Gingrich: Libya 'badly executed,' 'as badly run as any' since WWII

From NBC’s Catherine Chomiak
Former Speaker Newt Gingrich had harsh words for the Obama administration regarding Libya this morning on TODAY.

“This isn’t serious standard,” he said of the humanitarian reasons for going into Libya. “This is a public relations standard.” He added, “The president of the United States does not report to the United Nations.” And: “By this standard, we could get engaged in all sorts of places,” including Sudan. On Khaddafy, Gingrich said, “If this is not designed to get rid of Khaddafy, then this makes no sense at all.” On whether he would have engaged in this operation, Gingrich said flatly, “I would not have intervened. There were a lot of other ways” to deal with Khaddafy. And, he said, if Khaddafy stays in power, “it will be a defeat for the United States. …

“This is about as badly run as any foreign operation in our lifetime.”

He made similar comments in an appearance on Fox last night. Gingrich said multiple times that the Obama administration doesn't know what it is doing and that there is a “lack of sophisticated planning,” “lack of professionalism,” and “lack of leadership” in dealing with the situation.

"President Obama is going to have to answer questions, because his current policy is so incoherent and so confused that it is literally indefensible," Gingrich said. "This is as badly executed, I think, as any policy we've seen since WWII, and it will become a case study for how not to engage in this type of activity," he added.

When asked about the interactions between the executive branch and the legislative one, Gingrich said, “I think this has been so badly organized and so badly planned that they have now burned a lot of bridges in Congress and I think they can't with a straight face claim to have seriously consulted the Congress and that's a huge mistake. Presidents have to have some kind of support from the congress if they're going to be able to sustain a national security of foreign policy."

Turning to Gingrich’s own potential political aspirations, he said this situation and others make him think more seriously about a presidential bid. “The obligation as a citizen to seriously consider it (the presidency) gets higher when you look at the current damage being done, but this administration on so many different fronts.”

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It really is a whole new world. Howard Dean and Joan Walsh are both all for military intervention.

Who woulda thunk?

Spin, spinny, Mcspinners. Best spin EVAH!

  • 11 votes
#1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:25 PM EDT

Spanky-

It really is a whole new world. Howard Dean and Joan Walsh are both all for military intervention.

Who woulda thunk?

Not you Spanky-you don't think. You ask questions instead.

  • 8 votes
#1.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:27 PM EDT

What about Michael Moore?

When he comes aboard, it'll make waves.

:-)

  • 10 votes
#1.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:27 PM EDT

Spanky-

It truly is a new era...Bev, of all people, is challenging your ability to reason.

A world turned upside-down.

  • 9 votes
#1.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:31 PM EDT

Gingrich was on Fox last night. I thought he was suspended. He should explain why he wants to shut down the government Again.

  • 12 votes
#1.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:32 PM EDT

Mixed - isn't Bev. just precious?

I don't "think." I just ask those pesky questions.

I just keep hoping, someday the light bulb will light. I know, it likely is a bridge too far with the old gal, but I am an optimist.

  • 7 votes
#1.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:34 PM EDT

Mixed Bag

Spanky-

It truly is a new era...Bev, of all people, is challenging your ability to reason.

Have you ever seen a proposal from Spanky? I've only seen snappish questions.

  • 6 votes
#1.6 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:34 PM EDT

I see that pesky old light bulb stubbornly refuses to light.

Say, Bev., how would your characterize the comments coming from our dear Feisty?

Insightful? Well thought out and articulated?

  • 8 votes
#1.7 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:41 PM EDT

Have you ever seen a proposal from Spanky? I've only seen snappish questions.

That's why I've had him on 'ignore' for weeks!

I don't respond to demanding little pr!cks!

You should try it Bev! Much nicer enviroment without having to wade though his crap!

  • 10 votes
#1.8 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:44 PM EDT

Oh, it's "ignore."

Not to be confused with just an inability to respond in an articulate manner. I know it's hard for you - you don't know what I look like which automatically eliminates 75% of the substance of your comments.

What color is Boehner? What size is Barbour? How many chins does Christie have?

Keep rocking it Feisty!

  • 10 votes
#1.9 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:50 PM EDT

"Not you Spanky-you don't think. You ask questions instead."

I think I may have all the questioning from Spanky figured out. He was kind enough to give me the clue yesterday: It’s all about trying to generate honest dialogue (ok- plain ol' dialogue) on a political blog. And it’s a good idea, actually. Here’s how it seems to work:

I ask one of you several questions, and you answer some or all of them, revealing YOUR position on them. I don’t tell you mine, mind you- I just smoke out yours. THEN, I pick and choose the ones I think I can argue most successfully, while making your position look weak or faulty at best. You see, it works in a courtroom where you get to do that on direct/cross/redirect..etc examinations. The only difference is- the judge MAKES you answer the questions, whereas the moderators of First Read don’t.

What he seems to find so upsetting, is, when a clown like me comes along and refuses to answer the questions, or tosses a ‘glib’ bomb in somewhere. It messes up the stride.

But- I do like the idea of fostering dialogue. I have to wonder, though, why it has to ALWAYS be “Obama/Obama Policy ALL bad, all else good”. Hell, even I don’t always hold fast to the party line. (From the last couple of days; 'McCaskill should be punished if she cheated the IRS', and 'I would have liked to see Congress consulted and brought into the Lybia no-fly decision', and some others that are not quoted).

Anyway, Spanks- yes- maybe today I’ll toss in one or two that contain whatever your definition of ‘substance’ is. Let’s see how it all unfolds. But fair warning- I’m only putting in my 2 cent’s worth up on here, and not sworn testimony.

You DO fully approve, right ‘counsellor’?

  • 10 votes
#1.10 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:50 PM EDT

That's it Feisty... just ignore those that dont agree with you...

or better yet... call them 'demanding little pr!cks!"

What a gem you are.

  • 9 votes
#1.11 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:51 PM EDT

Spanky-

I just keep hoping, someday the light bulb will light. I know, it likely is a bridge too far with the old gal, but I am an optimisit

So am I depending on what kind of lightbulb you use CFL or florescent. Anyhow, I'm hoping it will shine enough light for you. You see I'm so optimistic I'm hoping you don't fall through a gaping hole in the earth, get usurped by a giant tidal wave, a mudslide, or anything thing Mother deals you.

Be careful Spanky karma is a "bycth "when you act like a prick!!!

  • 7 votes
#1.12 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:52 PM EDT

Spanky!

I just love reading your comments each and every day. You get the best of the libs with every comment and your questions force them into facing (or running from) their hypocrisy and reality. You typically render them speechless or turn them to blubbering on aimlessly. Just had to let you know there are people like me who really enjoy your efforts. Factual, effective and entertaining....thanks

  • 7 votes
#1.13 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:56 PM EDT

What a gem you are.

Why thank you hon!

I notice I'm not the only one these days questioning your choice of moniker! ;o)

I look forward to your 'sick of the bickering' contributions each every day girlfriend!

  • 8 votes
#1.14 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:57 PM EDT

What about Michael Moore?

When he comes aboard, it'll make waves.

No, when he goes overboard it'll make waves.

Hey, I kinda like the guy and even I couldn't resist.

  • 13 votes
#1.15 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:02 PM EDT

I'm here for you John B.-

A nice "fat" one...

Right over the middle of the plate.

  • 3 votes
#1.16 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:10 PM EDT

Beverly in Chicago

Be careful Spanky karma is a "bycth "when you act like a prick!!!

NICE Bev! So lady-like. However... when I read your statement out loud it sounds as if you are talking about a ball-point pen... but you have a lisp... B-Y-C-T-H.... B-Y-C-T-H...do you have a lisp Bev? LOL!

Ah well, at least you got the last word spelled correctly... you know the word that starts with the letter P. (go figure)

  • 6 votes
#1.17 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:10 PM EDT

Just another example of the old adage;

"Where you stand depends on where you sit..."

  • 2 votes
#1.18 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:12 PM EDT

Well all right DBO.

Tell you what, let's give the dialogue a whirl. In the old way back machine we used to actually engage.

But really - your court room analogy is misplaced, although really, how often have you ever been in one? For your sake I hope never [it's never a good thing to be in court]. As I think even Bev is starting to "get" this is more akin to Meet the Press. Cause see one way or the other the "truth" always comes out in the end of a trial. It's a process. And yes it includes a lot of questioning.

Does Gregory simply allow the guest to spew their narratives? Of course not. Now why do you suppose that is? Think about what the moderator does and why.

Play or don't it makes no difference to me. I will always find a way to entertain myself. Cause really, that's all this is about. I ain't gonna change your mind, and you ain't gonna change mine.

And I love your glib, funny statements - they are perfect to dissect and question. But let's see if there is any substance, shall we? I also love that Feisty "ignores" me. Perfect. Bev. for all my bashing remains a good sport.

Or we stick with the tried and true Spanky and Drive By show? Always fun never boring.

  • 5 votes
#1.19 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:12 PM EDT

And hey - thanks Paul.

I really don't mean to bash [well ok sometimes]. And let's face it we got plenty of hypocrisy on our "side."

Again - it's all about entertainment, and making the day go a little faster. Should I spend more time working? Oh Yeah, but one I staring a mediation brief I can't stomach to finish right now, and I spent the entire weekend and all day Monday in beautiful Frenso Ca. I am burnt and need me some Bev. and Fiesty love.

  • 4 votes
#1.20 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:16 PM EDT

DBO, you've figured out Spanky to a T. I'm still waiting on ole Spanky to ask Mixedbag, JS1, NJNB, Bob-br549,Paul(MI)& several other Righties on here:

Does your employer Pay You to Post on Blogs while at Work?

Mixed, if I recall correctly, the other day You said you were in California. If that's True, I would'nt want anyone to be makeing waves, because 1 may come & wash You & Spanky Away, my Friend.

  • 6 votes
#1.21 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:24 PM EDT

@Beverly in Chicago

Spanky-

It really is a whole new world. Howard Dean and Joan Walsh are both all for military intervention.

Who woulda thunk?

Not you Spanky-you don't think. You ask questions instead.

Beverly from Chicago, I find you comments rather interesting. Rather than discuss a point, you instead seem to attack people with comments from Soros web sites or from your personal ignorance.

From reading prior posts you and others appear to have issues with anyone who may disagree with your position. Why not instead comment with salient position points rather than name calling? I recognize this is a liberal site, but surely sane discussion can be submitted and acted upon in a rational manner.

  • 4 votes
#1.22 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:27 PM EDT

Rick - do the aformentioned post at work? Are they the worker bees?

See I post at work too. My employer happens to be ok with it - cause "he" knows I worked 30 hours over the weekend. In fact that bastard owes me.

So Rick, just what is JS1, NJNB or the others work schedules? Rick - engaging in speculation is bad. Don't do it buddy.

  • 6 votes
#1.23 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:31 PM EDT

Once again, we have a Stupid Statement coming from yet another Stupid Republican(Newt)& what does America's esteemed MSM do instead of cutting him off midsentence:

They put it up in Big Bright Bold Letter's & treat it as Gospel.

Comeon America, it's hard fighting the MSM from Rural KY, but i'ma trying!

The Only sane Politician "Our President" is being drownedout by our MSM with STUPID NONSENSE!

In these trying times across the World, should'nt we be asking for more Truth & Not just Stupid BS to report on?

No Speculation Spanky, it's just you chased DBO for months asking That question, so Why Not these I mentioned?

ComeOnMan ! Be True to yourself!

  • 5 votes
#1.24 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:33 PM EDT

Spanky….

I hear ya about work. I squeeze in sometime around my lunch hour to read the entertainment, but not much time for posts. Not that it would do any good, as you and I both know it isn’t going to change anything. But hey, your efforts aren’t a total waste though, cause I certainly enjoy it. Keep on Keeping on.

  • 4 votes
#1.25 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:36 PM EDT

Rick - you have missed the point. It was fun chasing around DBO. I also like to chase Anna M around. Until she chases me back, but then I got a ig weakness for pushy female attys.

You'll note that I also chase around others, like Bev. and my girl Feisty. So What?

  • 4 votes
#1.26 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:41 PM EDT

swampyjackpot

@Beverly in Chicago


Beverly from Chicago, I find you comments rather interesting. Rather than discuss a point, you instead seem to attack people with comments from Soros web sites or from your personal ignorance.

From reading prior posts you and others appear to have issues with anyone who may disagree with your position. Why not instead comment with salient position points rather than name calling? I recognize this is a liberal site, but surely sane discussion can be submitted and acted upon in a rational manner.

I find it interesting that you find me ignorant. Unless of course you mean ignorant to the understandings of the pea brain most righties posses? Surely, you don't expect me to agree with the retarded talking points of the KOCH suckers here. Although, there have been a few times a few righties and I have agreed. You are ignorant of that, naturally, since you probably did not see them!!

SickOfTheBickering

Beverly in Chicago

Be careful Spanky karma is a "bycth "when you act like a prick!!!

NICE Bev! So lady-like. However... when I read your statement out loud it sounds as if you are talking about a ball-point pen... but you have a lisp... B-Y-C-T-H.... B-Y-C-T-H...do you have a lisp Bev? LOL!

I know you are not calling me a bitch!!!

Ah well, at least you got the last word spelled correctly... you know the word that starts with the letter P. (go figure)

What "P" word?

  • 3 votes
#1.27 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:43 PM EDT

Rick, Ky-

I hate to say this, Rick...but you're only reinforcing the mainstream media's negative stereotypes about the citizens who reside in rural Kentucky.

I refuse to believe that you're typical.

  • 5 votes
#1.28 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:55 PM EDT

Beverly, I haven't resorted to childish name-calling since grade school, and I have no desire to continue at this stage of my life.

But I will comment that you are not tolerant to other opinions. After all, you may not be correct in your assumptions, or post while going off half cocked?

I've read several of your comments about the Koch Brothers, and well, can you tell me how the Koch money differs from the Soros money? Each element has contributed considerable amounts of funds to produce a desired outcome; one for a conservative view while the other promotes a progressive view? Are they not both in the same business, buying results?

  • 8 votes
#1.29 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:09 PM EDT

Mixed Bag

I'm here for you John B.-

A nice "fat" one...

Right over the middle of the plate.

----------------------

this gave me a massive 'ewwwwwwwwwwww' response. And then I realized he was talking about baseballs and not Tea Bags,...very funny stuff.

  • 6 votes
#1.30 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:38 PM EDT

Wow, Clara-

It suddenly occurred to me that maybe you don't understand most of my posts at all...

That would explain your responses.

I don't go there, Clara...

You do.

  • 4 votes
#1.31 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:05 PM EDT

Beverly:

So am I depending on what kind of lightbulb you use CFL or florescent.

Not to be pedantic but... CFL are fluorescent. Compact Fluorescent Light.

Not the best way to appear educated.

  • 4 votes
#1.32 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:09 PM EDT

"Or we stick with the tried and true Spanky and Drive By show? Always fun never boring."

But observe- the day I decide to get a little serrious, everyone else is thowing the spitballs!

  • 1 vote
#1.33 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:25 PM EDT

swampyjackpot

Beverly, I haven't resorted to childish name-calling since grade school, and I have no desire to continue at this stage of my life.

That's your prerogative. Good for you

I've read several of your comments about the Koch Brothers, and well, can you tell me how the Koch money differs from the Soros money? Each element has contributed considerable amounts of funds to produce a desired outcome; one for a conservative view while the other promotes a progressive view? Are they not both in the same business, buying results?

That's easy..

According to an August 30, 2010 article in The New Yorker magazine, "In 1999, a jury found Koch Industries guilty of negligence and malice in the deaths of two Texas teen-agers in an explosion that resulted from a leaky underground butane pipeline. (In 2001, the company paid an undisclosed settlement.)

http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Koch_Industries#Pollution

Pollution

Koch Industries is also a major polluter. During the 1990s, its faulty pipelines were responsible for more than 300 oil spills in five states, prompting a landmark penalty of $35 million from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In Minnesota, it was fined an additional $8 million for discharging oil into streams. During the months leading up to the 2000 presidential elections, the company faced even more liability, in the form of a 97-count federal indictment charging it with concealing illegal releases of 91 metric tons of benzene, a known carcinogen, from its refinery in Corpus Christi, Texas. Koch Industries was ranked number 10 on the list of Toxic 100 Air Polluters by thePolitical Economy Research Institute in March, 2010.

http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Koch_Industries#Pollution


Koch subsidiary donates $1 million to stop California global warming law

http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Koch_Industries#Pollution


Koch Industries, Scott Walker, and Wisconsin power plants

In Feb. 2011, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker introduced a governor's budget repair bill that would deny collective-bargaining rights to public-sector workers, and included language that would allow for the selling off of state-owned power plants, as well as enable officials appointed by the governor to make sweeping cuts in health coverage for low-income families without having to go through the normal legislative process.[36]

http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Koch_Industries#Pollution


Justices Scalia & Thomas

Scalia and Thomas attend Koch strategy retreat

On October 19, 2010, the N.Y. Times reported on a personalized invitation signed by Charles Koch to prospective members to "develop strategies to counter the most severe threats facing our free society and outline a vision of how we can foster a renewal of American free enterprise and prosperity

http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Koch_Industries#Pollution



Therein lies the difference Soros wants to help the planet and people.


Also, Soros hasn't killed anyone to my knowledge for greed and power or buying off Supreme Court judges.


  • 6 votes
#1.34 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:31 PM EDT

Bags:

Feigned Outrage? Really?

I don't always go there; but when they're lobbed nice and soft across the plate - How am I to resist?

  • 5 votes
#1.36 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:45 PM EDT

Oh just stop - everybody [Bev.] knows that Soros is a benevolent benefactor or mankind, and only seeks to help. Whereas the Koch brothers are malevolent forces of pure evil.

I know this because I have read these exact quotes here at First Read. I do wonder from time to time if any of the fine folk around here have ever investigated Sorros' background. I mean, really all you need to do is google the fine fellow, and Viola!

Plus isn't it interesting that the Koch has contributed so much to democratic causes and the democratic party? But I digress.

Now let's play a little game: which of the two sets of players has openly engaged in currency manipulation in Europe? And really the Kochs are certainly players, but they ain't the "real" money players. But see Rachel has not informed the Bev.s out there of the actual "boogeyman."

  • 6 votes
#1.37 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:52 PM EDT

Why not instead comment with salient position points rather than name calling

Why not practice what you preach?

When you have an empty suit in a leadership position

We're already overcrowded with the sanctimonious clique around here...

  • 6 votes
#1.38 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:53 PM EDT

Whatever, Clara...

You know where your mind goes...

I don't have to tell you, do I?

  • 3 votes
#1.39 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:57 PM EDT

Rick,Ky

"Once again, we have a Stupid Statement coming from yet another Stupid Republican(Newt)& what does America's esteemed MSM do instead of cutting him off midsentence:

They put it up in Big Bright Bold Letter's & treat it as Gospel."

But Rick- this may not be a bad thing. I mean, Newt's so far 'out there', maybe we all SHOULD get to hear what comes out of his twelve-sandwich-eating-wife-abandoning mouth. I mean, look how the ad over-playing that 'Aqua Buddah' nonsense actually may have helped Paul....

  • 2 votes
#1.41 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:30 PM EDT

It's like Rand Paul said when questioning one of O's minions - "you are pro-choice when it comes to reproduction, but anti-choice when it comes to toilets and light bulbs."

That is damn spot on.

Low flow toilets don't work - I got a big family. When me and my boys drop off friends around the pool, high flow is what it takes to get the job done. And really does anyone actually like CFLs?

I bought out Home Depot last year of all their 100 watt old school bulbs. So in true "rebulican" fashion - I got mine. I keep telling you all - you got to see the forrest, and you got to think ahead. :)

  • 4 votes
#1.42 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:35 PM EDT

"He's not an empty suit.....he's a underqualified, inexperienced, community organizer.."

.......That managed to beat the high-end, top-drawer combo of McCain/Palin. No wonder you guys are so irritated all the time on here.

  • 2 votes
#1.43 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:38 PM EDT

Beverly in Chicago

swampyjackpot

Beverly, I haven't resorted to childish name-calling since grade school, and I have no desire to continue at this stage of my life.

That's your prerogative. Good for you

If I understand what Bev is saying (and you never really know what she is babbling about), she is acknowledging that she does in fact resort to childish name calling.

Good for you Bev, admitting you have a problem is the first step.

  • 1 vote
#1.45 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 5:05 PM EDT

Quick DBO - compare and contrast Newt and Liz Taylor's love lives and ability to put back a nice sandwich. :(

Ouch, timing kinda sucked on that one brother.

  • 1 vote
#1.46 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 5:06 PM EDT

LIz didn't want to be our leader. Or preach morals to us.

Actually, I was more in the mood for a quick shot of self-deprication: Old Newt is kind of like Me and Sarah- all mouth, little substance. But, then I realized they both have the big bucks, and all I have is this oddball sense of humor.

  • 2 votes
#1.47 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 5:25 PM EDT

Oh, and just so I might have a shot at joinging the OTHER secret-treehouse club- I stocked up on some 300 Watt incadescent bulbs for the extra garage. They don't make those curlie-fry jobbis in that kind of wattage, I don't think, and us old guys have to see.

    #1.48 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 5:28 PM EDT

    fiesty (post 1.38) - LMAO!! Do you ever think?

    We're already overcrowded with the sanctimonious clique around here...

    So why not take your sacnctimonious azz and your chihuahua gang somewhere else? We won't follow.

      #1.49 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 6:03 PM EDT
      Reply

      “This is about as badly run as any foreign operation in our lifetime.”

      Hey there Newt...per chance is this statement a veiled reference to Iraq?

      Afterall for Iraq, first it was 9/11 then...... the WMD....then evil despot Sadam has to be removed....then spread Democracy...on and on with the lies!

      Would you Newt, say that Iraq was badly run?

      • 11 votes
      #2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:28 PM EDT

      Good point Chilled.

      Are there regular elections in Iraq? Is Sadam still chilling there?

      Is democracy spreading in the middle east?

      And for goodness sake when will Obama pull out of these ridiculous, costly wars so we can spend that money here? Shouldn't we at least try to learn from our past mistakes? Because is Iraq is so terrible, and we know Afghanistan sucks, why on god's green earth are we startin' up another?

      Not very Chill like, is it?

      • 7 votes
      #2.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:37 PM EDT

      chilled

      Would you Newt, say that Iraq was badly run?

      Excellent chilled, I didn't even think of Iraq. Might I add how badly Afhanistan was run since Bush dropped the ball to go after the oil in Iraq?

      • 6 votes
      #2.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:39 PM EDT

      Bev. how would characterize the current goings on in Afghanistan? Every thing going good? You are in favor of continuing the conflict and were ok with increasing the troops?

      Bev. in you opinion has Obama done any ball dropping? [ speaking of which - I wonder if he does any tea bagging].

      • 4 votes
      #2.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:43 PM EDT

      Howdy Spanky!

      Sadam is really chilling is suppose but I have no ideas on the disposition of his 'soul'!

      Democracy spreading.....not so much...I really do not ascribe to the 'spreading democracy mantra'....countries are individually what they are.......humanitarian missions always are troublesome when choices are made between different peoples.......

      Ya' know, intervene on the behalf of some folks, and not on others!

      Learm from mistakes.....absolutely!....That applies to all!

      • 3 votes
      #2.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:50 PM EDT

      Bev, the Newster has selective memory, no memory, absolutely hypocritical or just lies!

      Probably the 'just lies' part!

      • 7 votes
      #2.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:52 PM EDT

      Exactly so, chilled. Newtie is pretty much the prototype for the modern Conservative leader...no facts, no integrity, but sell sell sell!

      • 7 votes
      #2.6 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:05 PM EDT

      Typical Republican Liar

      Think Progress:

      Earlier this month, former Speaker of the House and current presidential hopeful Newt Gingrich was hammering President Obama for not intervening in Libya. Asked, “what would you do about Libya?” Gingrich responded:

      Exercise a no-fly zone this evening. … We don’t need to have the United Nations. All we have to say is that we think that slaughtering your own citizens is unacceptable and that we’re intervening.

      During appearances that same day, Gingrich also said that he would provide help to the Libyan rebels on top of the no-fly zone: “This is a moment to get rid of him. Do it. Get it over with.”

      ________

      Where these statements brought up during his latest medial go 'round.

      • 11 votes
      #2.7 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:18 PM EDT

      Matt Lauer should be ashamed of himself for not challenging Newt on that bit of hyperbole.

      "since WWII".

      Seriously.

      Did Newt sleep through Vietnam, Somalia, Afghanistan and Iraq?

      • 11 votes
      #2.8 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:18 PM EDT

      Gosh Chilled - it sure seems something is spreading in the Middle East - Tunisia, Egypt, Libya...

      It might not be true democracy, but it sure ain't the same old dictatorships. So that has nothing to do with Iraq or the influence of the US?

      But I agree - we shouldn't be intervening for anyone. Who are we to choose winners and losers? For christ sake we have chosen so poorly in the past.

      • 3 votes
      #2.9 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:20 PM EDT

      We gotta intervene in North Africa and elsewhere on that Continent, but that does NOT include sub-Saharan countries...those folks can ...well, whatever!

      • 6 votes
      #2.10 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:29 PM EDT

      Chilled? WTF?

      Or are you a huge fan of ancient Egyptian artifacts?

      • 2 votes
      #2.11 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:33 PM EDT

      In the World According to Newt, any military action begun by a republican President is A-OKAY no matter the outcome, who cares that after 8 years that GOPer Pres still had not finished either of the two "military interventions" he started.

      • 10 votes
      #2.12 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:44 PM EDT

      Newt is trying to say "I think I can, I think I can Run, I think I can run for, I think I can run this war better than I can run for president."

      • 2 votes
      #2.13 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:32 PM EDT

      Spanky-

      You and I are hardly typical of the average First Read blogger...for innumerable reasons.

      Anyway...check this out:

      "Enabling Iraqis to write their own social contract is the most important thing America did. It was, in fact, the most important liberal experiment in modern Arab history..."

      -Tom Friedman, New York Times Op-Ed, March 22, 2011-

      Tom Friedman, Spanky...in the NY Times.

      I love First Read, Spanky...I just love it here.

      • 4 votes
      #2.14 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:51 PM EDT

      Thanks, MB.

      But really what do we make of my man Chilled's crack about the sub-African nations? Now, far be it from me to read between the lines, but the farther south you go, the darker it gets.

      To qoute from Blazing Saddles: "Are we Black?"

      Chilled, you got some 'splaining to do.

      And MB - Friedman got it right, but admitting to that around here would take a whole lot of Mcspinning, right?

      • 2 votes
      #2.15 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:56 PM EDT

      Spanky-

      Tom's having his own struggle with what he said...

      You think Feisty, Bev, and Houston can get their minds (sic) around it?

      • 2 votes
      #2.16 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:02 PM EDT

      Jody,

      Compared to the laugher that Obama is proving? Question, who's leading this goat rope? Where's Biden? What does he have to say? Maybe, this is a big F***ing deal!!

        #2.17 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:04 PM EDT

        However much Rove pays Spanky and Mixed Bag, its way to much.

        • 4 votes
        #2.18 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:13 PM EDT

        Pay me to agree with you, Patrick...

        Just remember...it's far cheaper to pay me to tell the truth.

        Anyway...

        Is there an offer on the table?

        • 1 vote
        #2.19 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:16 PM EDT

        However much Rove pays Spanky and Mixed Bag, its way to much.

        You forget selfish redhead aka JoAnna Smith1! lol

        Just so you know, the trolls no longer get paid by the word, you have to respond to them directly in order for them to collect their check these days! ;o)

        Explains why most of what they post is incoherent & we waste our time trying to dechiper & responding to it...

        Isn't that right full moon?

        • 3 votes
        #2.20 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:17 PM EDT

        Yup, I posted that Spanky.....

        Massive Continent, but south of the Sahara...(dark/black) folks.......ya' know those 'Africans'!

        ....can't stop genocide, or the colonial attitude that still exists.....

        Let the colonials show you 'Africans' how to mine diamonds and other precious stones and metals!

        • 1 vote
        #2.21 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:19 PM EDT

        Feisty and Patrick...

        Convinced that no one could possibly disagree with them unless paid to do so...

        As egocentric as President Obama is...

        He's probably willing to concede that at least some of the opposition actually disagrees with his policies, on the merits.

        Of course...President Obama is a lot smarter than Feisty or Patrick.

        • 2 votes
        #2.22 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:28 PM EDT

        FR. Mixed Bag wants me to pay him, that would make no sense, he is far more effective to progressives as a defender of the indefensible. Wouldn't you agree?

        • 4 votes
        #2.23 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:36 PM EDT

        Mixed Bag. Not true, a lot of people have principled disagreements with Obama. Newt is not one of them

        • 3 votes
        #2.24 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:39 PM EDT

        All right Chilled, now we are talking.

        I agree, but how is it any different with the middle east? Shiites gonna be all hating on the Sunnis and vice versa, right. Not like the arabs knew how to find and extract all that oil, right? They had a little help from the "colonials." [wink, wink]

        Pull out and let 'em all go down. Drill here and the whole place creeps abck in to obscurity.

        But I do wonder what our girl Bev might have to say regarding you assertions on the "Dark continent."

        And Pat - where can I get in on the pay thing-y? And how's that parakeet of yours? Still smarter than the average conservative?

        Feisty - either we actually ignore, like to say, or not. This passive-aggressive tendency speak only in broad generalities is just dumb. Even for you. k?

        • 2 votes
        #2.25 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:44 PM EDT

        Patrick-

        Methinks you "doth protest too much."

        Now...

        What's your offer for me to tell lies, Patrick?

        • 1 vote
        #2.26 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:45 PM EDT

        Well I would want to know what you are being paid now for telling lies?

        • 4 votes
        #2.27 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:51 PM EDT

        Wouldn't you agree?

        YOU BETCHA!!! LOL

        For giggles, you should have someone other than yourself, open up a thread and read to YOU - Mixed Bag, Joanna's Spanky's and the rest comments!

        I'll bet you a Chicago style deep dish pizza, you won't be able to tell which ones which! ;o)

        The trolling 'style' is identical!

        Drop outs from the University of Trolling!

        • 3 votes
        #2.28 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:53 PM EDT

        For the truth...nothing, Patrick.

        That's free.

        You clearly haven't been paying attention...not paying attention would appear to be the default setting for First Read liberals, Patrick.

        Now...

        About the cost for agreeing with YOU...

        The more you talk...the higher the price of lies rises.

        You're really a poor negotiator.

        Perhaps Feisty could save you both some money...?

          #2.29 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:58 PM EDT

          Spanky. You will have to ask mixed bag, he seems to know what the going rate is. As for the parakeet, unfortunately he passed away (pre exsisting condition) But, yes, he is still smarter then you.

            #2.30 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 5:00 PM EDT

            Dang, Feisty...

            I though you had me on "ignore".

            Sorry, Patrick...

            Feisty is as bad a negotiator as you are.

            It's a close call, but...

            I think you're smarter, for what it's worth. Don't worry...that was free too.

              #2.31 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 5:02 PM EDT

              FR. My guess is they are graduates of the Limbough institute.

              • 2 votes
              #2.32 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 5:04 PM EDT

              Come on now Pat - you know Rush is on during, ummm, working hours.

              Try again. COme on give it some effort this time. Dead parakeet notwithstanding.

              Feisty - trying so hard to rock the blast button. Feisty, you passive aggressive little tramp. I love you!

              • 1 vote
              #2.33 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 5:10 PM EDT

              I though you had me on "ignore".

              Nahhh full moon! You and the rest of the old 'gang' aren't' special' enough to earn the 'ignore' button!

              I enjoy the repetition out of all of you!

              You remind me of the old vinyl records, when the needle would get stuck!

              • 2 votes
              #2.34 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 5:10 PM EDT

              Spanky. I have no idea when Rush is on, and have less interest.

                #2.35 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 5:14 PM EDT

                So then it's like I told old Rick - speculation is bad. Don't do it.

                Me, I like Air America, and love, love , love Ed Schultz. But I'm afraid Pat. Afraid his show just will not make it. So please do what you can to support him.

                Damn - I should get paid for this!

                • 1 vote
                #2.36 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 5:46 PM EDT

                Good, Feisty-

                Maybe I'll also remind you of all the other old, useless ones who actually served to make sure that you could spew your nonsense here at First Read.

                • 2 votes
                #2.37 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 6:14 PM EDT
                Reply

                Why does the Today Show give Gingrich such prime coverage. I had to change the channel. He isn't even an elected official! (And he was run out of his last elected position). Why do people like this get to have such a platform when they don't have to live with the consequences of their opinions. It is easy to be an armchair quarterback...plus if Obama had chosen to not intervene in Libya, then I would seriously guess that Gingrich would be on the Today Show complaining that he didn't intervene. He is going to be critical of whatever President Obama does, so why is this "news worthy"?

                • 14 votes
                Reply#3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:30 PM EDT

                Amen Colorado Crenshaw!

                • 10 votes
                #3.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:39 PM EDT

                Isn't it great that you can simply change the channel when something comes on you don't like?

                If only more folk did that Fox would go away, and MSNBC would have some decent ratings for a change.

                Come on people learn from Colorado C.

                • 4 votes
                #3.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:39 PM EDT

                Former Speaker Newt Gingrich had harsh words for the Obama administration regarding Libya this morning on TODAY.

                What did you expect? Possible a hug? Seriously?

                Why does the Today Show give Gingrich such prime coverage.

                I'm wondering the same thing! They don't even bother to have anyone on to counter punch his BS!

                Yesterday we had, McNasty entertaining us with his lack of coherence, today we get a serial adulterer hitting all the tea bagger talking points...

                Can't wait to see what member of the Motley Crew they have lined up for tomorrow... maybe it will be Boss Hog's turn at the mic!

                • 12 votes
                #3.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:42 PM EDT

                Excellent point, Colorado Crenshaw and Feisty. And now they have to give equal time to the other dozen Republicans running in the Republican primary, just to be "fair."

                Can't wait for Sunday and Meet The Press to see which Republican will be on for Mr. Gregory to pitch his softball questions to:" tell me, (Palin/Trump/Gingrich/Romney/Pawlenty/Santorum/Bahmann/Huntsmen/Barbour/Daniels) do you think The President has been passive in dealing with Libya?"

                • 9 votes
                #3.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:43 PM EDT

                So to punish NBC for choosing such a crappy moderator you will:

                1. not watch;

                2. watch, but complain bitterly?

                Amy, which do you think would cause them to change moderators, get better guests, and ask better questions?

                And HEY!!!! Bev, and Drive By just why is it do you think the moderators ask so many pesky questions? You guys hate questioning around here, yet you watch those types of shows? Huh?

                • 6 votes
                #3.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:47 PM EDT

                Alright, Bev- did you leak my viewing habits to Spank when I wasn't looking?

                • 7 votes
                #3.6 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:56 PM EDT

                Spanky-

                Bev, and Drive By just why is it do you think the moderators ask so many pesky questions? You guys hate questioning around here, yet you watch those types of shows? Huh?

                You're not a talk show host or do you see yourself as one?

                • 3 votes
                #3.7 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:01 PM EDT

                Beverly in Chicago

                You're not a talk show host or do you see yourself as one?

                OMG... SHE REALLY DOES NOT GET IT!

                • 6 votes
                #3.8 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:03 PM EDT

                The light bulb in her head must be one of them new fangled "energy efficient" fluorescent. You know the kind that cost triple, work poorly, and last a fraction of the time?

                Again - we will continue to work WITH bev. to assist her understanding. I really do think she benefits from this board.

                Optimistic to a fault I suppose.

                • 5 votes
                #3.9 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:23 PM EDT

                Cheers to you, Colorado Crenshaw! I've been wondering that myself. Newt Gingrich has zero credibility and very little integrity. How I wish someone had asked him about the scams he runs for his annual "awards", to receive the award, the recipient must pay $500. That's a lot like the phone call advising that you've won a free trip to.....all you have to do is.....

                • 10 votes
                #3.10 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:49 PM EDT

                Jody,

                The really funny part of that "awards" story is that Gingrich gave one to a woman who runs a strip joint in Texas in 2009. When she informed his minions who she was they were embarrassed, "oops". Then turned around and sent her another announcement 2010!

                Can you say "lack of professionalism"?

                The Newtster is hilarious.

                • 8 votes
                #3.11 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:02 PM EDT

                Hey - let's not be talking ill of strip clubs.

                There are a lot of real nice girls working their way through college. I know cause they tell me that all the time.

                They ain't lying to me, are they?

                • 2 votes
                #3.12 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:59 PM EDT

                Spanky and Mixed- (Oh, ok, TrueAmerican- you too...): better take it easy on all the comaraderie, or some JoAnna-type thing will come along accuse you of belonging to some secret club.

                That meets in treehouses.

                Me? I think friends are special, so I won't make fun of you. Honest.

                • 2 votes
                #3.13 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:48 PM EDT

                Then you are totally invited to the Strip Club!

                By the way - I'll just go ahead and say it [especially in light of the comments about me below - thank you Salt Grass] BEST. THREAD. EVAH!

                  #3.14 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 5:13 PM EDT
                  Reply

                  “What if [Obama] is so outside our comprehension, that only if you understand Kenyan, anti-colonial behavior, can you begin to piece together [his actions]?” Gingrich asks. “That is the most accurate, predictive model for his behavior.”

                  “This is a person who is fundamentally out of touch with how the world works, who happened to have played a wonderful con, as a result of which he is now president,” Gingrich tells us.

                  _____________

                  Gingrich is a fruit cake.

                  • 17 votes
                  Reply#4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:39 PM EDT

                  I agree, Pat, but you have to see that this is probably one of the most disorganized actions are military has ever taken; the "rebels" are standing there, not moving; what comes next?

                  I supported President Obama's decision to join this military "no fly zone;" however, I also believed the coalition had a plan -- after four days now, it has become evident, there is no "plan!!" It is a disaster now -- this quote by one of the rebels sums it up rather well:

                  "Sheltering from tank fire behind sand dunes near Ajdabiyah, rebel fighters lack leadership, experience and any clear plan of action. One fighter, Mohamed Bhreka, asked who was in command, shrugged and said: "Nobody is. We are volunteers. We just come here. There is no plan.""

                  THERE IS NO PLAN!!

                  I supported this 100 percent, as a genocide in Benghazi was hours from happening; however, I also believed the coalition had a clue; they don't, and sadly, that includes President Obama. This is just terrible now!!

                  • 3 votes
                  #4.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:19 PM EDT

                  If Gingrich had ever been in combat, he would know: War is a disorganized, brutal, risky, terrifying, horrible endeavor. When is it ever not?

                  • 7 votes
                  #4.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:35 PM EDT

                  So why Libya Amy? Why now?

                  You realize you have laid out a great argument against Obama's war?

                  • 3 votes
                  #4.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:42 PM EDT

                  @Pam - at least they're not being slaughtered. If we did nothing, then it would be "he isn't doing anything". What is the human thing to do, stand by and watch genocide, or at least stop that and give the country a chance to come up with its people's plan.

                  Yes, the fighters lack leadership...but they know what they have isn't working. And thank god, we do not have to step in and be the #1 spot and all that demands, all of the time. Thank you Mr. President for doing the humanitarian mission, with the UN approval and NATO support! Thank you Mr. President for now being a "cowboy"!

                  • 5 votes
                  #4.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:56 PM EDT

                  Pat, I agree. Newt makes no sense 90% of the time, and the other 10% needs careful scrutiny.

                  I think President Obama is so outside the GOP's (and the media's) comprehension that he consistently leaves them in the dust. While they bluster, throw tantrums and hissy fits, spend hours dissecting a topic or action, discuss how wrong the President is and why he's hasn't done enough or has done too much or didn't make this or that clear or....it's over and they're left wondering what happened. Next topic, please.

                  • 10 votes
                  #4.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:59 PM EDT

                  typo: Thank you Mr. President for NOT being a cowboy

                  • 4 votes
                  #4.6 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:03 PM EDT

                  Jody:

                  Stop being so naive'. They are all POLITICIANS including Obama. The ALL know exactly what they are saying and they ALL know the reception it will get even before it is said. Do not make the mistake that so many on your side make by thinking Republicans are dumb and do not understand politics. These guys have done this stuff most of their lives and point blank are professional politicians.

                  Obama is no more an astute politician as Gingrich or anyone else that has been around a minute. Newt is not a stupid man. He may not make any sense to you but you are not the audience he is trying to reach. ALL POLITICIANS preach to their particular audience including Obama.

                  • 5 votes
                  #4.7 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:16 PM EDT

                  Cathy:

                  What does being a cowboy has to do with the cost of tea in China?

                  You and no one else on this message board knows what is really going on behind closed doors. You have no idea what type of diplomacy, threats, deals, promises, etc.....is going on in secret meetings. There are a lot of people on both sides in Congress that knew exactly what he was going to do because it was discussed, they weren't actually in the dark. They most likely relayed to Obama "we're going to slash you in public but go ahead and do what you feel you must do"......That is how politicians get down in America.

                  • 3 votes
                  #4.8 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:22 PM EDT

                  Jody -- None of us on the left said, "next topic, please," when it came to Iraq -- I said above I was 100 percent behind President Obama's decision to join the coalition and STOP the genocide that WAS going to happen in Libya. Having said that, just because President Obama is a "democrat," does not mean we do not question what the purpose of this mission is; it HAS NOT been laid out for anyone, including Americans.

                  I find it very hypocritical, while we have our military in harms way, that you would state, "next topic, please," when I know darn well, that you, nor any other liberal, including myself, would have stated the same if Bush had taken these exact same actions!

                  I am glad we joined the coalition; I do fear, however, that we have not been told the truth; I believe now that ground troops WILL go in, which I stated at the beginning I would NEVER support, as Obama's own people have been on every station from CNN to MSNBC stating the "no fly zone" is now in place" - okay, Ghadafi is still bombing and murdering his people and there isn't anything else we can do from the air now -- Obama's people are saying this; it should not take a rocket scientist to figure out we were either a.) lied to; or b.) this was a poorly planned, thrown together mission with no "what ifs" answered prior to the first fighter jet taking off from France. It is crystal clear what we will be told next, "we must send ground troops in" -- I know it, and I know deep down inside, every single liberal here knows it, too. It is one thing to support the president on this, I did; it is altogether another to support a new WAR!! And that, Jody, is exactly what we WILL be getting into.....stay tuned!!

                  • 3 votes
                  #4.9 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:24 PM EDT

                  Lets start making excuses Amy...maybe time for you to get off his knob.

                    #4.10 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:30 PM EDT

                    In the middle.

                    Based on Newts comments he not in the room either.

                    • 2 votes
                    #4.11 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:36 PM EDT

                    In The Middle

                    "...

                    Obama is no more an astute politician as Gingrich or anyone else that has been around a minute. Newt is not a stupid man. He may not make any sense to you but you are not the audience he is trying to reach. ALL POLITICIANS preach to their particular audience including Obama."

                    Well, I'd say he's astute enough to get elected. Thankfully, Gingrich doesn't have THAT level of astuteness.

                    Obama IS the President. Gingrich NEVER will be. Seems pretty cut and dried to me.

                    PS. Are you looking for discounted tea in China? Can't find a good local blend? Buy American, ITM.

                    ------------------

                    and since I am usually snarky with you, I want to say I appreciate your honest assessment of how the Libya conversation probably went down. very refreshing.

                    • 5 votes
                    #4.12 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:51 PM EDT

                    He is a total nut, Pat. I guess Gingrinch missed the part in history where the Allies WON WWII. What always interests me about Gingrinch, other than people thinking he has ANY credibility, is that he comes up with all these paranoid and off the wall reasons why a policy is wrong...but he is NEVER able to articulate what he would do differently. The man is a legend in his own mind, and other than being good for the occasional laugh, ought to be ignored.

                    • 9 votes
                    #4.13 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:08 PM EDT

                    Pam, San Pedro. Please note: I said the GOP and the media; I did not say democrats nor did I mention Iraq. I was referring to the constant barrage of media and GOP chatter no matter what the President does or says; it is petty and it simply means they do not comprehend the President and many times, they discover the issue is solved and done while they threw fits; and THEY (the media and GOP) quickly move to the next topic to begin the entire barrage of negativity and Obama bashing all over again.

                    ITM, naive, not me--I've been watching the media and the GOP for 26 months and what I described is exactly what both do and neither of them comprehend President Obama because he has always left them in the dust wondering what happened.

                    • 2 votes
                    #4.14 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:25 PM EDT
                    Reply

                    Gingrich: "This is as badly executed, I think, as any policy we've seen since WWII, and it will become a case study for how not to engage in this type of activity," he added.

                    What's that saying again? That if you actually remember the 60's (because you weren't high on drugs the whole time), you weren't actually there? I'd have said Vietnam was the case study for how not to execute any type of military activity. But then, what do I know - I actually do remember the 60's. Does Newt?

                    • 10 votes
                    Reply#5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:46 PM EDT

                    Good point, JoAnne. Talk about rambling and nonsensical. No, I don't think Newt has any idea what he said and my money's on that tomorrow he'll have a whole different opinion.

                    • 7 votes
                    #5.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:03 PM EDT

                    Vietnam was badly executed due to POLITICIANS trying to run the war. Why do you think today politicians are always saying "I'll listen to the generals on the ground"?

                    If the military had been unhancuffed in Nam, they would have tamed that country in less than a year.

                    • 3 votes
                    #5.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:26 PM EDT

                    I've heard more rational policy arguments from taxi drivers.

                    Gingrich is a gadfly, not a serious Presidential candidate.

                    gadfly: a person who stimulates or annoys especially by persistent criticism

                    from wikipedia:

                    A gadfly is a person who upsets the status quo by posing upsetting or novel questions, or just being an irritant. The term has been used to describe many politicians and social commentators.[

                    • 3 votes
                    #5.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:18 PM EDT

                    Amy B. Portland, ME

                    A gadfly is a person who upsets the status quo by posing upsetting or novel questions, or just being an irritant.

                    Are you describing Spanky?

                    • 1 vote
                    #5.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 6:22 PM EDT
                    Reply

                    Lets see Newt has throw his hat into the ring, so he not going to say anything nice about the guy he want to replace. Then we have the problem with Newt being on Fox when he is suppose to be suspended. Then if the military action is turn over to NATO/UN then Obama is not turning to Congress and have to ask for money. Newt may criticize but it was a strategist move.

                    • 6 votes
                    Reply#6 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 12:52 PM EDT

                    Newt:

                    “This is about as badly run as any foreign operation in our lifetime.”

                    Oh, I don't know, Newt. I'm thinking that Lebanon in 1983, or maybe Iraq, from 2003 until just after the 2006 election -- and oh, yeah, Vietnam -- might qualify as AT LEAST as poorly conceived and executed as Libya.

                    But thanks, Newt, for getting me off the fence. If you're against it, then I'm for it. I just want to know how we can afford it and why no one, including the self-proclaimed "warmongers" on this board, seems to be worrying about that.

                    .

                    • 13 votes
                    Reply#7 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:07 PM EDT

                    Unfortunately that sums it up for just about every one, which is why the world is upside down.

                    Dean and Walsh FOR war? Anna M for the indiscriminate killing of African?

                    Who woulda thunk? that policy doesn't seem to benefit you average public employee. So what is the unionization rates in the munitions industries?

                    • 3 votes
                    #7.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:26 PM EDT

                    ah, the memories...disbanding the Iraiqi army which resulted in a break down of law and order after the invasion, how about the action that resulted in the death by friendly fire of Lt. Tillman in Afghanistan? I'm sure the soldiers who have gone on multiple rotations to these battles have a few examples they could mention, better than me of Gingrich. IPerhaps Gingrich is a little over the top to call this the worst since WWII/ Just a tad.

                    • 6 votes
                    #7.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:40 PM EDT

                    Black Hawk Down represents the worst engagement in recent memory. Libya looks like a cakewalk compared to anything else in the past 20 years, even though I have doubts about the engagement.

                    Psychology for 500.00

                    subliminal fetish

                    • 3 votes
                    #7.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:50 PM EDT

                    @Spanky:

                    It was a joke, Spanky. It's called irony. Look it up.

                    I'm not for killing anything, except the occasional fruit fly; and I'm also not for spending a whole ton of money we don't have on killing anything.

                    And before you start, while I don't necessarily support military engagement in Libya, I do support the troops; I just don't want them killing anything. Especially themselves.

                    @ Salt Grass:

                    Well, yes, Somalia was bad; and there was also that ambush in "Clear and Present Danger."

                    But what's this about "subliminal fetish"? Oh, dear, is it showing again? Sigh.

                    • 3 votes
                    #7.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:12 PM EDT

                    subliminal fetish?

                      #7.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:25 PM EDT

                      subliminal fetish?

                      Answer: Spanky

                      • 1 vote
                      #7.6 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:07 PM EDT

                      ha ha!

                      • 1 vote
                      #7.7 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:19 PM EDT

                      Oh yeah.

                      You know, I found myself over here on First Read after certain "changes" were made on the Craig's list Kink forum.

                      Again, when I discuss tea-bagging with my girl Bev. I mean business.

                      All RIIIIIGHT!

                        #7.8 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:50 PM EDT
                        Reply

                        Lots of questions followed by more questions on this post trying to bring up unrelated military actions by two totally different presidents. Bush went into an outright war based on lies and also became a war criminal in the process. A very unstable Democracy in Iraq babysat by 50K troops. Why? Because Rumsfeld, Bush and Cheney no nothing about running wars and stabilizing regions after.

                        Libya is a UN affair sanctioned by the Arab League. Nothing in common with Iraq. The military seems to have a handle on what they are doing. Politicians aren't getting in their way. Why do you think Gates is going to Egypt? To talk Democracy? Come on folks. President Obama, at minimum, realizes enough to let the military handle military actions with their UN partners. He has no military experience so won't run interference. Bush had lots of experience running aircraft aground and thought that is how to land a plane. Between him, 5 time dodger Cheney and Rumsfeld Iraq was doomed for 8 years. Now there is a glimmer of hope in that country. However so much bad blood entered an unstable Iraq, thanks to the three aforementioned clowns, it may never become a stable Democracy.

                        There is a chance Libya will work out better but who knows. We are just there to make sure civilians aren't butchered because Daffy Duck stated he would butcher his own people. If in time the military and our congress deside the outcome needs to be that Daffy goes, then the mission will change accordingly. The president did everything right. Waited to remove American citizens, waited for the Arab League to ask for help and then got a true coalition together to assist with the NFZ through a UN resolution. He did it in record time thanks to some help from a couple of ladies, Clinton and Rice.

                        Over at Fox News they have no idea how to report this so they play both sides because they know their base will eat it all up. And like blind pigs in a trough the base does.

                        • 13 votes
                        Reply#8 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:12 PM EDT

                        So we are stabilizing Libya?

                        For how long and what happens when we stop?

                        And why is Germany pulling its ship out?

                        • 4 votes
                        #8.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:27 PM EDT

                        Spanky,

                        ? ? ? As I stated in my first sentence above. ? ? ? . . . How predictable!

                        • 3 votes
                        #8.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:51 PM EDT

                        Well said, AnaBanana. The purpose in Libya, at the request of the Arab League, is to stop the massacre of thousands by a ruthless dictator determined to retain power at all costs--even if it means killing his own people. We do not know the outcome, we do not know if this UN intervention will rid Libya of Gaddafi but it will likely contain him and most likely weaken him. What is happening across the middle east is something the US and/or the UN cannot control. Each country is unique and our response must be unique to each.

                        • 6 votes
                        #8.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:16 PM EDT

                        AnaBana:

                        Bush went into an outright war based on lies and also became a war criminal in the process.

                        That one line above just rendered you a conspiracy theorist and your credibility is shot the rest of your ramble.

                        • 3 votes
                        #8.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:32 PM EDT

                        No conspiracy. He did lie with help from Cheney. Documented and a fact.

                        He is also a war criminal because he knew about, and approved of, waterboarding. His own words and in print. We executed Japanese for water boarding in WWII. He "IS" a war criminal. One of the few things I disagree with my president on is not moving forward with charges against him and Cheney.

                        Sorry to burst your bubble. Don't need to be recognized as credible by you Inthemiddle, TX. Just reporting FACTS! Not an "idealogy" because I want to direct the conversation to advance my agenda.

                        • 4 votes
                        #8.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:29 PM EDT
                        Reply
                        gg-1680962Deleted

                        Does Newt really think people take him seriously? Maybe that's his problem....he doesn't think at all. He's an opportunistic jerk who, no matter what the President does or says, will try to demean and criticise him. If this jerk gets even close to being nominated by the right wingnuts, we're all in big trouble.... BIG TROUBLE!!!

                        • 11 votes
                        Reply#10 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:30 PM EDT

                        Perhaps Gingrich could explain why his own policies aren't incoherent and confused. Two weeks ago he was saying bomb first and ask questions later--now suddenly he's saying this is wrong. Everything else he said is standard GOP talking points in a presidential pre-campaign year. It makes me wonder why any respected news outlet or show gives people like Newt a stage on which to yell "fire".

                        • 7 votes
                        Reply#11 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:34 PM EDT

                        Are there any Republican candidates with consistent talking points? For a while it was supposed to be all about jobs. And the deficit. But now, all Republican candidates have veered to foreign policy and a critique of the President's actions. Former speaker Newt Gingrich is one of the few in the field who have actually been a part of Congress, so he might have had a more useful critique talking about his experience, the role of Congress (the legislative branch) with regard to military action, lessons he personally learned during his time in Congress: Beirut, Kosovo, Mogadishu, and how that shapes his critique. If he thinks the US should not be involved in humanitarian rescues, does that also apply to earthquakes and other natural disasters (since they also cost money and lives)? Would he consider himself an isolationist (a la Ron Paul)? Most of the other people considering a run for President on the GOP side are former governors -- how many of them have sent their national guard troops into war? Is that what they wanted their troops to do? What lessons did they learn from the deployments? It seems as though any actual, practical GOP experience is pushed to the margins, or else it doesn't exist.

                        • 4 votes
                        #11.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:09 PM EDT
                        Reply

                        Why doesnt this loser shut up and just go on with his life ....a family values 2 time adulterer has no place in "OUR " government ...He has proved he cant be trusted ! Not once but twice !

                        • 8 votes
                        Reply#12 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:36 PM EDT

                        A guy who broke three different marriages because he "loved his country so much" he couldn't keep his fly shut is in no position to lecture anyone about professionalism or leadership.

                        • 9 votes
                        Reply#13 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:39 PM EDT

                        Grand Moff:

                        Stop playa hatin'. What does this man's infidelity has to do with leadership or professionalism. There are a lot of very successful professional people who dealt with numerous sidekicks.

                        This man is a politician and he is not lecturing you on staying in your marriage. If you think your politician is innocent, you better ask Heidi.

                        • 1 vote
                        #13.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:42 PM EDT

                        I hate to go here, ITM

                        but I have to say - it has EXACTLY as much to do with it as it had to do with Clinton's bj. NOTHING; but the hypocrisy of him DURING THAT EXACT TIME Clinton was being eviscerated BY Newt - Newt was LOVING his Country so hard, his cancerous wife got her d-papers while IN THE HOSPITAL. So, yeah - it has nothing to do with it - except SWEET BITTER JUSTICE! Nice to meet ya'!

                        • 8 votes
                        #13.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:00 PM EDT

                        Bill, Fairfax:

                        Newt could chop Obama to pieces in a debate.

                        LoL Maybe, if the topic is "name your former mistresses for $200."

                        Otherwise, I'm thinking not so much, and I thought that long before I ever heard of Barack Obama.

                        If that's your idea of an intellectual ... well, let's just say that says something about you.

                        • 7 votes
                        #13.3 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:16 PM EDT

                        Clara:

                        I'm not here trying to defend Gingrich because I personally do not care for him as a politician. I think he is a little too laid back and not confrontational enough for this time in history. He says things that urks the left but yet he doesn't say them in a way that would make people say "I had better leave this fool alone." Look at the difference in reaction as to when he says something and when Palin says something. Palin gut punches the left whenever she speaks and apparently it hurts because if not she would not get the vigorous push-back.

                        Gingrich is an intellectual that has run his political course. He needs to become a speechwriter or political hatchetman.

                        • 3 votes
                        #13.4 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:36 PM EDT

                        Newt is a political Hack. I met this guy in the 70's and he is the greatest thing in his own mind. Newt can not look you in the eye to save his life.

                        • 4 votes
                        #13.5 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 5:14 PM EDT
                        Reply

                        Newt is a complete and total idiot, and that means, he is more-then-qualified to represent the current republican party. And he can appoint Palin to secretary of state, with her intelligence of people and foreign relations and Newt's womanizing dishonesty - talk about some real dumb and cheap enertainment.

                        • 8 votes
                        Reply#14 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:46 PM EDT

                        The only thing the neo-cons hate more then America being in charge of the Libya operation, is America not being in charge.

                        Gingrich has no problems with two wars started by Bush, but is in a snit over a few planes sent into Libya to prevent a catastrophe.

                        • 11 votes
                        Reply#15 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:47 PM EDT

                        Say it. Repeat it. Back it up with the right wing projection based reality.

                        Repeat.

                        • 8 votes
                        Reply#16 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 1:51 PM EDT

                        RE-peat-the-lie-to-the-PUBLIC-ans, that's what they are paid to do, LIE.

                        • 2 votes
                        #16.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 7:34 PM EDT

                        Yes there are special warfare units on the ground......have been.

                        In every incursion, special ops personnel have been ahead of the elements, using lazer technology to target high-level targets. Shortly, this will not be required as other technologies will be deployed to image the target.

                          #16.2 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 10:21 PM EDT
                          Reply

                          That big old pile of Newt doesn't know what he is talking about. He just needs to ride off into the sunset, because he will never ever be the President of the United States.

                          • 5 votes
                          Reply#17 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:09 PM EDT

                          Was Newt asleep during the Bush Administration?

                          • 6 votes
                          Reply#18 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:13 PM EDT

                           Da Noid--Yes he was.

                          • 3 votes
                          Reply#19 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:18 PM EDT

                          On Khaddafy, Gingrich said, “If this is not designed to get rid of Khaddafy, then this makes no sense at all.”

                          MSNBC spins this an over-the-top criticism, but Henry Kissinger said the exact same thing.

                          • 5 votes
                          Reply#20 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:19 PM EDT

                          I am sure someone has asked this question, so forgive me if I am being repetitive. But why do we need congressional approval for bombing Libya but not Pakistan?

                          • 5 votes
                          Reply#21 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:30 PM EDT

                          Newt --- you're a has wanna-be, has been, never was. You were run out of office by your own people more than 12 years ago. You have evolved into little more than a circus clown. The only people who care what you have to say are the braid dead Fox viewers.

                          • 7 votes
                          Reply#22 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:32 PM EDT

                          The first Gulf War led by former President George H. W. Bush with a UN coalition was not fought to get rid of Saddam Hussein (if it happened, fine); it was fought to push Hussein out of Kuwait and contain and isolate him via a No Fly Zone once he was out of Kuwait. This UN action is not designed to eliminate Gaddafi (if it happens, fine) but rather to contain and isolate him, and to prevent his continued slaughter of Libyans. It seems that Newt Gingrich bases his opinion on ideology rather than historical fact. Perhaps Newt could explain why the first Gulf War was okay but a UN No Fly zone for Libya is not.

                          • 7 votes
                          Reply#23 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:33 PM EDT

                          If Saddam's aides had been smart, they would have removed Saddam from power while they were in a position to do so. Hopefully, Qaddafi's aides have learned from their mistake and will pack Qaddadi off to Africa while they have a chance.

                          • 4 votes
                          #23.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:49 PM EDT
                          Reply

                          All these people like Newt saying that Obama's message about Libya is unclear. Let's see: Obama said that the U.S. involvement in the no fly zone intervention was to protect Libyan citizens from being mercilessly slaughtered by their leaders forces. On top of that, he said that U.S. policy (not related to the no fly zone) is to look at the ouster of Gadhafi. I know that's perhaps a bit more complicated than a nice sound bite, but my gosh, can't people like Newt grasp two different contexts such as policy vs. working with the UN for a no fly zone? And Newt expects to run for president?

                          It's not clear in the article what Newt's alternative to what Obama has been doing would be. My surmise, however, in what Newt would see us do is to send troops into Libya. Another W. in the making. Then, more of our sons and daughters would die, another possible insurgency, etc. Our troops need a break. Thank God Newt is not at the presidential helm. With war policies like his seem to be, may he never get there.

                          I think Obama has handled this very well. Got the UN and Arab League involved. Helped to interfere with the murder of Libyan citizens by their leader. He thinks, therefore he is president. Thankfully.

                          • 7 votes
                          Reply#24 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 2:55 PM EDT

                          Let me see if I got this right:

                          President Reagan gets into a tiff with Libya in 1986, dropping ordinance on them because of the Gulf of Sidra and the West Berlin Discoteque Bombing incidents, with nary a gripe because he followed international AND U.S Constitutional law.

                          Bush "I" goes to war with Iraq because they invaded Kuwait WITH the U.N's Resolution AND the U.S Constitution backing him up all the way, with nary a complaint.

                          President Clinton, following up from his predecessor, continues the NFZs (No Fly Zones), striking targets in Iraq for repeatedly attacking the Kurds in the Northern part of that country and violating U.N Mandates, on top of intervening in the Bosnian/Serbian Conflict. BOTH actions fell within the guidelines of the U.S Constitution and sactioned actions recognized by the international community at large.

                          Bush "II" goes to war with Iraq with false intel data stating that there was a link between Al-Qeada and WMDs, presenting the false info to the U.N AND publicly LIED to Congress and the Senate throughout the whole course of the war WHILE mis-managing the LEGAL war we have in Afghanistan. He goes further by willfully issuing orders to interrogators to VIOLATE the Geneva/Hague Conventions, U.S Constitutional and Military Law & Laws of Land Warfare by torturing Enemy Prisoners of War.

                          Now we have President Obama and Libya (Round 2). For the past month, we have seen Libyan Protesters out in the streets, demanding for change and democracy, and stating with their voices in unison, that they do not want to live under the reign of Qadhafi ANY LONGER, and what does he do? He orders his ground forces to attack, imprison and torture protesters; WHILE conveying instructions to his Air Force to drop munitions on the civilian populace and major cities where the protesters reside. Libyan Ambassadors all over the world, aghast, shocked and horrified at what they see being played out in their homeland, pleaded for help from the world community; begging for them to act on their and their countrymen's behalf. The result: The U.N Security Council votes unanimously to establish an NFZ around major Libyan Cities to commence in earnest. Obama, complying with the the Laws of the U.S Constitution along with the U.N Resolution, acts by having naval ships in the area fire their Tomahawks at military targets in Libya; while ordering the air arm of the U.S Navy and the U.S Air Force to have their fighters effect the NFZ per U.N Resolution. He further assured Americans that under NO CIRCUMSTANCES are gound forces will be touching Libyan Soil, and he expects to hand off the role to a NON U.S NATO Commander in a matter of days.

                          As the saying goes, Newt: "ONE OF THESE THINGS IS NOT LIKE THE OTHER!!!!!"

                          • 8 votes
                          Reply#25 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 3:18 PM EDT

                          By saying that Libya was "badly executed", Newt Gingrich implied that the US military leaders did a bad job--it is the US leaders who are coordinating the Libyan UN effort. Oh, well, too bad Today didn't ask that.

                          • 6 votes
                          Reply#26 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 4:00 PM EDT

                          What--a follow up question that challenges what the person said. That would be beyond Matt Lauer.

                          Wouldn't you say that it is much too soon to decide whether Libya has been well-executed or poorly executed? Let's see how it turns out first---or is that too much to ask. Plus, we don't know everything that has happened behind the scenes---neither does Newt. There are some Republicans that I can understand why people support them but he sure isn't one of them.

                          • 1 vote
                          #26.1 - Wed Mar 23, 2011 5:12 PM EDT
                          Reply
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