Obama makes surprise trip to Afghanistan

 

President Obama has made an unannounced trip to Afghanistan, according to a White House pool report. He will also address the nation at 7:30 pm ET.

AP notes that Obama will "sign an agreement cementing the U.S. role in the country after the war ends in 2014. Obama and Afghan President Hamid Karzai are to approve the agreement before Obama gives a speech on the war effort for a TV audience back in the United States."

Mandel Ngan / AFP - Getty Images

President Obama steps off Air Force One May 1 upon arrival at Bagram Air Field in Afghanistan.

NBC's Kristen Welker reports that Obama will detail how the relationship between the United States and Afghanistan will be normalized after 2014 when the U.S. will pull out of the country. This trip, Welker reports, was 20 months in the making.

NBC's Chuck Todd reports that Karzai requested a signing of the agreement on Afghan soil. Obama will not speak before an audience of troops, Todd reports. He will mention the bin Laden anniversary.

President Barack Obama is in Kabul to sign a 10-year security agreement with Afghanistan. NBC's Chuck Todd and Jim Miklaszewski report.

AP: "The trip carries major symbolic significance for a president seeking a second term and allows him to showcase what the White House considers the fruit of Obama's refocused war effort: the killing a year ago of 9/11 mastermind Osama bin Laden."

This is also the nine-year anniversary of President Bush speaking on an aircraft carrier with the "Mission Accomplished" banner behind him.

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Cause he's all about the war. THe ENDless war.

A veritable 'Cowboy' president.

Economy, what economy?

  • 12 votes
#1 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:15 PM EDT

AP notes that Obama will "sign an agreement cementing the U.S. role in the country after the war ends in 2014."

Wondering how the AP knows the "War Ends" in 2014?

Didn't know that wars had time clocks.

I thought someone usually surrendered?

  • 9 votes
#1.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:17 PM EDT

And who's going to surrender, WCA? Them? Who's their leader again? Does 'terrorism' have a singular leader?

No.

It's like declaring war on Thursdays, or War on Povery, or any other failed war that we've engaged in.

It doesn't work.

And when you keep betting on losing hands in poker, you can't complain when you go home broke.

We need to cut and leave, now. Let them overthrow their regimes or execute each other to their hearts content. Not my problem.

Just like that Domino Effect the republicans pitched for Vietnam.

Doesn't exist.

We quit bombing them, they can start bombing each other. Only time they even give a crap about us is when we stick our noses in and decide we want some of that bombing action ourselves.

Let them rot.

  • 16 votes
#1.2 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:21 PM EDT

I wonder if the agreement was about how many soldiers remain?

Agree that we should really get out already. Can't believe that we have to stay until 2014 then have this agreement that forces a yet to be revealed number to stay there.

Will follow this speech and the details before I comment further.

  • 8 votes
#1.3 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:23 PM EDT

Ok my fine libbie friends riddle me this - what exactly would we be doing in another country 'after the war is over?'

So Obama is now President "occupation?"

But hey, now that the war on terror is over we can terminate the TSA? End executions without due process? Kill off the Patriot Act?

Any of you all think President War Monger will do any of that?

Man they told me if I voted for McCain it'd be unending war - and they were right!

  • 11 votes
#1.4 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:24 PM EDT

Blessed be the peacemakers! This must be the first president to end TWO wars!

Obama/Biden 2012!

  • 16 votes
#1.5 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:25 PM EDT

But hey, now that the war on terror is over we can terminate the TSA? End executions without due process? Kill off the Patriot Act?

Any of you all think President War Monger will do any of that?

Better question...do you think the GOP Chickenhawks will let him do any of that without completely fudging their undies?

  • 18 votes
#1.6 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:26 PM EDT

Think Obama will talk about the past month being one of the bloodiest? Certainly the media won't.

Source: http://www.unknownsoldiersblog.com/2012/05/bigger-than-day.html

Can't believe that we have to stay until 2014 then have this agreement that forces a yet to be revealed number to stay there.

There is no clear objective. Obama hasn't described one. Is it to kill X amount of bad guys? Is it establishing a persistent and democratic government? What exactly do we owe that country and why do we owe it to them?

  • 7 votes
#1.7 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:27 PM EDT

See, the part that I love, here is that in the course of 3 minutes time you've got Spanky complaining about endless war followed by WCA complaining about war with a timetable.

I wish y'all would get your list of grievances straight...I mean, it can't be both, can it?

  • 18 votes
#1.8 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:28 PM EDT

Same thing we did in Germany after the war? Or Japan? Or Australia (yes, we had troops there). Or France? Or England? Or Italy?

I'd imagine we help maintain a peacekeeping force so that civilization and the rule of law could be re-established throughout a region.

You don't need to go paranoid and try to belittle the president because you don't agree with something he is doing.

I want to leave the region, in its entirety, and let them eat each other in the streets.

But alas, my foreign policy stances are more in line with Pelosi, Paul and Kucinich than with Romney or Obama.

That's right. People on both sides of the aisle hate this entire war vs. terrorism thing. Bi-partisan support for PEACE!

And, as Spanky and WCA demonstrate, there are Republicans both for and against this war-business as well.

It's not a party-line issue.

  • 16 votes
#1.9 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:29 PM EDT

WAIT FOR IT!!!!

Every Talking Head Republican will hit the President for daring to go to Afghanistan without there permission. There Heads must be exploding.

  • 11 votes
#1.10 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:31 PM EDT

There you go again noid. Quit lying.

Where did I complain?

You don't find it an odd choice of words for the AP to say "when the war ends in 2014"?

Tell me then noid, how will we know it ended?

Will it be because we ran out of money or ran out of soldiers?

Won or Lost?

Just how will "the War is Over" be defined?

  • 5 votes
#1.11 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:31 PM EDT

"Ok my fine libbie friends riddle me this - what exactly would we be doing in another country 'after the war is over?'"

Germany? Italy? Japan? South Korea? Kuwait? Kosovo? All because of "President Warmonger"?

I love the smell of right wing desperation in the morning.....

WCA: "Just how will "the War is Over" be defined?"

I don't know, either, but I'll bet anything it doesn't include the President standing in front of a "Mission Accomplished" banner in a flight suit.....

  • 15 votes
#1.12 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:36 PM EDT

Think Obama will talk about the past month being one of the bloodiest? Certainly the media won't.

...so the Taliban go on an offensive and you want to pin it on the President? Is that it?

  • 8 votes
#1.13 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:37 PM EDT

Because it's not a war. There is no enemy to go blow up. Just an ideal.

Be like declaring war against people who don't believe in evolution. There's a lot of them out there, and hard to seperate them from the rest.

So we're kicking sand until 2014 and doing...nothing. Helping Karzai not have his head chopped off in front of webcams, I guess.

Blowing up people we don't like, too, when opportunity presents itself.

But that's about it.

man, I am so glad George W. Bush got us into Afghanistan and made those foreign commitments on our behalf! Aren't you?

Obama's only crime, here, is actually upholding Failure Bush's promises. Should've denounced them all and hung that around his chickenhawk neck as well. The Bush Tax Cuts, the Bush Recession, the Bush Wars and the Bush Promises He Couldn't Keep.

  • 7 votes
#1.14 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:38 PM EDT

Noid- let him?

Really, you really just view your side as impotent? Sad.

And really Noid - 'we' are all the same? You probably are that simplistic, but that's not the real world. So to review Noidster - impotent and narrow minded is no way to go through life.

Damn right tek - it's a simple money issue, as in we broke. Economic reality always wins, and we cannot afford this crap.

Plus I kinda like my individual freedoms. Too bad Obama doesn't seem to give a flying Feisty.

  • 5 votes
#1.15 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:40 PM EDT

Well that didn't take long did it Tek?

I knew I could get one of you all to scream "It's Bush's Fault"

And sure noid, we're all alike. We alk in Lockstep and think the exact same thoughts. Oh no, wait, that's you Libs here with the "We're on the same page today" BS.

Man you folks are easy.

  • 5 votes
#1.16 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:42 PM EDT

I have a very novel idea, how about we wait to see what the agreement is before we condemn it. as for Spanky I agree with ending the Patriot Act and TSA, how much would that cut from the budget though I suspect he has different reasons for ending these than I do. As for WCA he was not complaining just word playing as always on the meaning of war you know the new GOP talking point, war on this war on that everything is a war on something. As for how it ends most likely just as Iraq did, troops come home and the sooner the better for them and us. But guys it has to done carefully and over time. Moving 90,000 troops and equipment is not done overnight in a land locked country with no friendly ground to exit over. Just put a little time on that one.

  • 5 votes
#1.17 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:44 PM EDT

Remember when Nixon pulled out of Vietnam, Spanky? Remember the last airlifts from the roof of the United States embassy, with people fighting to get on board?

That's the Republican ending you wanted? Too bad McCain couldn't give it to you.

  • 13 votes
#1.18 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:44 PM EDT

Nice thought tek - but Obama is just the same, eh?

He signed into law/extended tax cuts, he has had several of his own military adventures and let's face it, he could end this all right now if he so chooses, and brother we are living the Obama depression.

Promises he couldn't keep? When was the last time you listened to what Obama was trying to sell back in '07 and '08?

Obama = Bush. THey both love them some Patriot Act. Obama has just ratched it all up a few dozen notches, or have you not seen the drones flying above you?

  • 5 votes
#1.19 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:45 PM EDT

tek: There is no enemy to go blow up

How dense can one get like our friend tek here.

Bloodiest month tek: http://www.unknownsoldiersblog.com/2012/05/bigger-than-day.html

So what's causing our soldiers to get killed tek? Wild badgers?

  • 3 votes
#1.20 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:47 PM EDT

Amy dear - you just don't get it.

Ending the endless military engagements is not a political thing.

But that is not what you think about as you walk over those hot coal, I know.

Don't believe me? Take a look at Pakistan, Somalia, or any of the other @!$%# hole countries. We cannot help them. THe 7th century is all they will ever know.

As a woman you should get that, no?

  • 5 votes
#1.21 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:48 PM EDT

Man, those Honey Badgers are nasty!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4r7wHMg5Yjg

  • 4 votes
#1.22 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:51 PM EDT

Sure, Smiffy.

Wild Badgers, people who are sick of us in their backyard, etc. Lots of things. People who weren't terrorists before are now terrorists because we're pissing them off. You'd know that if you got off your humpty butt and went out to serve your country.

Also, a blog is rarely a credible reference, mmkay?

We have the treasure to fix our own nation, or to fix afghanistan. Not enough to do both.

And you bet, WCA!

IT'S BUSH'S FAULT!

-Hint: It's all we need to keep saying. We have Carter, you have Bush. Romney is referencing Carter over 30 years later...you bet we'll be referencing Bush in 30 years. Turn about is fair play, old chap!

Heck, I think we need to dig up the bones of old Hoover and start referencing him more too. Hoover and Bush! Prince's of Recession!

  • 10 votes
#1.23 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:51 PM EDT

Tek, I think you are missing the point, here.

Pretty sure most of us, left and right including the folks on this thread would like to get the hell out of Afghanistan.

It's one promise I wish Obama would have kept.

It's a crap hole and it will always be a crap hole. Wish we would have pulled out years ago.

  • 5 votes
#1.24 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:57 PM EDT

WCA-

...then yes, I was indeed missing the point. Glad we could agree. My 'socialist' self and your 'fascist' self can see eye to eye on 'F--- the Middle East.' :D

Ahem.

So...

Does this make you a Progressive now? :D

  • 6 votes
#1.25 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:58 PM EDT

BHO makes surprise trip to Afghanistan today. Interesting choice of dates. There is nothing he will not try to use to his Political advantage?

  • 5 votes
#1.26 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:01 PM EDT

Does this make you a Progressive now? :D

Nah, tek, it makes me what I have always been.

A realist.

  • 3 votes
#1.27 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:02 PM EDT

Duane, and you don't use political advantage to get your wife into bed. RIGHT!! I am sure it takes all the leverage you have.

  • 3 votes
#1.28 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:03 PM EDT

tek: Also, a blog is rarely a credible reference, mmkay?

Odd. Isn't that where you got your 90% of scientists are Liberal/Democrats reference the other day. Of course you fabricated "35% independents" into "35% are Democratic-leaning" to come up with your number. Some would call that a gross misrepresentation of the data tekky boy.

How do you think that makes your credibility look tekky? Not too good, mmkay?

And isn't it odd the MSM doesn't cover the deaths/wounded in Afghanistan? It's almost like they're ignoring it on purpose.

  • 5 votes
#1.29 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:05 PM EDT

It's cool, man. I won't tell anyone about your super-secret commie allegiances.

  • 7 votes
#1.30 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:05 PM EDT

Funny thing is JAS1 - the media is trying its best to ignore how horribly bad it is in Afghanistan.

But then Obama goes off and pulls this publicity stunt. Just had to go there "exactly on year after Osama was killed" - or so said Wolf B at this very moment.

And now that he is there, they kinda got to talk about it.

  • 3 votes
#1.31 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:16 PM EDT

JAS1: "And isn't it odd the MSM doesn't cover the deaths/wounded in Afghanistan? It's almost like they're ignoring it on purpose"

Didn't look very hard, did you, JoAnna?

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-501363_162-57425313/us-military-deaths-in-afghanistan-at-1828/

http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/at-least-1812-us-military-deaths-in-afghanistan-since-2001/2012/04/24/gIQASD1geT_story.html

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/27/us/us-military-deaths-in-afghanistan.html

Oh, wait, you were the one who said this morning that the NY Times was a step below the British tabloids, right? Okay, then, how about:

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/war.casualties/index.html

http://www.wboc.com/story/17675606/us-military-deaths-in-afghanistan-at-1812

http://www.kswo.com/story/17675606/us-military-deaths-in-afghanistan-at-1812

Yeah, that's a massive cover-up all right......or is the Lawton, Oklahoma tv station not mainstream enough for you?

  • 8 votes
#1.32 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:27 PM EDT

JoAnnaSmith,

Obama will talk about the past month being one of the bloodiest? Certainly the media won't.

Amazing how the media used to give us daily death updates (usually mocking "since Bush announced mission accomplished'), marked all the milestone deaths, etc. during Bush's terms ... yet they fail to report on Obama, huh?

Your link is the deaths for this past April which stands at 33 (other WIA still critical).

This is the deadliest month of 2012. The sad news is that the fighting season has not begun.

Under Bush, we lost 19 in the month of April - all 7 Aprils COMBINED.

This also tops the worst month of the war under Bush which was September 2008 when we lost 26.

In Obama's 40 months, the losses have exceeded Bush's worst month 22 times.

The media you ask?

How many Americans realize that of the 1,545 total losses in Afghanistan – 73% have come under Obama … Almost 3 out of every 4 deaths in Afghanistan have come under Obama in just 3 ½ years of the 10 year war?

Think Obama is going to mention that in any of his "I got bin Laden" celebration parades?

  • 3 votes
#1.33 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:27 PM EDT

Tis - you have to know it's useless to try to post sensible comments when you have Spanky (I'm a lawyer); JAS (I'm useless); WCA; etc. online. They are so filled with hate for anything Obama it is truly pathetic. But, their ignorance shows more and more everyday.

We have a President who is doing a great job. He's ending two wars and bringing our troops home in a reasonable, planned manner. He's brought the US back to a position of respected leadership in the world arena.

But, of course, the mental midgets of the right will throw every insult at him because that's all they have to offer. When your candidate is Romney it's not like you can talk about his strengths.

Obama/Biden 2012

  • 8 votes
#1.34 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:29 PM EDT

Spanky thinks the President DOING HIS JOB is a publicity stunt. What would you prefer Obama be doing, Spanks, out riding his mountain bike?

  • 8 votes
#1.35 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:32 PM EDT

Yep Amy that would be great.

In fact I wish Wash DC would call it a year and just go home.

But let's be very clear Amy - he is not doing his job. He's campaigning for the job he already has.

Just go read Milbank's editorial. More fundraisers than Carter-Bush 2, combined.

Odd, right. Seems like he could focus on at least getting a budget passed. You think he knows Harry R.'s phone number?

  • 3 votes
#1.36 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:44 PM EDT

Costs more money to campaign today. Media time + inflation.

Besides, you ain't seen nothing yet.

They're shaping the map right now.

Romney is spending gobs of money to try to get a toehold in PA, OH, FL. He can't win without at least 2 of those 3.

Obama is spending some in PA and OH to keep them blue, but gobs in FL. Also trying to broaden the map with some moves towards traditional Republican areas. AZ, TX and SC. Probably leave IN alone, though. It's shaping up to be cost-prohibitive to bother with it. TX is a long-term strategy though, for complete domination for posterity, and not as immediate as AZ, SC and FL.

This is what it looks like when one party is trying to 'run the board' on another. Lots of money spent.

Long-term, the Dems think they can turn VA and OH true blue...like CA, MA and NY.

The republicans can't afford that, since it would mean they never got the whitehouse ever again.

So this election? Billion dollars spent, minimum. Likely more.

  • 2 votes
#1.37 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:53 PM EDT

Amy B. Portland, ME

Spanky thinks the President DOING HIS JOB is a publicity stunt. What would you prefer Obama be doing, Spanks, out riding his mountain bike?

Spanky, just got punked by right wing hacks and FOX NOISE and so did Mitt and the rest of the jealous war-mongers on the right.

Afghan President Hamid Karzai asked President Obama to come to Afghanistan.

Wow 20 months in planning! Bush could never keep something like that close to his vest.

FYI: Spanky, try not to *gasp* fall while on your bike.

President Obama is doing his job, the publicity stunt is Willard the "Myth" Rob-ney serving pizza campaigning to curry favors to likely voters.

  • 4 votes
#1.38 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:53 PM EDT

Seeking, I know but I throw this at Spanky from time to time to gauge his mood more than anything. As for JAS1 Spanky's shadow what a hoot, never seen anyone so single minded other than nazarite and I have no doubt he lives in a secure home. What I really find funny is that they must think they are going to change anyones mind here, it would be like going to faux news and trying to get them to really be fair and balanced.

  • 3 votes
#1.39 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:57 PM EDT

Spanky

A better topic is: what can we offer Barack Obama for agreeing to four more years in that God awful job?

  • 7 votes
#1.40 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:58 PM EDT

edit;

FYI: Spanky, try not to *gasp* fall while on your bike.

President Obama is doing his job, the publicity stunt is Willard the "Myth" Rob-ney serving pizza campaigning to curry favors to unlikely voters.

Mitt is the loser no one wants.

  • 5 votes
#1.41 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:00 PM EDT

We need to start a pool, because I'm thinking a 341 - 197 blowout this cycle.

www.270towin.com/2012_election_predictions.php?mapid=jYz

  • 3 votes
#1.42 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:05 PM EDT

Just browsed through all the cable channels... MSNBC, CNN etc. All of them but Fox News are caring the Presidents visit live... Go figure...

  • 7 votes
#1.43 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:21 PM EDT

To all the RWNJs (especially the one who's theme song is "Smelly Cat") -- The Blaze needs you!

  • 4 votes
#1.44 - Tue May 1, 2012 6:14 PM EDT

[Ok my fine libbie friends riddle me this...]

Wow...who knew Spanky is really the Joker...go figure...

...but, if the shoe fits, as they say...

  • 3 votes
#1.45 - Tue May 1, 2012 7:05 PM EDT

The left just got punked by Obama - again. He is in campaign mode 24/7 since he fooled the majority 3 1/2 years ago and won't stop until he wins or loses the next election.

  • 1 vote
#1.46 - Tue May 1, 2012 7:51 PM EDT

Obama quote today:
"blah..blah...blah....blah....wahaa...wahaa....wahaaa......"

He sounds just like the "teacher" character in all the Charile Brown cartoons.
Wah..wah...wah...

  • 1 vote
#1.47 - Tue May 1, 2012 9:04 PM EDT
Reply

"sign an agreement cementing the U.S. role in the country after the war ends in 2014

WhooHoo!

More history in the making!

This news is sure to set the right wing nuts follicles on fire!

PS: I'll bet old Chuckie T is pissed he wasn't briefed on the visit!

  • 20 votes
Reply#2 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:15 PM EDT

Ah, look at the old gal - all excited to be talkin' bout war, and suffering and being cold.

Huh. Seems interesting given what the old Obama used to say about war.

Yeah, not like we need to end it now, pull out and let Afghanistan, and the middle east in general, collapse upon itself.

Cause see, we are loaded with cash - tons of extra money, just sitting around. No way we could use any of that money here in our own country.

Say, wasn't it just a day or two ago Obama was talking about crumbling infrastructure here in the good old US of A?

  • 7 votes
#2.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:20 PM EDT

Spanky-

Cause he's all about the war. THe ENDless war.

A veritable 'Cowboy' president.

Economy, what economy?

Would you please stop lying; at least the President is trying to get us out. Bush/Cheney didn't .

Have you forgatten they goal was two endless war which they left for their sucessors to finish. Then you've got all the neo-con fools calling for bombing Iran, North Korea, Syria. Bascially, any place these fools think they can exploit.

The Cowboy President has his scary azzz in Texas. His sociopathic puppet master is busy going on FOX NOISE spreading more fear, doom and advocating more tax cuts for the rich.

  • 8 votes
#2.2 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:07 PM EDT

Feisty Redhead Roselle, IL

This news is sure to set the right wing nuts follicles on fire!

Already the Republican Senator Coburn is on that shrill Dylan Ratigan's show on complaining.

  • 8 votes
#2.3 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:15 PM EDT

Bev. let's break it down, keep it SUPER simple.

Obama is the commander in Chief. He says it's over, and BAM! it'd be over.

So Bev. why is he committing us to stay even longer?

Say, Bev. - I don't suppose you care to comment on the finances there in Ill?

Quinn busted out so huge taxes last year. He promised everything would be all better by now.

So how's that working out for you?

  • 3 votes
#2.4 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:19 PM EDT

Already the republican Senator is on that shrill Dylan Ratigan on complaining.

F@ck Tom Coburn & Dylan Ratigan too!

The President hasn't even spoken yet, and already their pissing themselves!

I can't wait for Willard to weigh in on the subject! lol

  • 9 votes
#2.5 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:20 PM EDT

Spanky - got a point to make? Or are you just ramblin' .... again.

The army has started operations to exit Afghanistan. A co-workers son is stationed there (third rotation) and is impressed with the Afghani armed forces doing their own patrols, etc etc There are some areas that are wild and wooly, but it is better. And the last ditch attempt at an offensive by the Taliban is an act of desperation.

Unless you've got some 1st hand or 2nd hand personal references on whats going on over there - stfu.

I'm sure you're so proud of your witless schtick, but you're the only one laughing.

You mean that crumbling infrastructure that the repubs refuse to approve any spending for ? The crumbling infrastructure that could be fixed by the job creators that need to honor their promise to create jobs if only Bush would give them (not one, but ) two tax cuts?

  • 8 votes
#2.6 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:27 PM EDT

Dang it. My Googler must be malfunctioning. I can't get to the Fox news release that claims "Obama takes Air Force One on yet ANOHTER vacation. This time to Afghanistan".

  • 10 votes
#2.7 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:34 PM EDT

ENDless war

uh? never bothered conservatives when bush-it started the whole mess.

  • 7 votes
#2.8 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:40 PM EDT

Oh lawrdy - the conservie heads are gonna splode when they figya out this trip was made on the tax payers dime.

  • 6 votes
#2.9 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:45 PM EDT

Drive By - I have very sad news to report. Sold the QX56.

So what'da ya think - Volt?

I was surprised - it held it's value pretty good, and that's before factoring in the huge government kick back they give on those vehicles.

God bless IRC Sec. 179, right buddy? Nothing like a $25k kickback right off the top to keep the out of pocket costs down.

  • 2 votes
#2.10 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:48 PM EDT

@blearyeyed You must be kidding. I know several families who have service members of various ranks in Afghanistan. None of them think the Afghani army will make it on their own.

    #2.11 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:00 PM EDT
    Reply

    The White House denied the trip was political, but did affirm the rumors that Obama and Afghan President Hamid Karzai will "slow jam" the text of the agreement on the Letterman show.

    • 5 votes
    Reply#3 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:21 PM EDT

    Oh come on Bob - political?

    On the one year anniversary of Obama super important and huge call to kill Osama?

    No way.

    Of course Dana Milbank pretty much pounded Obama this morning on all of this, didn't he?

    • 7 votes
    #3.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:26 PM EDT

    Oh come on Bob - political?

    The fundraiser is at the Kabul Hilton. It's a 30,000 Afghani plate dinner.

    • 5 votes
    #3.2 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:37 PM EDT

    Come on girls your true colors are starting to show now. If all you can do is complain then you have no value. If on the other hand you educate and instruct with truth you have value added positions. As is your no better than nazarite.

    • 5 votes
    #3.3 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:48 PM EDT

    That's all the righties do is bitch and moan.

    • 10 votes
    #3.4 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:22 PM EDT

    Tis - seriously - you don't expect intelligence coming from the likes of Spanky and JAS, do you? Between them there isn't a complete brain!

    • 6 votes
    #3.5 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:31 PM EDT

    bob in virgynia.

    may be Obama can go on a game show like your war hero....bush.

    • 5 votes
    #3.6 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:42 PM EDT

    Harsh SeekingSanity.

    But then again, getting insulted by someone admittedly looking to be less insane is kinda funny.

    How is your search going?

    • 3 votes
    #3.7 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:52 PM EDT

    Seeking, Spanky is not as bad as he would like you to think, he just enjoys yanking on strings and getting you to bite back. But now Jas is a different story, now that one has issues not covered in any medical text.

    • 5 votes
    #3.8 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:03 PM EDT

    Spanky, your starting to slip up old guy, you don't want anyone thinking your right wing nut job do you. Leave that to JAS babe, woman or whatever it is.

    • 5 votes
    #3.9 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:05 PM EDT

    Spanky - as I've said before (but with your limited brain capability I really don't expect you to remember) I am seeking sanity in the GOP but people like you, JAS, NJNB, always prove there is none to be found!

    • 4 votes
    #3.10 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:05 PM EDT
    Reply

    I have to admire the tireless spirit of President Obama. He has the capability to run the country in spite of all odds that the republicans can muster against him/us, campaign for re-election, engage in guest spots on TV programs that showcase his ability to remain a decent person with a sense of humor in the face of adversity and continue to be present in foreign affairs in person, not just via a phone call.

    • 20 votes
    Reply#4 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:22 PM EDT

    I have to admire the tireless spirit of President Obama

    Brian,

    Isn't it refreshing to have someone in the oval office who can multi-task so effectively?

    Unlike the last occupant who could barely manage to walk & chew gum at the same time!

    • 18 votes
    #4.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:24 PM EDT

    .

      #4.2 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:33 PM EDT

      red....there is no video evidence that W could walk and chew gum at the same time

      GO Obaaahhhhhhma 2012

      • 12 votes
      #4.3 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:00 PM EDT

      Isn't it refreshing to have someone in the oval office who can multi-task so effectively?

      Unlike the last occupant who could barely manage to walk & chew gum at the same time!

      So true Feisty. I'm proud of our President.

      • 6 votes
      #4.4 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:23 PM EDT

      Chris - actually, I believe there is evidence that he couldn't. Just sayin....

      • 4 votes
      #4.5 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:32 PM EDT

      Surprise trip... He, He... A little different from the surprise trip that President Obama sent our Navy seals to make a year ago to OBL...

      I'm doing what I can making sure that everyone that I know is registered to vote this coming November...

      • 5 votes
      #4.6 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:46 PM EDT

      Terry-Ca,

      Your from California, what does it matter?

        #4.7 - Tue May 1, 2012 6:12 PM EDT
        Reply

        Task oriented Feisty? Even a multi-tasker? Seems to me that he makes numerous promises that he doesn't keep.

        Let's recap, what has he done to improve the lives of the criminal illegals? he promised reform, but touts his record of deporting more than any other President in history. The deporting president?

        He promised the gays a marriage act. Haven't seen that yet. Oh, it must be the Republicans who won't pass this legislation that hasn't been submitted yet.

        Or how about tax reform? Seen anything that he talked about come up in a bill?

        Or how about working with both sides of the aisle to create a budget? How many years has he ignored this? Is he afraid that his numbers will keep him from being re-elected?

        Yeah, just some of the multi-tasking from his administration.

        By the way, can you elaborate on why both he and Michelle have voluntarily surrender their law licenses? Do they don't need them anymore, or............?

        • 5 votes
        Reply#5 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:36 PM EDT

        By the way, can you elaborate on why both he and Michelle have voluntarily surrender their law licenses? Do they don't need them anymore, or............?

        I believe JoAnne in PA has already answered your question, go back & read it!

        As for the rest of your comment it is nothing more then the usual right wing gibberish which has been answered repeatedly.

        Rather then be so repetitive, why don't you share with us what Willard's plans for the country are?

        Try to keep up junior!

        • 13 votes
        #5.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:41 PM EDT

        Feisty, you are so funny with your comments. Right wing gibberish.......right.

        Now how would I know what the Romney platform will be? I'm not in his circle. I'll wait until the election cycle and we will both then see where he wants to take the country.

        But please continue with the troll topics from your left-wing play book. You make us all laugh at you when you use your limited knowledge to appear the expert on everything. And I do enjoy your little taunts at anyone your choose to attack. Unfortunately, when confronted with fact, you and your tribe do go on the defensive asking for facts. Facts you refuse to accept. I guess if it isn't from a liberal site it's a mis-statement.

        In the future, when you attack, base it on fact rather than on your limited opinion.

        • 1 vote
        #5.2 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:21 PM EDT

        So, what is Willard going to do?

        • 5 votes
        #5.3 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:25 PM EDT

        So, what is Willard going to do?

        Right?

        I thought I asked a pretty simple question, apparently it's above the whinos pay grade! lol

        In the future, when you attack, base it on fact rather than on your limited opinion.

        Quite the lecture there - it's a shame the readers think otherwise!

        If I didn't scare the @!$%# out of you, you wouldn't feel compelled to follow me around like a love struck puppy begging for some 'pets'!

        • 8 votes
        #5.4 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:29 PM EDT

        winemaker--one of the requirements to maintain a law license is usually attendance at continuing education classes. It will vary by state but appears to be 24 hours per year in Illinois. By taking inactive status for their licenses, the Obamas would not be required to take those classes. The attendance would raise security issues and no doubt the people on the right would be screaming if the President spent time in a classroom. But that isn't why you ask, is it? You are hoping to make it sound nefarious rather than practical.

        • 8 votes
        #5.5 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:31 PM EDT

        Willard will be home, sucking his thumb, riding the car elevator up and down chanting "it's my turn, it's my turn!"

        • 8 votes
        #5.6 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:33 PM EDT

        Winemaker, if you insist on repeating the question, than I'm more than happy to repeat the answer:

        "winemaker: "Why would a member of your profession voluntarily surrender their license in their state?"

        JoAnne in PA: Since I can't find any reference anywhere on line to Elizabeth Warren surrendering her law license (voluntarily or not) and since you didn't mention anyone in Spanky's state of California who did so, I'm gonna go out on a limb here and assume (correct me if I'm wrong) that you're referring to the oft-repeated and even more often debunked claim by assorted right wing forwarded e-mails over the last four years that either of the Obamas were somehow forced to do so. So let me explain it for you:

        "Michelle Obama did not "voluntarily surrender" her law license; she voluntarily requested that her license be placed on "inactive status". The difference is crucial: a lawyer who has "surrendered" his law license has given it up and therefore no longer has a license; a lawyer who has gone on "inactive" status still holds a valid law license but is not currently engaged in any professional activities that require it to be active."

        Doing so enables someone to not have to pay for things like malpractice insurance or continuing education classes when they are not actively practicing law.

        Read all about it here:

        http://www.snopes.com/politics/obama/lawlicenses.asp

        And when you're finished reading the truth on this one, try getting some fresh material. This one's almost as old as the birth certificate conspiracy.

        • 8 votes
        #5.7 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:50 PM EDT

        winemaker wants to vote into a office a guy into the oval office and then see what direction he wants to take the country in?

        Good lord man, how stupid can you be?

        And after reading spanky and WCA, I can believe there is no end to right wing stupidity.

        • 5 votes
        #5.8 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:51 PM EDT

        FrankH - clearly your reading comprehension is sharp. There is no end to their stupidity - no sanity in the GOP!

        • 5 votes
        #5.9 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:08 PM EDT

        Okay Frank, since you and the other libbers have all of the answers, please outline for us conservatives the Obama objectives for re-election. I'll be waiting to hear all of his proposals and policy objectives. Please detail all, as the Redhead would say.

        @Feisty,

        Follow you around honey? Why? The majority that comes out of your posts are simple third grade schoolyard attacks. Not much in the information category that would have me continue to listen to you with any degree of rationality.

        So who is trolling whom now? If you don't like my comments, just use the ignore button honey.

        @ Steeler Fan and Joanne in PA, thanks. I wondered why they may have surrendered their law licenses. I was under the impression that continuing education could be taken via the internet sites for this. Live and learn.

        • 1 vote
        #5.10 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:11 PM EDT

        So who is trolling whom now?

        Why don't we let the readers decide since you show up on my porch every opportunity you get.

        They can start by checking your comment history!

        just use the ignore button honey.

        Not a chance Whino - I enjoy bitch slapping you far too much!

        The majority that comes out of your posts are simple third grade schoolyard attacks

        Maybe you should think about following your own unsoliticed advice?

        just use the ignore button honey.

        • 5 votes
        #5.11 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:19 PM EDT

        Some states do allow some internet/remote study but not all of the classes can be taken that way. Again, the Obamas have not surrendered their law licenses but rather made them inactive. There is a big difference.

        • 4 votes
        #5.12 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:42 PM EDT

        Steeler Fan - also the malpractice insurance required in order for them to keep their law licenses active is expensive and not necessary since they can't practice while he is President. So both of their licenses are on "inactive" status while he is President.

        • 2 votes
        #5.13 - Tue May 1, 2012 6:31 PM EDT
        Reply

        Damn shame he has to lead from the rear after a GOP lead war. Does a better than that guy, whats his name? Oh, do you miss me yet. (Don't want to piss the minions off).

        • 4 votes
        Reply#6 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:38 PM EDT

        Wow, Governor Romney's campaign is getting spanked this week. They are wayyyy behind the curve. President Obama's campaign is dictating all the terms; the Republik Party is scrambling to keep up.

        • 13 votes
        Reply#7 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:52 PM EDT

        He was gonna get spanked anyway. He looks at the president just like the resot of the GOP. Even if Willard knows better, and he does. This is the victim type of president, he is all about action. Speed up the train Willard. Pretty soon he will understand the poor dogs stress that was on the roof of his car. The President is drive too fast and too far for his A@#!

        • 5 votes
        #7.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 3:57 PM EDT

        Skip & Gateway, you can tell by all the Whining above(and no doubt below also)by the RightWingBibleThumpers, that the GOP is Back On Thier Heels & Playing DEFENSE these days.

        President Barrack Hussein Obama is on Offense & taking it Directly to'em. It's almost as Funny as Comedy Central, watching them scatter in all directions, Looking for a Camera, trying to Keep Up.

        As has been said many times before, President Obama is Playing Chess, while the GOP is playing Checkers! Heck, he's even got Stupid A$$ Chucky T. all over the Cameras today!

        You Betcha!

        Occupy SoggyBottom!

        • 5 votes
        #7.2 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:25 PM EDT
        Reply

        O bl mm r trying to get freebie photo ops and make it look like he is powerful on foreign policy side...he ain't....You guys that voted for him before need to do a great deal of soul searching before you vote for him again....he hasn't helped this country at all....in fact, his agenda is hellbent on destroying "the white satan"....

        • 1 vote
        Reply#8 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:00 PM EDT

        No soul searching needed. President Obama in 2012.

        • 5 votes
        #8.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:28 PM EDT

        his agenda is hellbent on destroying "the white satan"....

        Well, try as I might, I just can't find a conspiracy theory web site that discusses the 'white satan'. Perhaps you could publish a web site that details the theory running around in that brain.

        • 4 votes
        #8.2 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:52 PM EDT

        RedDevPS. I think you stretch that one a little to much. You assumed he has a brain to run a theory through.

        • 3 votes
        #8.3 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:08 PM EDT

        President Obama 2012!

        • 3 votes
        #8.4 - Tue May 1, 2012 7:38 PM EDT
        Reply

        keep voting for people like obummer and willard mittens (both are globalist puppets) let the wars go on and let the debt increase and let more of our rights get taken.

        • 1 vote
        Reply#9 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:02 PM EDT

        Bush never had the balls to do something like this. Though he was so gungho about starting wars.Of course neither he nor Cheney can leave the US because they're both war criminals who would be arrested and tried in the Hague. However if I were the president I wouldn't let Kharzai dictate anything. If he wants an agreement signed then he or his rep would have to come here.

        • 5 votes
        Reply#10 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:02 PM EDT

        Though he was so gungho about starting wars

        Under false pretenses & they were suppose to pay for themselves!

        • 11 votes
        #10.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:10 PM EDT
        Reply

        Oh no he di'int! Into the lion's den on a remarkably relevant anniversary. C'mon Rombot, hop in the G5 and you could be there too. Oh that's right, you're a potato headed slacker hoping for a "Forevever War". More planning time with the Etch-A-Sketch, I guess.

        Rombot.Has.Nothing.

        • 9 votes
        Reply#11 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:08 PM EDT

        Can you say, "Grand-Standing?"

        Dispicable.

        • 2 votes
        Reply#12 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:16 PM EDT

        Tim W - you clearly are "dispicable!"

        • 7 votes
        #12.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:34 PM EDT
        Reply

        Wow I thought Obozo was back here defending us from his "imaginary war" on women, the middle class, Hispanics, unions, entitlements, etc. Can't believe he flew to where the real war is. Oh yea this is an election stunt. Maybe he'll promise Karzi free birth control and lower student loan interest....

        • 3 votes
        Reply#13 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:35 PM EDT

        UAW how are your treatments going, still working through the fog I see.

        • 2 votes
        #13.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:13 PM EDT
        Reply

        Who did he surprise - the terrorist?
        > http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=7SGWH3kirzg&vq=medium

        • 1 vote
        Reply#14 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:37 PM EDT

        Nazzy, did you receive notice via aluminum foil that he was going.

        • 2 votes
        #14.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:11 PM EDT
        Reply

        if any of you believe this clown romney has the intellect and political savy to defeat Obama, you've got your head up your @$$!!!

        • 5 votes
        Reply#15 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:47 PM EDT

        You know Tali, I think you are right. If Romney defeats Obama, it will not be due to his intellect or political savvy. I think the next election will be wholly about President Obama himself: his actions, his policies and his words.

        If the President can't convince the voters that he deserves another shot, even a weak opponent could oust him.

          #15.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 6:07 PM EDT
          Reply

          Well, I must say I am once again impressed with the vitriolic back and forth between liberals and conservatives on First Read. I find all of you quite entertaining and the images you further are so realistic that I sometimes find myself ducking and dodging those heavy slings and arrows. But I still love you all.

          You are a reflection of the great divide in our country today. We are a nation of split ideologies. You prove that every time I visit here by your profoundly passionate comments.

          It seems to me that ol' Feisty sets the tone for both sides. Those that support her point of view are quick to jump on the bandwagon and say "Yeah, yeah, you go girl!" while those who oppose her point of view cast their daggers straight away hoping for a deep and punishing penetration. But alas to them since Feisty is practiced and adept at fending off their missiles.

          And I sit with my limited amount of time wishing I could stay here longer to offer a better solution or argument than any one else, but ruefully find myself wanting because it is clear that you all are smarter and better informed than me. Oh well, I suppose I will just have to keep on reading your comments and becoming more educated via that tactic.

          God Bless you all.

            Reply#16 - Tue May 1, 2012 4:59 PM EDT

            James you need to relax a little, this is pure fun and entertainment. Good exercise for the mind, your not expected to take it as truth or fact just go with it, I think you may find it fun.

            • 3 votes
            #16.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:16 PM EDT
            Reply

            When Willard put the GOP types on the roof of the car and drive you like he did the dog, then you will understand his ways.

            • 3 votes
            Reply#17 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:08 PM EDT

            Feisty, "Quite the lecture there - it's a shame the readers think otherwise!

            If I didn't scare the @!$%# out of you, you wouldn't feel compelled to follow me around like a love struck puppy begging for some 'pets'!"

            The truth remains that your love struck pets blather and stumble over each other to lick your hands, lick your face and lick wherever dogs are prone to lick. When the queen is on her throne, her "sicko-"phants grovel at her every word. Now that our Irish king O'bama is travelling outside his kingdom...Queen Red is hysterical.

            • 1 vote
            Reply#18 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:25 PM EDT

            greenbear you do realize it is hard to physically scare anyone online. Mentally you can not scare anyone online with physical harm so about the only thing left is to scare them with foul language, hollow threats, insults and empty mindless drivel which you do seem to have a talent for so all is not lost you might find a job at faux news, they do the same thing. I really doubt you have any effect on Feisty or anyone else for that matter, is that why you come here, to find the meaning to your life. So sad you lost in life and online.

            • 3 votes
            #18.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:35 PM EDT

            I really doubt you have any effect on Feisty or anyone else for that matter, is that why you come here,

            Tis,

            I can't tell if greenbear was being snarky or not - either way I still found it funnier then hell, even voted for it!

            • 3 votes
            #18.2 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:46 PM EDT

            Tis - I believe you hit it on the head with the "empty mindless drivel" part! Greenbear - you smoking those funny cigarettes today aren't cha?

            • 2 votes
            #18.3 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:56 PM EDT
            Reply

            Just another expensive campaign stop on the taxpayers dime.

              Reply#19 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:44 PM EDT

              Because Presidents never do that...right Duane??

              • 2 votes
              #19.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 8:48 PM EDT
              Reply

              Rah...rah...rah...

              Barack Hussein Obama goes to Afghanistan....ANOTHER photo op...another re-election speech...same old, same old.....

              • 2 votes
              Reply#20 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:47 PM EDT

              Do you think the President has a tail Michael??

                #20.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 8:47 PM EDT

                yeah he should fly in with combat camoflauge on a aircraft carrier and announce victory is ours with media and everyone there like your side does I feel sad for you your guy did it like 12 years earky with millions of lifes lost -so sad if only mc cain would of won you wouldnt have to suffer this all-if only murrdock and fox news were not so corrupt and actually out out real news if only limbaugh wasnt a lier and a racist and didnt hate women if only , sad group you goper's are so sad

                • 1 vote
                #20.2 - Tue May 1, 2012 8:51 PM EDT

                joe...troll...I just think Barack Hussein Obama is a politician who is in over his head. I don't think he has a tail...I don't think he has a clue, either....

                And...FYI...I am not a Conservative, nor am I a Republican. I admire women, hate Rush Limbaugh, and I really don't like Cowboy Bush, either.....

                • 2 votes
                #20.3 - Tue May 1, 2012 9:32 PM EDT
                Reply

                Duane, Michael - just two more mental midgets from the right. same old, same old!

                Still no sanity to be found in the GOP!

                • 3 votes
                Reply#21 - Tue May 1, 2012 5:57 PM EDT

                Republicans sure have a double standard given the comments so far.

                  Reply#22 - Tue May 1, 2012 7:40 PM EDT

                  oh my god we wont have anymore wars soon what will the gop do?? if only mc cain palin would of won these two wars could be going on for 100 years plus. now what gop just hope in pray obama loses then you continue to make wars, cut off and end medicare medicaid obama care social security and all the things you have hates including unions and people other than the top making decent wages and retirement oh your dreams are so close yet so far away even your high held spokesman and all his followers have thrown you under the bus by calling women prostiutes and sluts for only wanting health care to cover birth control which most all of us even married people belive in fell bad for you all now will ted nugent leave or suddenly die because you know who is reelected the drama marches on

                    Reply#23 - Tue May 1, 2012 8:44 PM EDT

                    Good to know the President in a dog eat dog Presidential Campaign still has time for the troops.

                    • 1 vote
                    Reply#24 - Tue May 1, 2012 8:50 PM EDT

                    amen hopefully all do

                      #24.1 - Tue May 1, 2012 8:53 PM EDT
                      Reply

                      The Prez continues to clean up the GOP messes.

                      Your Ayn Rand BS is over. Your number one barking Dog in the House just disavowed the Atlas Foundation.

                      • 1 vote
                      Reply#25 - Tue May 1, 2012 8:52 PM EDT
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