Dec 18, 2008 8:48am

The Note, 12/18/08: To The Left — Obama Faces Anger

BY RICK KLEIN Since Vegas is snowed in, we’re now taking bets on the following propositions: Gov. Rod Blagojevich will resign before he can be impeached. (8-1) Blagojevich’s press conference will be more informative than all of President-elect Barack Obama’s put together. (6-5) Caroline Kennedy’s advisers will again allow her to get within 10 feet of microphones in upstate New York with as little to say as she did Wednesday in Syracuse. (12-1) Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. will get the Illinois Senate seat after all. (12-1) Eliot Spitzer will again be a major contributor to public life. (Even) Something Rahm Emanuel said on one of Patrick Fitzgerald’s tapes will require bleeping. (1-10) The Blagojevich matter will still be a distraction for the president-elect when his new puppy his house-trained. (Even) The full Obama Cabinet will be in place before Christmas. (Even) Obama’s first big battle as president will come with the left, not the right. (6-5) So Blagojevich, D-Ill., isn’t going anywhere — which means the scandal isn’t, either. And so the parallel tracks that are the presidential transition continue, with Obama wanting to talk about one thing, and the press about something else. Thursday’s topic is the announcement of Mary Schapiro to be chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, with a 10:45 am ET press conference in Chicago. ABC’s George Stephanopoulos: “Schapiro is currently the CEO of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, the largest non-governmental regulator for all securities firms doing business with Americans.” Friday will bring the announcement of Rep. Ray LaHood, R-Ill., for Transportation — leaving just Labor and Director of National Intelligence as the remaining big jobs to fill. Obama says he’s frustrated that he can’t say more about Blagojevich. He’s not alone (but he can make sure he is alone when the news comes out). “Questions about the corruption case surrounding the vacant Senate seat in Illinois will follow President-elect Barack Obama to Hawaii next week,” The New York Times’ Jeff Zeleny writes. “But don’t look for Mr. Obama to announce the findings of the internal inquiry of which advisers — in addition to Rahm Emanuel — had contact with the Illinois governor’s office over replacing Mr. Obama’s Senate seat. The plan now, aides said, is to release the review by written statement.” Tick up the heat on Rahm, again: “Emanuel had direct discussions about the seat with Gov. Blagojevich, who is accused of trying to auction it to the highest bidder,” Natasha Korecki reports in the Chicago Sun-Times. “Emanuel talked with the governor in the days following the Nov. 4 election and pressed early on for the appointment of Valerie Jarrett to the post, sources with knowledge of the conversations told the Sun-Times. There was no indication from sources that Emanuel brokered a deal, however.” “A source with the Obama camp strongly denied Emanuel spoke with the governor directly about the seat, saying Emanuel only spoke with Blagojevich once recently to say he was taking the chief of staff post,” Korecki reports. And Obama gets a glimpse of just how tenuous his relationship is with a key slice of his backers. The choice of Pastor Rick Warren to deliver the invocation at the inaugural is testing Obama’s ties with the gay-rights community. “Barack Obama’s choice of a prominent evangelical minister to deliver the invocation at his inauguration is a conciliatory gesture toward social conservatives who opposed him in November, but it is drawing fierce challenges from a gay rights movement that — in the wake of a gay marriage ban in California — is looking for a fight,” Politico’s Ben Smith and Nia-Malika Henderson write. “The rapid, angry reaction from a range of gay activists comes as the gay rights movement looks for an opportunity to flex its political muscle.” “It is a grave disappointment to learn that pastor Rick Warren will give the invocation at the inauguration of Barack Obama,” said Kathryn Kolbert, president of the liberal People for the American Way, said Joe Solmonese of the Human Rights Campaign, adding that Mr. Warren had spoken out strongly in favor of a successful gay marriage ban in California and “has often played the role of general in the cultural war waged against LGBT Americans.” “Obama’s first big mistake,” writes The Washington Blade’s Kevin Naff. “This tone-deafness to our concerns must not be tolerated. We have just endured eight years of endless assaults on our dignity and equality from a president beholden to bigoted conservative Christians. The election was supposed to have ended that era. It appears otherwise.” Andrew Sullivan blogs: “Warren is a man who believes my marriage removes his freedom of speech and cannot say that authorizing torture is a moral failing. Shrewd politics, but if anyone is under any illusion that Obama is interested in advancing gay equality, they should probably sober up now. He won’t be as bad as the Clintons (who, among leading Democrats, could?), but pandering to Christianists at his inauguration is a depressing omen.” Writes the Christian Broadcasting Network’s David Brody: “Let the record now reflect that Barack Obama has angered the liberals before the conservatives … I think the pick says alot about Obama and how he’s trying to make good on his promise to not be the same old type of politician.” “The selection of Warren . . . is an early taste of the Democrats’ post-election effort to reach evangelical Americans. The effort continues even though Obama’s evangelical offensive during the presidential campaign yielded only modest results on Election Day,” Dan Gilgoff in his new US News & World Report column. (This might help assuage concerns among gay-rights groups: “Some top retired military leaders and some Democrats in Congress are backing William White, chief operating officer of the Intrepid Museum Foundation, to be the next secretary of the Navy — a move that would put the first openly gay person at the top of one of the services,” Stephen Dinan writes in the Washington Times. “The secretary’s job is a civilian position, so it would not run afoul of the ban on gays serving in the military, but it would renew focus on the ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ policy as President-elect Barack Obama prepares to take office.”) Maybe not entirely the best of circumstances for the name of your Republican Transportation secretary to leak: It’s the retiring Ray LaHood, stepping aside from his role as a quote-ready Republican House member to take the Transportation gig, ABC’s George Stephanopoulos reports. “On Wednesday, a long-time Democrat and a former transportation official in the Clinton administration told ABC News that many Democrats are ‘greatly disappointed’ by the pick,” per ABC’s Lisa Stark, Matt Hosford, and Kate Barrett. Said the former official: “LaHood is a decent guy, but Democrats were anxiously looking for a Democrat to be in this position because it is a choke point for much of the economic stimulus package.” “The nomination of LaHood would fulfill Obama’s promise to name a Republican to his cabinet with an ideological moderate who has a well-established reputation for bipartisanship and efforts to encourage civil discourse in Congress. Though Obama has asked Bush Secretary of Defense Robert Gates to remain in the cabinet, Gates is a registered independent,” Mike Dorning writes in the Chicago Tribune. For Labor: “Harley Shaiken, a prominent expert on unions, Detroit and the U.S.-Mexican border, has emerged as a top candidate for the post of secretary of labor, officials familiar with the vetting process say,” Jonathan Weisman reports in The Wall Street Journal. Don’t think any of the tussling means unions have stepped back their expectations: “Gerald W. McEntee, president of one of the nation’s largest unions, said the labor movement was damaged when the FBI linked a competing union to Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich’s effort to sell Illinois’ U.S. Senate seat and it hurts labor’s push to pass the Employee Free Choice Act, unions’ big legislative priority,” the Washington Times’ Stephen Dinan writes. And yet, the full-court press (and what may be the single most important sentence you’ll read on Thursday): “The payback would be Employee Free Choice Act — that would be a vehicle to strengthen and build the American labor movement and the middle class,” McEntee said. “It’s the condition of the country, it’s health care, it’s the Employee Free Choice Act, it’s some kind of effort made in protection of their pensions. These are big and major items.” More to fire up the right: “Given virtual carte blanche, Congress’s opportunity for waste will be huge, and the federal deficit — already nearing $1 trillion — could shatter the Reagan-era records as measured against the size of the economy,” Jonathan Weisman writes in The Wall Street Journal. “But for now, Mr. Obama believes economically and politically, bigger is going to be better.” Speaking of bigger: “Barack Obama may ask Congress next year to approve a stimulus plan of around $850 billion, an amount that has grown as the U.S. economy sinks deeper into recession, an adviser to the president-elect said,” Bloomberg’s Lorraine Woellert reports. “Obama’s transition team believes the amount, about 6 percent of the U.S.’s $14 trillion economy, is needed to reverse rising unemployment, said the adviser, who spoke on condition of anonymity. The sum would exceed initial estimates by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, as well as surpassing what some economists and the International Monetary Fund say is required.” “President-elect Barack Obama’s call for speedy adoption of a massive spending plan to ‘jolt’ the economy will prove an early test of two major promises: that he will work in a bipartisan style with a skeptical Republican Party, and that he will purge the federal budget of wasteful projects,” Peter Nicholas writes in the Los Angeles Times. “The fate of the bill could shape the course of Obama’s presidency. If it works, it could help lift the economy out of recession, giving him the space to enact his ambitious energy, education and healthcare plans.” (And if Blagojevich stays without appointing an Obama successor, that’s minus-one in the Democratic caucus. What’s wrong with a special election, again?) Speaking of Blago — this sound like a guy who’s going anywhere? “Disgraced Gov. Rod Blagojevich joked and jogged in his Chicago neighborhood Wednesday and vowed to tell his side of the story soon, while his attorney tore into impeachment-minded state lawmakers trying to force the governor out of a job,” Rick Pearson and Ray Long report in the Chicago Tribune. “The vigorous defense mounted by noted criminal defense attorney Ed Genson before a special House impeachment panel — belittling the hearing as a surreal ‘Alice in Wonderland’ process — for the first time gave a glimpse into the intensity with which Blagojevich is fighting to remain governor after his arrest on corruption charges about a week ago.” Caroline Kennedy made her debut before the hungry New York press, and left them famished. Some of the questions she didn’t answer: “What do you say to New Yorkers who think you’re not qualified?” “Are you ready for this, Ms. Kennedy? You’re not going to answer questions at all?” “What do you say to New Yorkers who think you’re not ready or qualified for this job?” “What do you think your greatest qualification is to be senator?” “You’re seeking public office and you don’t want to answer questions from reporters, Ma’am? When can we expect you to answer questions?” “Have you ever been to Syracuse before?” Not quite Hillary Clinton: “Clinton, running for office while still first lady, talked to factory workers and farmers in addition to powerbrokers as she prepared to launch her Senate campaign,” Mike McAndrew and Mark Weiner write for the Syracuse Post-Standard. “And while Clinton needed hundreds of thousands of Upstaters’ votes to become a senator, Kennedy needs only one Gov. David Paterson’s.” “As the day wore on, the carefully maintained silence surrounding her campaign-that-isn’t cracked, then shattered under the weight of the intense public interest her bid has drawn. She declined any questions in Syracuse, grudgingly answered a few in Rochester, and then gave what almost felt like — but was not — a full-fledged news conference in Buffalo,” The New York Times’ David M. Halbfinger and Nicholas Confessore report. Asked how many times she’d been in Buffalo, she responded: “Three or four?” She made a funny before the day was out: “I’ll be back as many times as Chuck Schumer,” Kennedy said. Said Rep. Pete King, R-N.Y.: “I don’t know if she’s ever had to worry about mortgage payments or worry about working her way through school.” (Umm, no.) One very powerful ally: Kevin Sheekey is on board. “As Ms. Kennedy’s unusual campaign for the seat takes shape, the mayor’s top political strategist is pushing hard behind the scenes for her, with [Mayor Michael] Bloomberg’s blessing,” Michael Barbaro and Raymond Hernandez report in The New York Times. “The involvement has helped immediately elevate and coordinate the debut of Ms. Kennedy, who lacked an experienced political staff of her own.” Capturing the absurdities, Geraldine Baum and Mark Z. Barabak of the Los Angeles Times: “Kennedy’s cousin was once married to [Andrew] Cuomo, and it ended badly. Kennedy and her uncle Ted once endorsed Clinton’s opponent (a.k.a. Barack Obama) and, well, for Clinton that ended badly. Clinton’s husband, former President Bill Clinton, and Cuomo’s dad, former New York Gov. Mario M. Cuomo, clashed as far back as five presidential campaigns ago — and apparently some of that enmity still lingers.” Gail Collins, in her Times column: “My biggest concern about the Kennedy-for-senate boom is that the whole idea sounds as if it had been inspired by telephone conversations between Caroline and her Uncle Ted, followed by encouraging calls from her cousin Robert.” The Syracuse paper helps with 10 things Kennedy needs to do to become senator. A taste: “3. Learn to pronounce Throop, Schroeppel, Pulaski, DeRuyter and Cheektowaga. 4. Lose the winter tan. (4a. Or gain 10 holiday pounds.)” Staying in New York — Eliot Spitzer is back (really). “He’s weighing in with op-eds on the financial crisis and the auto bailout, popping up on the Manhattan cocktail party circuit, and making plans to participate in public events, including a debate on the Wall Street mess scheduled for New York City in March,” per ABC News. “And Spitzer this month began writing a regular public policy column for Slate.com, where he takes nuanced, detail-heavy positions on topics, such as the auto bailout and the future of the financial sector.” Obama speechwriter Jon Favreau gets The Washington Post profile treatment: “When Obama moves to the White House next month, Favreau will join his staff as the youngest person ever to be selected as chief speechwriter. He helps shape almost every word Obama says, yet the two men have formed a concert so harmonized that Favreau’s own voice disappears,” Eli Saslow writes. “Now, he has transformed into what one friend called a ‘Washington political force’ — a minor celebrity with a down payment on a Dupont Circle condo, whose silly Facebook photos with a Hillary Rodham Clinton cutout created what passes for controversy in Obama’s so far drama-free transition.” All I want for Christmas is an auto bailout: “The White House and the Treasury are deep into negotiations with General Motors and Chrysler over reorganization plans that could result in freeing up more than $14 billion in emergency loans to keep the companies afloat through the first quarter of 2009, according to industry executives and a senior administration official,” The New York Times reports. “The Bush administration appears to want an agreement with the automakers before Dec. 25. It was unclear, however, when all of the particulars might be worked out, said the senior official.” Said White House press secretary Dana Perino Thursday morning, per ABC’s Ann Compton: “It’s clear that the automakers are in a very fragile financial condition and they’re taking steps to deal with it. We’re aware of their financial situation and are considering possible policy options to provide assistance in an appropriate way. As we’ve said, a disorderly collapse of the auto industry should be avoided.” Still counting, in Minnesota: “Despite confusion over impressionist ballot scrawlings, the five-member board seemed to find a groove Wednesday, dispatching most disputes with alacrity. Some took fewer than 15 seconds,” per the Minneapolis Star Tribune. “But another simmering dispute could slow the process when the board reconvenes this morning. Republican Sen. Norm Coleman’s campaign contends that as many as 150 ballots were counted twice by local elections officials and suggests that many of those extra votes could have gone to Democrat Al Franken. It wants the board to eliminate any double-counting.” The Kicker: “To the car.” — Caroline Kennedy, asked where she was going next, in the one question she answered when meeting reporters in Syracuse. “The most important thing is that you have to control your vice-president.” — Vice President (and former White House chief of staff) Dick Cheney, dispensing tongue-in-cheek advice to incoming chief of staff Rahm Emanuel, per Politico’s Jonathan Martin. Bookmark the link below to get The Note’s daily morning analysis:
http://blogs.abcnews.com/thenote/the_note/index.html And for up-to-the-minute political updates check out The Note’s new blog . . . all day every day:

http://blogs.abcnews.com/thenote/

User Comments

Obama is willing to make gays and all women second class citizens , just so he is seen as reaching out.
So when is he going to reach out to those who believe Blacks are second class citizens..
When he does,we’ll know he is actually reaching out and not just picking those who have his own beliefs

Posted by: Tra la la | December 18, 2008, 9:11 am 9:11 am

RE the choice of Rev Warren to speak at the inaguration, would you prefer Rev Wright? Obama understands that he is everyones Presdient not just a certain group. WHo cares who speaks at the Inaguration. What is important is what get done under his administration.

Posted by: Jenny Rome Ga | December 18, 2008, 9:20 am 9:20 am

So, he isn’t a god after all. Shame.

Posted by: MadeInUSA | December 18, 2008, 9:27 am 9:27 am

I think Rick Warren is an excellent choice. I know I feel better about O’Bama for him having picked Warren. Maybe he won’t be a wild-eyed liberal after all!!

Posted by: M. Summer | December 18, 2008, 9:28 am 9:28 am

Jenny I’d prefer that we scrap the whole religious invocation bit and keep ALL preachers of ALL religions far away from the inauguration, the president, and government in general. Why are people so scared of a secular country?

Posted by: libertarian | December 18, 2008, 9:31 am 9:31 am

I AM PROUD of our Pres-Elect!!!

Posted by: dennis | December 18, 2008, 9:34 am 9:34 am

I’m very happy with many of Obama’s choices so far! I think my moderate friends who voted Obama may be right about him… We definitely need a President of the UNITED STATES not a President of the most liberal elements of the Democratic Party… times are tough. I voted McCain, but I’m very happy to give Obama my fullest consideration and attention, he’s EVERYONE’S President!

Posted by: Joe C. | December 18, 2008, 9:35 am 9:35 am

Lib – I guess this country will alwqays have God in it until we change the currency, all of which reads “In God we trust” on the backside. We (America)were founded on the basis of religious freedom.

Posted by: Jenny Rome Ga | December 18, 2008, 9:36 am 9:36 am

Obama is a conciliator. He realizes that he needs to make gestures to all groups in an attempt to unify the country. He needs everyone’s support to get things done in these difficult times. I support gay marriage 100%, but we have bigger worries right now.

Posted by: 1bluestocking | December 18, 2008, 9:36 am 9:36 am

I say screw the far right and the far left, the moderates and centrists represent the real country. The goofballs have ruled long enough. Who would the left want? Rev. Wright?and as far the the rightwing, Rev Hagee? Warren may not be the perfect preacher but who is?

Posted by: Paulo | December 18, 2008, 9:36 am 9:36 am

Terrific!! Not even to Inauguration yet; and we’re already splitting hairs and fussing over some of the things Obama is doing. Well, its our choice and this is a right-to-speak country. Long live democracy, no matter who is in office!

Posted by: Matildagsd | December 18, 2008, 9:40 am 9:40 am

By George
It seems the cover up in the Blago case is more criminal than anything blago said.
Obama is the Great Eliminator of Chicago and Illinois. More proof of his nickname Suits him well.
Obama, jackson, Fritz and company, set up a scandal to take blago out, It was not going along fast enough to force his hand so they pulled out early and only have to incriminate him and discredit him.
What an evil web they weave.

Posted by: seah | December 18, 2008, 9:41 am 9:41 am

Well, the left is extremely (no pun intended) hard to please.

Posted by: LongT | December 18, 2008, 9:43 am 9:43 am

No matter who he chooses he will get critized. Who cares? As long as Obama is for gay rights and EVERYONE’S rights…
Remember Lincoln said you can please some of the people some of the time but not all of the people all of the time.
I believe Obama will get things done and make a great President for EVERYONE.

Posted by: Barb | December 18, 2008, 9:43 am 9:43 am

Paulo – I second that!

Posted by: Susan-1 | December 18, 2008, 9:44 am 9:44 am

Maybe he should pick the preacher from the Jerry Springer show. Everybody likes him.

Posted by: pt | December 18, 2008, 9:44 am 9:44 am

This reaction from the ultra-left just goes to show that sure, they want “unity”, as long as “unity” means that everyone agrees with their leftist humanistic view of things without dissent. Otherwise, no deal. It’s been my observation that the ultra-left is just as narrow-minded and intolerant as the ultra-right is; the only difference is the target of their bigotry.
Rick Warren is a good man. He’s made millions on book sales but does not live an extravagant lifestyle. He’s devoted countless time and money to help Africa (something I’d wager a bet that the majority of his ultra-left critics haven’t done). But the fact that he believes abortion and homosexual conduct are wrong makes him persona non grata among the ultra-left crowd.

Posted by: Bobby Williston | December 18, 2008, 9:46 am 9:46 am

I am glad President-elect Obama chose Pastor Rick Warren to speak at the invocation. I am sick and tired of people protecting the wrong in society and trying to make it right like homosexuality and gay marriage. This country is bulit on marriage between a man and a women to procreate the world with children.Gay marriage,homosexuality,beastiality and all forms of deviation are against God and the morals of this country. Comedians and others can disrespect the great religion of Al-Islam but not say anything bad against homosexuality or gay marriage because it is politically incorrect. That is a foolish idea. The last thing I would like to say is can anyone out there tell me what the purpose of homosexuality is.

Posted by: Aziz Jackson | December 18, 2008, 9:50 am 9:50 am

I don’t get it. What’s so sinister about having *gasp!* a pastor, and a widely recognized one at that, speak at the inauguration? It almost seems like some people are trying to say that to be Christian is a BAD thing. I’m getting more than a little tired of being called a ‘biggot’(which refers to a racist, BTW) because I don’t support someone else’s lifestyle choices and I am not willing to back down. Can we please stop this God, Church, Bible and Christian bashing?

Posted by: Airsoft_man | December 18, 2008, 9:50 am 9:50 am

It is not just the left…
Rick warren has repeatedly claimed that homosexuality and pedophilia are the same level of sin…and should eb treated that way.
America is not there.
and it is insulting that a man whose parents were threatened with the same types of prejudices would choose the leading (most popular) preacher of those prejudices…
the same prejudices that threatened me as I walked darkened wooded streets of New Hampshire in the snow almost 2 years ago fighting for him.
this is not a left vs. right situation
this is a center vs. right situation.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 9:50 am 9:50 am

The closer we get to Inauguration the more he moves to the right. By the time January 20th gets here, we are going to have another Republican President. By the way, President Obama is not going to be taxing the rich afterall.

Posted by: TruthBeTold | December 18, 2008, 9:51 am 9:51 am

Another thing: I’m growing rather tired of hearing gay rights activists trying to paint their struggle for “equality” for gays as analogous to the struggle for equality by blacks and women in the past. I’m sorry, but not being able to have a piece of paper from the state that says you’re “married” does not compare to getting denied access to public establishments, lower pay for the same work, and brutal beatings by the police.
A favorite tactic of the gay rights crowd is to equate a belief that homosexual conduct is wrong with a belief that homosexuals should be mistreated as second-class citizens. I don’t think Rick Warren believes that, and I know I don’t believe that. But obviously it’s not truth they’re interested in.

Posted by: Bobby Williston | December 18, 2008, 9:55 am 9:55 am

He like a white man in a brown suit. Oh the devil have many faces. hmm, hmm, hmm, we was all fooled.

Posted by: Shawna | December 18, 2008, 9:56 am 9:56 am

America is not familiar with Warren’s statements on homosexuality…
he has repeatedly compared homosexuality to pedophilia.
go look it up
he says homosexuality is proof that evolution does not exist…
did he ever think homosexuality may occur in a species for a higher purpose to focus more on the species as a whole rather than just one family.
if anyone has a loved one who is gay…
they should be offended that Obama has chosen a man who has repeatedly continued to make it a mental illness…and punishable for an eternity in hell.
it’s not about just gay marriage
go look at his statements.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 9:56 am 9:56 am

This is not an issue of left v. right. It is an issue of supporting someone who expresses foul prejudices against gay people and would deny women the right to their own bodies.
I am not a far leftist. Most people would consider me a moderate on most issues. I was an early supporter of Obama — but now regret my decision.

Posted by: Alex | December 18, 2008, 9:57 am 9:57 am

Airsoft man- the christian bashing will stop as soon as the christians stop bashing everfyone else, telling how to live, and trying to enforce their morality through the law.

Posted by: libertarian | December 18, 2008, 9:57 am 9:57 am

Jenny, I agree with you. If he had selected a gay speaker, then he would have been accused of being gay himself. Let’s face it. Obama can’t please 100 percent of us. Like you said, big whoope doo who gives the speech. For you gays, might be better if you quit complaining about yourself and instead complain about how we (as a nation–not as a gay club)can help Obama get us out of this mess.

Posted by: LOfromMO1 | December 18, 2008, 9:59 am 9:59 am

Bobby Williston
you do not know what you are talking about…
this is not just about gay marriage
point of fact i care very little about gay marriage…I could care less what you call it
go look at his statements about homosexuality.
and his comparisons to pedophilia.
would you be upset if someone said with such moral abjection that you were a pedophile…or that you were going to hell for eternity because you were just like a pedophile
do you think that person should be the moral authority at the inauguration of the president.?
especially after you worked years getting that president elected. a president whose parents faced similar prejudices.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 10:00 am 10:00 am

It would be an interesting scenario [not the most likely, and probably not sustainable for too long] if Obama were to govern from the center/center-right, attracted all moderate Republicans and some conservatives (not all), and effectively created a middle-of-the-road party separate from the most economically and socially liberal Democrats. Effectively making three parties for a time? Now that would be interesting…

Posted by: Ike | December 18, 2008, 10:00 am 10:00 am

When somebody becomes President, reality sets in. It is one thing to sit around and criticize the President, but quite another to actually have to make decisions yourself. This is something the cool-aid drinking left wing has never understood.

Posted by: brian | December 18, 2008, 10:01 am 10:01 am

Suprise, Suprise, HA HA HA. You libs have been scammed and you are just now figuring it out, HA HA HA. Obama said what you wanted to hear to get elected and now he is throwing you under the bus just like his Grandmother, Rezeko, Rev. Wright ect. ect. I cannot believe you libs are just now figuring this guy out, that is funny.

Posted by: billy bob | December 18, 2008, 10:04 am 10:04 am

dl — There’s the old adage and it remains true, be careful what you ask for, you just might get it.

Posted by: TruthBeTold | December 18, 2008, 10:04 am 10:04 am

So, he didn’t pick someone gay enough. So what. I suppose Rosie was one of the first to complain. Her gay show sure didn’t pan out to well.
Obama at least thinks like a normal person. No perversions about that.
I voted for Obama and so far no there’s been no disappointments.

Posted by: RedNeck4Reason | December 18, 2008, 10:04 am 10:04 am

I would have preferred Rev Wright over Rick Warren … at least Wright is an honest man.

Posted by: Cassandra Washington | December 18, 2008, 10:07 am 10:07 am

Obama is trying to be a moderate or centrist, which is just fine by me: Conservatives and Liberals are both a disease in this nation, and we need to turn away from both of them. Also, Obama is supposedly a Christian, and true Christianity is centrist in nature, taking into account all of the notions of the Bible, not just some. (e.g.: homosexuality and abortion, liberal sins: bad; bigotry and greed, conservative sins: also bad.) It would be good for Obama to not support “gay rights”; the Bible makes it quite clear what God thinks about homosexuality.

Posted by: Tony | December 18, 2008, 10:08 am 10:08 am

I guess Ms. Kolbert and Mr. Naff believe that you either agree with them or you are wrong. P.E.Obama is living up to his campaign promises by reaching out to everyone. Unless Warren says anything to insult LGBT’s then why does it matter that he is there?

Posted by: dandy816 | December 18, 2008, 10:09 am 10:09 am

What does the BIBLE say? How many people in this country know God and believe in him. God tells you what is right and what is wrong. Maybe if our law makers would turn to God for the answers we all would prosper. Open up your hearts to the Lord for the answer as to what is right and what is wrong… Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Posted by: rablair6960 | December 18, 2008, 10:09 am 10:09 am

I am 100% for gay marriage and equal rights, people that are against it are just narrow minded and selfish. But…
Aren’t 99% of preachers/priests/etc. against homosexuality and believe it to be a sin? Wouldn’t it be kind of hard to find a preacher that was pro-gay equality? People, we really have more pressing issues here.

Posted by: scrappy | December 18, 2008, 10:09 am 10:09 am

Sorry Cassandra, but I think President Obama is showing his true colors. . .white.

Posted by: Troy | December 18, 2008, 10:10 am 10:10 am

it’s not “gay enough” redneck4 reason…
it’s about picking someone who is misguided and has beliefs that give hate backing…
hate and disgust and misleading facts that can reinforce those who commit violence against a part of the population.
do you not think that Warren saying homosexuality is like pedophilia…does not make people feel encouraged to hurt homosexuals?
this was a very bad choice…
especially from a man who would not be president if outdated beliefs similar to the ones that Rick Warren preaches stillexisted…
he would not only have not been born…
not been President elect
but would have and probably on occasion did …
threaten his parents and himself.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 10:13 am 10:13 am

te he he… funny, the disenchantment with “the one” is starting already. Surprise! You asked for it, you got it. he is no different than ANY other crooked politician in Chicago or Washington. Get used to the disillusionment.

Posted by: Bo | December 18, 2008, 10:13 am 10:13 am

You know what? Here’s what it boils down to—we ALL are selfish……….
Gays: Mr President,heck with everyone else, help us……..Blacks: Mr President,heck with everyone else, help us……..Whites: Mr President,heck with everyone else, help us……..Democrats: Mr President,heck with everyone else, help us……..Republicans: Mr President,heck with everyone else, help us……..Left wing: Mr President,heck with everyone else, help us……..Right wing: Mr President,heck with everyone else, help us……..Do you see a pattern here yet?

Posted by: LOfromMO1 | December 18, 2008, 10:15 am 10:15 am

scrappy
go look at Warren’s statements and his involvement
no it isn’t hard in todays world to find preachers of all demoninations that think that homosexuality is not in par with pedophilia and beastiality.
go look up Warren’s statements and his history.
and no there are not bigger fish to fyry when some people in our population can’t live places…and can’t walk down streets because they may be beaten if they do.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 10:16 am 10:16 am

Scrappy- if we must burden ourselves with this religious intrusion into a secular country, he could have chosen Bishop Gene Robinson of the Diocese of New Hampshire, an openly gay Episcopal bishop.

Posted by: libertarian | December 18, 2008, 10:17 am 10:17 am

rick warren is full of horse manure. obama is turning into some kind of jerk. still obama is better than palin, at least so far. there is always the possibility of impeachment where obama is concerned if he gives enough to go on. emanuel is dirty in the blago scandal and perhaps obama too. but, the jury is still out. truth is, there is no change. obama is just like all the rest of them. tad better, but that’s not saying much and he hasn’t even been sworn in as yet.

Posted by: Lawrence | December 18, 2008, 10:18 am 10:18 am

LofromMO
it is not about people looking out for themselves
Gays did not turn and say the heck with anyone else…
It is a question of gays fought for equality in lots of realms…
people tend to do that when they are the low man on the totem pole…
it just shows that many don’t look back at the low man on the totem pole because their oppression has been lifted.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 10:19 am 10:19 am

I have no qualms about who Obama picked, I supported Obama and still do, but he does seem to be picking all his cabinet members pretty fast. Is he giving enough time and careful consideration on who he’s picking?
We don’t need to find out that several of the people he picked are involved in some kind of scandal. There’s to much of that already.

Posted by: Brad | December 18, 2008, 10:20 am 10:20 am

Better luck next time dl, he will be running in another four years, you can vote for the other guy next time. But right now Obama is going to be the next President and you helped him.

Posted by: TruthBeTold | December 18, 2008, 10:21 am 10:21 am

Look folks gays are a tiny portion of our society, how they have been able to hold us all hostage as long as they have is beyond believe.
I was worried about having Obama for president, not so much anymore. Time for you folks to head back to the closet, now please!

Posted by: david | December 18, 2008, 10:22 am 10:22 am

I have to tell you, A LOT of republicans are laughing their a$$es off. Especially the rich ones that won’t be getting taxed by President Obama.

Posted by: George | December 18, 2008, 10:25 am 10:25 am

Being for gay marriage and equal rights does not make someone “ultra liberal.” Give me a break.
I’m extremely disappointed, but not at all surprised by Obama’s pick of Rick Warren. Obama is a HUGE hypocrite. What a jerk.
Religion has no place in politics!

Posted by: Edwin | December 18, 2008, 10:26 am 10:26 am

I don’t want to look at what he said, cause I am not religous and do not waste time looking things up about what some nut said or is doing.
O Man couldn’t have picked Gene Robinson becuase that would have angered a whole lot more people than the gay community. In order to try to please most of the people he went another way. Again, not a surprise here.
I do find it hard to believe that you cannot walk down the street without being beaten up, where do you live? I still believe there are more pressing issues like being able to continue to feed my family and provide healthcare and housing, other very basic needs that affect the entire population and that are becomeing much more difficult.

Posted by: scrappy | December 18, 2008, 10:26 am 10:26 am

Well said Joe C.
I sure wish more people could give the guy a chance rather than criticizing every move he makes.

Posted by: nonnarrowminde | December 18, 2008, 10:26 am 10:26 am

David will you be coming with us…
anyone who has an issue with being gay…tends to be rancorous toward gays in the first place.
Truthbetold
you are right I helped him. I still believe in him.
It is sad though…what this says about his ability to ignore oppression for political gain. Hopefully at some point soon he will recognize that this is like someone who preached marriage between races was a sin 40 years ago being chosen to give the inaugural.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 10:27 am 10:27 am

The selection of Rick Warren to pray was preordained from the time the earth was created (6000 years ago). If you have trouble believing that just read Warren’s book.

Posted by: Brother Bill | December 18, 2008, 10:27 am 10:27 am

Hey, Hey, Obama, your singing our song.
Hey, Hey, Obama, you were RIGHT all along.

Posted by: Joe | December 18, 2008, 10:28 am 10:28 am

Libertarian, I have doubts that you fit the classical definition of the word “libertarian”, especially when saying stuff like, “if we must burden ourselves with this religious intrusion into a secular country”. We have FREEDOM OF RELIGION. I don’t know what kind of “libertarians” you listen to, definitely doesn’t sound like Ron Paul or Bob Barr…

Posted by: JJ | December 18, 2008, 10:29 am 10:29 am

It seems to me that a higher percentage of religious people are tolerant of secular views than secularists are tolerant of religious views. The very last wall we will have to tear down in this country (and world) is the one that proclaims “I can only co-exist with people who think like I do”. If Obama is trying to send the message that he is open to many points of view, he is succeeding.

Posted by: Brian Levine | December 18, 2008, 10:29 am 10:29 am

LISTEN I DIDNT VOTE FOR EITHER CANIDATE I DID WRITE IN BUT WHAT IVE SEEN SO FAR GOOD FOR MR.OBAMA I WISH HIM THE BEST OF LUCK REMEMBER PEOPLE IF HE FAILS WE FAIL IF HE DOES WELL WE DO WELL.TOGETHER WE STAND DIVIDED WE FALL

Posted by: natale from mass. | December 18, 2008, 10:30 am 10:30 am

There is just one party in America believes that symbols are more important than substance. For the inauguration we might even get to see the President descend golden stairway from a cloud to the podium as rows of small children dressed as angels play harps. He has a bigger budget for special effects now.

Posted by: MadJayhawk | December 18, 2008, 10:31 am 10:31 am

Obama is screwing everyone who voted for him. He’s not loyal to blacks, to gays, so who is next? Jews?

Posted by: Alex | December 18, 2008, 10:31 am 10:31 am

Joe C
this is not liberal vs conservative
this is center vs. right wing outdated whackness.
it is not about gay marriage icare less about gay marriage
I care about a man who preaches that I am morally in line with a pedophile
if he said it to my face I would have a tough time holding back my anger…
does he not understand the difference between achild being used and hurt…and two adults who have a healthy commitment and love for each other.
something in the last decade which has been proven over and over now..

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 10:32 am 10:32 am

This is the first time Obama has disappointed me!. this warren guy is just another creepy right wing phony. he makes my skin crawl. but remember that he will only be saying a short prayer – and then he will be gone. It means nothing in the long run. he will go back to where ever he comes and hopefully I realize that this is a political situation and that we must all learn to live together. But it is still disappointing.
Obama 08!

Posted by: cjr | December 18, 2008, 10:32 am 10:32 am

I can’t imagine why anyone with a psychological disorder concerning thier sexual orientation would exert any energy whatsoever outside of trying to find a cure for this horrific disease. Only a crazy person would exhaust all of thier energy trying to legitimize thier psychosis by ramming it down the throats of the only people who can help them. Help fight to find a cure for homosexuality.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 10:32 am 10:32 am

Obama lied to the people who voted for him. We want change not friendships with the jerks who have done a lot of harm to our country in the last 8 years. Rick Warren is not change. Rick prayed and prayed for McRetard and god obviously has had enough of Rick Warren and his follows.
By the way people that are saying tolerance works both ways, we’re not telling you that you’re a sinner or that god hates Christians. Leave us alone and we’ll leave you alone.
Being a Christian is a lifestyle being gay is being who you are. People are born gay. Did you sit and think I wonder if I’m gay or straight? No you are just attracted to who ever because you’re born that way.
Stay out of are life’s and focus on yourselves.

Posted by: dkr | December 18, 2008, 10:33 am 10:33 am

The Gay-Lesbian wing of the Obamabot nation are such an open and loving people; always patient, kind, gentle and positive. NOT! The Gay & Lesbian community cannot be satisfied until we all honor their religion first. The religion of self absorption and secular humanism. Sorry – not buying into your mindset ever. But we do love you nonetheless.

Posted by: BuckeyeBob | December 18, 2008, 10:33 am 10:33 am

libertarian- Why are so many seculars scared of a religious country?

Posted by: jim | December 18, 2008, 10:34 am 10:34 am

Brian Levine
Rick warren has repeatedly called for people to view me with the loathing of a pedophile.
My not wanting him to give the inauguration invocation… is not religious intolerance…
it is intolerance of incorrect and harmful beliefs being given a nationally and federally sanctioned platform in a nation that has lead because it got ahead of that bigotry and outdated self empowerment by oppressing the different…intolerance..

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 10:35 am 10:35 am

This is change I can’t believe in. Poor judgment from Barack even before he enters office.

Posted by: Beyond disappointed | December 18, 2008, 10:35 am 10:35 am

Anyone who thought he was going to get into office and be super left wing is an idiot. I have pretty liberal views, but I am smart enough to realize any leader with any chance of success has to govern from the center. Sure, he could be all leftist and he’d never get anything done and be out of office in four years! Great! This country is too conservative for him to have any success if he tried that. He’s no dummy.

Posted by: Jen | December 18, 2008, 10:35 am 10:35 am

Posted by: dkr | December 18, 2008, 10:36 am 10:36 am

May God have mercy on our souls. We get upset over the stupidist things. See all the people upset over who is going to pray but they don’t care who blew things up, damned America, cheated government, pedalled influence. We are more intersested in Hollywood than preserving America. We have allowed the lame stream media to dumb us down as a people and will get what we deserve. I did not support the president-elect but I hope he does well, hope he proves me wrong, hope I still have America. God Bless America!

Posted by: 1post3 | December 18, 2008, 10:36 am 10:36 am

Kudos to Obama for his pick and his well thought out centrist picks.

Posted by: Mark | December 18, 2008, 10:36 am 10:36 am

wow, davescott….
What cave did you crawl out of? It’s always the ones like this guy, who are so violently anti-gay, who are trying to furiously mask their own homosexuality. Good luck, davescott.

Posted by: Jesus | December 18, 2008, 10:37 am 10:37 am

Posted by: dkr | December 18, 2008, 10:37 am 10:37 am

“libertarian- Why are so many seculars scared of a religious country?” – Jim
Umm, because a religious country is SCARY?!

Posted by: Jen | December 18, 2008, 10:37 am 10:37 am

We are still waiting to see the ORIGINAL” BIRTH CERTIFICATE for him to prove he is elgible to be sworn in.
OSAMA OBAMA just needs to drop off the planet and take his partners in crime with him.

Posted by: CAgrl19 | December 18, 2008, 10:39 am 10:39 am

DKR – people are not born gay. It’s a choice. If they were born gay all identical twins would be gay or straight in pairs. They’re not. Case settled.

Posted by: BuckeyeBob | December 18, 2008, 10:39 am 10:39 am

Buckeyebob
how about we try letting people in your town incorrectly call you a pedophile for a while…
how long do you think before someone steps up and punches you in the face.
I’ll tell you…
it won’t be long.
Why did people feel empowered to oppress and let violence seep out on the edges against anyone women…jews…blacks…etc
because people did not stand up to those outdated and morally confused (yet self empowering to the status quo) statements often preached by preachers.
Luckily most preachers have moved past that.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 10:40 am 10:40 am

President Bush once said, “I don’t care whether you voted for me or not; I’m still your President” and then kind of went off to do his own thing with the Neocons. Perhaps Obama is saying the same thing now and reaching out to the center and right by choosing a top notch economic team that’s very centrist & down to earth & consulting with some conservatives, a strong national security team, and an affinity for the moral values that made the US great. Obama’s “base” doesn’t matter now that he’s everyone’s President!! Nobody will tolerate the Karl Rove politics of pandering to the base from either the left or right!

Posted by: JJ | December 18, 2008, 10:41 am 10:41 am

Jen
Rick Warren is not the center.
Rick Warren argues that gays are a sign that evolution does not exist.
the list of his statements etc… are not just way right…
they are way wrong
even on a scale of preachers in the US.
he is not “center” even for the church going population in America.
His statements are not centrally located…he is right of Bill Graham on a number of things.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 10:45 am 10:45 am

To say that people choose to be gay, that really is saying that we all have sexual feeling for both genders, but we just “choose” to act on these feelings toward one gender. That may be true for you, buckyeye. Whatever does it for you, buddy.

Posted by: born gay | December 18, 2008, 10:45 am 10:45 am

Yeah, JJ we have freedom FROM religion, too. I don’t care what your religion is, just don’t push it in my face, or in the millions of people who are not christian.

Posted by: libertarian | December 18, 2008, 10:46 am 10:46 am

What is truth to one man is heresy to the next. Define truth.

Posted by: MMONROELIVESON | December 18, 2008, 10:47 am 10:47 am

this is not a centrist pick.
at all
and I am a centrist and applaud his cabinet…but this inaugural invocation is a VERY VERY bad and outside the mainstream choice.
somebody didn’t do enough research on Warren.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 10:47 am 10:47 am

buckeye – “The Gay & Lesbian community cannot be satisfied until we all honor their religion first. ” I doubt this is true. From what I have seen and heard they just want to be able to have health benefits for their family, survivors benefits, be able to adopt children that had been in foster care or an abusive home, be able to live their lives with the same rights and dignity you and I have. I have always been taught hate the sin but love the sinner. I feel this way about homosexuals. Yes it is wrong but it is not up to me to condem gay people. That is up to God. He gives us the free will to make the choices in our lives. He never stops loving us.

Posted by: Jenny Rome Ga | December 18, 2008, 10:47 am 10:47 am

dl, tolerance means being willing to listen to people with different viewpoints than you. Your argument is that you cannot be tolerant of someone who is not tolerant of you. Don’t you see the hypocrisy in that?
As a christian, I’ve chosen to hold to the biblical teaching that homosexuality is a sin (we could talk at length about that). But frankly, the bible says more about heterosexual behavior it describes as sinful, and a lot more about things like greed and deceit. I don’t see too many TV evangelists taking on those issues.

Posted by: Brian Levine | December 18, 2008, 10:47 am 10:47 am

People,
this country was founded under christian values, that’s why it has been a very prosperous nation. When you do the right things you reap good fruits.
You homosexual people must know that God loves you as much as He loves everybody; You need to know that homosexuality is a tool that the Devil uses to take you apart from your real purposes. Homosexuality life style will not lead you to anywhere. Remember that never is too late to start a new life doing the right choices. It is a choice.
I love the Obama’s choice for the inaguration, that shows that He wants to lead this country to a right path.

Posted by: Neighbord | December 18, 2008, 10:49 am 10:49 am

Jesus – You should know better than anyone that we are all capable of every sin. Homosexuality is no different. But because you died on the cross for our sins, we don’t have to walk in darkness anymore. Because you defeated the power of sin at the cross we can go and sin no more. Homosexuality is a cureable mental/spiritual disease. You can’t expect to convince anyone that is homosexual of this fact. They don’t know any better, they can’t reason that there is a problem. Help join the fight to cure homosexuality.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 10:49 am 10:49 am

The President-Elect can’t make everyone happy all the time, nor should he try. I’d rather him take a stand on one side or the other than to try to ride the fence on every issue. I am NOT an Obama supporter, but good grief people, GET OVER your hyper-sensitivity. I’m talking to everyone. Gays, whites, blacks, Christians, atheists, muslims, etc. Having everything go your way is not an entitlement. Only Life, Liberty, and the PURSUIT of happiness are unalienable rights.

Posted by: Mark | December 18, 2008, 10:50 am 10:50 am

For a “libertarian” Libertarian, you are rather angry. Most libertarians, like Ron Paul, are rather calm people, you seem rather militant.

Posted by: JJ | December 18, 2008, 10:51 am 10:51 am

I have a twin and he and I are both gay.
I’m glad you have made the choice to be straight.
Why in the hell do you care what I do in my life?

Posted by: dkr | December 18, 2008, 10:51 am 10:51 am

dl…why do you keep writing about what Warren says about homosexuality & pedophilia.
I bet people you know (and don’t know) have said worse behind your back – that’s if you’re gay. Warren, I believe, expresses his view as he interpretes from what he’s read and believes from the bible. He’s not perfect…neither is Obama…neither are YOU…nor me.
Let Obama rule and make judgment on information and concience. He cannot not please everyone…and he shouldn’t try to!

Posted by: sphinx4132 | December 18, 2008, 10:52 am 10:52 am

because, Jim, I don’t care care what your morals are or your holy book is. Prctice them yourself if you wish, I don’t care about that, either, but don’t try to enforce your morality on me. I don’t care if it’s christian, muslim, or whatever, religion should be kept completely out of politics and the law.

Posted by: libertarian | December 18, 2008, 10:53 am 10:53 am

Maybe this will be a time for push back against the gay agenda!! If big O comes along and all the Prop 8 folks there might just be hope for us after all.
By the way if you are born gay what is up with being bi?? I guess that is like have a white mother and a black dad, that makes you balck, I guess since white is not so cool right now…..all very funny to me :)

Posted by: david | December 18, 2008, 10:56 am 10:56 am

In a purely libertarian society, there would be no law (nearly all law has its roots in religion), and I’m not sure there would be any political system. Are you sure that’s what you want?

Posted by: Brian Levine | December 18, 2008, 10:56 am 10:56 am

“We (America)were founded on the basis of religious freedom.”
While it is true this land was settled by people seeking to preserve their religion, the United States did not come into being until over 100 years later as a response to unjust British rule. The Declaration of Independence contains a laundry list of grievances against King George; squelching religious freedom isn’t one of them.
Religion was used to drum up support for the war effort but it was not a founding principle of the new nation.
The true founding principle of this nation is the right of the people to rid themselves of a government that no longer serves them.
Anyhoo, though I don’t care enough about the invocation to complain, it does seem a lot like a royal coronation in that one is held out to the public as ruling by Divine Right.

Posted by: Ed | December 18, 2008, 10:57 am 10:57 am

I get militant, as you call it, when someone tries to limit personal freedoms. Especially when they use as an excuse a belief system that is not universally held. BTW- Ron Paul was not libertarian- his views on woman’s choice proved that.

Posted by: libertarian | December 18, 2008, 10:58 am 10:58 am

Most presidents in my lifetime have invited their own pastor to do this. It’s rather pitiful that Obama doesn’t have a pastor he can put in front of millions of Americans at his Inauguration. Can’t pull Wright out from under the bus, or Phleger. On the other hand, as so many of his followers seem to treat him like a messiah, why not just do it himself? Obama says whatever he thinks you want to hear on any given day and means none of it.

Posted by: Keith | December 18, 2008, 10:58 am 10:58 am

DAvescott -No thanks I would rather join a fight to cure something curable or perhaps even needs curing such as cancer or ms or aids. Homosexuality is not a disease to be cured from.

Posted by: Jenny Rome Ga | December 18, 2008, 10:59 am 10:59 am

What a shame that the inauguration involves religion at all. It is a cancer on all humanity.

Posted by: dano | December 18, 2008, 11:00 am 11:00 am

In other words, I see many religious people who are all over Romans chapter 1, as the “war cry” against homosexuality (and secularism, in general). But they completely close their eyes to Romans chapter 2, which speaks out at length against religious self-righteousness and hypocrisy. I think the phrase the bible uses to refer to these people is “self-condemned”.

Posted by: Brian Levine | December 18, 2008, 11:01 am 11:01 am

People forget that it was not the liberals that put Obama in the white house, it was all of us independent centrists. Liberals always vote Democratic and in past years have failed to show up. This year it was the conservative right wing that failed to show up for a change. The centrist may have voted for the old John McCain, but the new one lost his focus, lost the independent centrists trying to pander to the right who did not bother to vote for him. I hope he finds a voice in the Senate and truly stands up to his fellow Republicans and votes his heart and not his party.

Posted by: maggiemay | December 18, 2008, 11:01 am 11:01 am

The gay rights movement is a desperate cry for help. We need to stand together to help fight this disease. Let’s help get gay folks out of politics and into hospitals and churches where they can receive the medication and couseling they need for building a better America.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 11:03 am 11:03 am

And you judgemental Christians wonder why people laugh roll their eyes when you go on diatribes about sin, jesus, blah blah blah.
Christianity is not the only religion in the world, and religion is not the only way of life in the world.

Posted by: Alex | December 18, 2008, 11:04 am 11:04 am

“What a shame that the inauguration involves religion at all. It is a cancer on all humanity.”
Obviously, we have a long way to go when it comes to tolerance.

Posted by: Brian Levine | December 18, 2008, 11:05 am 11:05 am

Impossible job president of the United States.

Posted by: LongT | December 18, 2008, 11:05 am 11:05 am

Look, this is no surprise to me. Obama is not a friend to the gay and lesbian community. He is really not a friend to women. I voted for Hillary and have disliked him all along. Why is his homophobia so surprising to people? He had a homophobic minister headline his South Carolina primary tour. He named the very homophobic James Meeks as one of his closest spiritual advsiors. I think too many people drank the Obama kool-aid and are in for a very rude awakening.

Posted by: danielle | December 18, 2008, 11:05 am 11:05 am

its called “reaching across the aisle” fyi , and ,being an intelligent man (as well as a shrewd calculating politician ), obama knows that a more-or-less insignificant olive branch or two offered now could possibly heal ,or at least gloss over some festering post -election partisan wounds and perhaps facilitate the infantile beginnings of a genuinely less partisan , more effective government ,at least in the long term anyway.
appointing 100% “wild-eyed liberals” would most certainly alienate the centrists ,moderates and the republicans en total , and that is a tried and true recipe for not much happening in washington dc .

Posted by: bah | December 18, 2008, 11:09 am 11:09 am

Someone is rolling their eyes and it is most of America rolling their eyes at the gays trying to destroy our country. You people are a very very very small portion of society your 15 minutes is up, it is time for normal America to take back our country from the freaks of nature……..not just the gays either but all wierdo’s outside normal society.!

Posted by: david | December 18, 2008, 11:10 am 11:10 am

Jenny Rome Ga – I suppose you are an expert in the field of psychology? If you are gay I can’t expect you to believe that there is something mentally wrong with you. People with mental disorders usually can’t be convinced that they have one. That is why it is important for the rest of to come to your aid. Homosexuality is a curable disease. Don’t give up hope, you can find freedom free this disease.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 11:10 am 11:10 am

Most of people that hurt kids (molesters) and most people that are in prison are Christain.

Posted by: dkr | December 18, 2008, 11:10 am 11:10 am

Dave Scott
I have a better idea
lets help people like you get into hospitals where you can get help …
you are exactly the reason Rick Warren should not be giving the invocation.
I wonder if Obama would have been as open to a preacher who preaches that biracial couples are sinning against God. as was often preached about a similar size population 50 years ago.
would he have said “we are America and need to hear from all sides of the debate”?
would he have been okay with picking a preacher who said that biracial couples were on par with pedophiles?
because it is the same issue.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 11:13 am 11:13 am

Most of people that hurt kids (molesters) and most people that are in prison are Christain.
dkr – Most people in prison are democrats and their great grandmothers where Christians.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 11:14 am 11:14 am

Brian: How interesting you reference tolerance. I could not care less about the belief systems of others. I am tolerant of views that differ from my own. The problem – part of the “cancer” – is the fact that others – especially evangelical Christians- constantly demand that their ” way” is the only way. They are the epitome of intolerance.

Posted by: dano | December 18, 2008, 11:14 am 11:14 am

I really feel sorry for these so-called “loving Christians” who feel the need to belittle and condemn everyone that doesn’t have sexual intercourse with someone of the opposite gender. Are they the sex police?
I think these wacko Christians spend more time thinking about gay sex than gay people do.

Posted by: Paul | December 18, 2008, 11:14 am 11:14 am

I love young boys, taste good.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 11:16 am 11:16 am

Barak is the President of all of America, even those who do not agree with him. It is a teachable moment on his part as President and a good lesson to us to be more inclusive of people who do not share our views. He said he was going to include everyone. Now that he doing that, hackles are being raised.
One thought, instead of focusing on what divides us, focus on what is common to us and build on that.

Posted by: Mike Malter | December 18, 2008, 11:16 am 11:16 am

again
how many of you who are saying “he is reaching across the aisle”
would say that if he had a preacher who preached that biracial couples were on par with pedophiles or were doomed to hell.
as was preached often 50 years ago.
would a President be right by choosing a preacher who preached that Jews were going to hell and biracial couples were subverting the will of God.
I think Obama is goign to see over the next few weeks how hypocritical this choice was.
He would never choose a person that said those other things.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 11:17 am 11:17 am

Well, david, I can only hope that your view of America never returns. The gays, the goths, the punkers, the bikers, all those whom you consider ‘weirdos’ are what adds interest to this country and stops it from being a very boring place. Those outside the mainstream are what add colour to a very bland and uninteresting
population.

Posted by: libertarian | December 18, 2008, 11:17 am 11:17 am

I don’t like gays but sure like my sister. At least she’s not a guy. She’s the only one that gives it to me.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 11:18 am 11:18 am

davescott it is not about christian vs people in prison or anything else…
it is about wrong…antiquated philosophies thatw ere created most likely not by jesus Christ but by men who reworte the bible several times over the last few centuries…
things like allowing women to be beaten in marriages and biracial relationships being subverting the will of God…and women were less than men…and Jews were satan
etc
all have gone…because they do not go along with the numero uno premise of Christianity…
finding the balance between not hurting other people…and being happy.
You obviously have work to do on that issue.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 11:21 am 11:21 am

dave: Obviously you are a person of extreme intelligence and insight. Please enlighten us…define “normal” so that we may understand.

Posted by: dano | December 18, 2008, 11:21 am 11:21 am

davescott – Sorry to disappoint I am a married Christian woman who just thinks that it is not my business to tell everyone else how to live their lives. Unless of course you are my child then, it is a different case according to my kids. I believe in loving the sinner but hating the sin. God will decide who goes where when it their time to go. I have bigger fish to fry. Anyone knoe what the heck a numchuck(? )is?

Posted by: Jenny Rome Ga | December 18, 2008, 11:21 am 11:21 am

libertarian | Dec 18, 2008 11:17:51 AM -
Why must our morals decay because you are bored?

Posted by: Angelo | December 18, 2008, 11:23 am 11:23 am

I am proud of Mr. President-elect Obama picking up Rev Warren. This is another of his many best choices he made. Obama is president of all. A kid who gets mad when the father hugs a sibling of his is a kid who is having issues.

Posted by: John Paul | December 18, 2008, 11:23 am 11:23 am

dl, while I totally disagree with the position and focus that davescott is taking, you’re argument is flawed from a biblical perspective. Nowhere does the bible speak against biracial couples. That was just another example of religious hypocrisy, something the bible speaks out against very strongly.
And while I don’t know anything of Rick Warren’s comments linking homosexuality and pedophilia (certainly, children have not reached the age of consent), I think that the general idea put forth by secularism is that the more “enlightened” we become, the better the world will be and the better we will be as a race. When you look at the condition of the world today, that’s a hard argument to swallow.

Posted by: Brian Levine | December 18, 2008, 11:23 am 11:23 am

Angelo: What is morality? It has NOTHING to do with religion.

Posted by: dano | December 18, 2008, 11:24 am 11:24 am

this was a big misstep on Obama’s part
it is not a question of a “big tent”
it is a question of preaching philosophies that get people killed and beaten.
somebody didn’t really look at Warren’s statements…
and didn’t make the jump to realize it is the same as someone picking a preacher 50 years ago that said biracial couples subverted God.
Would obama have said we need a big tent then if a president picked a preacher who preached that to give the National Invocation of our presidential Inauguration?
I don’t think so.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 11:25 am 11:25 am

I gotta run. Tolerance, people. Its our differences that make us stronger.

Posted by: Brian Levine | December 18, 2008, 11:26 am 11:26 am

It’s more that obvious the media is sparking the ignition by seeking out interviews for a controversial story and the Neo-Cons are fanning the flames to get the left to turn against Obama. What people are forgetting is this presidency is not about left or right; it’s about fixing the economy, ending war and repairing our reputation in the world and this presidency is about our country and middle class Americans. It’s more that obvious the media is sparking the ignition by seeking out interviews for a controversial story and the Neo-Cons are fanning the flames to get the left to turn against Obama. What people are forgetting is this presidency is not about left or right; it’s about fixing the economy, ending war and repairing our reputation in the world and this presidency is about our country and middle class Americans.

Posted by: dan | December 18, 2008, 11:26 am 11:26 am

I have seen more good morality from people who are religious oriented, no matter what religion, than from people who are not religious oriented. Sorry.

Posted by: Angelo | December 18, 2008, 11:27 am 11:27 am

Obama is about a new politics that’s NOT about “us vs them.” That approach has solved nothing. As gay people we cannot be haters or excluders, we have suffered too much of both. To do that would be to become that, no. Asking Warren to participate along with pro gay ministers is a display of Obama’s humanity which I’m sure as gay people we will all benefit from. In fact his invitation to the LGBT band and appointment of an openly lesbian member to his environmental team is proof. The “outrage” here is a dangerous legacy of the past which has only served to divide and defeat us. In fact, I believe that many anti Obama people are posting here and speaking elsewhere to take advantage of this to diminish Obama, and ultimately weaken the chances of achieving LGBT civil rights.

Posted by: bob10001 | December 18, 2008, 11:28 am 11:28 am

dl – Wow, that was a great comeback.
The difference between the marriage of biracial couples and homosexuality or any other type of discimination for that matter hinges on choice. Black people are born black. There is nothing they can do about it (Sorry Michael Jackson) Same with Asians, Mexicans whatever. Gay people are making a choice. Should we accept and give privileges to pedofiles because they were “born pedofiles” and they prefer to have sex with children? What about polygomists? Were they born that way? We should grant them special rights too according to your logic. Why should we discriminate against a brother and sister who want to get married? (Sorry West Virginia) Why should a father having consensual sex with his son be looked upon harshly by society. The homosexual agenda is a very slippery slope folks. We better wake up to this disease America and find a cure fast.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 11:28 am 11:28 am

Angelo- decay is a point of view. I see it as people having more freedom to express and be themselves. If nobody is physically harmed or coerced, I see nothing wrong with the state of morals. You may rail against gays, TV, movies, music, dress, or whatever, but if it doesn’t break your leg or take food off your table, why should you care?

Posted by: libertarian | December 18, 2008, 11:29 am 11:29 am

If Obama wanted to reach out to the Evangelicals who put him into office he would have selected Rob Bell.

Posted by: Eric | December 18, 2008, 11:29 am 11:29 am

Brian Levine
if you look at the world that was touched by that philosophy it a whole lot better than it was before that philosophy
do you realize how many people have been burned, oppressed, killed, torutred etc
in the name of those philosophies (many of which occured in variations and interpretations of the bible…yes)
before a country like America stood up and said …no.
The world is a better place because of our progress… people who say it isn’t …are people who are ignoring all the deaths of women…and gays…and jews and sinners…and other cultures who sttill believed in religions that believed in religions that strived for that balance between”trying to be happy and trying not to hurt other people”
which is the basis and the gold standard of Christ’s, Buddha’s…you name it’s philosophies and teachings.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 11:29 am 11:29 am

Dave Scott — Even one step further, one could argue that some people were born to be murderers as well. You do make a very compelling argument.

Posted by: Angelo | December 18, 2008, 11:30 am 11:30 am

(I love young boys, taste good)
Not by me, and not funny you sicko.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 11:30 am 11:30 am

DaveScott
if you can’t tell the difference between two adults who love each other and pedophiles who take advantage of a child’s innocence
people should keep their children away from you.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 11:32 am 11:32 am

it think the great divide between logical thought and mindless religious faith is showing its well-tattered underskirts…
THATS why the original founders never wanted ANY religious references to any specific religion . christianity ,or for that matter any religion per se , is just not part of the real intrinsic american political ideology.
printing the phrase ” in god we trust ” on u.s. currency was a terrible (and to my mind ,unconstitutional) idea and would most definitely not have been approved of by thomas jefferson ,samuel adams or benjamin franklin.

Posted by: bah | December 18, 2008, 11:32 am 11:32 am

there is a difference between two adults who are making each other happy
and one adult whose proclivities take from another human.
and those who can’t tell the difference have issues.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 11:33 am 11:33 am

Well Well Well. Appears Obama isn’t the Liberal and Democrats Saviour and ardent executor. You know that there is a serious problem in Dem Land when even the Daily Kos starts criticizing Obama.

Posted by: sotjkgjdfkl | December 18, 2008, 11:34 am 11:34 am

I should say those who can’t tell the difference have no idea what Christ was trying to teach.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 11:34 am 11:34 am

dkr — “Most of people that hurt kids (molesters) and most people that are in prison are Christain.” – WRONG!
Jesus has said what will happen to those that hurt kids, christian or not!

Posted by: sphinx4132 | December 18, 2008, 11:34 am 11:34 am

Brian: Arguing – or even citing – the Bible is inane unless all parties involved in discussion agree that it is a valid authority. Absent such an agreement, you may as well cite the back of a cereal box.

Posted by: dano | December 18, 2008, 11:34 am 11:34 am

The farther he moves away from the “left” and “gay values” the better off our country will be.

Posted by: Texmcgee | December 18, 2008, 11:35 am 11:35 am

I have a very small wee wee!
I’m super fat and the kids always made fun of me. I found god he’s my only friend.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 11:36 am 11:36 am

Once again, wackjob Christians obsessing about gay sex. Can’t you people think about anything else?

Posted by: Paul | December 18, 2008, 11:36 am 11:36 am

You’re all sheep! Left and right! You believe politicians…..
And I love all the authorities on here know without a doubt that there position on gay equality is the right one.
Religion in politics is always a mistake.
Keep your religion to yourself folks.
Be secure enough to let others live the way they choose, it has got nothing to do with you or your GODs.

Posted by: ObamaKnew | December 18, 2008, 11:36 am 11:36 am

Everyone has a set of moral values. For some they come from religious conviction, for others their values come from non-religious convictions. This country provides EVERYONE the freedom to believe what you wish to believe.
With that said, as an evangelical Christian, I understand how people feel when Christians make political decisions based on their religious values. But they have that right whether you agree with it or not. Just like an atheist can make politicial decisions based on their non-religious beliefs.
What’s my point? That there’s this belief that if someone makes a point based on their religion, it’s considered wrong or unamerican, but if someone who is left expressed their beliefs, it’s considered more American or acceptable. The reality is, they’re one in the same. Everyone is trying to push their belief on to others to change this country.
And this country provides everyone (far right, far left, religious, non-religious) that right to do so. There is freedom (not suppression) of religion, as well as freedom to express your non-religious beliefs.
So stop coming across as you’re right and others are wrong. The left are attacking the right just as much as the right are attacking the left. One is not any more american than the other.

Posted by: AL | December 18, 2008, 11:36 am 11:36 am

Angelo: I wonder if hundreds of thousands of dead Iraqi civilians would agree?

Posted by: dano | December 18, 2008, 11:37 am 11:37 am

I must say, Obama looks better in a coat and tie, than in a Panama hat and stogie.

Posted by: LongT | December 18, 2008, 11:37 am 11:37 am

I am VERY disappointed by this news about Rick Warren doing the invocation. There are so many other wonderful ministers and people of great faith and leadership who would be acceptable and not offensive to many. I believe Rev. Rick Warren represents what is wrong with “christianity” today. Someone truly more Christ-like and loving to all would be much better. Is it too late for him to change his mind —- PLEASE!!!

Posted by: NancyR1 | December 18, 2008, 11:38 am 11:38 am

I think people are missing the point regarding the outrage over Warren giving the invocation. It’s not that he is against gay marriage. Most preachers are, obviously. So it would not be a surprise that the preacher at the inauguration is against gay marriage. The anger is because he has been such an active part in the most controversial and divisive social issue campaign of the year, Proposition 8. Obama could have picked any minister from any church in any of the 50 states. Why pick one of the most famous architects of Proposition 8? Obama is essentially bringing Prop 8 to his inauguration, and that is what a lot of people have a problem with. The inauguration was supposed to be “inclusive” and celebrate diversity, yet when the invocation is given, gay people will only be able to hear Warren’s past comments comparing them to child molesters, and will only see the face of Proposition 8. That is what the anger is about.

Posted by: Bryan | December 18, 2008, 11:38 am 11:38 am

the point is the Obama has rick Warren for one part with a few comments and then a pro gay rights pastor for another area. to get upset over this is foolish. The president represents the broad spectrum here not just one group. To disagree with the choice of a homosexual life style is everyones right and does not represent a hate crime. Unles of course you want to go back to Hitler’s time when when your opinion is totally controlled by the state. Not quite democratic in nature.

Posted by: richard warren | December 18, 2008, 11:40 am 11:40 am

Sweet jumpin Jesus…..can’t we just practice tolerance? Can we not all make the effort to just be tolerant of each other and of each other’s ideas? Why can’t the Press do more to stop fanning the fires in every direction? Oh, I forgot! Then there would be no more awful, sensational news for them to broadcast! Heaven forbid that we should be tolerant of each other and perhaps learn to get along…they teach that to my grandson in kindergarten… so why is it that the adults can’t seem to learn as much as a 5 year old???

Posted by: liberaldem | December 18, 2008, 11:41 am 11:41 am

“Hate the sin, but Love the sinner.” The more difficult task for the Christian is; “Judge not…”

Posted by: bobj72 | December 18, 2008, 11:42 am 11:42 am

Well since religion (especially Christianity) is one big scam, no one he picked would have impressed me. Warren is a major self-serving power hungry phony, just like the rest.

Posted by: ScorpRedhead | December 18, 2008, 11:42 am 11:42 am

I voted for Obama. As a atheist I have NO issues with the Reverand… After all, HE is an AMERICAN too…..

Posted by: Baal | December 18, 2008, 11:42 am 11:42 am

I can’t understand why people are so mad an surprised by his choice in Rick Warren. Obama professes Christianity and professed the type of President he would be–representing both sides. Not a liberal America and conservative American but United States of America. You can’t keep being surprised when he does such middle of the road things or does things that will make conservative happy too. One Nation folks.

Posted by: Becky | December 18, 2008, 11:43 am 11:43 am

This is a hopeful sign. Perhaps Obama isn’t in such a hurry after all to expand abortion availability.

Posted by: Sal | December 18, 2008, 11:44 am 11:44 am

Dano — I am not talking about extremists, I am talking about every day people that go about their lives every day and try to do something good everyday for the people that they come in contact with. Most of the people I have come across in my life that were not religiously oriented were concerned with one thing, themselves. Where as those who leaned more toward the religion cared about how someone else felt. I don’t know how any Iraqi’s feel.

Posted by: Angelo | December 18, 2008, 11:45 am 11:45 am

Angelo – In a society where they is no absolute truth, there is no absolute wrong. Anything goes as longs as it feels right to you. “It’s all about me” This is the America some of the folks on this message board want. Where is the line in the sand? If someone enjoys cutting themselves should we just let them be. What if they encourage our children through education to exeriment with cutting themselves? Is that ok? Homosexuality is a mental and spiritual disorder. There are cures available. Help cure homosexuality.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 11:45 am 11:45 am

Sal, when you grow a vagina, THEN I’ll care what you have to say about abortion.

Posted by: Paul | December 18, 2008, 11:46 am 11:46 am

Paul, do you not know what Sal is short for?

Posted by: sal | December 18, 2008, 11:47 am 11:47 am

He is finding out just how spintered the Democratic Party really is. It is impossible to please a party that has this many different factions & still try to keep up appearances as the great “bi-partisan healer”.
ANYONE can talk the talk, can he REALLY walk the walk????

Posted by: Mike_C | December 18, 2008, 11:47 am 11:47 am

so, you’re a woman Sal. I’m SO impressed. You still have no right to tell anyone what they can do with their bodies.

Posted by: Paul | December 18, 2008, 11:52 am 11:52 am

Paul is awsome

Posted by: adam | December 18, 2008, 11:52 am 11:52 am

Paul | Dec 18, 2008 11:52:09 AM –
Then that means drug abuse is ok, right?

Posted by: Angelo | December 18, 2008, 11:53 am 11:53 am

(I have a very small wee wee!
I’m super fat and the kids always made fun of me. I found god he’s my only friend)
STOP USING MY SCREENNAME! (Very funny though)
If you have any guts you’ll come out and fight like a man. (If you are one)

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 11:53 am 11:53 am

Angelo- most of the religious people I have come across are concerned with expanding their religion and dogma. What you call being concerned with others, I call sticking their nose where it doesn’t belong. Sure, they do charity work, but that is all too often linked to being proslytised. Secularists are not interested in what you believe and don’t want your soul in exhange for the charity they give.

Posted by: libertarian | December 18, 2008, 11:53 am 11:53 am

You can’t take it back now, Paul. You said you’d care about my views if I had a vagina. Thanks. I appreciate your openness to a grown-up dialogue. (Though I do think you should care about men’s views, too.)

Posted by: sal | December 18, 2008, 11:53 am 11:53 am

Gosh, this kind of story really brings out some extreme people. Kind of scary.

Posted by: LongT | December 18, 2008, 11:55 am 11:55 am

Why is it lately that on every issue, every day, i have gay rights shoved down my throat?

Posted by: PRINCEP | December 18, 2008, 11:56 am 11:56 am

Mr. Warren will deliver an invocation, which should last for approximately one minute, then he will go back to his church. Mr. Obama go to the White House, where he will be President of the United States for four (or possibly, eight) years. I can live with that. Personally, I wouldn’t mind seeing prayers offered by a group of Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim and Hindu clergymen, as was done at the NYC memorial service following 9/11, but that’s not likely to happen.

Posted by: TheSneezingLobster | December 18, 2008, 11:56 am 11:56 am

Becky: Spreading hate is not mainstream.

Posted by: Steve | December 18, 2008, 11:56 am 11:56 am

I am very happy that Obama has shown that he brings many different people and views to the table. Somebody is always going to be unhappy. I suppose he should have had a Gay minister do the invocation. I think when an individual only brings those to the table that think and believe the way he/she does would be accused of being a part of the “status-quo”. A lot of Gays/Lesbians have it in their minds that you can’t love the person, but somehow hate the sin. It is not Obamas responsibility to PUSH your beliefs on everyone else. In Life it is all about choices and your choice is just that YOURS and NOT the entire Universe.

Posted by: roger | December 18, 2008, 11:57 am 11:57 am

Sal, you don’t have do agree with what people do with their bodies. The point is, it is their body to do with as they wish. It’s not yours. You have no say in the matter.

Posted by: Paul | December 18, 2008, 11:58 am 11:58 am

Angelo – Drug abuse is okay as long as you were born a drug abuser and it makes you feel good. Drugs should be legalized, I mean whose playing God here anyway telling me that drugs are bad. A bunch of hypocritical and judgmental Christians I bet. Haven’t you ever heard “Judge not..”
(It’s crazy isn’t it)

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 11:59 am 11:59 am

libertarian | Dec 18, 2008 11:53:50 AM
I don’t care what you people believe or do not believe either. It’s when you people put your smut on television and movies and corrupt my children’s morals.
That’s when I get offended. As far as I am concerned you can all go do who ever you want in the privacy of your home, but once my children are being attacked with libertarian/tolerance morality then I will fight and defend.
Thanks though.

Posted by: Angelo | December 18, 2008, 12:00 pm 12:00 pm

Everyone has a say, Paul, that’s what makes this country great. And I think you’re great, too. Misguided and perhaps a bit under-educated, but great.

Posted by: sal | December 18, 2008, 12:00 pm 12:00 pm

If I believed in hell, and I was sent there after I died, it would be filled with closet cases like davescott.

Posted by: Franconia | December 18, 2008, 12:02 pm 12:02 pm

libertarian – most of the homosexual people I have come across are concerned with expanding their religion and dogma.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 12:02 pm 12:02 pm

Posted by: Tra la la | Dec 18, 2008 9:11:36 AM
Why would Obama ever reach out to the KKK, Aryan Nation or whatever you call yourselves today. Give me a break your comment makes no sense whatsoever!

Posted by: roger | December 18, 2008, 12:02 pm 12:02 pm

I can’t believe Obama’s focus group approved of this crap. Unless it didn’t really know much about Warren. Believe me, those who believe Obama’s a Muslim, a terrorist, somebody who actually flew a 9/11 plane, wasn’t even born in the US, was a protege
of Bill Ayers- all the garbage spewed about him on the internet… they won’t think, “Gosh, since Obama’s anti-gay, he’s not so bad, I’ll vote for him next time around.” Look, when Bill Clinton acted like a Republican- Don’t Ask/Don’t Tell, the Defense of Marriage Act, the V-Chip, his church-goin’ ways- did he win values douchebags over? No, he got set up and impeached.
When will Democrats learn?

Posted by: Henriette Wayne | December 18, 2008, 12:03 pm 12:03 pm

Yes, this is a great, great country, Sal. You couldn’t be more right. I’m beaming with pride over this great, great country of ours. Thank the lord for our country and for great folks like you. May jesus come down and give you a great big hug.

Posted by: Paul | December 18, 2008, 12:05 pm 12:05 pm

libertarian – yes I wish government would remain neutral to all religions, even the religion that BELIEVES and has FAITH that there is no need for God or a religion. Government should remain neutral and indifferent, not hostile to any citizens belief system. The invocation speaks to a majority of citizens who should not have their rights curtailed because Atheist and Agnostic are insecure in their religious beliefs of no God…

Posted by: EnergyMain | December 18, 2008, 12:05 pm 12:05 pm

Angelo- it’s up to you to police what your kids watch, not the rest of us to watch what we do or say that might offend you or your morals. Contrary to popular belief, there is no right to NOT be offended in this country. And as you fight for your morality we will fight for freedom. I think the odds are on our side though.

Posted by: libertarian | December 18, 2008, 12:05 pm 12:05 pm

Franconia – Please help me by telling me what’s wrong with my logic? I am a quite normal logical person. :-)

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 12:05 pm 12:05 pm

Thanks, Paul. I’ll ask him to go easy on you.

Posted by: sal | December 18, 2008, 12:06 pm 12:06 pm

libertarian | Dec 18, 2008 12:05:52 PM
That’s what the Romans said. I’ll take those odds.

Posted by: Angelo | December 18, 2008, 12:08 pm 12:08 pm

A normal (define this please) and logical person in this day and age would not call homosexuality a disease or mental illness that needs to be cured.

Posted by: Fraconia | December 18, 2008, 12:10 pm 12:10 pm

ANOTHER GENIUS OBAMA MOVE…HOWEVER, THE GUY GAVE BUSH A “PEACE AWARD” SO IT IS DISTURBING!!!

Posted by: Becky | December 18, 2008, 12:10 pm 12:10 pm

libertarian – there is no right to NOT be offended in this country.
Pi$$ off. And your mother wears combat boots.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 12:11 pm 12:11 pm

That’s ok, Sal, I’ll tell the man myself. Then, I’ll ask Santa Claus to bring you something nice for Christmas.

Posted by: Paul | December 18, 2008, 12:12 pm 12:12 pm

He already brought me you, Paul. He brought me you.

Posted by: sal | December 18, 2008, 12:13 pm 12:13 pm

:) you’re ok, Sal.
Have a good one.

Posted by: Paul | December 18, 2008, 12:14 pm 12:14 pm

Country losing jobs by the second and people are talking gay. So sick of the gay issue. They are hurting themselves by forcing their agenda when the country has other priorities. I’m sure less and less people will approve gay marriages in the future. I was open minded but since their priorities are about themselves, they can say goodbye to our vote. Please go back in the closet, this country needs jobs right now, not whinners. Marriege is between a woman and a man. The more I hear about gay rights the sicker I get with the subject.

Posted by: zorra | December 18, 2008, 12:15 pm 12:15 pm

Zorra sounds upset. All in favor of kicking him off this board, raise your hands.

Posted by: Prescott | December 18, 2008, 12:17 pm 12:17 pm

Agreed, EnergyMain. Unfortunately, we are so concerned with the Abrahamic religions in this country that none of the others get an equal shot. Christianity gets too much of a bite of the pie. Until all religions and their moral views are considered equal and get the same respect, I will continue to fight for a secular society. anyway, it’s been fun. Time for me to go Solstice shopping. My holiday comes a couple of days before most of yours.

Posted by: libertarian | December 18, 2008, 12:17 pm 12:17 pm

Not I, zorra can stay.

Posted by: Angelo | December 18, 2008, 12:18 pm 12:18 pm

zorra can stay, but we can laugh at him.

Posted by: Franconia | December 18, 2008, 12:19 pm 12:19 pm

Fraconia – Actually, I can’t believe in this day and age that we’ve redined homosexuality to be anything other than a disease and mental disorder. This has long been the medical community’s diagnosis for hundreds of years and there has been NOTHING to dispove this fact that I’m aware of. (Please prove me wrong) Actually, I believe this narcissistic psychosis rammed down everyones throat by the homosexual media only furthers support for a medical diagnosis. Instead of fighting, please help find a cure.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 12:21 pm 12:21 pm

As for Homosexuals… go make up other word for your depravity… you are not GAY, Queer yes, sad sorry sacks of excre+emen+, yes. And just because folks think that sod0my is not love nor the basis for marriage doesn’t mean they hate you… they just don’t want the perversion spread about them. If you want equality, you have to be equal first; man and woman, not man and man, woman and woman!

Posted by: EnergyMain | December 18, 2008, 12:23 pm 12:23 pm

Davescott, so the criteria for something being true is that it has been believed for hundreds of years? Wow. I’d hate to see what this world would be like if you were in charge.

Posted by: Prescott | December 18, 2008, 12:24 pm 12:24 pm

Obviously, someone like davescott and I are not going to agree in the whole homosexuality-disease debate. Thank goodness his extreme views aren’t shared with the majority. I suggest a time machine for you, davescott, head for Nazi Germany, and you’ll among friends.

Posted by: Franconia | December 18, 2008, 12:26 pm 12:26 pm

I tell you one thing if I was in charge I would abort all the gay babies.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 12:32 pm 12:32 pm

Prescott – Apparently, you can’t read. I’m only presenting logical and historical facts. My question to you is this. Using logic and scientific data please prove to me or point me to any resource that would conclude that homosexuality is anything other than a disease or mental disorder.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 12:34 pm 12:34 pm

davescott ;
How do you know which ones are gay and I thought you were against abortion.

Posted by: Angelo | December 18, 2008, 12:34 pm 12:34 pm

Franconia – Hitler was gay. Need I say more?

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 12:36 pm 12:36 pm

I wonder how Obama would have felt if a preacher in the 60′s was chosen to give the invocation that was outspoken in saying that biracial marriage was unnatural…or unholy.
and his mother lived in a neighborhood where they bought into that argument…
how safe his mother would feel walking down the street daily…or at night…
how would he feel about the President of the united states choosing a vocal advocate for that belief (as popular as it was at the time…and as small as the population of biracial couples was) to give the Religious speech at our most important national event as a country.
would he say that that President was being “inclusive” and “reaching across the aisle”

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 12:36 pm 12:36 pm

I tell you one thing if I was in charge I would abort all the gay babies.
AGAIN, NOT BY ME!
There is no such thing as a gay baby. Only gay choices.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 12:37 pm 12:37 pm

Is that so? Where is your proof?

Posted by: Franconia | December 18, 2008, 12:37 pm 12:37 pm

davescott: Though seriously, I don’t know if I would day homosexuality is a disease or mental disorder, that implies something is physiologically wrong with the person and I don’t know if that is true. There may be psychological factors however. Lack of attention from the opposite sex for one thing. Not enough attention for one parent or another.

Posted by: Angelo | December 18, 2008, 12:38 pm 12:38 pm

dl — get over it, Obama does not support gay marriage.

Posted by: Angelo | December 18, 2008, 12:41 pm 12:41 pm

To whomever – You don’t need to put words in my mouth. My throat is full of the gay agenda. (eeekks that sounds so gay)

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 12:41 pm 12:41 pm

It amazes me how straight people think they are experts on gay people.

Posted by: hannity | December 18, 2008, 12:42 pm 12:42 pm

“eeekks that sounds so gay” even sounds so gay. I think davescott has some issues to work through. We’ll all accept you when you come out, dave.

Posted by: lindy | December 18, 2008, 12:47 pm 12:47 pm

America has faced with economic and moral collapse. I’ve been tired with watching that NY, NJ, IL and CA have being been SODOM & GOMORRAH. I don’t understand why Democratic leaders, Pelosi and Harry have just been watching all craps. This is Democratic one of principals that married congressmen have a affair with other women is basic. Read followings ;
Cohen (D-NJ Rep.-Porn w/child at office)
Rod Blago(D-ILL Gov.-Criminal to sale the seat)
David Paterson(D-NY Gov. took cocain,had affairs 3 times)
Jim McGreevey(D-NJ Gov.married affair w/gay)
Eilot Spilzer(D-NY Gov.to buy prostitution)
Charles Rangel (D-Rep NY, Tax Fraud, my district),John Ed (D-Canditate ,NC), Tim Mahoney (D-Rep.Fla), Newsome (D-SF Mayor, affair w/wife of his aid), Tony Villar (D-LA Mayor, divorced as affair)

Posted by: Janet -NY | December 18, 2008, 12:48 pm 12:48 pm

hannity – It amazes me how homosexual people think they are experts on normal people… have a nice day!

Posted by: EnergyMain | December 18, 2008, 12:49 pm 12:49 pm

Angelo – Okay, fair enough, disease is a word I use to stir up the lefties. It’s not really a disease because diseases spread and have no predudice towards race or gender. It is term that more closely resembles the “gay agenda” as it spreads in America. However, it really is a mental disorder that can be caused by various factors. With proper counseling and even medication it can be reversed. There are plenty of testimonials out thier from ex-gays that homosexuality can be reversed. They really need compassion for they know not what they do. Help fight to cure homosexuality. Stop the gay agenda disease from spreading.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 12:54 pm 12:54 pm

Thanks Lindy – That’s what I like about you gay folks. So compassionate. Just like Sean Penn.

Posted by: davescott | December 18, 2008, 1:00 pm 1:00 pm

davescott, you’re a douche. It’s not a mental disorder. NO ONE actually thinks that anymore. On December 15, 1973, the American Psychiatric Association, removed homosexuality from its official list of mental disorders. The American Psychological Association Council of Representatives adopted the same measure on January 24-26, 1975.

Posted by: hannity | December 18, 2008, 1:04 pm 1:04 pm

hannity | Dec 18, 2008 1:04:33 PM –
I don’t know, I think there are a lot of psychological factors that could help prevent homosexuality.

Posted by: Angelo | December 18, 2008, 1:23 pm 1:23 pm

Shouldn’t we be focused on substance, not symbols? Obama’s already appointed gay people to policy positions (e.g., CEQ) and will probably appoint more. You’re agonizing over a 2 minute prayer. And for those right wingers chortling at Democratic divisions, you’re once again missing the boat. Democrats and Americans in general are overwhelmingly pleased with his transition, say all the polls. If you look at Obama’s positions and the totality of his appointments, you’ll see someone moving in a progressive direction but as diplomatically and inclusively as possible. Americans voted for a thoughtful new politics and we’re getting it. At least let him be sworn in before you follow media frenzy of the day and jump to rash conclusions.

Posted by: tmginnova | December 18, 2008, 1:51 pm 1:51 pm

I honestly don’t think so, Angelo. Can you say there are factors that could help prevent heterosexuality?
People just are what they are.

Posted by: hannity | December 18, 2008, 1:55 pm 1:55 pm

A real optimist, aren’t ya?

Posted by: Mitsy | December 18, 2008, 1:56 pm 1:56 pm

Posted by: tmginnova | December 18, 2008, 1:57 pm 1:57 pm

I think this is a prime example of involving and working with people that we don’t agree on everything with. We can’t just ignore people we have differences with because that’s how Washington and society gets gridlocked and productivity comes to a halt.
And quite frankly, it’s embarrassing to see the hate on both sides of this. I think people need to be reminded that tolerance isn’t just a one way street.

Posted by: steve, al | December 18, 2008, 1:57 pm 1:57 pm

there is (for you morons) a growing belief that homosexuality often occurs in species …to actually help the species as a whole
mental illness can occur from repression or in people who have an irrational fear of homosexuals
not just putting homosexuals down to make themselves feel better or calling homosexuals bad of mentally ill because they are worried therir own feelings may show…(hmmm)
but there are people who have mental illness in their anger toward people who are not like themselves.
and we are finally starting to realize that.
you guys might want to catch up.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 2:07 pm 2:07 pm

and steve, al
that is like saying again that a preacher that was very vocal in his opoposition and belief that biracial relationships and marriage were unnnatural…or a sin being chosen back in the 60′s …and Obama should think highly of the president that did it because he was just reaching across the aisle…
meanwhile obama’s mother lives in a neighborhood that buys into that belief… and that obama had to walk homes at night in…or his mother on a daily basis…
and that he might have campaigned for that same President in those same neghborhoods …facing people who had that belief and were emboldened by that preacher telling them they were right.
do you think OBama would be okay with the president that campaigned on inclusiveness picking a person…I should say the one religious choice he can at the biggest national event we have… to give the invocation…who preached ACTIVELY the intolerance that he said he ran against.

Posted by: dl | December 18, 2008, 2:12 pm 2:12 pm

hannity | Dec 18, 2008 1:55:10 PM –
Yes, actually. Psychologically speaking if one of the psychological causes of homosexuality is not getting enough attention romantically from the opposite sex, then wouldn’t that prevent heterosexuality?

Posted by: Angelo | December 18, 2008, 2:28 pm 2:28 pm

Obama is smart to pick Warren for the invocation, with 5 minute prayer he keeps the right off balance.

Posted by: Rich | December 18, 2008, 3:24 pm 3:24 pm

I’m not sure what the big deal is. If you need someone to do the religious stuff, you might as well invite a religious person, especially one who is this popular.
Sure, he could have picked somebody more liberal, but then the other side would be complaining. So who cares? I think one thing Obama has learned by now is that some people are going to whine about whatever he does, so he might as well just do what he wants to.

Posted by: jock59801 | December 18, 2008, 3:36 pm 3:36 pm

People quit your whining. Obama is a good man, and picked another good man to say a prayer. There’s a lot more important things to worry about than his choice of pastor for this day!

Posted by: Kevin | December 18, 2008, 3:55 pm 3:55 pm

” Change” LOL,
There is no real change; Obama is a master of using people to his advantage.
He used the left , kick them out of the window now he don’t need them anymore.
And now he is slobbering with the right (Warren) till he needs them anymore.
For Obama really one thing is important; and that is Obama!!

Posted by: Jim | December 18, 2008, 3:57 pm 3:57 pm

A lot of you people sure have thrown Obama under the bus real fast like, where is all the tolerance you all talk about???

Posted by: Real Story | December 18, 2008, 5:13 pm 5:13 pm

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Posted by: Deborah | December 19, 2008, 1:00 am 1:00 am

please do not compare gay rights to being black or women rights. your fight is about satisfying your flesh. yes, gays have the right to be forever connected with who they want, but not the right to force the people to make it a law. It just ain’t right! It’s not natural! THAT’S MY OPINION and that does not make it wrong nor does it merit to be bashed.
again…u cannot Even compare it to being black…NEVER!
Obama’s selection oh Rick Warren, so what! If the guy is straight or Gay so what. Warren hates the acts of gay lifestyle…namely sex and women trying to be a man and man trying to be woman is sickening to his appetite as like a pedophile. however, warren does not hate the person, just the behavior. so, warren giving a prayer…amen brother. pray for this nation and the spirit of wisdom to overflow Obama.
my Gay people, if you love each other and your state don’t honor matrimony, get married in a state that excepts this and return home. hey, your rights are not being denied as life partners, we just ain’t co-signing on same sex marriage.
right on Obama, rick warren and my man bush

Posted by: Mother.Knows | December 19, 2008, 5:00 am 5:00 am

During the campaign, I though Obama would be far to liberal. So far, I am wrong!
Rick Warren is an outstanding choice and it demonstrates that Obama is trying to bring this country together. I am very pleased with his picks for cabinet. He will have diverse opinions to intellectually play off each other to make hopefully wise policy decisions.

Posted by: keval | December 19, 2008, 6:55 am 6:55 am

The President-elect’s choice of Reverend Warren to participate his inauguration is a stinging slap in the face to all of those LGBT people who invested themselves in Obama’s campaign and who honored him with their votes. To include someone in this important event who has worked diligently to deny LGBT people their rights under the law and guaranteed under our Constitution shows a lack of sensitivity to the needs and aspirations of the gay community who substantially supported his candidacy and election. Reverend Warren and others of his ilk who’s preaching against our community causes those disposed toward violence to physically attack and in some cases kill us is not worthy of the honor being bestowed upon him. There are many pastors, rabbis and mullahs who minister to and support all of the members of their congregations even those who happen to be LGBT. Any of those men or women would have been a more appropriate choice. To claim that inviting Reverend Warren to be a part of his inauguration indicates that “what we have to do is to be able to create an atmosphere where we can disagree without being disagreeable” is at best disingenuous and at worst an insult to the intelligence of the LGBT community. I dare say that if Reverend Warren was as vehement a racist as he is a homophobe he would not have been Obama’s choice to pray for his presidency and our country. As a gay man and a supporter of President-elect Obama I am deeply disappointed that he has chosen to disrespect and disregard the feelings of the great numbers of LGBT Americans who believed in what we were told during the campaign and who enthusiastically supported him with our time and with our votes.

Posted by: Brian, Decatur, GA | December 19, 2008, 7:59 am 7:59 am

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