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JOHNSTON, Iowa -- Republican presidential candidate Newt Gingrich told hundreds of Iowans in the state’s largest county that his new front-runner status is “disorienting.”
A crowd of more than 400 Republicans listened as the former House speaker laid out his vision for the country at the Polk County GOP Victory Dinner.
“This is such a rapid change that we’re having to rethink our own internal operation right now and where we are,” he told more than two-dozen journalists following his speech.
“We’re in a mess. We’re in a mess in Washington, we’re in a mess economically, we’re in a mess with radical judges. Just go down the list,” he told the sold-out crowd.
It was a notably different speech than Gingrich typically gives on the trail -- something he acknowledged afterwards.
“I would not have given this speech 2 weeks ago because it wouldn’t have seemed to make sense for this guy who was the underdog to be up here talking about the totality of the future,” Gingrich told reporters.
The former speaker dedicated a larger portion of his speech Thursday to attacks on President Barack Obama, calling him a “Saul Alinsky radical.”
“He believes in a world in which the classic America has disappeared. He believes in a world where the United Nations is more important than the United States Congress. He believes in a world of internationally law rather than of the U.S. Constitution,” Gingrich noted.
But the spotlight was also on Gingrich’s position on a controversial issue – child labor laws. During an earlier stop Thursday, he suggested children in poor neighborhoods should start working. Pressed following the dinner, Gingrich didn’t say what age he thought might be appropriate to get a job.
“I think the country has to decide. Different states may do it differently, different cities might do it differently,” Gingrich said. “I am trying to create a mindset that says the best way to get poor children to have a chance to rise is in fact to help them early on, learn the work ethic.”
During his roughly 45-minute speech, the speaker was interrupted frequently by applause.
“Newt Gingrich is always well organized. He is focused. And his message resonated with this crowd,” Polk Co. GOP Chairman Kevin McLaughlin told NBC News. “Social conservatives and social moderates are coming to Newt. And I think that’s a sign we have a uniter that will go the distance.”
But, the speaker still has a long road ahead. Before getting to Obama, he would have to take on Mitt Romney, whom he didn’t mention during his speech. Gingrich did not take the bait when reporters asked him to distinguish himself from the former Massachusetts governor.
“I am happy to be who I am. I think that distinguishes me from Romney,” Gingrich said. He also stated he would “probably” not attack Romney during the two upcoming debates in the first-in-the-nation caucus state.
But, he added, “If he puts his hand on my shoulder, that might be different,” a reference to a heated exchange during an October debate, when Romney placed his hand on Rick Perry.
The former House speaker, who is leading in many state and national polls, has come a long way since this summer.
“As many of you know, I was supposedly in June and July dead. So it is great to be back,” Gingrich joked during the dinner.
He received three standing ovations as 15 TV cameras rolled.
“I have to confess that while I was hoping for a wave, we’ve had sort of a tsunami,” he said.
Slideshow: Images from Newt Gingrich's career
(NBC's Jamie Novogrod contributed to this report.)
Leave a Comment:
I think he is overwhelmed that his book - documentary tour has been taken so seriously as a presidential campaign.
He'll find a way out of the race, mark my words....
He definitely is on a roll. Did you hear we don't have communism anymore cause he ended it. I noticed he didn't mention other things he did like get kicked out as speaker of the house by his own party, get in trouble for some book problems. Not to mention his many wives and affairs Or his money making activity. I heard someone say that won't be a problem because we know about i his affairs already. So if Clinton had just said sure I was frolicking with that aide he wouldn't have been impeached. Just run of the mill business? What planet do these people live on. And what Bible do they read too?
This is such a sham.This is the best the repubs can come up with for POTUS Run.lol Sick of being played by this 1 party-system!!!
Now add anti-women to the anti-science, anti-education, anti-history tags already pinned to the GOP.
How does Knut Gingrich or the Knutbaggers thinks he's going to win with no women voting for him??? Are these people ignorant or what???
If Newt wants to talk about the Constitution he may want to sit down with Ron Paul. The good doctor might be able to teach him a thing or two.
(the rest of the world)
Ummmmm Im pretty sure Mr Clinton did not get impeached for the Monica dipping, but for lying to congress. The funny thing is the rest of the world doesnt care about marital indiscretions of their leaders. Hell Sarcozy married a former porn star. My peers in Europe and AP think we are odd this way.
It's Friday :-)
More on topic; As I said long ago, Newt is the one to watch. He has the poise and the right blah blah blah. He looks and acts presidential aside from his huge ego which flops out onto the table from time to time. His martial short comings only make him a little worse than Clinton in that aspect. He will debate president Obama well.
He is the one to beat.
They are listening. From what I understand the majority of Americans want the very rich to be taxed at the same rates as the rest of America so our entitlements will not be cut as much. Over 60% of voters want taxes raised on the rich. If the pub's say "no" they may be out of a job.
http://youtu.be/CWKTOCP45zY
Newt is $hite. Anybody that votes for him is shallow and/or ignorant. He is gads worse than Bill Clinton on some many issues. Bill Clinton is at least still with his first wife. Newt didn't think his first wife was pretty or young enough to be the wife of a president! So he went to the hospital where she was being treated for cancer and served her with divorce papers while having an affair. Never mind the 2 daughters from that marriage, Newt. And all the while the many "oral" interviews with staff, the pandering, the getting rich while being a career politician. Oh yeah, he's the one to BEAT alright, literally with a stick, whip or anything handy...
Newt is disoriented because of all the flip flopping he is doing who wouldn't be dizzy from that?
I think Newt is a serious contender. I expect he will continue to say some controversial things that will cost him votes, but on the other hand he is extremely knowledgeable on most issues, and he speaks more directly than most politicians these days.
I read an article yesterday where he supposedly told his campaign to not respond in kind to negative attacks. I hope this approach works for him, and we start having less mud slinging and more rationed debate in 2012.
@Lisa: I wish you had posted the "flip flop" Mitt/Newt video.
Newt is a very good political button pusher ... and the GOP is desperate and has a lot of needy buttons ... they were even fooled by a con chump like Cain ....
He will bash the hell out of Obama ... they prefer that over substance ... and there will be a lot of bashing the poor ... but the bottom line is ... Newt is not good-natured enough to win the Presidency!
We need a tough person as the potus not a shrivelling petunia like Obama. Newt will wipe the white house floor with Obama wait and watch......
Newt Gingrich has built his entire career on exploitation and entitlement. That is the basis of all his comments, plans, and politics.
A Gingrich presidency would NOT be about the US, the Constitution, or the American people. Gingrich, as President, would only serve Gingrich.
To those who continue to try to compare Newt's cheating to Obama's - totally different. Yes, Clinton was a cad - no doubt - but a good President. He didn't put others down for cheating while he was doing it himself (Newt and the entire group going after Clinton); he didn't hand his wife divorce papers while she was in the hospital recuperating from surgery; he didn't fail to pay her support to the point her utilities were about to be cut off; he didn't do the exact same thing again to the 2nd wife; he didn't declare that his cheating was because "he loved the United States so much." No there is a world of difference between Clinton and Newt. Let's see - Newt is finding his being the front-runner disorienting - I see the need for him to cheat again!
So Newt finds it disorienting to be in front instead of just claiming he's the "only" one, the "best" one, the "smartest" one, the only one with "ideas". Listening to Newt you get the idea that he is God's gift to American if not all of the world. Heck, he even implied that only Jesus himself is a more perfect candidate.
But the truth is closer to Paul Krugman's observation:
Newt Gingrich Is ‘A Stupid Man’s Idea Of What A Smart Person Sounds Like’
This is for all you Gingrich supporters read it and thinck about your constitutional rights being trashed http://reason.com/blog/2011/12/01/appalling-moments-in-newtspeak !!! RON PAUL 2012
He makes the most disgusting statement ever... basically that we Americans need to learn how to work... that we are lazy... and that this, somehow, is why the economy is where it is... then cops out and pushes it to the states (a Romney slight-of-hand). That's right Sh!t-for-brains, blame it on the poor... us LAZY Americans... a$$hole.
Get him off the stage before he drools all over himself.
Considering I live in Georgia and see quite a lot of those individuals who DON'T work driving souped up nice cars, gold teeth and kids going to private schools. Hmmmm, where do they get the money to do that? While those of us who have the work ethic work our a$$e$ off so they can enjoy the FREE benefits. They are lazy and that is exactly who Gingrich is talking about!
I saw where he is now going for respect. Since he is just a new Christian maybe he needs to read Romans 13. And maybe the whole Bible to start. Sorta get an idea how your treat others and others in authority. Now why do the republicans keep mentioning Saul Alinsky? Is this required reading for them? They seem to be the only ones who know anything about it and keep talking about it. Go figure. Maybe they need to recite what this SAul Alinsky even stands for because I don't think that is the focus of the Democrats. They are more concerned about our country than reading some communist info. But then compare what each party does. Maybe they need to get some new reading material. Like US history for starters. For the factually challenged who just may include old Newt.
They should also read an Economics 101 book.
All the same bad pennies keep turning up.This is the best out of 300,000,000 Americans ??? God Damn the Democrat/Republican Party.
I agree icetrout. Now we know why the republican's were begging Christie to run. If this is the best that they can come with, the American people are in serious trouble.
Now add anti-women to the anti-science, anti-education, anti-history tags already pinned to the GOP.
How does Knut Gingrich or the Knutbaggers thinks he's going to win with no women voting for him??? Are these people ignorant or what???
Explain that in detail, abrover. It seems to be a pretty careless statement.
'Jack' - Have you read Alinsky? Do so, and you have your answer. I suggest you read some of Newt Gingrich's work as well - he is a fine author. I do disagree with 'abrover' on one point: The current President is not a 'bumbler'. He knows exactly what he is doing, and intends (as he said himself) to 'fundamentally change America'. The question we all need to ask is - 'how's that change working for YOU right now, and do you want four more years of the same?
Jonathan - what a crock. We are still recuperating from the mess your damned Bush left. No one could fix that in three years. Hopefully President Obama will actually get a Congress that wants to work in 2012 instead of one just intent on blocking every move he makes.
W. Goin,
Agreed. Whether the President used the exact words Jonathan is quoting ("fundamentally changing America") or not, I don't know. Regardless, "fixing" Bush's mess was part of that fundamental change.
@W goin
I guess you forgot that Obama had a Democratic Congress up until the 2010 elections?
And yes he did say "Fundamentally going to change America" after he won the nomination and close to the election.
Talk about slective memory.
Agreed. These uneducated people elected Bush TWICE, and expect someone to come in and wave a magic wand and keep the country solvent and yet not spend anything.
Considering what he had to work with when he took office, I'd say that "fundamentally changing America" would be a step in the right direction. Seriously - financial crisis, housing crisis, huge income gap (and growing daily), corporations owning politicians, 2 wars with no end in sight. If you think that should be the status quo, you're out of your peanut-sized mind.
If being named the front runner in a few polls can disorient him imagine how disoriented he'll be by actually doing the job.
It perplexes me. It seems the sponsors of DOMA suffer severe cognitive dissonance.
The failure of Mr Obama to defend the laws of the land
Explain that, too, while you're at it. In detail.
'Jack' - One example is the failure of the current administration to enforce the immigration laws, forcing several states (including Arizona) to defend themselves. The Obama administration then sued Arizona, and is pursuing actions against other states to stop them from doing the job that the FEDERAL administrative branch (aka - the Obama administration) should be doing.
Jack,
Another example is the failure to prosecute the black panthers that were intimidating potential voters in 2008.
Jonathan, I can't make heads nor tails out of what you're saying. Be more specific because it sounds to me like you're interpreting actions/in-actions according to your own prejudices.
Ron: Source please.
'Jake' - Can't, or won't? The current administration WILL NOT enforce the immigration laws that are currently in force.
Another example - Operation 'Fast and Furious', which involved the smuggling of guns into Mexico by the ATF (Justice Department - part of the administrative branch - aka - the Obama administration), and lead to the shooting death of an American border agent.
Another example - A loan of $500 million to the now bankrupt solar panel manufacturer Solyndra from the 'stimulus' money was made against the advice of some in the Obama administration was pushed through with direct pressure from the White House. Ir seems that several Obama election contributors were involved. So you won't be confused, 'Bankrupt' means the money went down the rat hole - never to be seen again.
DOMA was signed into law by BILL CLINTON in 1996.
Jack,
If you google for "black panther voter intimidation case dropped" you will get lots of hits. Here is one of the articles:
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2010/jun/25/inside-the-black-panther-case-anger-ignorance-and-/
The case was downgraded 26 days before Eric Holder took his position of Attorney General by the Bush administration.
Additionally-
# Adams has admitted that he does not have first-hand knowledge of the events, conversations, and decisions that he is citing to advance his accusations;
# The Bush administration’s Justice Department — not the Obama administration — made the decision not to pursue criminal charges against members of the New Black Panther Party for alleged voter intimidation at a polling center in Philadelphia in 2008;
# The Obama administration successfully obtained default judgment against Samir Shabazz, a member of the New Black Panther Party carrying a nightstick outside the Philadelphia polling center on Election Day 2008;
# The Bush administration DOJ chose not to pursue similar charges against members of the Minutemen, one of whom allegedly carried a weapon while harassing Hispanic voters in Arizona in 2006;
# No voters have come forward to claim that they were intimidated from voting on account of the New Black Panthers standing outside the polling center in 2008;
I want to know that if Newt already saved the world from communism as one of his accomplishments. How come the fear mongers are so fearful of communism?
Sorry asking the rich to invest in their own country is not communism or any of the other ism's the fear mongers like to throw around.
I guess it is too much asking the republicans to grow up and think of America for a change. If Bonner doesn't have a clue per his own words as to the fiscal repercussions to ending the tax cuts for the working poor and middle class maybe he should find out before he votes on it. Any number of people on television seem to know more that Bonner does about our countries fiscal needs.
It is about time the republicans used their brains to run this country instead of their pledge to Norquist whose goal is to kill America.
Jonathan,
Just back from a closing or I would have responded sooner.
Solyndra? So far as I know, the jury's still out on that one. What is the connection with not enforcing the laws of the land?
Gun running. If a crime was committed, then the guilty should be brought to justice. But that should be true of any administration, and as bad as this particular incident is, it doesn't begin to compare what past administrations have done. Not that that's an excuse. My point is, you're all worked up about investigations that are still in progress. Why don't you wait and see what happens before you get all bent out of shape? I mean, did Ollie North go to prison? Or are you too young to remember that?
What specific laws in regard to immigration? You're still dancing around the topic.
vwterry responded to Ron's Black Panther "incident". The article appeared in the Washington Times. Indeed. . . .
Now that Fannie and Freddie lobbyist Gingrich is the front runner is this the end of Fannie and Freddie put a gun to the head of the poor defenseless banks and forced them to make billions in profits off of fraudulent loans while tanking the economy propaganda campaign?
So - Newt Gingrich is responsible for the Community Investment Act, which tried to make home ownership available to all (financially quailified or not), and eventually precipitated the current housing crises? Do you really read what you post ?
Let's just set the record straight here...
Bloomberg looked into Newt's work for Freddie Mac:
His primary contact inside the organization was Mitchell Delk, Freddie Mac’s chief lobbyist, and he was paid a self- renewing, monthly retainer of $25,000 to $30,000 between May 1999 until 2002, according to three people familiar with aspects of the business agreement.
During that period, Gingrich consulted with Freddie Mac executives on a program to expand home ownership, an idea Delk said he pitched to President George W. Bush’s White House.
The American Dream Downpayment Act was signed into law in 2003. It was sponsored by a Republican, co-sponsored by only Republicans, passed by the House and Senate with Republican majorities and signed into law by a Republican president. From a speech George W. Bush made when signing the Act:
One of the biggest hurdles to homeownership is getting money for a down payment. This administration has recognized that, and so today I'm honored to be here to sign a law that will help many low-income buyers to overcome that hurdle... We need to close the minority homeownership gap... So this legislation will authorize $200 million per year in down payment assistance to at least 40,000 low-income families.
When studies were made of properties foreclosed on during the housing crisis, they found that single biggest common factor was minimum or no down-payment when the property was purchased.
So, yeah, I would say that Newt Gingrich is responsible but it had nothing to do with the Community Reinvestmnent Act which I think is what you were alluding to.
Newt was their paid adviser to the tune of 1.6 million. It appears his advise to them is just as bad as the crap advise he is pushing for America.
No money for education, but lets put their fathers out of work so you can put the children to work for less money. Those republicans are always so concerned about the family. Just about as much as Newt when he wasn't paying child support his family needed to keep the utilities on.
I am to the point where I want someone in the WH who can be a leader. I want a true conservative. I want someone who believes in the importance of our Constitution. Newt has baggage but I just don't care what he does in his personal life. I laugh when I hear Liberals talk about his moral fiber....(remember your hero-Clinton?). I truly believe the best canidate for President is somone who would never put themselves or their families through the media witch hunt. I would love to see a debate between Newt and President Obama. Conservatives do not want to back Romney, for me he is just to slick. When Cain drops out his backers will go to Newt. He is the best we got....
So this sleazeball is the best you got. You have my deepest sympathy. If this is the best you got, you're going down the tubes. The very thought of this cretin becoming president should disorient all of us.
If Newt, the lizard, is the best you got, a person just might have to feel sorry for your party. Sigh...
Watt75: I'm not sure that Newt Gingrich is a true conservative. It is beyond me how Jon Huntsman, who actually is a true conservative, has no chance to win the nomination, at this point. Additionally, he is intelligent and consistent. He is the one who can beat President Obama. In fact, I think that he may be the only one.
Additionally, in my opinion, Newt Gingrich is probably the most polarizing political figure at this point in time. He has often remarked that the left must be destroyed. Additionally, he frames his ideas within controversial and divisive rhetoric. I know.... there is an idea imbedded within this rhetoric..... but digging the idea out of the hateful context is tiresome and aggravating.
@Jay in PA - No worse than the disorientation we're experiencing with our current president...
Sounds like another Bob Dole election is in store for you fruitcakes. One day you'll maybe even emerge from your collective stupor...
We agree, Newt frightens us very much - in fact, we are paralyzed with fear at the moment. The only thing that would scare us more is if you found a way to have Sarah Palin reconsider running with Michelle Bachmann or Herman Cain as the VP candidate; and then retain Rick Perry as their debate coach --- now that would truly strike fear into our hears.
Sincerely,
Democratic National Committee
How about Obama, then?
Newt is flawed - and I do not believe that he will be the nominee. He is a very smart and well informed man (a good author as well). What it comes down to is that the Republican nominating process has been fascinating to watch, and shows that the candidates are serious in letting us know how they are and what they stand for. How refreshing, when we STILL know next to nothing about the sitting President. We really need a leader, and not someone who keeps voting 'present' to avoid taking a stand, as happened with the super committee.
Jonathan,
I agree with you that what we really need is a leader as president. I was hoping Obama would be that person when I voted for him, but unfortunately, he turned out to be just another politician (and more divisive than most).
I'm not thrilled with Newt or Romney, but I'll vote for either of those over Obama at this point. I also can care less about a politicians personal issues - what matters to me is, can they be an effective president.
Somehow Ron I am not buying the BS that you once voted for Obama. You are going to vote for either Newt or Romney because President Obama is divisive. I know you can't have a president standing up for the people when the republicans have the rich to protect.
If you are for protecting the 1% and letting America go to the dogs then electing a republican any republican will fulfill your needs.
I agree with Mary “with regards to Jon Huntsman”. He would be my choice, given the GOP choices, if Barack wasn’t already the President.
When I read the comments from right wing, deceitful, deflecting liars, I can only come to the conclusion that the man they are supporting is a deceitful, deflecting liar. Too bad no one can actually "sell" Newt with examples of his stellar career...Are you proud that your leader was kicked out of congress?
It's an interesting phenomenon watching Newt and his supporters...the bottom scum of the GOP rises to the top.
If he is overwhelmed on the campaign then he won't be able to handle the presidency. GOP and Democrats are both hypocritical opportunists of the worst order. They turn a blind eye when it suits them and presently it suits the GOP to blind eye Newt. They howled at Clinton's infidelity and left Cain out to dry on his, yet they embrace Newt. They decry Fannie and Freddy yet embrace Newt who worked for one of these companies.
The Tea Party candidates didn't do so hot. So they are going back into the stables for an old dependable horse. Trouble is I think he is a nag. He is a big part of the polarization problems we have today which the Tea Party will like. I don't think his debate tactics of attack the moderator will serve him as well in the presidential debates should he become the nominee. There will be less people for him to hide behind and he will be on the spotlight more. He is bright but he has many faults and arrogance never plays well in any arena.
He meant that as the (current) frontrunner, he is in an unfamiliar position (but you knew that). He is a really smart and well informed person. Since he has such a long record, he has more to defend and talk about. As to polarizing, he had his share of battles with President Clinton. However, they worked together on many issues that benefitted the country at the time, and together, they balanced th budget. He may be old(er) and not so pretty as the current President, but we voted for a stallion in 2008, and look at the miserable state of affairs that it has brought the once great (and solvent ) USA to. Whether it is Newt or one of the other Republican candidates, we need to end this Obamunist nightmare in NOVEMBER 2012. 1/20/13 - AMERICA begins again!
If you are worried about how we were once a solvent nation, you might want to talk to the republicans that felt that tax cuts and wars went together for the first time in the history of our nation.
Instead of admitting their mistake, the republicans have doubled down and now want more tax cuts for the wealthy while raising taxes on the working poor and the middle class.
If you think republicans have the answers I have a bridge to Hawaii I need to sell.
ok... I get it... he wants me to vote for Obama.
I'd vote for Gollum before Gingrich.
You did vote for Gollum - in 2008.
Johnathan I wouldn't talk about McCain that way.
Yes Virginia there really is a Santa Claus and all us good liberals find our stockings stuffed with joy in 2012.
As someone from Virginia, I think Democrats ought to be a little worried about this guy. Yeah, chances are good he'll find a way to implode through his characteristic lack of discipline. But when not imploding, he's an effective candidate. What he lacks in charm and likeability he makes up for with intelligence.
It looks like his party is willing to look past the checkered past. Of course, anything new that comes out could change that. But if we know all there is to know, it doesn't seem to bother Republicans too much. And as for the general election, there's enough concern about the country and associated real issues that personal issues might not be too much of a consideration for independents, either.
If Gingrich can hold himself together for a year, he'll be a tough candidate. I think this is why the DNC is going after Romney. That makes him look like the candidate they fear, makes him look like the probable nominee, etc. Basically, I think we're seeing a situation in which the DNC would rather face the known entity, who won't perform much worse or better than expected on the trail, than this Gingrich wildcard.
And of course there's a Santa. We all saw Miracle on 34th Street.
@abrover: The Democrats have been looking at the GOP candidates and their campaigns lately and they are starting to believe that Santa Claus is real.... and they must have done something very good to enjoy such a bounty under the tree and in their stockings. Cain, Bachmann, Perry, Newt, Romney, etc. - these are the gifts that just keep on giving.
What's up with these careless statements, abrover? I receive medicare, and so do a lot of my friends, and Obama has not "lost" one of us. We may dislike a lot of things he's done, but we sure as hell are going to vote for him over the Republican candidates.
And just so you understand--some of us have voted for Nader in the past. Quit with the silly, unsubstantiated comments.
If he thinks it is disorienting for him. Think of us Republicans worried he may actually get the nomination and ruin any chance we have of beating Obama.
I don't know about Dr. Gingrich, but his front runner status has me so disoriented that I might very well get lost in that election booth and push the Obama button...
Ding ding ding - 4 more years!
- Newt Gingrich (to Jake Tapper of ABC News)
- Barack Obama (to himself)
Serious media manipulation going on! Sounds like the Newt supporters get their info from FOX,CNN etc! All one has to do is look at what he has been involved with and see this man Newt is only loyal to himself and his supporters! FOLLOW THE MONEY!!!!!!! Judging by the post here most people are not fans of Newt. Actually any article that mentions Newt is followed by many post that don't sounds very supportive of him. I find that most poeple don't like NEwt!
Please Newt/Obama supporters please do not let the main stream media pick you candidate!! I implore you to seek out you own info and make your own decision!
Not to worry, Newt. You won't feel disoriented for very long.
LOL - he's just plain disoriented period, just like all the other GOP candidates.
Of course he's not going after Romney, in speeches or debates. You don't attack opponents who you just passed in the polls. As frontrunner, he'll just throw out his vision for the country, and save any attacks for the opponent he hopes to face in the general election.
“disorienting.” Yes he is.
Newt I wake up every day wondering what kind of crap will come out of your mouth today.I guess that's your greatest skill your great mind can come up with an endless supply of crap.
From what I've read of your posts this morning, that statement applies to you more than anyone else writing here.
" Greasy Palm " Gingrich is just another dumb Republican puppet bought and sold by crooked corporations and the polluting gas, mining and oil industry. Bribed and bankrolled just like the Republican governor of Pennsylvania. Take a drive thru Northeast Pennsylvania to see some results from these payoffs ( just don't drink the water).
We women will not vote to put his adulterous mistress/wife in the white house. Some of us still have morals and we don't believe "confessing" our sins clears us of being of poor character and low morals.
They were ALREADY in the White house dolt.
Sha Zaaam12: Look up the quote about Ceaser's wife. Gingrich's wife is a slut, she dated a married man then after he left his wife she married him. I personally don't want a slut as a first lady. Both first ladies of the Presidents you mentioned were LADIES something that cannot be said of Gingrich's mistress/wife.
In addition, if you really believe that confessing your sins makes you a better person then good for you - I think it is better to change your ways not continue on your way and confess again. False security. Easy way out for personal accoutability.
I thought that confession of sins and redemotion was the central theme of Chrisitianity. I don't want to be the one to determine that Newt's epiphiny is real of not, but I do think that the insults and slurs tell more about the posters here than they do about Newt and his family.
In any case - back to the real issue - ONE reason to vote FOR Presdident Obama - anyone?
Al Gore, the Democratic Party presidential nominee in 2000, wanted to know whether Newt Gingrich, the former Republican U.S. House speaker, would appear in a 2008 television ad calling for action to address climate change.
Gingrich, who was promoting his latest book “Contract With the Earth” and urging “green conservatism,” agreed. In an e- mail obtained by Bloomberg News that he wrote to the former vice president, Gingrich thanked Gore “for the opportunity to participate in the Protect Climate ad campaign.” He signed the March 2008 note, “Your friend, Newt.”
Those exchanges led Gingrich, now a Republican presidential candidate, to a chilly, rainy commercial set in April 2008, sitting side-by-side, knee-to-knee on a love seat with then- Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, with the cameras rolling.
WASHINGTON - With a boost from President Obama, the Rev. Al Sharpton and new "Odd Couple" pal Newt Gingrich kicked off a five-city roadshow aimed at bridging the achievement gap for minorities in schools
Gingrich on mandated insurance,
"If I see somebody who's earning over $50,000 a year, who has made the calculated decision not to buy health insurance, I'm looking at somebody who is absolutely as irresponsible as anyone who was ever on welfare. Because what they've said is, A, I'm gambling that I won't get sick, and B, I'm gambling that if I do get sick, I can cheat all my neighbors. Now, when you talk to hospitals, a very significant part of their non-collectibles are people who have money, but have calculated it's not worth the cost to pay. And so I'm actually in favor of finding a way to say, whatever the appropriate level of income is, you ought to have either health insurance, or you ought to post a bond. But we have no right in this society to have a free rider approach, if we're well off economically, to cheat our neighbors."
So all it takes is to say "Gosh, I'm sorry" and all of you can forget and forgive anything a person says and does. Sort of takes being responsible and ethical off the table for Republicans.
Gingrich, the best politician money can rent.
@ Siestasis I guess we should call you God since you have never committed any sins or made any errors in judgement.
Never mind I was wrong, you are judging everyone based on your posts, you cant be God.
LOL, I have never broken any of the 10 commandments, except for # 4 - I am not sure about keeping the Sabbath holy, I often clean my house on Sundays. I am not GOD, although I agree God is a she. But I do value character, it was the way I was reared and I reared my children the same way. I certainly don't believe that serial aduletry is a sign of good character. And I feel that any woman that dates, sleeps or otherwise users her body to break up a marriage can confess all she wants but she lacks character and is morally bankrupt. My opinion, I don't tell others how to live but I certainly can have my personal opinion of their character.
We all know that when Newt becomes bored with his current blow-up doll, he will go out and buy another...
This republican race is fascinating to say the least, a new front runner every week with Romney always in second. Newt has a lot of challenges to overcome, some of his ideas are really out of the main stream. So now that he's the front runner let's see if he can survive the spot light, Perry may still have a chance.
The important thing for any of those running is to keep the focus on the record of the current administration. They had everything their way the first 2 years, until the House was returned to sanity. In those 2 years, they gave us a clear idea of the America that President Obama and his allies in the Congress envision. That they have spent over $6 Trillion dollars (borrowed from our chief rival), and have produced an even worse economic situation, with higher unemployment, should tells us all we need to know. If the press stops acting like an arm of the Obama 2012 re-election committee, he lose to anyone the Republican party nominates.
No they didn't...and there is no sanity in the republican party..never has been ..
You would think the party of millionares could come up with a a good field of candidates, instead of the clowns they have running. There is only one good, intelligent decent candidate and that is Huntsman who is a true conservative but the right wing nuts don't want an intelligent thoughtful candidate they want a showman and that is what they have in all the others, CLOWNS.
Amazing. No one has mentioned the fact that he wants to do away with child labor laws so poor kids can learn work ethics. He doesn't care if poor kids get a good education, that schools in poor districts are as good as in wealthy ones. No, he wants poor kids to be put to work. No one is irate about this statement?
Not to mention that he was booted out of the Speakership job for ethics violations...
"We have met the enemy and he is us!" Pogo by Walt Kelly
Probably no one is commenting because his views on putting children to work is so outlandish, stupid and crazy that no one takes it seriously. But then I didn't think the GOP could take Gingrich seriously after three (we know of)mistresses and wives and then his conversion to a religion that allows you to confess your sins and start all over. His ethics violations, his lobbying activities, and on and on. What a phony - have you noticed the current wife does not let him out of her sight - she has heard the old saying that when a man marries his mistress it leaves a position open.
It' OK not to like the guy, but saying that Newt (or anyone) wants to do away with child labor laws, or doesn't care about educating our children is really irresponsible. He never said any such thing, and you have taken his comments WAY out of context.
I think not, I heard him not once but several times say that poor kids should do jantorial work in schools and that the only way they know to earn money is thru illegal methods. The man is the height of hypocracy.
Johnathan too many of us heard Newt say he wanted to get rid of the child labor laws for your lie to pass unnoticed.
This guy is a psychopath.. I hope the people who would vote for him take a second look ...He is delusional..and will be a present and constant danger to the people of the USA..You have no idea what Newt your talking to at any given moment ! He was kicked out of Washington DC by his own party for a reason ! He seems to have gone unchecked for a number of years and has gotten worse ...He seems to be very convinced he is the creator of the world and is smarter then a 7 yo !
He's happy with who he is? As he stated a few days ago when asked about his affairS. He said that he had made peace with God and God said he was good to go. I get more and more confused as to the family values of these Christian (ahem) Republicans?
It's nice to know that you can be a misogynist, arrogant narcissist, along with the worst integrity (aside from Cain), and be a TPGOP front runner - what does that say for the Republican Party?
'H8' - Good post name - very appropriate - still waiting for one thing that President Obama has done that justifies another 4 years in office. Come on - no insults - think now - I know you can do it.
Johnathan here is a short list for you. I am sure others could add even more.
1. Obama is not a republican who has signed an oath to Norquist to assist Norquist and the rich in destroying America.
2. President Obama wants the richest in our country to invest in our country. Why should our country go the way of Greece just so the republicans can protect the richest 1%.
3. President Obama wants to create jobs for Americans while the republicans want to cut 200,000 jobs and freeze pay for government workers. Everybody but everybody is to sacrifice except the richest 1%.
4. Bonner wants to eliminate tax cuts for the working poor and middle class and claims he doesn't have a clue as to the fiscal repercussions. Obama on the other hand knows it will hurt working people while the republicans don't care.
5. President Obama does not want to kill social security.
6. President Obama thinks we should feed the children, even if the republicans are against food stamps.
7. President Obama is for education.
8. President Obama is for health care.
9. President Obama is not beating his chest trying to start a war with Iran.
10. President Obama is against torture.
11. President Obama proved that you can assist people around the world without getting into a quagmire like Iraq. Think Libya. McCain would have had boots on the ground and we would currently be in another Iraq with no exit strategy as well as still being in Iraq.
12. President Obama has core values and is still married to the same wife.
13. President Obama has not been thrown out of congress on ethics charges.
14. President Obama does not support the person-hood amendment.
For the love of America Obama/Biden 2012
Good post "Americans First"!
Wow - So this week, the haters are going after Newt (his turn I guess). The current economic condition of the country does not concern those who depend on government largess. President Obama has given us a version of an America filled with such dependency, and anyone who believes in the promise of a United States of America where all are free to succeed (or fail), needs to be demonized. The reason is that the current President cannot run on his record, and all of you (for and against) know it. Come on - one reason to give President Obama another 4 years ..... anybody?
He is not a repuke.
Johnathan360
Many, many reasons and the NUMBER ONE reason is to keep the obstructive TPGOP OUT.
Good start, 'dembarb' - thanks for showing off the intellectual depth of the 'progressives'. Can anyone else - based on President Obama's RECORD - tell us why we should vote him to another term?
Just like a right wingnut - regurgitate that same ole, same ole. The one GOOD thing about the TPGOP candidates is that they give us ammunition on a DAILY basis. We don't have to make @!$%# up or use old tired propaganda that is NOT factual.
Still waiting - ONE policy of the Current President that tells us why you will vote for him. Insults don't count - seriously - can't anyone name ONE?
You want wins: Eliminated Bin Laden as well as two other main terrorists, no terriorism deaths on our shores (more than can be said for Bush), finally getting our troops out of Iraq and saving hundreds of American soldier lives as well as billions of dollars, health ins reform (or are you like most republicans and love getting ripped off by the ins. industry) it just did not go far enough, tax breaks for middle Americans and on and on. Let's see what did the Republicans do in 8 years - let terrorists bomb buildings in NY, start two wars, blow a balanced budget, cause a housing bubble that then burst, lowered the tax rates of multi millionaries. Oh, yeah I want another republican president like I want the flu.
THANK YOU 'siestasis' - See, when you actually have to psot something positive about the President, then we have the basis for a real debate, rather than the insults and name-calling that go on in these posts.
Now: 1) I agree, the decision to terminate Bin Laden was the right one, and the President deserves crdit for it.
2) The President did not close Gitmo, continued the Patriot act, and continued the wars in Irag and Afghanistan, so I agree with you again.
3) The President wants healthcare reform (don't we all?). However, this bill was drafted in haste and jammed through. As a result, it likely will be found to be unconstitutional. We do need real reform, but dmonizing the insurance industry is not a good place to start. Healthcare still needs to be paid for, and the insurance companies (and those millions of Americans who work for them) are not 'rip-offs' - it is language like that that stands in the way of the solution.
4) We agree on tax breaks for the middle class, as long as they include a way to 'pay' for them by lowering federal spending.
5) Do you really think that President Bush 'let' terrorists bomb buildings? Since 9/11/11, no successful terrorist acts have occured on US soil - a credit to President Bush AND Obama.
6) The budget is not balanced or unbalanced, as - under President Obama and the current congress - we have not HAD a budget for over 2 years.
7) The housing crisis started with the Community Investment Act, when we decided that everyone had a 'right' to home ownership (regardless of financial qualifications). The results were (looking back on it ) predictable. I think we can agree that the 'stimulus' bill actually made the economic situation worse than it was when President Obama took office.
As to where we go from here. Based on the 40% increase in debt, 9% (official) unemployment, refusal to secure our borders, and failure to secure viable healthcare reform, I disagree that President Obama is justified in asking for another 4 years as President.
2. On Gitmo, that is a mess that hopefully justice is addressing but you will notice that Congress keeps getting involved which makes it messier.
3. Tax breaks for the middle class should be paid for by closing loopholes in the tax code. We should not be giving billions of subsidies to the sugar industry, to the oil companies and to farmers to NOT grow crops. People who yell socialism don't realize that these are programs that both parties support.
4. There are aspects of the Health care reform that is a step forward, however requiring everyone to have ins is just a sop to Ins companies and I would prefer a universal program like Medicare, which I am on and think is great. However with the supplementals I pay for and the drug ins I am paying $300 a month. I know everyone thinks Medicare is not run properly and it does have an admin problem and that problem is that it is managed by ins companies by contract and they are paid a percentage of what they approve so they have no incentative to root out fraud.
5. Ok, Bush did not "let" but listening to Rumsfield and Cheney he did not think that the terrorism threats that were left for him in a briefing book were worth following thru with. We have to take our shoes off when we fly and undergo pat downs but we let foreigners learn to fly (not take off and land but just fly) crazy.
6. I cannot understand why Congress cannot develop and pass a budget. This is the one main responsibility of congress and they fail miserably. Congress has the lowest rating in history and they deserve it. We no longer have a majority of congress that are government servants they are politicians in the worse sense of the word. Re election and the power and riches it brings are the only thing the majority are interested in. Whose fault - ours "you get the government you deserve". Too many people look at the party designation and vote not knowing a damn thing about the person running.
7. I find it amazing that the politicans are all screaming at Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac when it was the Congress that decided that loans should be given to people regardless of their ability to pay. But then when did Congress ever take responsibility for their own actions.
I am not completly happy with Obama but he is better than the field the GOP has except perhaps for Huntsman, who is intelligent, knowledgable, seems of high character and conservative. A little too conservative for me but I could vote for him depending on the information that comes out during the debates if he received the nomination.
One more point on stimulus - please do not believe the propaganda that the stimulus did not work. I personally helped several communites and businesses take advantage of the stimulus funding (these are small rural areas in the midwest) and to date over 500 jobs have been created on just the 4 projects I worked on. And since I also work on small business loans I can tell you I have just completed two for expansions of current companies and have two waiting for me to start, one new company and one expansion. So from where I sit the economy is slowly coming back and the stimulus did create jobs - maybe 500 does not seem a lot but believe me it does to the 500 individuals that now have a job and are paying taxes.
By the way the unemployment rate fell to 8.3% for November
Sorry unemployment rate 8.6% for November
The unemployment rate for Nov. is the lowest since Nov. 2009. That includes the two seasons you reference Sha. So whatever way you look at it the unemployment rate is lower.
Additionally, the private sector has added jobs for the past 22 months. The unemployment rate is being held at it's present level due to losses in public sector jobs. Teachers, police, firemen, state and local government jobs.
Sha Zaaam;
I wonder too, but that was a very tepid response to Siestasis!
So this frontrunner stuff is disorienting to the Newster. Geez, what does he thing being the leader of the free world would be like? The Republican clown show continues.....
....and will conclude with a Republican President and Senate in 2012. 1/2013 - the end of Obamunism.
Jonathan
Seriously, are you comprehending what's going on? Do you actually HEAR the news, or are you so hellbent on getting rid of the President that you tune the actual facts out? And you use those cute little phrasings. You watch Fox?
Yes, Dee and I also watch CBS, NBC, CNN, etc., etc., etc .... that is what it takes to get the news from all sides, as they are ALL biased to a point of view.
All of them seem to agree on some things, though - 400,000 new jobless claims this past week, 9% 'official' unemployment, over 5 TRILLION dollars in new debt since President Obama took office. 'Stimulus' I - 800 BILLION spent with nothing permanent to show for it. A refusal to create REAL jobs by exploiting our adundant natural resources. A 'free' healthcare 'plan' so poorly drafted that it likely will be found to be unconstitutional, and on, and on, and on......
Question - Name ONE policy of the current President that justifies his re-election in 2012? Seriously - just ONE.
Johnathan check out 19.4 I gave you a list.
You're disoriented Newt? What about us ? We didn't think you had the chance of a snowball in hell! If you weren't such an arrogant jerk you might have some traction. There's always a little element of truth in what you say but mostly just offensive. You are correct in saying that kids in poor inner city families do not have many role models for going to work every day. You are right that Ryan's plan is right wing social engineering. You are right that we aren't going to be able to ship 1 million illegals back to Mexico. It's your solutions that are often illogical and provocative. We still have a problem with your extreme hypocrisy, low morals, and poor character.
First we read:
"Republican presidential candidate Newt Gingrich told hundreds.....that his new front-runner status is “disorienting.”
The we read:
“Newt Gingrich is always well organized. He is focused..." Polk Co. GOP Chairman Kevin McLaughlin told NBC News.
Now I don't know WHAT to believe.
Wow heard newt last night claim''
“This is the best food stamp president in history. So more Americans now get food stamps therefore and we now give it away as cash,” Gingrich said of President Obama. “You don’t get food stamps. You get a credit card and the credit card can be used for anything. We’ve had people take their food stamp money and use it to go to Hawaii.”
“And you know, they give food stamps now to millionaires. Because after all, don’t you want to be compassionate?” he continued. “You know the Obama model, isn’t there somebody you’d like to give money to this week?”
How on earth did come to that food stamps used for trips to Hawaii""'
wonder why he came up with Hawaii..millionaires are on food stamps ...who ..where..why hasn't he reported this fraud...when is he gonna be called out on his nonsense.
'Amunaka' (pretty name) - Sadly, he cannot be 'called out' on this, as it is all true. His point (I think) is that the program as it is needs to be fundamently changed, as it practically invites fraud, and creates a dangerous dependence on government. I understand your concern about using Hawaii (where the President is from), but the story on the abuse of this food stamp program did actually include trips to Hawaii.
That's crazy. Food stamps come on a card which works like a debit card at grocery stores. It only pays for food items, and still follows certain rules (prepared food isn't covered, like deli items, or even pre-chopped fruit).
If you have a cart full of non-food items mixed with food items, the system is smart enough to pay for the food and present you with a new balance of all the stuff that wasn't covered. Then you need to pull out another method of payment to cover the rest.
The cards are being sold at a discount to brokers for cash, which then is used on - well - anything.
To..Johnathan ..""""
To funny ...where do I sign up ..being the lib I am I almost feel sorry and embarrassed for what newts going to go through in the next few weeks ...but he as always has just been in it for the money anyway ..
I loved his1990's GOPAC Memo ..
"Language: A Key Mechanism of Control"
have adopted the principles of the manifesto and use it liberally ...
Amunaka - There were arrest of several dozen corner convenience store owners within the past few weeks for trafficking in these cards. Apparently, you don't have to 'sign up' - you just needed to know where to go to make the exchange. I honestly do not know why Newt (or anyone) is going throught the process of running for President, but I suggest that you read some of his books. He is a good author, and very readable. You may learn some things about him that surprise you.
To..Johathan""""
" corner convenience store owners"...pales in comparison to how wall street.. banks.. big corps rip off the government ...but hey kick the poor when their down ..they haven't the means to fight back ..
Jonathan, anything can be sold for cash. The fact that a black market exists to illegally sell food stamps does not mean you can claim "food stamps are cash now."
You can sell food from a churches food pantry for cash! That doesn't mean churches are giving people money to go to Hawaii.
Ask Cain and Perry how long front runner status lasts, especially with a history of spoiled and cheating ways.