fine words you provided for us above.
For starters, I would recommend Christopher Hitchens "Jefferson's Quran: What the founder really thought about Islam" Slate (MSN) January 9, 2007."
Boy, struck a nerve with Richard... easy to do though.
Boy, struck a nerve with Richard... easy to do though.
Comprehensive response there, Nude Guy.
Comprehensive response there, Nude Guy.
Yes, quite aware that things have to be simplified and repeated for you to get them.
Likewise.
Whining and crying like babies. Just like JoAnnaSmith, Larry, no joe and Juven. Man, you would think these people would get tired from all their whining and crying.
How ironic. Republicans have been accusing Pres Obama and democrats of shredding the Constitution. But the last three weeks, it is the GOP that is trying to destroy our democracy by claiming the 1st Amendment has an exemption: Muslims; and demanding the 14th Amendment be rewritten.
Don't forget, Jody, that this is after the GOP has also showed its disdain for the 4th Amendment (reasonable search and seizure) thanks to the Patriot Act...
...not to mention their hatred of the 5th and 6th Amendment as they continue to demand no due process no lawyers for the Gtimo detainees!
True Jody,
The pretzel logic of Republicant's is mind boggling. The self-esteem of the right-wing fringe Tea Baggers must have flat-lined.
The only thing that makes them "happy", is to denegrate someone else. Of course, the someone else is someone who does not look like them, vote like them, or worship like them.
They are sad and unhappy people. Self-esteem is zero!
Chilled:
I'm comforted that by saying such things you feel better about yourself. That can be the only purpose for your words, words that denigrate someone else because they don't vote like you, look like you or possibly worship like you.
Tell me how you are different than your targets.
Da Noid:
The Patriot act passed by wide margins in both the House (357-66) and the Senate (98-1). Must have been at least a couple of Democrats involved.
Sarah Palin told the teacher in Alaska that she was out fighting for her constitutional rights. This is a constitutional right, what say she about this? where was all this protest when the permits were being issued, where were all the protests when the building was bought. I hope the Republican party is proud for the fear and hate they have established in this country, quite a legacy.
Larry from North Dakota - the most cosmopolitan and educated part of America. Yo, Larry, let me educate you. Hospitals have the fundamental requirement to provide service to those who show up in emergency. Emergency service is the most expensive type of service, far more expensive than providing the uninsured with insurance. Get some facts before you open your uneducated pie hole.
Gingrich has it right - no new mosques. Mosques are "symbolic hate-speech" like cross burning and swastikas.
What about the old ones?
So am I to assume from that, Ray, that you do not support the First Amendment? Wouldn't that demonstrate a lack of patriotism and respect for the Founders?
Ohh, Dawnster, looks like even Harry Reid is off the reservation when it comes to Obama's endorsment of the mosque at Ground Zero:
The First Amendment protects freedom of religion," Senator Harry Reid's spokesman Jim Manley said in a statement Monday. "Senator Reid respects that but thinks that the mosque should be built some place else."
Harry knows a very tough re-election fight just got a little more tougher.
What will happen the first time gay rights activists invade the mosque during services wearing nothing but a smile?
(I know, I know, there are lots of mosques in the city and this has probably already happened.)
And, if the quote above is accurate, it is the first time in history that I've agreed with Harry Reid.
The point is not do that they have the right to build there the point is why they feel the need to put the Mosque there? They were given a chance to move it and by not doing they are the one's making a political statement. Most people in this country except the ones on this site believe it is a bad idea to put the Mosque there (70%)? We all know they can do it but the point is that it borders on being in poor taste. Our President said: I believe that Muslims have the same right to practice their religion as everyone else in this country. And that includes the right to build a place of worship and a community center on private property in Lower Manhattan, in accordance with local laws and ordinances. He is basically saying yes it is a good idea or he would not have said it in the first place or he would have left out the Lower Manhattan part. He should have just not brought it up at all. Basically every time he opens his mouth especially away from his beloved teleprompter he makes and error in judgment. I could list so many events in his first 18 months that he has hosed up: Afghanistan, Guantanamo, Henry Louis Gates, Jobs Bill that created no jobs but gave pork to a bunch of agencies that had nothing to do with jobs, Russian Missile defense, Iran, Mexico/Border security, The Gulf Oil spill, wasteful trillion dollar stimulus bill, a failed multi-trillion dollar Healthcare plan that the majority did not want (at least in the format they came up with), the cutting of nearly $500 billion of Medicare benefits to seniors, a failed $24,000 per vehicle "cash for clunkers program," the soon to be drastic increase in taxes, the appointment of arrogant Attorney General Eric Holder who seems to choose who or who not to prosecute based on race, the soon to be tripling of our national debt and so on and so on. Look the “Change” speeches sounded great and he has given way more interviews, and been on TV more than any President but he will be judged on doing not talking and most are finally realizing that they made a mistake. I am not saying the Repubs are essentially any better but I know what I have seen the last 18 months is simply not working. The single most important trait for any President is being a leader not a community organizer. Leaders lead from the front they are not list writers who need to make ever decision in a committee. Unfortunately President Obama is not a leader. I hope at some point he starts to understand that people are paying attention and the Democrats will pay and get of his Elitist high horse and start listening to the country if he does not he will end up being as bad or worse than his predecessor I am hopeful his last 2 years will be better than his first two.
And Major: Essay question: Here is what the First Amendment means to me: On the count of three....GO!
Newday: I am pretty sure I know the First Ammendment as well as you. But your point is? As I said they have the right to build the Mosque there. People have the right to do all kinds of things that defy common sense. President Obama chose to make this a Political issue. iT was an error in judgemnet and now he is trying to back track and clarify. Its too late for that as many on this site have said he shoudl have left the issue up to New Yorkers.
Only if you believe in the right wing lies, Major. We either are for religious freedom or we are not. And my friend Jody is right. Every time we back away from what we have always lived, we give the terrorists a victory. There is no Constitutional protection against hurt feelings. It doesn't really matter how sensitive people are.
It was going to be an emotionally charged political issue whether or not the President became involved. He is the President but he is also a citizen of this nation and as such has not lost or given up his right to voice his opinion as well.
Being in that office just means he is under a microscope the likes of which most of us couldn't survive.
A mosque, a church, a temple, a monastery build them all there. Maybe it is the best place to show what can happen AFTER the bigoted hates have done their worst and the rest of the good people rebuild.
What do you think Europe would be like today if forward thinkers had not approved the Marshall Plan....rather they had continued the same policies that followed WWI.
Wow, Smathers, a reasoned thoughtful analysis. I completely agree with you.
We should all agree. All people are free to practice their religion. They are free to build whatever they want, where ever they want legally. There are no exceptions. If they want to build a victory mosque, let them. They killed alot of people, but it's no victory. I'm sure we killed many more of them in Afganistan, then they killed here. Any more victories will cost them dearly. If this mosque is used for any other purpose than worship, we can shut it down.
Working on my Pilots license as we speak...