From other reports; "... casting himself as a leader for a new generation of Americans."
That's code for "Vote for me because I look like you."
That's code for "Vote for me because I look like you."
2
Social Security has nothing to do with the deficit or our national debt.
Cutting benefits by pushing back the age of eligibility won't reduce our debt or reduce any deficit.
It is the Republicans who want to destroy Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid and anything which benefits seniors, the disabled, widows and orphans so they can pass more trillion dollar tax giveaways to the nation's corporations, millionaires and billionaires.
It is despicable the press repeats the GOP canard about stealing from a paid in benefit program to finance tax breaks as "deficit reduction." Every time I see such analysis, I think its conflict pornography. Conflict pornography is where the press dutifully regurgitates without reflection whatever made-up conflict insanity some idyet says is true when all of reality denies the same.
If any candidate wants to deal with any long term solvency of Social Security and Medicare, simply lift the income caps for payments of the taxes which fund the programs. Better yet, exempt the first $25,000.00 of income from any federal taxes and impose the taxes on incomes in excess of $500,000.00 The money would be used almost immediately by the Middle Class and working poor and create millions of new jobs.
Last year my family paid more in federal income taxes on our income than GE did on $13 billion in profits. Stop the madness and pass a Middle Class and working poor tax exemption on the first $25,000.00 in income!
Cutting benefits by pushing back the age of eligibility won't reduce our debt or reduce any deficit.
It is the Republicans who want to destroy Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid and anything which benefits seniors, the disabled, widows and orphans so they can pass more trillion dollar tax giveaways to the nation's corporations, millionaires and billionaires.
It is despicable the press repeats the GOP canard about stealing from a paid in benefit program to finance tax breaks as "deficit reduction." Every time I see such analysis, I think its conflict pornography. Conflict pornography is where the press dutifully regurgitates without reflection whatever made-up conflict insanity some idyet says is true when all of reality denies the same.
If any candidate wants to deal with any long term solvency of Social Security and Medicare, simply lift the income caps for payments of the taxes which fund the programs. Better yet, exempt the first $25,000.00 of income from any federal taxes and impose the taxes on incomes in excess of $500,000.00 The money would be used almost immediately by the Middle Class and working poor and create millions of new jobs.
Last year my family paid more in federal income taxes on our income than GE did on $13 billion in profits. Stop the madness and pass a Middle Class and working poor tax exemption on the first $25,000.00 in income!
3
He believes it is 'our time'. Well, sorry, but it will never be Rubio's time as far as the Oval Office is concerned. He's just one more right-wingnut who wants to return America to the past, a past where the well-off remain well off and the rest of America can take a powder. Thank goodnesss there will be enough Americans to see through this phony.
2
We now have Rubio, Rand Paul, Cruz, and Hilary as official candidates, four incentives for not voting.
On the Republican side, the candidates' proposals are just a repackaging of the same bad policies that have been destroying this country for the past 34 years.
Rubio is a good example. He says, "“Too many of our leaders and our ideas are stuck in the 20th century”. Yet, he proposes tax cuts that favor the wealthy. This is pure Reaganism. Apparently, he is against 20th Century ideas unless they are the same trickle down economics that have been in effect no matter who is in power.
The same voodoo economics that have put this nation in the current bad situation.
As for Hilary Clinton, don't expect a change in direction from her either.
The deck is stacked and America suffers.
On the Republican side, the candidates' proposals are just a repackaging of the same bad policies that have been destroying this country for the past 34 years.
Rubio is a good example. He says, "“Too many of our leaders and our ideas are stuck in the 20th century”. Yet, he proposes tax cuts that favor the wealthy. This is pure Reaganism. Apparently, he is against 20th Century ideas unless they are the same trickle down economics that have been in effect no matter who is in power.
The same voodoo economics that have put this nation in the current bad situation.
As for Hilary Clinton, don't expect a change in direction from her either.
The deck is stacked and America suffers.
So if not Reagan type policies- what? Tax code from the 70s, more welfare programs?
No. What about more global economy, job incentive growth via lower barriers of entry, corp lower tax, capital asset investment- and Energy Investment.
No. What about more global economy, job incentive growth via lower barriers of entry, corp lower tax, capital asset investment- and Energy Investment.
LOVED RUBIO, his command of all the issues on Hannity's hour long interview was articulate, very detailed, and so.....authentic and FRESH. Looking forward to him and Hillary in debates. Very different candidates!
2
"Whether the Earth was created in 7 days, or 7 actual eras, I'm not sure we'll ever be able to answer that. It's one of the great mysteries." - Marco Rubio
Unlike the Democrats, the GOP has several contenders to choose from. I think completion is good for Presidential Candidates because it keeps them on their toes. After the last election where the GOP candidates were attacking each other tarnishing their images along with the Democrats and the Whitehouse attacking them, they did not have a chance. This time around, the common enemy for all of the GOP contenders is one person. Hillary Clinton, is the one and only candidate on the Democrat ticket so they can begin to attack her early on. Like today. So, it is the main stream media plus Hillary Clinton against the GOP candidates, independent news outlets, and the American voters who want a President who has integrity.
Send in the clowns -- there ought to be clowns -- don't bother, they're here ...
Very green behind the ears, with a nice collection of PR agents. He does know what century it is. Let's just give him credit for making it to the Senate,where he has an endless lesson to learn, including "How to unite the two parties for the good of the country." - Right now, he belongs to a group of 100 men and women who are held in very low esteem by the great majority, because they have done nothing but quibble, obstruct and fail to accomplish anything of value.
As long as Rubio supports the Cuban Adjustment Act the only Hispanic vote he will get is the Cubans. No non-Cuban Hispanic will get his vote and with good reason.
Under the CAA, Cubans receive unique and highly favorable treatment, including granting of permanent residency a year after arrival, as well as being eligible for government benefits, such as Medicaid, supplemental social security income, child care, and disability. Things that some of our own elderly and poor people who have been U.S. Citizens all there life don't receive.
But, one might proclaim, Cubans are coming here because of political oppression and must be treated differently. There are all kinds of arguments against this claim, but one stands out as a very salient rebuttal: the Cubans who come here, illegally or not, can and do return to Cuba for visits and other reasons once they get permanent residency or citizenship. In 2009, two hundred and ninety six thousand Cubans returned to the country. The further irony is that while a former illegal Cuban can go to Cuba if they have relatives living there, a natural born non-Cuban U.S. citizen cannot go. You would hardly return to a place voluntarily if you had been persecuted previously. Cubans Immigrate for economic reasons just as others do.
Rubio knows this and so does every other non-Cuban Hispanic.
To paraphrase George Orwell in Animal Farm: all immigrants are equal, but some are more equal than others.
Under the CAA, Cubans receive unique and highly favorable treatment, including granting of permanent residency a year after arrival, as well as being eligible for government benefits, such as Medicaid, supplemental social security income, child care, and disability. Things that some of our own elderly and poor people who have been U.S. Citizens all there life don't receive.
But, one might proclaim, Cubans are coming here because of political oppression and must be treated differently. There are all kinds of arguments against this claim, but one stands out as a very salient rebuttal: the Cubans who come here, illegally or not, can and do return to Cuba for visits and other reasons once they get permanent residency or citizenship. In 2009, two hundred and ninety six thousand Cubans returned to the country. The further irony is that while a former illegal Cuban can go to Cuba if they have relatives living there, a natural born non-Cuban U.S. citizen cannot go. You would hardly return to a place voluntarily if you had been persecuted previously. Cubans Immigrate for economic reasons just as others do.
Rubio knows this and so does every other non-Cuban Hispanic.
To paraphrase George Orwell in Animal Farm: all immigrants are equal, but some are more equal than others.
His chances of winning the presidential nomination are nil, but it's a little scary to think he might be drafted to run as a vice-presidential candidate to draw in the Hispanic vote (they don't like him for retreating on his support of immigration reform just as the Tea Party doesn't like his original support for it). But as a resident of Florida, I celebrated. State law forbids a run for the senate and the presidency at the same time. So we can say goodbye to one of those who authored the shutdown of the Federal government and a Ted Cruz ally.
It seems to be an example of how chaos theory applies to human history that the simple act of taking in as pitiful refugees the right-wing supporters of the old Batista dictatorship in Cuba now comes back to bite us as their culturally misguided progeny (Cruz, Rubio) try to establish right-wing dictatorship in country that took them in...
Whereas the puppet Obama has strings coming down from above, Rubio is such a lightweight, his strings come up from below to keep him from floating away.
Young man - old ideas.
1
Senator Rubio demonstrated very quickly his intellectual level: he said he is the best person to "lead the United States into another American century." His staff should have reminded him that that has already been done - by George W. Bush, and we know how that turned out. I wonder where Rubio has been for the last 15 years? I checked, and THIS IS the 15th year of the 21st Century. Trust me on that. Another failed George W. Weed intellectual clone......
2
1 word - Hooray!
1
Senator Rubio speaks of others being stuck in the 20th century and then, reverts to Cold War status on Cuba and to the relationship with Iran in the Ayotolla era. Is he like other Republicans going to revert to the pre-New Deal era on domestic affairs? e may be chronologically young, but his ideas are old, old, old.
3
Rubio says we're done with yesterday and there's no going back. Lord, I hope there's at least a chance of going back to the Clinton era when our nation was prosperous, completely out of debt, had a surplus, and we had the respect of other nations. As you all know, Bush came in and the rest is a history of disaster both in our economy and in our relationships around the world. If there's a chance of going back and getting our country back to where it once was, then I'm all for it. The last thing we need is another president who is controlled by corporate cash and wants to beat his young and inexperienced chest.
1
Rubio's economic "theories" are like a cross between a mood ring and a pet rock. However, he is very skillful at never offering a defense or explanation. He avoids doing so by challenging any questioner's premise. What he says sounds like a respectable answer ... and no one cares, because everyone's been distracted (and bored) by the sudden subject change.
2
Rubio may have announced yesterday, but Hillary started a Facebook page. One of the featured images she dug out of some shoebox to share with the masses..the one I saw this morning.. is a family photo taken at Disney many years ago..In it, she is wearing a pluto ball cap with floppy ears. I'm no expert, but I am reading a book about Putin's Russia...and it's pretty scary. Whoever is in charge of Clinton's messaging may want to rethink their premise that what the world needs now is a granny.
Rubio is talking about the America that tens of millions of immigrants came here for. An American magnet of limitless opportunity for those willing to work for it. The magnet that attracted "the best, of the best" from around the world , and made us a better nation than the countries our forefathers left behind.
President Obama , Hillary, and the Democrats want to invert the process and create a magnet of "free stuff" where needy people see America as a place , not of opportunity, but of (unfunded) generosity , paid for by money borrowed from the Chinese.
Republicans believe that our immigration system is broken and needs to be fixed. We can't take everyone, so why not take those who can contribute most ? The best, the brightest, the hardest working ?
Our funds are not without limit, but the Democratic mindset certainly is.
President Obama , Hillary, and the Democrats want to invert the process and create a magnet of "free stuff" where needy people see America as a place , not of opportunity, but of (unfunded) generosity , paid for by money borrowed from the Chinese.
Republicans believe that our immigration system is broken and needs to be fixed. We can't take everyone, so why not take those who can contribute most ? The best, the brightest, the hardest working ?
Our funds are not without limit, but the Democratic mindset certainly is.
The Kennedy-Nixon debate redux:
Not to worry. Nixon apparently learned her lesson from history. She refused to be on the same stage with Kennedy, instead piling on the makeup and greasing the lens for her virtual announcement a day earlier.
But Kennedy was very clever. With his usual Kennedy-esque way with words, he transported Nixon right onto the stage with him and dispatched her with one word and his winning smile.
Not to worry. Nixon apparently learned her lesson from history. She refused to be on the same stage with Kennedy, instead piling on the makeup and greasing the lens for her virtual announcement a day earlier.
But Kennedy was very clever. With his usual Kennedy-esque way with words, he transported Nixon right onto the stage with him and dispatched her with one word and his winning smile.
Ironic. If Rubio's parents had been Mexican instead of Cuban they would have been illegal immigrants. Oh well, an accident of political Geography. And dissin the older voter, who proportionately votes more? Throw Grandma under the bus. Bad move.
3
Let's all be honest. All of this chatter about Rubio is pointless. He'll never get the nomination and unlike some of the other candidates he probably won't even land a spot on Fox.
5
Gee it was ok for HIS family to emigrate to the US.
But too bad for others wanting the same for their families.
But too bad for others wanting the same for their families.
4
What most foreign observers cannot understand is why in a country of over 330 million people, the most technologically advanced country in the world, with some of the greatest universities, with a proud scientific, intellectual, artistic and humanitarian tradition, such light-weight, science-denying, aggressive candidates like Marco Rubio, Tom Cotton, Ted Cruz and earlier on Sarah Palin achieve such prominence and even aspire to become president or vice-president. Unless there is something in the water, the only reason one can think of is the evil influence of lobbies and big money in the interest of the Military-Industrial Complex.
5
You said it!
You, me, many of us can come up with 10 names in 60 seconds. The clown car of Republicans, and Ms. Clinton for the Dems places us in a very sorry state of affairs.
You, me, many of us can come up with 10 names in 60 seconds. The clown car of Republicans, and Ms. Clinton for the Dems places us in a very sorry state of affairs.
Rubio, along with Republican Senator Mike Lee, has proposed zero taxation on capital gains and carried interest.
No doubt Rubio will vote on 4/15 for the Republican bill to eliminate inheritance tax.
Rubio, like the Republican Party, believes that taxes are only for the little people.
Will this sell in 2016?
No doubt Rubio will vote on 4/15 for the Republican bill to eliminate inheritance tax.
Rubio, like the Republican Party, believes that taxes are only for the little people.
Will this sell in 2016?
2
"Little People" have not paid a penny in taxes for years. Most get government benefits of some type or the earned income credit. Another welfare payment.
You obviously haven't heard about the percentage of total taxes paid by the top 10%
You obviously haven't heard about the percentage of total taxes paid by the top 10%
Funny how the old expression they all look alike has real meaning here. Just like we had no translators to translate after 911. We have completely lumped all people with a Spanish surname into one basket. We think all we need do is get one of those people and they like the pied piper will bring all of the others of those people along. We want the people of the world to understand us but we do little understand them. Does anyone in their right senses think if someone like Justice Thomas ran for office there would be droves of African Americans voting for him? The attitude to some groups is so condescending and insulting. In Rubio’s case he opposed immigration reform and just because he is Cuban he will bring all of those Hispanic groups with them. Most of the demographic group knows someone here illegally. Some of them have parents or siblings who are undocumented. They are going to vote for someone willing to deport their parents? Ask African Americans will they vote for Dr. Carson? I believe the answer to that would be disturbing to the good Doctor’s supporters.This election may be the wake up call for all those who think a Cruz,a Rubio or a Bush is going to bring a majority of Hispanics to the voting booth for them. When these are same guys willing to deport their grannies.
5
I don't understand why he is so opposed to thawing of relations with Cuba. His stance on immigration is confusing. I also would like to see a candidate with some real world experience, rather than someone who's been a politician his entire career.
4
Hillary will slater these clowns. Rubio, Cruz, Paul, Bush - all right wing nut jobs that pander to the conservative right wing of their party. No place for women, african americans, latinos, only white men. I will vote for and support Hillary Clinton the next President of the U.S.
2
"Mr. Rubio cast himself as a forward-looking, next-generation leader — and an implicit contrast to Jeb Bush, 62, whose family has dominated Republican politics for nearly three decades, and Hillary Rodham Clinton, 67"
That is exactly the reason I would prefer a younger, more energetic candidate with newer ideas for the 21st century. Mr. Rubio got all but newer ideas for the 21st century. Regardless of age, any candidate that panders to religious fundamentalists stuck in the 12th century, who thinks the Earth is flat and only 5,000 years old will never get my vote.
That is exactly the reason I would prefer a younger, more energetic candidate with newer ideas for the 21st century. Mr. Rubio got all but newer ideas for the 21st century. Regardless of age, any candidate that panders to religious fundamentalists stuck in the 12th century, who thinks the Earth is flat and only 5,000 years old will never get my vote.
11
Interesting that Rubio is too inexperienced. As I recall there was a senator from Illinois who had no experience (still doesn't) but that didn't stop gullible liberals from taking it hook line and sinker and voting for him did it
Experience does not translate into competency. Just look at Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi. If they weren't in Congress they'd have a hard time getting a job parking cars
Experience does not translate into competency. Just look at Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi. If they weren't in Congress they'd have a hard time getting a job parking cars
2
If six years as President does not give you experience, I don't know what does.
Judging by the grey hairs on his head, which were not there 6 years ago, I'd say that's a heck of a lot of experience.
Judging by the grey hairs on his head, which were not there 6 years ago, I'd say that's a heck of a lot of experience.
1
Don't think you have a clue about those two.
1
The problem the Republican party will have is finding a candidate that brings all of the right wing's agenda together. However, a candidate that is truly represents the Republican base is unelectable; maybe in Russia, but not in this country.
2
Marco Rubio is a fresh face to the contest for the President of the USA in 2016. He presents new ideas, where as Ms. Clinton presents the worn out ideas of the past dating back to the 1960s when she began to follow the anarchist Saul Alinsky. America must embrace Rubio. He stands for freedom. His family left Cuba for America, the land of the free and the home of the brave, to thrive and prosper rather than to stifle under the yoke of Cuban Communist totalitarianism. It's fitting that America has a candidate for President who is of Cuban heritage as it tries to establish diplomatic relations with Cuba, a Communist dictatorship which has been allowed to exist 90 miles off the coast of the USA for the last 50 years. His candidacy will make America think twice about what it is getting its self into by "normalizing" relations with the Communist regime. The aim of the USA should be to bring down the Cuban Communist dictatorship and restore freedom, rather than to condone and embrace it as Obama would prefer. To do so would be an insult to the freedom which God has bestowed upon the USA. American led by Marco Rubio, would march into Cuba, much like Teddy Roosevelt did in 1898, accompanied by the Rough Riders, who assembled at the Menger Hotel in San Antonio, to rescue Cuba from Communism. Under Rubio, freedom and democracy will be restored to Cuba. Cuba will no longer be a threat to the USA, as it has for the last 50 years. Yes, America needs Rubio. It needs Rubio now!
3
Well said! Hillary is old, rich and out of touch. She's not Bill...she not even Chelsea.
1
Name three new ideas that he has presented.
His stance towards Cuba is the same one that has failed for decades.
That's what Republicans do, they keep doing things that haven't worked and will never work. There's nothing new about that.
His stance towards Cuba is the same one that has failed for decades.
That's what Republicans do, they keep doing things that haven't worked and will never work. There's nothing new about that.
4
Sounds like a movie! I do think Mr. Rubio should use his good looks to become a movie star rather than president of a great country. You want Rubio to act like Teddy Roosevelt? Teddy Roosevelt is a thing of the past.
"Condone and embrace" communism is hardly what the president is doing. It is not our job by any stretch of the imagination to bring down another country's government. The best we can do is be a good example. Our job is to take care of our own country and strive to work with others, keeping our own values intact. All we can do is be a good influence.
And, oh yes, from what I've heard recently, Mr. Rubio's parents left Cuba before the Communists took over, although he has given the impression it was after.
"Condone and embrace" communism is hardly what the president is doing. It is not our job by any stretch of the imagination to bring down another country's government. The best we can do is be a good example. Our job is to take care of our own country and strive to work with others, keeping our own values intact. All we can do is be a good influence.
And, oh yes, from what I've heard recently, Mr. Rubio's parents left Cuba before the Communists took over, although he has given the impression it was after.
1
C'mon, American voters! Marco Rubio a "fresh face"? Get real. The face may be new, but the words are old and and worn out!
7
He needs an education. That will take about 16 years of hard work, with no time for fundraising parties. Try again in '32.
3
Amazing. More cheap shot shots by the liberal left. The Clinton Foundation takes $48 million from massive human rights violators like Qatar, Saudi Arabia , QAE, Kuwait. Liberals say nothing
She destroys emails and liberals say nothing
Liberals mock conservatives like Rubio but ignore Hillary's lying about being under sniper fire.
Rubio is a breath of fresh air. He's not a 67 overweight woman who thinks being president is her birth right. He doesn't have to hide behind carefully scripted announcements. He's genuine. I believe he cares about people. Hillary? $300,000 speeches, Gulf Stream jets, presidential suites. A media that protects her. If, God forbid, she is elected will the Lincoln Bedroom be reserved for Bill's. "Bimbo's?"
Hillary is a liar and cannot be trusted? Rubio? A great story. I may not vote for him but at least if there was a Benghazi he wouldn't disappear and wouldn't lie about his role
She destroys emails and liberals say nothing
Liberals mock conservatives like Rubio but ignore Hillary's lying about being under sniper fire.
Rubio is a breath of fresh air. He's not a 67 overweight woman who thinks being president is her birth right. He doesn't have to hide behind carefully scripted announcements. He's genuine. I believe he cares about people. Hillary? $300,000 speeches, Gulf Stream jets, presidential suites. A media that protects her. If, God forbid, she is elected will the Lincoln Bedroom be reserved for Bill's. "Bimbo's?"
Hillary is a liar and cannot be trusted? Rubio? A great story. I may not vote for him but at least if there was a Benghazi he wouldn't disappear and wouldn't lie about his role
3
This is an amazingly ignorant post larded with cheap shots and personal insults. Please criticize Hillary on the merits of her policies, as I will Rubio's denials of the age of the earth and reversals of positions on his own immigration bill.
How do you know how Rubio would respond to a terrorist attack if he were Secretary of state? And as for his campaign to have all Americans view and support American "exceptionalism", I'd remind you that it's precisely that word that has created endless problems on the world stage.
How do you know how Rubio would respond to a terrorist attack if he were Secretary of state? And as for his campaign to have all Americans view and support American "exceptionalism", I'd remind you that it's precisely that word that has created endless problems on the world stage.
5
Criticizing Hillary's weight and age says a lot about the kind of person you are.
If you ever read any of the comments by liberals you would know that many of us aren't happy with HRC and don't want her as a candidate.
We'll vote for her though because we don't want another recession and we don't need any more Supreme Court disasters.
If you ever read any of the comments by liberals you would know that many of us aren't happy with HRC and don't want her as a candidate.
We'll vote for her though because we don't want another recession and we don't need any more Supreme Court disasters.
3
I remember when Santorum joined the race for 2012. Then there was Michelle Bachmann actually winning the Iowa straw poll. We're just getting warmed up here. A lot more "entertainment" to come in the following months.
5
In a rational universe, Hillary would be the Republican candidate.
3
He has good ideas and good intentions and really believe that he wants to work and make things work for "some" of the people living in the USA. Unfortunately, with so many Republicans trying to out-right each other with their "putting down" adds, as they've had already started, and as if they are right ones; will leave them crashed and burnt. The don't realized that they are chasing the rational, independent and moderate voters away. Watch them do it all over again!
2
And, his running mate will be----Tom Cotton. The Hans and Franz of the GOP.
3
Marco Rubio is sabotaging our national security. The Pentagon has called manmade climate change a "serious national security threat" since early in the Bush Administration, but this oil bribe-taker denies the problem in mealy-mouthed statements all the time. ISIS is *exactly* the kind of problem the Pentagon fears will arise more and more as climate stressors ravage that part of the world.
Rubio says, in direct opposition to what every scientific body in the world has concluded: “I do not believe that human activity is causing these dramatic changes to our climate the way these scientists are portraying. And I do not believe that the laws that they propose we pass will do anything about it."
Rubio says, in direct opposition to what every scientific body in the world has concluded: “I do not believe that human activity is causing these dramatic changes to our climate the way these scientists are portraying. And I do not believe that the laws that they propose we pass will do anything about it."
5
As a Democrat, I am not going to stoop to the kind of disrespect and disgusting name calling I've seen directed at Hillary Clinton since she announced. Marco Rubio is not now and never will be a person for whom I would vote, but I will oppose his views with ideas rather than vile epithets.
7
"Yesterday is over and we're never going back."
You're so right, Marco. Your Republican Party 50 year Cuban embargo is so much yesterday. Even Rand Paul knows it has to go. That goes for you too. By the way, Hillary Clinton supports President Obama's policy to end the embargo.
You're so right, Marco. Your Republican Party 50 year Cuban embargo is so much yesterday. Even Rand Paul knows it has to go. That goes for you too. By the way, Hillary Clinton supports President Obama's policy to end the embargo.
4
Hillary....sorry but can't keep up with a 43 year old....you are part of the old an rusty guard...which is more of the same....Rubio is part of the fresh, innovative and new assertive guard.....poor hillary....
3
This argument would make more sense if they were in the same party. I am not planning to vote for Rubio just because he's too young for Medicare.
2
It's true Marco is a climate change denier from a state that can't even mention the subject. If that's fresh and innovative, you are truly mistaken. So what fresh ideas makes Marco so uniquely qualified, as he suggests? I can't think of any.
Maybe I missed the fresh, innovative part of his message. What was it it again?
Being young doesn't qualify you for anything. We've all been there, and few are qualified to be president.
Being young doesn't qualify you for anything. We've all been there, and few are qualified to be president.
Marco Rubio is claiming he represents the future but he's embracing the policies of the past: against gay marriage, doubter of climate change, pro-Israel at all costs and an extremely aggressive 'maybe bomb Iran no engagement with Cuba' foreign policy.
He's the young Cuban George W Bush.
He's the young Cuban George W Bush.
13
Reince's worst nightmare coming true. Couldn't have happened to a nicer guy!
4
Just another narcissistic lightweight.
7
Watching him speak, Mr. Rubio is constantly trying to lubricate his oral cavity using his lips and cheeks. I think he suffers from xerostomia, perhaps exacerbated by excessive anxiety when speaking in front of cameras. If so. it's not a good sign as a potential POTUS.
5
Yes, if only he could have avoided all public contact and limited his "announcement" to a few seconds at the end of a highly stylized commercial depicting other people talking and hugging.
2
Marco "I am not a scientist" Rubio is no fitter to be President than any of the other lunatics who are jostling for the republican front runner position. His candidacy is a complete joke. The guy has no gravitas and no integrity.
9
This notion that because Rubio is young because his ideas are fresh and original is utter nonsense. Rubio is the essence of the old conservative Republican party. I am no big fan of Mrs. Clinton but her ideas about this country are far younger than Master Rubio's, they include generosity towards the less fortunate, and a foreign policy that doesn't rattle sabers but seeks solutions. Young Rubio prattles on with the stale ideas of running against the government - the government that protects the weakest amongst us from hunger, that educates our children, and protects the old. His is the oldest of ideas - that we punish those who fail by letting them sink - while we reward those who succeed with the resources of the country. And he has nothing to offer regarding the environment. If this is youth - give me age any time.
10
Choir boy. Beware.
9
Strictly another republican light weight wanna be - with empty suit syndrome.
10
Someone needs to put the GOP back in the White House before the democrats take the country down the drain.
2
Yeah, unemployment way down, stocks way up. Some drain!
8
Must be looking foe multiple long term wars - a collapsing economy and banking system and more tax cuts for the rich - the good old days.
4
How'd that go the last time "someone" put the GOP in the White House? I don't remember feeling like things were in very good shape on December 31, 2008.
3
Too bad he's not really a generational change. He is a throwback to his father's and grandfather's generation. His foreign policy seems to be about the same as that of George Bush and Cheney.
8
Read--my--lips: NOT---A--CHANCE.
8
I hate to point this out, but that phrase is famous because Bush did raise taxes in the end.
A young politician with the mind of an old man.
7
Rubio talks about a new American Century, but judging from his speech today it sounds like all he has to offer is more of the same old, same old.
6
Rubio, you are no JFK of the Republican Party.
8
Social Security
Medicare
Medicaid
Living Wage
Booming Middle Class
Affordable higher education
Suddenly we're not half the nation we used to be....
I believe in yesterday
mm mmm mmmhm yesterday....
Medicare
Medicaid
Living Wage
Booming Middle Class
Affordable higher education
Suddenly we're not half the nation we used to be....
I believe in yesterday
mm mmm mmmhm yesterday....
4
Yawn. Another clown for the back seat of the Republican clown car. Not an original idea among them. All they stand for is that they are opposed to President Obama. They are beholden to the rich 1% who will fund their nonsense. The average American is of no concern to these people.
A sad day.
A sad day.
6
Rand Paul is the gop's best bet.
3
Rand Paul is the dem's best bet.
1
Francis the talking mule is the GOP's best bet.
2
A flip flopping ego maniac who can't behave properly in interviews. If that's the case it's even worse than I thought.
I watched Senator Rubio's announcement.
I was surprised that he is not an especially skillful public speaker.
Seemed like he was speaking from a carefully memorized script or a teleprompter.
The part about the Industrial Revolution -- a decent historical fact -- really didn't go anywhere. He called the twentieth century the "American century," a much over-used trope. Then he called for another "American century," which sounded to my ear like he was gassing or searching for a better ending.
This leads me to wonder how he would stand up in the intra-mural debates with fellow Republicans.
I wonder if he is quick-on-his-feet when he finds himself in close-up political combat.
I also suspect that in a debate with HRC she might make mincemeat of him, given her lengthy level of experience as a public speaker.
I was surprised that he is not an especially skillful public speaker.
Seemed like he was speaking from a carefully memorized script or a teleprompter.
The part about the Industrial Revolution -- a decent historical fact -- really didn't go anywhere. He called the twentieth century the "American century," a much over-used trope. Then he called for another "American century," which sounded to my ear like he was gassing or searching for a better ending.
This leads me to wonder how he would stand up in the intra-mural debates with fellow Republicans.
I wonder if he is quick-on-his-feet when he finds himself in close-up political combat.
I also suspect that in a debate with HRC she might make mincemeat of him, given her lengthy level of experience as a public speaker.
7
“The reason Obama hasn’t put in place a military strategy to defeat ISIS is because he doesn’t want to upset Iran.” Believe it or not, Marco Rubio made that ludicrous statement to Sec. of State Kerry at hearings of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee meeting on March 11, 2015. Hard to top that for ignorance in Rubio's alleged area of expertise: foreign relations. He didn't even know that ISIS is a Sunni group and Iran is Shia, and that they hate each other. So, as Kerry patiently pointed out, it's ludicrous to assert, as Rubio did, that Obama (allegedly) didn't have a strategy to defeat or degrade ISIS because he didn't want to offend Iran! And this clown is running for the Presidency of the U.S.A.? Appalling! Maybe Rubio has not finished up the tutorial being offered to him by the foreign policy guru who educates the Koch Brothers.
9
Call Palin now. She had special tutoring back in the day. Marco could use some.
1
Breaking News! Pant Suit Stocks in after hours trading are now plummeting.
2
That is funny!
More ridiculous by the day...
5
You know, Rubio's picture is really small and it wouldn't have to be photo shopped nearly as much as the one you put in there of Hillary earlier.
Maybe you could give bias a rest and let us have a good old knock down drag out fair election this time.IT might be interesting!
Maybe you could give bias a rest and let us have a good old knock down drag out fair election this time.IT might be interesting!
3
I expect to see him in the VP slot for Jeb Bush - a position where his inexperience is a less immediate issue, and where his ethnicity will still supposedly attract hispanic voters. He's always struck me as being an enthusiastic servant of the GOP's big red machine. Borg.
He should be perfect....
He should be perfect....
This is the "generational choice?" It's the same old GØP drivel. Take a look at "Marco Rubio on the Issues" in the NYT and decide for yourself. He sounds like the second coming of Reagan.
3
Marco Rubio is an electric orator with the masses. His real challenge rests behind the scenes with the rich republican establishment donors. Jeb Bush has already convinced many of them that he is the inevitable Republican nominee and with a name like his, its hard not to be swayed.
1
Senator Rubio resonates with many different aged voters and frankly he is about new ideas, vibrancy and youth which is desperately underrepresented in this country. Clearly he has the oratory chops and can deliver Hispanic voters in honest ways. Watch out Hillary, the fun is only beginning - little heard about you today - yesterday's announcement was anticlimactic.
2
Name three of those new ideas.
Senator Marco Rubio of Florida...declaring that he is the best person to lead the United States into “another American century.”
Lead us into another century.
1) we are already there
2) I wouldn't let him lead me into the cafeteria, no less lead the country.
Lead us into another century.
1) we are already there
2) I wouldn't let him lead me into the cafeteria, no less lead the country.
9
Kennedy-esque.
He dispensed with hillary with one word, "yesterday."
He dispensed with hillary with one word, "yesterday."
3
Talk about an "amen chorus" for left leaning democrats. Could it be any easier, dear reader, to pick them out from these comments?
1
We know vapid when we see it.
I think Senator Marco Rubio is someone I can befriend on the personal level. But an election is about the party as much as it is about the candidate. Let's see what the GOP-controlled Congress accomplishes in the next 18 months.
1
Time for another sip of water. Its a dream - I mean a fantasy and a delusion - to think he will get the nomination or win an election. If anything the guy is angling for VP.
5
His speech was awful. His delivery worse--does the man ever smile? He claims that Clinton is so "yesterday" but what is he? Inexperienced, dour, and totally in the pocket of the Tea Party agenda: Tax cuts for the rich, repeal the estate tax, bomb the world, deny climate science, and repeal social safety net programs for the most vulnerable americans. It's classic reverse Robin-hoodism" and it hasn't changed in 20 years.
The only thing he offers is youth. But youth without maturity or wisdom isn't really offering much. I don't think we have any more time for learning curves at 1600 PA Avenue.
The only thing he offers is youth. But youth without maturity or wisdom isn't really offering much. I don't think we have any more time for learning curves at 1600 PA Avenue.
10
Marc Halpern said on Morning Joe today that the speech was wonderful. Really? He is a light weight of the first order. God help us all.
Judging from the comments here, liberal NY Times readers are freaking out: They know a Republican who can speak native spanish will beat the pants off of Hillary.
5
This is one of the reasons Republicans don't do well with women and people of color. Do you really think that's all it takes?
Newsflash, hate speech and ignorance don't sound any better in Spanish.
Newsflash, hate speech and ignorance don't sound any better in Spanish.
1
Do you really think the Spanish speaking people in this country are that stupid? What an insult.
1
@AM
Oh, get off your high horse, as our esteemed President would say. Like we've never had ethnic voting in this country. And Rubio is an excellent candidate - someone who at least understands how a capital economy works, and how American exceptionalism works (unlike esteemed President). Something other Hispanics appreciate.
Oh, get off your high horse, as our esteemed President would say. Like we've never had ethnic voting in this country. And Rubio is an excellent candidate - someone who at least understands how a capital economy works, and how American exceptionalism works (unlike esteemed President). Something other Hispanics appreciate.
Marco Rubio would impose this generation's effluents on the next generation.
He does not understand that we humans are causing global warming by burning fossil fuels: http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/14/us/politics/marco-rubio-on-the-issues.... .
He says “I’m not a scientist,” but he is not willing to listen to scientists, preferring to instead listen to the siren call of fossil fuel money.
He is "stuck in the 20th century.”
He does not understand that we humans are causing global warming by burning fossil fuels: http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/14/us/politics/marco-rubio-on-the-issues.... .
He says “I’m not a scientist,” but he is not willing to listen to scientists, preferring to instead listen to the siren call of fossil fuel money.
He is "stuck in the 20th century.”
5
Rubio is on record as a global warming denier. How can anyone possibly take him seriously as a leader?
7
Rubio is too green. He needs more experience. Also, I'm not sure he will garner the latino vote. Maybe down the road he should run. Right now he would be better representing his state
3
He is far from green, if he wants to keep polluting the planet.
1
They are starting to emerge from the clown car.
Comesy gold !
Comesy gold !
3
I might have voted for Rubio as class president. Or student council. Big 'might.'
3
Once again, the GOP must be having difficulty shoring up decent candidates this year.
5
It appears that the first people Sen. Marco Rubio told about his candidacy were potential donors, not the people of Florida, or is it new century politics of take the money and run ? certainly shows where his priorities are.
6
Rubio reminds me of Dan Quayle, a light weight without any scintilla of intellect or curiosity other than the bromides offered by the usual cadre of conservative politicos so abundant in the Republican Party. I doubt if Rubio is destined to lead the most powerful, diversified and complex nation in this world today. But, one never knows. Remember Reagan?
6
Rubio's just a bad joke!
4
Mark Rubio thinks he is the "best person to lead the United States into another American century.” Wouldn't he have to wait until 2100 to be in "another" century? I hope he knows how to spell potato.
6
Marco who?
And what's he done that makes him so ready for the Presidency? Born much later than those old 20th century types? That would make him less experienced, wouldn't it?
Let's say no to sexism AND ageism at the same time. Vote Hillary. Clinton.
And what's he done that makes him so ready for the Presidency? Born much later than those old 20th century types? That would make him less experienced, wouldn't it?
Let's say no to sexism AND ageism at the same time. Vote Hillary. Clinton.
6
There is a long road and much rhetoric to hear or shun away from until November 2016 and what is enticing to hear from Rubio is more of his core values of family first and government next inline.
Listening to his speech, there was a nice balance to change government, not for the sake of just changing government but adjusting those gears for a much different course the world has set forth for the 21st century.
Listening to his speech, there was a nice balance to change government, not for the sake of just changing government but adjusting those gears for a much different course the world has set forth for the 21st century.
3
The only thing the GOP can look forward t. with this cast of characters, is the "Impeach Hillary" fund raising campaign.
3
I'm voting for him. I like him. Blood is thicker than water. Go Marco!!!
2
Why exactly do you like him?
Quality people I wish could run: Bloomberg. Your mayor...he has a future. Dianne Feinstein (should have been the first woman Prez) Clearly hands above Mrs. Clinton on every single level. Kay Bailey Hutcheson. John Roberts. (Another Class act) Richard Durbin. There are good Republicans and Democrats out there, but we get stuck with this bunch!
2
Every republican candidate receives the same negative treatment from the NYT commenters, right down to the name calling. It's as though they're angry that a republican has the nerve to even run for president.
6
Perhaps part of the problem is that the announced Republican candidates for nomination share very similar ideologies. They differ only in the extent to which they try to appeal to the fringe elements of the Republican Party. And many of the commenters are not angry at this first crop of candidates. They are grateful for the comic relief.
10
Rita:
Their views are reflective of the views of many Americans. To be hypercritical of these views and angry at them for holding them -- and on top of that to expect them to hold liberal views that would appeal to none of their constituents -- is pretty darned foolish.
Their views are reflective of the views of many Americans. To be hypercritical of these views and angry at them for holding them -- and on top of that to expect them to hold liberal views that would appeal to none of their constituents -- is pretty darned foolish.
1
Read the comments, people are angry about the ignorance, the bigotry, the war mongering.....
6
Marco Rubio appears to me as an uneasy junior class high school president who is not sure of his situation and has no clue as to what faces him in the near future. I just don't understand how he got elected but then Florida may be just oddly different enough (hurricanes?) to accommodate the unprepared and the unknowing.
10
Marco is a fresh, young Hispanic voice and it will be nice to hear his views in the upcoming debate. His father was a bartender and his mother was a maid. He isn't the spawn of privilege or a political insider, he paid his own way through college and law school. Sadly, there seems to be many commenters that question whether he's "Latino" enough - meant as a venal, veiled racist reference that would be more in place in the 60's. Even today, too many people feel like Hispanics need to stay on the political plantation. Rubio proves they deserve on the political forefront.
3
He says “I’m not a scientist,” but he is not willing to listen to scientists, preferring to instead listen to the siren call of fossil fuel money.
1
Paid his own way? Guess you forgot he was caught using campaign funds to pay his personal expenses. Can't the GOP come up with someone a bit less corrupt? As for Hispanics on the political plantation, Rubio was mentored by Jeb Bush, the guy who used a phony felon list and state troopers to prevent black voters from exercising their constitutional rights. Is this really the kind of leadership you want?
The problem the Republican party will have is finding a candidate that brings all of the right agenda together. However, a candidate that is truly everything to the Republican base is unelectable; maybe in Russia, but not in this country.
1
I hear a lot of talk about Cubans, Ricans, and Meztizos but I didn't hear what he is going to do for White people?
7
think he's finally learned how to speak publicly whilst under intense spotlight, without needing to reach for large gulps of water ;) ?
5
Liberals say they do not like hypocrisy or war mongering. They condemn Rubio, accusing him of both.
Yet they adore HRC (Libya, above the law, etc) and are running her as their unopposed candidate.
Yet they adore HRC (Libya, above the law, etc) and are running her as their unopposed candidate.
5
Not quite. Many liberals like myself don't like HRC at all. We just have to deal with the fact that she's better than anyone the Republicans can come up with.
1
And so Rubio says he is an implicit contrast with Bush and Clinton….of his non-establishment connections….however he is part of the old Cuban mentality, he consistently shows he has a surface idea at best of the most pressing concerns….very much the older Bush brother. Furthermore, Rubio thinks of America's tomorrow as becoming an idiclic place of yesteryear that never really happened expect on Leave it to Beaver land. If Putin was deposed and exiled in the US then had a child who then decided to run for President….well that's what we have here.
6
What is the "old cuban mentality"? You mean as in the hard working immigrants that helped build South Florida over the past half century plus?
Can't help but think Mark Rubio is running so that when it comes time to pick a VP candidate the GOP nominee will choose him.
4
So Marco rubio is another political hack bought and paid for. No thanks.
8
Perhaps there's more to know about him than what most do at this point:
That he lied about his family history; when and whey they came to America.
That he used a Florida State credit card for his personal use while leader
there, and was caught in that and other corruption.
And that he adores Jeb Bush but isn't all that loyal if there's something
he wants. Like who cares, but why pretend otherwise.
And that he has no relevant experience at all to run the country.
There are experienced senators and governors, none great blessings,
but all with more ability to run anything than Marco Rubio.
That he lied about his family history; when and whey they came to America.
That he used a Florida State credit card for his personal use while leader
there, and was caught in that and other corruption.
And that he adores Jeb Bush but isn't all that loyal if there's something
he wants. Like who cares, but why pretend otherwise.
And that he has no relevant experience at all to run the country.
There are experienced senators and governors, none great blessings,
but all with more ability to run anything than Marco Rubio.
17
He presents as the kid in 6th grade who told the teacher who was throwing spit balls when she left the room. A little punk!
7
You make him sound like an Eagle Scout, compared with Hillary's baggage.
Marco Rubio is the candidate of a certain party, and he will obviously not appeal to partisans of the other party. That is fair, and it is perfectly fair to subject him to criticism for his views and opinions. However, it is disturbing that some of the comments on this forum and others use coded racist language to criticize him. He has been characterized as "stupid" and not prepared for the job, with zero facts to support any such characterization. This is particularly disturbing when similarly (or less) qualified candidates of both parties (but who are not Hispanic) are not subjected to that type of criticism. He has also been characterized as "articulate," another well-worn phrase reserved for people of color. It seems that racism is alive and well and is not reserved to any one particular political persuasion.
3
When you make ridiculous statements about how old the earth is and deny science then you get labeled as stupid. It has nothing to do with the color of your skin.
14
Being described as "articulate" is a racial slur? Wow. Where- in Florida? So what does "inarticulate" mean out there?
As a scientific thinker DR, you should know that the term Hispanic does not denote any skin color. Hispanics are not a race. As with the term, American, hispanics come in all colors. You too, Lawyer in Miami, and you should know better.
1
Neither a fresh face, a perky personality or being a youthful 43 years old affords me any insight, confidence or hope for a next President who would be best equipped to serve the needs of and manage the crises in this country or the world at large.
What Mr. Rubio has shown is as good a skill set as any Republican Presidential hopeful at pandering to the extremist Republicans base.
What Mr. Rubio has shown is as good a skill set as any Republican Presidential hopeful at pandering to the extremist Republicans base.
8
Which reminds one of a similar description of Barack Obama in 2007. Up to and including his association with out of the mainstream leftists.
Living in South Florida, I have been watching Marco Rubio in his run for President. He started running for the Oval Office ever since he was elected as our Junior Senator. He is naive, heavily ideologically biased and his foreign affairs credentials are non-existent. He really beings back in the State Senate.
http://thetruthoncommonsense.com
http://thetruthoncommonsense.com
16
Rubio is another third rate politician. He thinks that because he's a Republican and latino he has covered all the bases. What he doesn't know is, just as blacks, latinos are not a homogenous.
His position with the Republicans says: "sell out" to many latinos, just as someone like Ben Carson or Herman Cain. Neither were qualified and only entered to offset Pres. Obama at the behest of their backers....
His position with the Republicans says: "sell out" to many latinos, just as someone like Ben Carson or Herman Cain. Neither were qualified and only entered to offset Pres. Obama at the behest of their backers....
5
He is about Latino as I am. NOT
3
The assumption in your statement is that only liberals are qualified to be President. To many latinos that is not true.
Let's see, people, if we can at least get this tired narrative out of here. We Latinos are not going to vote for this guy despite his party's most fervent hopes. He's Cuban, he flip flops on immigration reform, and his party has done nothing except attack us constantly. Actually, I take that back. His party has done wonders to unite us as Latinos. I'm Puerto Rican so the issue of immigration is pretty much a non-issue personally but I'm tired of the constant attacks on my fellow Latinos. So, no, we are not going to vote for him!
23
We also want a Cuba libré and not 50 more years.
Actually, that he is Cuban is an interesting dynamic, since there is a lot of historic animosity between Cubans and Puerto Ricans, at least on both islands. Wonder how that will translate here.
Are you implying your fellow, non-Puerto Rican latinos are undocumented aliens? If so, I should hope none of them is going to vote in any US election anytime soon.
1
Rubio might turn out to be Obama of 2016!
3
No he won't.
15
Obama is extremely intelligent, this guy not so much.
10
Revile Obama as much as you like, but there is no denying his intellect and capacity for understanding in depth the issues at hand. Does that make him perfect or perfectly effective? No. But Rubio is a cipher by comparison, or as Justice Marshall asserted about Alexander Hamilton: Compared to him I am like a "candle beside the sun at noonday."
A know nothing candidate. He is anti everything except when it comes to money and who has it.
15
Exact same age as my son, who is an Asst. US Atty. He fights crime/like racially motivated murders and child trafficking. Rubio is a punk in a cheap suit.
6
when Rubio can be as hostile to other repressive regimes, like Saudi Arabia and China, as he is of Cuba, then he will not come across as just another hypocritical buffoon
2
When will a Republican from north of the Mason-Dixon line announce? It seems those who have announced already could have met in a room, negotiated a common theme, then drawn straws to pick their representative.
3
When Rubio bows out a several state primaries from now, he'll inevitably throw his support behind Jeb Bush who will still be in the race; and Rubio's support will appeal to some conservative Hispanics, not just Cuban Americans. And rubio will have gained name recognition in 4 more years should his mentor Jeb Bush win the Presidency but lose a 2nd term or lose this first national campaign. Sen. Ted Cruz is trying the same tactic for a future campaign. So Democrats opposed to Mrs. Clinton's campaign have no choice other than to reject the Bush-Rubio/ Cruz ploy in the G.O.P. primaries. Let's hope that Paul or Walker wins; it'd be a shame not to vote for President just because there is no likely winner other than Hillary Clinton or Jeb Bush, both without a fresh idea that would make life better for anyone but their major campaign contributors.
He doesn't stand a chance. Too many Republicans chided Obama for having no experience and then spent the next 6+ years, Rubio included, obstructing everything, including the mundane. Some Super PAC is going to run all of their words against them and the American people, tired of the hypocrisy, will turn the other direction. He is running to be Vice President, hedging his bets that Jeb Bush does not get the nomination and render him ineligible.
3
What are you saying? That if Rubio is elected President the Democrats will spend all their time blocking and obstructing everything his administration proposes?
And how does Jeb nullify anything? Clinton and Gore did quite well in '92 despite coming from adjacent states with a total of less than half the population of Florida.
And how does Jeb nullify anything? Clinton and Gore did quite well in '92 despite coming from adjacent states with a total of less than half the population of Florida.
The Cuban Adjustment Act of 1966 should be required reading for every Republican, especially the ones running for president having a Hispanic extraction before talk about immigration matters.
4
That Act is about welcoming political refugees from communism. Similar acts were extended to other refugees from other communistic regimes during the cold war.
You might argue that the Act has worn out its welcome. You may also argue that Cuba is no longer a communist dictatorship. Good luck with that last part.
You might argue that the Act has worn out its welcome. You may also argue that Cuba is no longer a communist dictatorship. Good luck with that last part.
Thanks for pointing out that "free" ride the Cuban community has been given.
Marco Rubio's campaign slogan should be "keep your friends close and your water bottle closer."
13
Marco Rubio strikes me as an intelligent Republican who is willing to compromise on important issues such as immigration reform and taxing the top tier of the populace. I am impressed that he chose not to pander to Independents by donning sunglasses, using Twitter to appeal to the hipster generation, announce his candidacy via a slick marketing video as if he were a new Coke product, or by coming up with entirely superficial gimmicks like Hillary Clinton. It is refreshing to have candidates like Rand Paul who are willing to state their positions publicly without holding up their finger to see which way the popular wind is blowing. What is worrying though are Rubio's Koch et al corporate donors as well as war hawkishness. Also his lack of leadership on critical issues like climate change, income inequality, protection of social safety programs like social security, Medicaid and Medicare as well as protection of important federal agencies like the EPA, IRS, SEC, FDA and CFPB.
I am most interested in any Republican candidate who is willing to publicly support the Dodd-Frank act. Although Hillary Clinton says she supports it, I am old enough to remember Bill Clinton's evisceration of the Glass-Steagall Act which eventually led to the 2007-2008 financial melt down of the economy. If Rubio was willing to go out on a limb and reassure average Americans that this type of scenario will never again occur under his leadership, he would challenge Elizabeth Warren for integrity.
I am most interested in any Republican candidate who is willing to publicly support the Dodd-Frank act. Although Hillary Clinton says she supports it, I am old enough to remember Bill Clinton's evisceration of the Glass-Steagall Act which eventually led to the 2007-2008 financial melt down of the economy. If Rubio was willing to go out on a limb and reassure average Americans that this type of scenario will never again occur under his leadership, he would challenge Elizabeth Warren for integrity.
15
You really need to keep reading about Paul and Rubio.
5
No, he announced the old-fashioned GOP way: talk first to your rich donors. No Twitter for those old guys.
6
First, your comment shows you really don't know the causes of the economic meltdown which in fact are primarily attributed to the Bush administration failure to enforce the laws they had; second, when you think about what Rubio will do and stand for just remember his time in the Florida Senate and helping to take the whole state of Florida into a giant step backwards; and then remember that the only bill he ever did that was worth doing he renounced in an effort to pander to the lunatic fringe of the Republican Party which these days is just about the whole party.
2
Some downgrade Rubio on basis of only two years in the senate, some complain that he is too young, others point out he changed his mind on some issues.
But no one can deny that he is much more experienced than Obama was in 2007, when he announced his candidacy. And with the youth vote being so important (as it was in 2008), Rubio has clear advantage over the old lady Hilary.
But no one can deny that he is much more experienced than Obama was in 2007, when he announced his candidacy. And with the youth vote being so important (as it was in 2008), Rubio has clear advantage over the old lady Hilary.
4
Ted Cruz is more like Obama. Brilliant with very similar credentials, except Cruz has a record to back his up. He comes closer to being a "constitutional scholar" having argued before the Supreme Court versus having done so in a classroom as an adjunct professor.
One big difference is Obama avoids and Cruz confronts. Neither is an effective style, but one appears more palatable.
One big difference is Obama avoids and Cruz confronts. Neither is an effective style, but one appears more palatable.
Except that Obama has a once-in-a-generation gift to overcome the on-paper inexperience. Rubio slugs water to stave off cottonmouth.
Young people don't vote for young candidates, they vote for ideas that appeal to them, none of which Rubio will champion.
Young people don't vote for young candidates, they vote for ideas that appeal to them, none of which Rubio will champion.
1
As a resident of Florida, let me tell you what Marco Rubio accomplished when he was speaker of the Florida House of Representative - nothing substantial or anything that would benefit the citizens of this once great state.
The only reason Sen. Rubio got where he is today is because the Republican Party of Florida saw how they could keep the Cuban-Americans loyal to the party.
Ask yourself these two questions:
1. If he was a Black guy and his name was Marquez Rubin - would we be talking about him as a presidential candidate?
2. If he was a wasp named Mark Rubin, would he have gotten where he is in the Republican party?
Marco Rubio is the poster child of affirmative action in the Republican Party.
Furthermore, the only reason he became senator was because former Congressman Kendrick Meeks thought he was the second coming of Barak Obama and those White people in the panhandle would vote for him. When he was asked to step aside and let Charlie Crist run as a Democrat in his place, he allowed ego and pride to win over practicality. That is why Crist ended up running as an Independent. With Meek and Crist splitting the Democratic base, Rubio ended up in the senate.
Based upon his lack of accomplishments, Rubio is and empty suit with delusions of grandeur. He will never be elected president. The only way he'll get on the ticket as the vice president is because his ethnicity.
The only reason Sen. Rubio got where he is today is because the Republican Party of Florida saw how they could keep the Cuban-Americans loyal to the party.
Ask yourself these two questions:
1. If he was a Black guy and his name was Marquez Rubin - would we be talking about him as a presidential candidate?
2. If he was a wasp named Mark Rubin, would he have gotten where he is in the Republican party?
Marco Rubio is the poster child of affirmative action in the Republican Party.
Furthermore, the only reason he became senator was because former Congressman Kendrick Meeks thought he was the second coming of Barak Obama and those White people in the panhandle would vote for him. When he was asked to step aside and let Charlie Crist run as a Democrat in his place, he allowed ego and pride to win over practicality. That is why Crist ended up running as an Independent. With Meek and Crist splitting the Democratic base, Rubio ended up in the senate.
Based upon his lack of accomplishments, Rubio is and empty suit with delusions of grandeur. He will never be elected president. The only way he'll get on the ticket as the vice president is because his ethnicity.
14
Sounds like he has had to apply more political skill to his Senate career, than President Obama did during his brief stint in the US Senate.
Rubio's family fled from Batista's Cuba, not Castro's. I hope that gets some coverage at long last.
18
Batista's dictatorship ran about seven years. Castro's dictatorship has run about fifty five years. Many alive today are familiar with Castro's tyranny. Not many are still alive who remember Batista's.
Rubio is only the third? We have been hearing from these bloviating idiots for so long it feels like he is the thousand and third.
11
The clown bus has barely started to fill. Give it a few more months
On the other hand, in Albany the clown bus is more like a three ring clown circus.
Population-wise it certainly is time for a Hispanic President or should we have a female President next and then a Hispanic President? Sometimes politically correct politics is so confusing.
3
What exactly does this man bring to the table? I'm about as qualified to be President as he is. Quite an overly developed sense of self, I'd say.
9
Every American who is of good character and 35 years of age, or older, is qualified to be President. The rest is up to the polls.
Funny and sad that his touted greatest accomplishment in the Senate was a bill that went nowhere, that he later disavowed. Some credentials.
52
Senator Rubio seems to be a breath of fresh air. It has been noted that he has charm, charisma, relative youth, 14 years of public service, a genuine middle class background, college loans, an immigrant background, fluency in Spanish, a position on the Foreign Relations Committee when the world situation is foreboding. The contrast with figures from the past in both parties is stark. Before instantly dismissing him since he is a Republican we should give him a close look.
4
Charisma and charm? Seriously?
2
To Alan Brown. Despite the already exhausting and relentless political reporting about the election that is still pretty dar in the future, you seem to have just noticed that candidates are declaring their runs for the highest office in the land.
Maybe you should dig a bit deeper into earlier reporting of Mr. Rubio's positions and character, etc. before making such a breathless comment about his candidacy.
Unless you share his reactionary and conservative, anti-safety net positions. In which case have fun choosing in the Republican primary! So far it is a weird and worrisome bunch.
Maybe you should dig a bit deeper into earlier reporting of Mr. Rubio's positions and character, etc. before making such a breathless comment about his candidacy.
Unless you share his reactionary and conservative, anti-safety net positions. In which case have fun choosing in the Republican primary! So far it is a weird and worrisome bunch.
President Marco Rubio would be tough to swallow.
2
It's very naïve to think that just because Marco Rubio is Cuban-American and can speak Spanish fluently he will be able to attract the Latino vote.
A Cuban has never and most likely will never experience what a typical immigrant has to encounter when dealing with all these immigration issues.
The "wet foot, dry foot policy" allows Cubans, once they land on U.S soil to stay here and obtain residency within a year, which is very fast compared to the rate that most other nationals have to wait to obtain theirs.
Jeb Bush has a greater chance of attracting Latino voters by just being married to a Mexican women. And it also helps that he too can speak Spanish as well.
A Cuban has never and most likely will never experience what a typical immigrant has to encounter when dealing with all these immigration issues.
The "wet foot, dry foot policy" allows Cubans, once they land on U.S soil to stay here and obtain residency within a year, which is very fast compared to the rate that most other nationals have to wait to obtain theirs.
Jeb Bush has a greater chance of attracting Latino voters by just being married to a Mexican women. And it also helps that he too can speak Spanish as well.
3
Rubio - Fiorina
4
A know nothing and a business failure. Great duo!
4
Oh my goodness. Enough to give one nightmares
Love you, Guy! I got a good laugh! Needed it today. Old Carly is the meanest woman this side of Chicago. A real mean lady. Marco looks nice,
1
seems like Mr. Rubio threw away a good chance to be Jeb's running mate.
He can't be, they're both from Florida.
1
That's what they said about Joe Biden when he contested Obama the candidate for the democratic nomination in '08.
Is there, or will there ever be, a Republican candidate who will campaign without using the empty expression, "Take back this country?"
Take back to what?
There was never such a utopian era in the United States, that treated all law-abiding tax-paying citizens fairly.
Whenever a candidate says, "Take back this country," run for cover!
Take back to what?
There was never such a utopian era in the United States, that treated all law-abiding tax-paying citizens fairly.
Whenever a candidate says, "Take back this country," run for cover!
6
During the 2008 primaries, it was Hillary who repeatedly referred to the need to "take back this country" from the Republicans.
As others have pointed out, Hillary used that expression back when W was President. But as she was talking about Republicans none of the liberals hereabouts seemed to care.
Rubio, take a sip of reality: there is no chance you will win the republican nomination and even less chance you will win the presidency. And if you think this is way to get on the Republican ticket as candidate for VP by bringing in the Latino vote the only chance you have of that is keeping your mouth shut until after the election so people don’t realize how hollow you are.
Rubio is to the Latin community what Clarence Thomas is to Blacks. Both benefited from the kind of social changes made possible by Democrats but after they became successful were against those same changes for others. And they both like to think they did it all their own but in reality they did it all on the shoulders of others which only proves they are the worst kind of narcissists: the kind the rightwing is filled with that doesn't have clue how to do anything but is sure everybody else is wrong.
Rubio is to the Latin community what Clarence Thomas is to Blacks. Both benefited from the kind of social changes made possible by Democrats but after they became successful were against those same changes for others. And they both like to think they did it all their own but in reality they did it all on the shoulders of others which only proves they are the worst kind of narcissists: the kind the rightwing is filled with that doesn't have clue how to do anything but is sure everybody else is wrong.
4
Rubio doesn't think that gay people should be allowed to marry and then he claims that he doesn't think gay people should be discriminated against.
How is keeping someone from marrying the person they love not discriminatory?
How is keeping someone from marrying the person they love not discriminatory?
2
You really think the GOP base - deeply, irrationally xenophobic at its core - will support an Hispanic candidate? (Other than Jeb Bush, of course.)
Is that bridge in your city still for sale?
Is that bridge in your city still for sale?
3
Read the comments to this article. Any number of liberals seem to think being of Cuban heritage isn't being hispanic. Or at least hispanic enough to represent what they think of as properly hispanic.
If I didnt know better I would have to believe that the liberal hatred and vitriol for Rubio so plain on this board today might have an ethnic hatred component to it. Then again, I know that liberals are better than the rest of us and would never think that way, or at the very least liberal political correctness would prevent them from saying anything at all.
4
That's really, really funny.
What liberals don't like is hypocrisy, war mongering and bigotry. We don't care who it comes from.
What liberals don't like is hypocrisy, war mongering and bigotry. We don't care who it comes from.
1
@DR
In that case, you will not be able to support HRC.
In that case, you will not be able to support HRC.
Nothing against Mr. Rubio for being Cuban. I am Latin. I just think he is an opportunistic little empty suit.
I will be submitting the proper documentation to nominate my 10 year old Shi-Tzu, Teddy Cuddles, as the next GOP candidate. Unlike Rubio, Cruz and Rand, all people love him and he has accomplished many more things than this cadre of fools. They bark and roll over for Koch and Edelson, but Teddy won't!
13
Your dog needs to be at least 35 years old. And the Constitution says nothing about allowing dog years to count as full years.
I'm ready for Rubio!!! He is young, bright, articulate and could easily win a debate with Hillary. Rubio's original immigration plan was a good one...even for me...who is totally against amnesty. He should have shunned the "gangster's 7" and not taken part in the Democrats' and Chuck Schumer's amnesty bill, and he was right to back off. HIillary is history...we need new blood and new ideas.
4
His original legislation on immigration--the one that "enraged the right"--ironically, is just the type of leadership the GOP needs to break from its myopic, lock-step march toward absurdity. Anytime someone in the GOP breaks ranks, that someone is quickly reprimanded, put in a corner, given their papers. Rubio has learned to get in line. He is not a leader, but a foot soldier, destined for political obscurity. Even if he is swooped up for a VP bid, he will hinder the ticket with is malleable, flip-floppy one-dimensional ideas. Like a Dan Quayle or a Paul Ryan or a Palin.
2
Anyone seriously running for President of the United States has to, at a minimum, have a position on evolution, wouldn't you think? Or climate change?Or immigration?
Not this guy.
Not this guy.
13
The only positions President Obama had were on evolution, as in how his position on gay marriage "evolved" and how is position on gays in the military "evolved" and how his position on the national debt "evolved", etc.
1
Why on earth does a presidential candidate need a position on evolution?
How does that have anything to do with his role as chief executive?
How does that have anything to do with his role as chief executive?
Mr. Rubio will be dismissed as a "true" Latino , by his liberal detractors., just as conservative African Americans are dismissed and conservative women are dismissed. He will be subject to such vitriol that were he a Democrat, his detractors would be labeled as anti-Latino bigots.
Those who profess to support a Latino as a presidential candidate will abandon him in droves. And they will get away without anyone accusing them of the bigotry that they will assert against anyone who opposes Mrs. Clinton.
Those who profess to support a Latino as a presidential candidate will abandon him in droves. And they will get away without anyone accusing them of the bigotry that they will assert against anyone who opposes Mrs. Clinton.
4
Being liberal has nothing to do with it. Hispanic people from California, Arizona etc. will be the first to tell you that Rubio does not speak for them.
2
Look at the bright side. We'll get a reprieve from the liberals' racist and sexist attacks on "white males" for a while.
Yes, Americans will get to see what liberals really think of Latinos and women who don't share their views. They spare themselves from the same charges they make against republicans who don't share their views.
Yes, Americans will get to see what liberals really think of Latinos and women who don't share their views. They spare themselves from the same charges they make against republicans who don't share their views.
2
I know any number of black businesspeople who say the same thing about the President.
"Republicans hope that a Cuban-American who speaks fluent Spanish can help draw Hispanic voters." This comment insinuates that the Hispanic community is quite monolithic - when in actuality, our Hispanic population hails not just from Cuba, but also from Central and South America. This is the same tired approach as putting a woman on the ballot in hopes that all women will rally to her because she is female. Just not possible to paint with such broad brushes anymore.
8
Rubio's Cuban ancestry is not his main attraction. His personality and experience are.
Why not? Just look at President Obama and his ethnic constituency. Just look at Hillary and the number of her gender-based supporters.
rimantas - In that case he's really in trouble.
He started his campaign by talking to his top donors? Really? that kind of says it all.
17
Rubio hops from one foot to the other on immigration, health care and other key issues.
Rubio, Rubio. Wherefore art thou?
Rubio, Rubio. Wherefore art thou?
6
Another Cuban renegade turned bible thumper and radical Christian as Ted Cruz (A true Evil person). None of these clowns and the rest of the GOP candidates have a chance with the American voters. Our country has changed, same sex marriage is recognized in many states, minimum wages are increasing, more minorities are voting despite voter oppression by the GOP. As an Independent, I am afraid that Hillary will win the presidency and she is not qualified nor an ethical person to be President. God help us. We need a true leader to stand up to China, Iran and Russia our true enemies.
1
The Republican offerings for a presidential run is shaping up to be the best comedy ensemble since the first season of SNL.
Ted Cruz, Rand Paul and now Marco Rubio.
Maybe Michelle Bachmann, Joni Ernst , Ben Carson and Ol'
Guns, Grits & Gravy himself, Mike Huckabee to round out the cast.
It's going to be a great year for comedy writers.
Ted Cruz, Rand Paul and now Marco Rubio.
Maybe Michelle Bachmann, Joni Ernst , Ben Carson and Ol'
Guns, Grits & Gravy himself, Mike Huckabee to round out the cast.
It's going to be a great year for comedy writers.
9
It's getting old real fast having to treat these announcements with any degree of seriousness or credulity. But don't worry, Marco, if you are not ready for prime time (and never will be)--that Republican Clown Car you just climbed aboard can accommodate dozens of candidates! And you are doing just fine making yourself look dumber than you really are, which is a winning strategy for Republicans!
6
Lucky us. Whatever you don't like about Hillary, she's miles ahead of this cast of Republican misfits (but I repeat myself, to paraphrase Mark Twain).
8
Mr. Rubio's campaign is attempting to play the Youth Card. But Rubio's policies, dictated by right-wing 'think tanks' is old old old. Good luck trying to find a nickels worth of difference between him and Romney.
Hispanics do not owe Rubio any thanks or see him as their ticket to upward mobility. As for younger voters overall, Rubio's homophobia and denial of Evolution reveal him to be downright ancient.
If you loved the administration of GW, then Rubio is the candidate for you. So much for "looking to the future."
Hispanics do not owe Rubio any thanks or see him as their ticket to upward mobility. As for younger voters overall, Rubio's homophobia and denial of Evolution reveal him to be downright ancient.
If you loved the administration of GW, then Rubio is the candidate for you. So much for "looking to the future."
18
You nailed it.
2
and the Marco Rubio book tour begins!
7
Rubio...classic delusions of granduer.
6
At 3am, when TV phone rings...
Do you want a war-hungry base-panderer employing the nuclear option?
Or do you want a wise senior stateswoman solving problems through diplomacy and moral persuasion?
It's really not that difficult a choice.
Do you want a war-hungry base-panderer employing the nuclear option?
Or do you want a wise senior stateswoman solving problems through diplomacy and moral persuasion?
It's really not that difficult a choice.
6
Sorry, I am confused. Aren't "a war-hungry base-panderer employing the nuclear option," and "a wise senior stateswoman," both referring to Hillary?
He has a chance; the nation has elected ciphers before.
1
A young Latino, actually proud of America, with a lengthy and solid resume of public service running for office. He is the breath of fresh air that we need to help clear up the immigration debate, constructively. His leadership could turn the Republican party into the more inclusive party that I want it to be. I look forward to his campaign with enthusiasm.
3
Ouch. I laughed so hard it hurt. Inclusive? All he does is echo the policies of the older white men who let him sit at the grownups table.
1
Sounds like Rubio's foreign policy experience is signing onto Tom Cotton's goofball letter.
I guess in the name of treating all candidates like women candidates get treated, we could say he looks cute in his suit and is probably going to be in a cat fight with Ted Cruz soon.
I guess in the name of treating all candidates like women candidates get treated, we could say he looks cute in his suit and is probably going to be in a cat fight with Ted Cruz soon.
8
The best news: He will not run for Senate re-election. That's the smartest thing he's ever done. He's George W. Bush-light in just about every way. Including intellectually.
10
I think Marco is cute. I like that purple tie with the pink shirt he is wearing in this photo, and he has a nice hairstyle. His smile lights up a room. I think he is as qualified as the rest of the bunch. And he is young and he is cute (did I say that already).
13
Many women wanted to vote for John Edwards, they loved his hair. Sad.
3
I guess, Janet, you wouldn't voted for Abraham Lincoln. When an opponent accused him of being two-faced, he said if that were true, why would he show the face he had?
"I never forgot a face, but I could easily make an exception for Rubio."
--after Groucho Marx
--after Groucho Marx
Rubio has a lot going for him. He is Hispanic. He is opposed to improving relations with Cuba and wants to wait on immigration reform until the southern border is secure (which of course will never happen). If doing nothing is his approach to dealing with matters that are important to his ethnic constituents, one can only wonder what he has in mind for the rest of the country.
20
It's time to put our differences aside where Cuba is concerned. What good did the sanctions do? These people are hurting. China has the worst human rights violations and yet we see nothing wrong with trading freely, well mostly one sided with them. It's despicable the way Cuba has been treated. Rubio will not get my vote.
Well, he is quite experienced at "doing nothing". Sort of like George W.
A Hispanic that wants to take the ladder away now that he climbed ir... and that, to boot, thinks the world is 6,000 years old, and that panders to Fundamental White Christians that want to deport all browned-skinned folk. What a Hispanic indeed!
Better than Cruz, but not sufficiently seasoned for the presidency, although his appeal to Hispanic voters is an asset. Of the two Floridians, Bush is preferable.
2
People keep claiming that he will appeal to Hispanic voters but is there any evidence of this?
Republicans seem to lump everyone who isn't lily white together but that's not the case.
Republicans seem to lump everyone who isn't lily white together but that's not the case.
2
appeal to Hispanics? NOT this one.
1
Rubio is really announcing for vice-president, after, he hopes, he runs a strong third against more mainstream candidates. And then president later on.
4
With all the destructive weather that Florida has suffered, Senator Rubio must do better than shrugging his shoulders as a non-scientist, or joining Governor Scott in banning the terms "climate change" and "global warming" (as if that makes them disappear!). Senator, be a leader, beginning with your home state.
14
Will The Times subject Mr. Rubio to the same hand-wringing they did Mrs. Clinton? Will they constantly ask why she wants to run and what her specific platform is on day one?
Probably not.
Probably not.
27
I think Marco Rubio should take Mitt Romney's advice and "self-deport" to Cuba where he can work more effectively bringing down the Castro regime by organizing from the inside-out. In other words, not yet ready for prime time, anytime. On second thought, let him stay on as a thorn in Jeb's side...at least there's some entertainment value there.
22
"self-deport"? Ahhh, the liberal double standard at work.
Marco Rubio was born in Miami, which, as far as I know, is still part of the US. Can you imagine the outrage if some conservative commenter had suggested that President Obama "self-deport" to Kenya, or some nonsense like that?
Marco Rubio was born in Miami, which, as far as I know, is still part of the US. Can you imagine the outrage if some conservative commenter had suggested that President Obama "self-deport" to Kenya, or some nonsense like that?
2
1
What does he bring to the table other than a hackneyed continued support for the Cuban embargo, a refusal to support meaningful immigration reform that disproportionately affects non-Cuban hispanics, and the usual socially conservative homophobia and parroting of anti-Obamacare talking points?
Nothing.
He can't even give a canned response to a State of the Union address.
He's angling for the second spot on the GOP Presidential ticket as per the commands of his puppet masters, the Kochs, to skim off just enough of the Hispanic vote to make the guy at the top of the ticket competitive against a Democrat in a general election.
Nothing.
He can't even give a canned response to a State of the Union address.
He's angling for the second spot on the GOP Presidential ticket as per the commands of his puppet masters, the Kochs, to skim off just enough of the Hispanic vote to make the guy at the top of the ticket competitive against a Democrat in a general election.
11
Rubio may be "young, energetic, and moderate" but please acknowledge that he is an intellectual lightweight. It's amusing, and slightly baffling, to even imagine: Clinton/Rubio debate.
28
Well, is he under the same "intense pressure" like Hillary to clarify his rationale for running? Or is that pressure just reserved for women?
31
I think that pressure is reserved for those that marry into their nomination
Love or hate his beliefs, take pride that even today--in an America that many call an oligarchy--the son of two immigrants can run for President.
6
That's a very nice way to look at it. Thank you.
Fair enough.
1
If the two immigrants' children were running on the Democratic side, the entire election would be about split loyalties and whether the Democratic candidates were truly American. Since they are running on the GOP side, you can expect the Democrats to respectfully ignore this line of attack.
Just for some of these "people" to make it to candidate status is enough to fill many hearts with fear, but to imagine any of them as president of the United States is incomprehensible.
16
Exactly!
A lot of us thought that of Obama... and still do.
Train wreck coming -- Bush/Rubio/Cruz mashed up together in twisted words of sassy sameness and similarities. Hurling epitaphs at HRC and Obama will grow thin quickly and toe to toe they must go.
21
Ouch. Months on end of hearing him natter about his humble beginnings. This is going to be painful.
31
Can't we just have the election in November 2015 at the very latest? More than a year of this nonsense? It could be the end of my media addiction. I don't think I can take it.
Well I daresay he'll get the bottled water manufacturers' endorsement.
12
The idea that Rubio will attract significant numbers of Hispanic voters to vote for him simply shows again how clueless he and his party are when it comes to diversity. He backtracked so hard on immigration he almost fell down. He's on the wrong side of normalizing relations with Cuba, and he's Cuban.
Mexicans and Mexican Americans historically loathe Cuban Americans, viewing them as entitled. Combine that with his current positions and he'll nail down Cuban Americans over the age of 50 in Dade County. That's about it.
It takes a lot more than a last name to get people to vote for you. Ted Cruz and Rubio are about to find that out as they fall all over themselves to pander to the Tea Party and evangelical Christians only to discover their Hispanic support doesn't exist. If I were Jeb Bush I'd just sit back at this point and let them beat each other up.
He's the candidate Hispanics are interested in and would support nationally based on his record on immigration and education. But if he's forced to dramatically change his positions to get the nomination, Hispanics will vote Democratic once again and the Republicans will wonder what happened as they lose their third in a row.
Mexicans and Mexican Americans historically loathe Cuban Americans, viewing them as entitled. Combine that with his current positions and he'll nail down Cuban Americans over the age of 50 in Dade County. That's about it.
It takes a lot more than a last name to get people to vote for you. Ted Cruz and Rubio are about to find that out as they fall all over themselves to pander to the Tea Party and evangelical Christians only to discover their Hispanic support doesn't exist. If I were Jeb Bush I'd just sit back at this point and let them beat each other up.
He's the candidate Hispanics are interested in and would support nationally based on his record on immigration and education. But if he's forced to dramatically change his positions to get the nomination, Hispanics will vote Democratic once again and the Republicans will wonder what happened as they lose their third in a row.
20
Excellent comment.
2
Readers of the article obviously are of the opinion that the evil you know is preferable to the evil you don't know. And will employ the knee-jerk vote for Clinton. A sad state of affairs indeed.
4
I live in Florida so I consider Rubio and Bush both known evils. Knowing how bad they are, I will not vote for either one of them.
1
His timing is off particularly after when Hillary`s decision took the country to a storm a day before.
Today Rubio`s decision is just a footnote with his lackluster personality.
Today Rubio`s decision is just a footnote with his lackluster personality.
4
His timing is perfect by Republican calculations I am sure, designed to compete for air time with Hillary. Believe me, this is all planned.
I'm tired of hearing about candidates' "messages".
Why don't we call them what they really are...their masks.
They deceive with a mask...then when elected we see who they really are.
i.e. Scott Walker
Why don't we call them what they really are...their masks.
They deceive with a mask...then when elected we see who they really are.
i.e. Scott Walker
14
If the Republicans only knew...this country by nature is largely a slightly right of center nation that seeks balance, continuity, and sensible forward progress. And a sense of shared common prosperity rather than division.
If the GOP were to ever put forth candidates who were rational, reasonable, intelligent, astute, capable, level headed, collegial, charitable of spirit, amenable to discourse, emotionally stable, and moderate, they would end up owning this country for the rest of my lifetime. I might even vote for one or two of them myself.
But the caliphate that the current GOP jihad seeks to install is founded on fear and hatred rather than higher principles. They're an impossibly long way from being able to make that happen.
If the GOP were to ever put forth candidates who were rational, reasonable, intelligent, astute, capable, level headed, collegial, charitable of spirit, amenable to discourse, emotionally stable, and moderate, they would end up owning this country for the rest of my lifetime. I might even vote for one or two of them myself.
But the caliphate that the current GOP jihad seeks to install is founded on fear and hatred rather than higher principles. They're an impossibly long way from being able to make that happen.
12
What has this man ever done that makes him think he should be considered as a legitimate presidential candidate?
31
More experience than Barry.
Nothing for the state of Florida where I live. He stole over $50,000.00 from the state Republican party, but they refused to charge him (he had a state credit card and the charges were for himself, not legitimate party charges) for fear of losing the Cuban vote. I do not want a thief as President.
Well, he has experience at doing the Republican answer to the State of the Union address.
1
To James Anthony--There are only two prerequisites to be President according to the Constitution. A potential president has only to be born in America and must be at least 35 years old. So I guess that makes Hillary Clinton more than qualified to be president according to our founding fathers. Anyway I think it's terribly ironic that both parties have reversed roles when it comes to who's running for President so far. Republicans usually settle on a older "daddy" like figure who won't scare the voters whereas Democrats select younger hip candidates. Now its the Democrats who have the experienced candidate and the Republicans who have the one term newbies competiting for the Presidency.
6
Rand Paul and Jeb Bush are better candidates than are those trying to appeal to the far right as is Rubio and all the other front runners. The reason is that the far right in the Republican Party are people who think that the way to assure a prosperous future is not to change but to stick to what has produced wealth and security for themselves. It works for Cruz because he is a cynical sort of win by any means available sort of person and for Huckabee because he is a sincerely anti modern person, but Rubio is too smart to believe that the country does not need transformative change but not cynical enough to assert the opposite with conviction.
3
Paul and Bush have done their best to appeal to the far right and will continue to do so.
3
I love this! The more such Republicans enter the race the greater the chances of Democrats getting elected. I am not a big fan of Hillary but she squarely beats this GOP lineup, and people like Rubio and Paul will virtually force people to vote for her.
21
I think Rubio is looking for the VP slot on the GOP ticket.
But it would be hard for him to run with Bush because both Rubio and Bush are from the same state, Florida.
The 12th amendment prevents electors [of the electoral college] from Florida from voting for both Bush for president and Rubio for VP. The electors could vote for either but not both.
But it would be hard for him to run with Bush because both Rubio and Bush are from the same state, Florida.
The 12th amendment prevents electors [of the electoral college] from Florida from voting for both Bush for president and Rubio for VP. The electors could vote for either but not both.
4
Thanks for the warning.
11
With Senator from Kentucky Dr. Rand Paul, Sen Ted Cruz and now Sen. Marco Rubio already announcing 2016 presidential runs, the Republican party is providing formidable choices of young Turks, while the Democrats are being undemocratic with conceding the cake walk nomination to Secretary Clinton from the start and no one else on the horizon that could make the Democratic primary interesting and lively.
2
Not much of a choice, they're all pretty much the same and quantity doesn't mean quality.
5
DR lets wait and see. Quality is subjective and in the eyes of the beholder. If Americans are looking for a change nd a shift from the same old same old dynasties of Bushes and Clintons then the young Turks will shake up things and draw bigger crowds and be the lightening rods that will fire up the voters.
Wow! Nice kid. Very ambitious. Never ran anything in his life -- except for running for office. A Hispanic Barack Obama.
Is the country entirely devoid of people actually qualified to run something? It would be nice to have someone trained for the job, rather than nice looking and smooth. We tried that. It wasn't as successful as we hoped.
Give me a candidate with actual achievements in something other than getting elected or building a resume with nothing but titles.
That eliminates almost everyone who would like to live at the White House and fly around in Air Force One.
I agree with Ben Carson -- to be a brain surgeon requires a great deal of training, but there is no training required for the President of the United States. That may be why brain surgery is more successful than government.
Is the country entirely devoid of people actually qualified to run something? It would be nice to have someone trained for the job, rather than nice looking and smooth. We tried that. It wasn't as successful as we hoped.
Give me a candidate with actual achievements in something other than getting elected or building a resume with nothing but titles.
That eliminates almost everyone who would like to live at the White House and fly around in Air Force One.
I agree with Ben Carson -- to be a brain surgeon requires a great deal of training, but there is no training required for the President of the United States. That may be why brain surgery is more successful than government.
2
Brain surgery is more successful than government at what, brain surgery?
That Ben Carson- it is a good thing he cant take the biological license for surgery he takes for politics, or someone's head would be some lego/silly putty construction.
That Ben Carson- it is a good thing he cant take the biological license for surgery he takes for politics, or someone's head would be some lego/silly putty construction.
He is nothing like Barack Obama.
As much as they don't want us to think about this, the fact is that they'd be running the federal government, so some degree of experience with the federal government would seem to qualify one for the job. Rubio has at least some experience with that, more than Dr. Carson, for sure. To think that doing brain surgery qualifies one to make the government work is magical thinking.
1
Had Crist and Meek not split the rational Florida Senate vote, Rubio would already be in the dustbin of History.
Where he belongs.
Where he belongs.
17
Let's not kid ourselves. Rubio, Paul, Walker et al know they don't stand a chance. What they are really auditioning for is the next talking heads spot on Fox, lobbyist spot, book deal and speaking tours that will land them big money. In essence, they are asking the system for a raise since they can't get one legitimately in public office. This is all about "visibility" for 2020, and they know it. These guys are young.
Rubio's name suits him well. He's the biggest rube of the bunch, though his hubris certainly matches Rand Paul's. Now we get to watch them re-hash the tired old talking points, peppered with words like "liberty" and "freedom", all while saying that they're going to "take America back". Well, they got that right at least. If any of them are elected we'll be going back - way back.
Rubio's name suits him well. He's the biggest rube of the bunch, though his hubris certainly matches Rand Paul's. Now we get to watch them re-hash the tired old talking points, peppered with words like "liberty" and "freedom", all while saying that they're going to "take America back". Well, they got that right at least. If any of them are elected we'll be going back - way back.
26
The very fact that an arrogant, fast-talking, spineless, unimaginative mediocrity like Rubio considers himself a viable candidate for the Presidency of the United States of America is an embarrassing gauge of where this country is in terms of the level of political sophistication of the electorate. Personally, I regard Rubio as a bad joke.
44
All this fellow has to say is that he'll beat HRC and here are the 52 reasons why. Then list them and let the MSM spend the next 18 months sorting it out.
2
I am an Hispanic and have been living in Miami for 10 years, I am not a Republican or Democrat; I don't feel identified with Rubio and most of the Hispanic people I know feel the same way.
25
Well, there goes the over-65 Cuban vote.
11
...Groan...Just what the Republican field doesn't need - another young inexperienced first-term Senator. Was Rubio also a community organizer by any chance?
5
No, he didn't engage in anything like community organizing, you know actually helping people to help themselves.
1
DR, isn't community organizing helping people belly up to the taxpayer-funded trough?
Just what the U.S. needs - an anti-science President who believes we'll never know if the earth was created 6000 years ago or not. He's as much of a hoax as Piltdown Man and about as suitable a candidate.
23
And now with Rubio, we have the 2016 GOP platform in full focus: more war, paid for with massive cuts to social security and medicare.
11
It is fitting and revealing about whom Rubio chose to 'reveal' to that he's running: the people with the real power, his wealthy patrons.
6
I fail to see the appeal or the senator's conviction that he's the answer to America's challenges. I see no difference between him and other declared candidates. Particularly on flip flopping, on party lines and agenda, and on a rather humourless approach to politics.
He's also no different in that his first response is to attack, attack, opponents.
What does Rubio offer? What is his unique selling proposition? I just don't get it...because I can't see any notable achievement linked to his name aside from a knee-jerk opposition to normalizing relations with Cuba.
He's also no different in that his first response is to attack, attack, opponents.
What does Rubio offer? What is his unique selling proposition? I just don't get it...because I can't see any notable achievement linked to his name aside from a knee-jerk opposition to normalizing relations with Cuba.
14
and you DO include Hillary Rodham Clinton in the other declared candidates list, correct?
It will be an interesting challenge for Marco Rubio to both differentiate himself from the crowded GOP field, and at the same time position himself effectively for a Primary and General Election effort. His stated positions are at odds with the party faithful on some key issues, especially immigration. His youthful appeal is more helpful in the General; Primary voters skew older and more hyper-partisan. And his credentials are eerily similar to Barack Obama's; a first term Senator with almost no experience outside politics. He's more likely to be someone's VP nominee than the GOP nominee for the Presidency, and the cynic in me wonders if that isn't the entire point of the campaign. If so, he had better hope that Jeb Bush stumbles fatally; the rule against both Presidential and VP nominees hailing from the same state prevents a VP nod from the most likely GOP candidate in the race at the moment. You have to admire the chutzpah; he's out of a job in January 2017 if he screws this up. Good luck pretty boy; you will definitely need it!
2
Marco, Marco, Marco! Why are you challenging your mentor and the maker of your political fortunes, Jedediah ( aka Jose) Bush? Don't you know you will be crushed? Bye! Bye!
9
The fact that Rubio announced his run to his top donors as the way he made it public tells volumes about his priorities if he becomes president. Rich donors will have his ear- typical.
Aside from his typical republican policies, his one claim to fame is that he wants to go backwards and shut down diplomacy with Cuba- not very thoughtful or imaginative. Other than being young, what ideas if any to actually solve problems does he bring to the table? He also looks thirsty again.
Aside from his typical republican policies, his one claim to fame is that he wants to go backwards and shut down diplomacy with Cuba- not very thoughtful or imaginative. Other than being young, what ideas if any to actually solve problems does he bring to the table? He also looks thirsty again.
9
He has done nothing for Florida. So, I don't understand how he is the candidate for tomorrow.
14
Rubio needs to a-mosy up to these nation's parts to explain his veto vote
of aid for Hurricane Sandy victims. I reckon,
of aid for Hurricane Sandy victims. I reckon,
7
Let me point out the Republican hypocrisy on immigration.
They tout their support of the "Free Market." They make references to the neo classical economists, they want to overturn regulations that they say keep business from prospering.
Now this statement about immigration will bring out the opponents to immigration reform, they wan to have it both ways, equivocation is their hallmark.
The philosophy of the free market economists that thy so love, has one element the studiously ignore. And Rubio is one of them.
The Free Market economists position is, "The Free Movement of labor and Capital." For the Free Market these troglodytes pursue to work, labor has to be allowed to go where the best opportunities are for them. Immigration laws are the antithesis of the Free Market.
Many of you will argue against this, but like it or not, just read your favorite economist like Hayek, Von Mises, von Boehm Bawerk, and those from the U. of Chicago School of Economics.
Rubio is what we used to call a throwback, he is appealing to the lowest common denominator, those who believe conspiracy theories, and get their opinions from loud mouth prognosticators, like Limbaugh, and Fox Noise yappers.
This is the 21st century, and people are listening to a 17th century mind, that would be rejected by the leading intellectuals of that century.
They tout their support of the "Free Market." They make references to the neo classical economists, they want to overturn regulations that they say keep business from prospering.
Now this statement about immigration will bring out the opponents to immigration reform, they wan to have it both ways, equivocation is their hallmark.
The philosophy of the free market economists that thy so love, has one element the studiously ignore. And Rubio is one of them.
The Free Market economists position is, "The Free Movement of labor and Capital." For the Free Market these troglodytes pursue to work, labor has to be allowed to go where the best opportunities are for them. Immigration laws are the antithesis of the Free Market.
Many of you will argue against this, but like it or not, just read your favorite economist like Hayek, Von Mises, von Boehm Bawerk, and those from the U. of Chicago School of Economics.
Rubio is what we used to call a throwback, he is appealing to the lowest common denominator, those who believe conspiracy theories, and get their opinions from loud mouth prognosticators, like Limbaugh, and Fox Noise yappers.
This is the 21st century, and people are listening to a 17th century mind, that would be rejected by the leading intellectuals of that century.
18
Make that a 13th Century mind set that somehow lingers on in the minds of the hopelessly troglodytic even as the leading intellectuals of today have opened the door to understanding the physical nature of the universe and closer to home have developed the technologies to save our planet from anthropomorphic climate change. If only the troglodytes would get out of the way and slither back under their rocks, we, the human race would have the freedom to solve our most pressing problems.
Rubio is smart to back away from that absolutely horrible senate bill. I'm a liberal Democrat, have never missed an election, and always voted Dem for pres, helped put Elizabeth Warren in the Senate, my great uncle ran the Colorado Democratic party for around half a century. But the massive numbers of immigrants have put millions of Americans out of work, and the difficulty California and the rest of the west are having dealing with drought is a sign the US is no longer environmentally sustainable.
If we reduced legal immigration numbers to several hundred thousand annually, and mandated a national E-Verify, I could compromise on amnesty for people brought here as children, but only after E-Verify and reduced numbers had been in place for a couple of years, because the whole illegal immigration problem was brought about by the Feds refusing to enforce immigration laws. (The Senate bill would have nearly tripled legal immigration, to 2.75 million annually, while doing nothing to stop illegal immigration.)
If we reduced legal immigration numbers to several hundred thousand annually, and mandated a national E-Verify, I could compromise on amnesty for people brought here as children, but only after E-Verify and reduced numbers had been in place for a couple of years, because the whole illegal immigration problem was brought about by the Feds refusing to enforce immigration laws. (The Senate bill would have nearly tripled legal immigration, to 2.75 million annually, while doing nothing to stop illegal immigration.)
15
"But the massive numbers of immigrants have put millions of Americans out of work." I don't believe this stands up to scrutiny.
The message the American people have given their political leaders over the decade has been clear and perfectly consistent: Stop the illegal immigration-magnet. Anyone who tells you they can stop illegal immigration by securing the borders first while creating more economic incentives for those who would cross our borders illegally, isn't being truthful.
As you know, Dave; as long as incentives are created for those who would cross our borders illegally, we will never be able to secure our borders first, last or anywhere in between, period. The first incentive that must be removed is the birthright citizenship for those born here of illegal parents, yet I have not heard any Republican presidential candidates speak of their support for Rep. Steve King's H.R 140 bill, entitled: `Birthright Citizenship Act of 2015' and Sen. David Vitter's bill, entitled: The Birthright Citizenship Act U.S..
As I am sure you know, Dave; the grassroot of both parties are anxiously waiting to support the 2016 presidential candidate who is committed to stopping the Reagan illegal immigration magnet from happening again ten years down the road with tens of millions more illegal aliens waiting for the next amnesty.
As you know, Dave; as long as incentives are created for those who would cross our borders illegally, we will never be able to secure our borders first, last or anywhere in between, period. The first incentive that must be removed is the birthright citizenship for those born here of illegal parents, yet I have not heard any Republican presidential candidates speak of their support for Rep. Steve King's H.R 140 bill, entitled: `Birthright Citizenship Act of 2015' and Sen. David Vitter's bill, entitled: The Birthright Citizenship Act U.S..
As I am sure you know, Dave; the grassroot of both parties are anxiously waiting to support the 2016 presidential candidate who is committed to stopping the Reagan illegal immigration magnet from happening again ten years down the road with tens of millions more illegal aliens waiting for the next amnesty.
I'm not convinced this guy is fit for "any" elected office, much less the Office of the President.
12
My fellow readers, attacking Rubio for being conservative is like attacking a 747 for being too big. He is a conservative!! That you favor more funding for education, a pathway to citizenship for illegal immigrants, and Obamacare is why you're not conservative . . . and won't vote for him. But that's not somehow a "fault" of Rubio. And for some to be so hateful is also plain unfair--Rubio may not be your cup of tea, but he does represent a new and different strand in the GOP. His positions on LGBT rights may not be my position, but they're not Pat Robertson's either. His proposal on immigration reform was draconian IMO & probably many of yours . . . but, again, it was lightyears ahead of the mainbody GOP. He will likely try to carve out a John McCain-like spot in this contest's fold. McCain, too, may not be your cup of tea but he's not a nut. Both he and Rubio are hawks not because they have a bloodlust but because they genuinely believe that a muscular foreign policy lashed up to our values is the moral approach on foreign policy. I often tend to agree. So does Hillary.
Diplomatic relations with Cuba are appropriate--they would have been 30 years ago when the Cold War ended. But let's not pretend that its going to bring democracy any time soon, if ever. Cubans may get cash in their pockets and some of our largest companies may profit, but its not as if the US had a "need" to do this.
Diplomatic relations with Cuba are appropriate--they would have been 30 years ago when the Cold War ended. But let's not pretend that its going to bring democracy any time soon, if ever. Cubans may get cash in their pockets and some of our largest companies may profit, but its not as if the US had a "need" to do this.
16
I have to disagree about McCain. He is as close to being nuts as anyone in politics. I have to agree about Hillary, she never met a war she didn't like or a government she didn't feel qualified to overthrow.
I guess peace doesn't have much of a chance when the country is so enamored of war and the hawks -- chicken and otherwise.
I guess peace doesn't have much of a chance when the country is so enamored of war and the hawks -- chicken and otherwise.
3
You make some very good points and you make them very well. It's encouraging to see people like you out there but Rubio is just another variation of ignorance and bigotry and he will do the same thing that all Republican candidates do, suck up to big money and demonize "the other." I really don't see any difference here.
2
I appreciate the support for my pro-civility approach, but I understand why you won't vote for Rubio--you're not a Republican! Rubio may be kindler and gentler, but at the end of the day he is going to push trickle down economics, deregulation--especially on environmental issues, welfare cuts, tax cuts and the like. I always get frustrated with people who clearly lean one way or the other, but split their ticket and/or claim to be "independent." If you're a liberal/progressive, you and the generic Democrat are going to agree far more than you disagree. Politicians are not all the same and there IS a difference between the two parties.
He was one of 47 GOP senators to sign a letter to Iran designed to undermine President Obama's negotiations. He violated the separation of powers for the legislative, judicial, and executive branches of our government. He claims to be tolerant of all other Christians. America has Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, atheists, and those of other religions living and worshipping or not in her cities and towns. Does he represent us too? Will he represent the LGBT community? Will he stand up for the right of women to control their reproductive lives? Or will he, in true GOP fashion, represent the GOP rather than all Americans?
39
One more reason to vote for Mrs. Clinton. She is the only one who knows about foreign affairs.
23
We should distinguish between holding an office and having knowledge sufficient to do a job. Keep in mind that Barack Obama noted that Mrs. Clinton had NO foreign policy experience (tours with her daughter do not count as "policy" experience) -- and then pacified her many cronies by giving her a title.
When Vladimir Putin told Hillary and Obama (also arriving in office with no foreign policy experience) about the extremist elements in Syria in 2012 -- the folks that became ISIS -- she pooh-poohed the idea.
Not qualified on the basis of her actual achievements, which are sorely lacking.
When Vladimir Putin told Hillary and Obama (also arriving in office with no foreign policy experience) about the extremist elements in Syria in 2012 -- the folks that became ISIS -- she pooh-poohed the idea.
Not qualified on the basis of her actual achievements, which are sorely lacking.
1
This article mentions Rubio selecting the backdrop of Miami's Freedom Tower to highlight his background as the child of Cuban immigrants. But the NYT recently reported that the tower is also symbolic because it was a point of contention between him and Jeb Bush. And that comes down to how Senator Rubio will have to choose to portray himself - as an individual, or as the Florida Republican Who's Not Jeb Bush. Stay tuned to see if he can distinguish a positive identity or just a foil.
11
Not being Jeb Bush may well be a bigger asset in Republican primaries than most people imagine.
I like this. Rubio, in something on which he agrees with Obama, has been seeking to INCREASE debt-financed taxpayer subsidies to sole breadwinner men, particularly those who are parents (Obama actually instituted this in the way he did tax reform, the way he handled constitutional enforcement (or lack therof), the "virgin birth" ACA).
In Rubio's case, the fact that he is doing this as a Gen-Xer is particularly anomalous.
So, this may pressure Hillary Clinton to deal with this structural problem rather than playing to the Catholic left mularkey.
He was also part of the all-male "Gang of Eight" bill.
And the Tea are correct, that this tax policy (which predates Obama, but he and Rubio are making it worse) is not consistent with the US Constitution.
In Rubio's case, the fact that he is doing this as a Gen-Xer is particularly anomalous.
So, this may pressure Hillary Clinton to deal with this structural problem rather than playing to the Catholic left mularkey.
He was also part of the all-male "Gang of Eight" bill.
And the Tea are correct, that this tax policy (which predates Obama, but he and Rubio are making it worse) is not consistent with the US Constitution.
2
Honest to gosh, I would take a second look at a republican who refused to talk about religion (such is a private matter); presented as an intelligent individual (i.e. believes in science); offered a well reasoned set of fixes for Social Security and Medicare and infrastructure ; advanced an open discussion of immigration reform including the borders and stopping "give aways" ; recognized the importance of an excellent education and excellent nutrition and medical care for every single American child, and who refused to attack Mrs. Clinton personally. Where is this republican - pray tell? There is no such thing, is there!
2
It's so fun reading the comments here. Most are derogatory to Rubio, like why would ANYONE want an inexperienced first term Senator (snicker snicker) yet what strikes me as hypocritical is that when Romney and McCain ran, the Libs complained that the Rs were nothing but old white people. Now that there IS new young blood, they are seen as inexperienced. So ironically, the Dems have trotted out the old white candidate but we aren't aloud to say old about Hillary because, well, you know, that's sexism. I'd say the NYT commenters just want to hear themselves complain.
2
Like all the Republican candidates, he will have to bow to the right wing and its reactionary ideas. I'd be delighted to have a non-Bush or non-Clinton, also a Hispanic candidate -- if there were one who lived in the present, and one who actually cared about the 99%.
1
He's doing the bidding of old white people, he'll pander to old white people.....
Your complaint noted but really, google some facts.
Obama served 3 terms as an Illinois State Senator alone before US Senator. Rubio IS inexperienced. Pleasing old white folks in the Tea P means faking ignorance about topics like evolution or global climate change and puts him firmly in eyeball roll territory. Stirring the pot about Cuba when we have traded with VietNam and Russia for decades makes him look like he is stuck in some time warp, people pleasing his donors for cash infusions.
Obama served 3 terms as an Illinois State Senator alone before US Senator. Rubio IS inexperienced. Pleasing old white folks in the Tea P means faking ignorance about topics like evolution or global climate change and puts him firmly in eyeball roll territory. Stirring the pot about Cuba when we have traded with VietNam and Russia for decades makes him look like he is stuck in some time warp, people pleasing his donors for cash infusions.
2
The thing about young Rubio is that any criticism of him -- i.e., of his donors, his hawkish positions, his inexperience -- pales with respect to the criticism that can be leveled against politicians democrats routinely support, quite vociferously at time.
Flip-flopper on immigration? Compared to whom? The self-proclaimed "king" and "emperor" himself, Mr. Immigration Executive Action Obama? Slave to his donors? Does anyone compare to Hillary Clinton who not only has campaign donors but foundation donors to pay back? Inexperience? There is no one more inexperienced than Obama, whose Senate time was spent not actually gaining any experience.
Criticisms of the young Rubio ring hollow.
Flip-flopper on immigration? Compared to whom? The self-proclaimed "king" and "emperor" himself, Mr. Immigration Executive Action Obama? Slave to his donors? Does anyone compare to Hillary Clinton who not only has campaign donors but foundation donors to pay back? Inexperience? There is no one more inexperienced than Obama, whose Senate time was spent not actually gaining any experience.
Criticisms of the young Rubio ring hollow.
1
Two wrongs (or a dozen) doesn't make a right.
Anyone elected to the presidency needs about $1 billion in contributions. As a result, they are all corrupt -- if they weren't they would be invisible. As for their proclaimed positions, often they have little to do with the actual duties of the president. And inexperience is pretty much the norm -- even years in politics will not qualify someone as an executive responsible for $4 trillion a year in spending. Most have NO executive experience -- beyond running a small office.
Anyone elected to the presidency needs about $1 billion in contributions. As a result, they are all corrupt -- if they weren't they would be invisible. As for their proclaimed positions, often they have little to do with the actual duties of the president. And inexperience is pretty much the norm -- even years in politics will not qualify someone as an executive responsible for $4 trillion a year in spending. Most have NO executive experience -- beyond running a small office.
I am familiar with Sen Rubio, having living in Florida while he was in the state legislature and ran for Senate 6 years ago. What no one talks much about is the fact that he was never all that popular in Florida. What makes him so "hot" a candidate now?
He barely was elected to the Senate in a three way race - he never received a majority of the vote in the State. He was a mediocre State Senator with a very murky past regarding those with whom he affiliated himself.
He has shown himself to be an uber-panderer, willing to jettison his principles, such as they are, to get elected.
So where is the "there" there?
He barely was elected to the Senate in a three way race - he never received a majority of the vote in the State. He was a mediocre State Senator with a very murky past regarding those with whom he affiliated himself.
He has shown himself to be an uber-panderer, willing to jettison his principles, such as they are, to get elected.
So where is the "there" there?
164
"Uber-panderer"? Isn't that the first requirement for raising the money and the main requirement for getting elected?
Stand on principles and lose; look sincere and pander and win -- isn't that the American Way?
Stand on principles and lose; look sincere and pander and win -- isn't that the American Way?
It will all come out. He's a fraud --- and Rubio has never, ever, been subjected to the kind of critical examination he is about to encounter. Wait until sme Florida developer, lobbyist, etc., comes out and leaks that Rubio was on the receiving end of a quid pro quo legislative deal that benefited a big corporation or developer. Only a matter of time before the "dimes" start dropping on Rubio!
Heck, he couldn't even tell the truth on his parents coming to the US. He made it sound as if they fled Cuba and Fidel in the dead of night. They left the country normally. Come on, Rubio's got a ton of more lies laying out there for the media to uncover.
He's toast already!
Heck, he couldn't even tell the truth on his parents coming to the US. He made it sound as if they fled Cuba and Fidel in the dead of night. They left the country normally. Come on, Rubio's got a ton of more lies laying out there for the media to uncover.
He's toast already!
I live in FL also. Rubio may get the Miami Spanish vote but he will not do well out of Dade County.
Also, I thought his speech condescending. Really......the younger have to govern? What a narcissist.
Also, I thought his speech condescending. Really......the younger have to govern? What a narcissist.
I can't respect a man who openly denies evolution. Global warming.and who showed tremendous disrespect for the president, just to pander to a religious base. I also profoundly disagree with giving 11 million illegal aliens citizenship who barged in illegally and broke our laws. He is not an original thinker or a problem solver.
20
Marco! Polo! This is a child's pool game. Sir, the office of President of the United States is the most powerful in the world. This is not child's play. You are qualified only by your age. Otherwise, Sir, please run on back the wading pool.
14
I have never heard this guy say one thing that made any sense and whatever he does say, he manages to say it very badly. In other words, he's a perfect fit with all the other Rightwing candidates.
19
Three words: Global Warming Denier
37
He may be the Republican Candidate of Tomorrow. But like it or not, he's not the Republican Candidate of Today.
American Politics is 100% about money, and Jeb Bush will Hoover up all the money from Florida, leaving Rubio behind. Rubio needs that money to win. Perhaps he would have a chance if Jeb didn't exist
My guess is that he's either angling for a VP nod, or perhaps a cabinet position if the Republicans actually win. (similar to Hillary Clinton's path... Senate to Secretary of State to Presidential Frontrunner).
Otherwise maybe he's just interviewing for a Fox News Deal (like Huckabee, Palin, Cain, et al).
American Politics is 100% about money, and Jeb Bush will Hoover up all the money from Florida, leaving Rubio behind. Rubio needs that money to win. Perhaps he would have a chance if Jeb didn't exist
My guess is that he's either angling for a VP nod, or perhaps a cabinet position if the Republicans actually win. (similar to Hillary Clinton's path... Senate to Secretary of State to Presidential Frontrunner).
Otherwise maybe he's just interviewing for a Fox News Deal (like Huckabee, Palin, Cain, et al).
60
I cannot imagine Rubio or any of these other immature and negative, ideological, inflexible GOP candidates as representing our country overseas as Secretary of State. I can imagine Putin's laughter right now.
I think Senator Rubio *does* want to take us back to the past. Otherwise he would welcome the president's overture toward Cuba and support business relations with it.
As for his being a hawk, the last Republican military adventures led to no conclusive results after a decade. When I watched Rubio on C-SPAN in committee hearings, he seemed to be a man trying but failing to develop theses in his unfocused questions. Obama and Clinton asked far more pointed questions.
Instead of vagueness, he needs to present a solid immigration policy. That would probably cost him the nomination, but maybe it would sit better with voters than trying to weasel around the issue. If he is for immigration reform then he needs to put a happy face on it.
Well, let the games begin!
As for his being a hawk, the last Republican military adventures led to no conclusive results after a decade. When I watched Rubio on C-SPAN in committee hearings, he seemed to be a man trying but failing to develop theses in his unfocused questions. Obama and Clinton asked far more pointed questions.
Instead of vagueness, he needs to present a solid immigration policy. That would probably cost him the nomination, but maybe it would sit better with voters than trying to weasel around the issue. If he is for immigration reform then he needs to put a happy face on it.
Well, let the games begin!
7
Another GOP clown joins the political circus. They could all learn a lot from European leaders who are invariably informed, enlightened and eloquent. But then the circus would become a sad place as there wouldn't be any clowns.
11
Well looks like the 2016 Republican President Primary Race Debates will be comical again. Even without Trump and Palin, we will get a few laughs as each try to be more right than the others. Lets limit the debates and ads to Comedy Central. Let the show begin.
8
The 2012 Republican clown car of candidates was remarkable. Herman Cain? Rick Perry? Rick Santorum? Newt Gingrich? Honestly, some of the stuff they said you simply couldn't make up.
At least so far two US Senators have entered the Republican fray.
Will any of them have the nerve to tap into the fear and angst the lower middle class experiences and use that as a springboard to grab the centre from an unsuspecting cadre of fellow Republican candidates? To say nothing of HRC.
Methinks not. Still, let the games begin!
At least so far two US Senators have entered the Republican fray.
Will any of them have the nerve to tap into the fear and angst the lower middle class experiences and use that as a springboard to grab the centre from an unsuspecting cadre of fellow Republican candidates? To say nothing of HRC.
Methinks not. Still, let the games begin!
4
In 2012 Marco Rubio hired lawyers to help fend off possible investigations into his financial dealings during his tenure as the Florida House Speaker, specifically his relationship with the Geo Group, a private prison business that runs the Broward County prison and has been accused several times of abusing its prisoners. Why hasn't the NY Times reported on this issue?
41
Every GOP candidate for President should refrain from attacking each other because that only helps your Democrat opponent Hillary Clinton. It gives Hillary ammunition to defeat you which would have been supplied by your fellow Republicans. Not the way to go. Right from the beginning focus on your real opponent should you get the GOP nomination. I know you must get the GOP nomination before you can face Hillary, but it seems to me that the best candidate from the GOP will be the one that can defeat Hillary. So, that being said, you must lay out the differences between you and Hillary and explain why your plan is better for America and why character and honesty is something good for a candidate to have.
2
This seems exactly right:
"With Cuban-American relations normalizing, Rubio basically has nothing to stand out."
Obama pulled the rug out from under Rubio. A year from now, if normalizing relations with Cuba appears to have been a bad idea, maybe Rubio will once again have something to run on. But I don't foresee that. He's going to have to come up with something new, or he'll be out of the race very early.
"With Cuban-American relations normalizing, Rubio basically has nothing to stand out."
Obama pulled the rug out from under Rubio. A year from now, if normalizing relations with Cuba appears to have been a bad idea, maybe Rubio will once again have something to run on. But I don't foresee that. He's going to have to come up with something new, or he'll be out of the race very early.
10
Maybe Marco Rubio sees Barack Obama as having similarly been a long-shot, upstart candidate who made it to the Presidency. I can't say I've personally worked with Barack Obama, but Senator Rubio, you're no Barack Obama.
43
You're right. He's not black. Americans today don't want someone who's qualified to run a country, they want a token. That's what got Obama elected and it's what will get hillary elected too.
1
I didn't know that George W Bush was a token candidate.
Its amazing how unqualified, incompetent, and extremist the Republican "candidates" are. Ted Cruz? Marco Rubio? Both extremists who have never accomplished a single positive thing for Americans.
42
And Obama did what before he was elected? What was his experience running anything bigger than his household before running for office? Maybe we need to rethink what it means to be qualified for higher office in the USA.
2
A fresh breath to national politics. A remembrance of JFK in his youth.
2
without JFK's intellect or convictions. He has not done anything for his state that we can comment on. Let him elaborate on his accomplishments in the few years he has been senator. NADA
14
That is a particularly odious comparison.
3
Perhaps in the sense that Rubio would like to re-enact the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Rubio is no JFK.
Rubio is no JFK.
9
Hispanic but not Ted Cruz, moderately conservative (by American standards...) but not a Bush. He ought to have more potential to do better than most in the Republican field, but the far-right positions he'll need to take to win in conservative primaries may sink him.
3
Its a win win for Rubio or Cruz or anyone who has little hope for the nomination. Either win the nomination or fill up their campaign war chests.
6
It's instructive that Rubio informed big donors before the voting public. Hint of priorities here?
14
Can't imagine Rubio's got any real chance of winning the presidency, let alone the GOP nomination. If he holds true to his word and doesn't run for re-election to the Senate in 2016, that'll mean one less hypocritical GOP blowhard in the Senate after the 2016 election. Too bad Cruz's current Senate term doesn't end in 2016 as well.
34
Worry not. There will no doubt be someone more out of touch and extreme to replace him. The Koch, ALEC, NRA run GOP always has someone in the Bull Pen.
His waffling on the issue of illegal (yes, that is the appropriate word, stop the Orwellian euphemisms) immigration would disqualify him as far as I'm concerned. And it's a sign that, like Mitt Romney, his only real recommendation of his candidacy is that he really, really wants to be president. Unfortunately, that seems to be the platform of choice these days.
53
No one has flip-flopped more on immigration than Obama -- specifically, with his use of Executive Action.
For years he claimed he could not do so. During his Univision interview, when pressed why he would not use Executive Action to cease deportations, he said this:*
"Well, I think it is important to remind everybody that, as I said I think previously, and I’m not a king. I am the head of the executive branch of government. I’m required to follow the law."
He later said this on another forum when pressed about deportations:
"The problem is that you know I’m the president of the United States. I’m not the emperor of the United States. My job is to execute laws that are passed, and Congress right now has not changed what I consider to be a broken immigration system."
********
* "Obama’s royal flip-flop on using executive action on illegal immigration"
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/fact-checker/wp/2014/11/18/obamas-fl...
For years he claimed he could not do so. During his Univision interview, when pressed why he would not use Executive Action to cease deportations, he said this:*
"Well, I think it is important to remind everybody that, as I said I think previously, and I’m not a king. I am the head of the executive branch of government. I’m required to follow the law."
He later said this on another forum when pressed about deportations:
"The problem is that you know I’m the president of the United States. I’m not the emperor of the United States. My job is to execute laws that are passed, and Congress right now has not changed what I consider to be a broken immigration system."
********
* "Obama’s royal flip-flop on using executive action on illegal immigration"
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/fact-checker/wp/2014/11/18/obamas-fl...
1
Since Obama isn't running this time, but thanks for the reminder about his misdeeds, maybe something better than "Obama is worse" is required for a presidential candidate on important issues? Or is that aiming too high?
You may want to lose the fixation with Obama. He’ll be gone in a little over a year.
We would like to see a Republican proposal on immigration that contrasts with President Obama’s.
So far, we have had a bill passed by the Senate nearly two years ago proposing comprehensive reform. The House Republicans then blocked its further progress. This may have caused President Obama to change his approach.
We just need to see something from the Republicans be it flipped flopped or be bopped. You never know, we may even get behind it.
We would like to see a Republican proposal on immigration that contrasts with President Obama’s.
So far, we have had a bill passed by the Senate nearly two years ago proposing comprehensive reform. The House Republicans then blocked its further progress. This may have caused President Obama to change his approach.
We just need to see something from the Republicans be it flipped flopped or be bopped. You never know, we may even get behind it.
Rubio and Cruz are both Herman Cain with a Senate seat. At least Cain ran a pizza company in his younger days and was entertaining and funny enough to quote a Donna Summer song from a Pokémon movie in his campaign quitting speech.
Rubio and Cruz? Humorless and transparently bought and paid for. I'd rather see these pair form a mercenary army of 2 in an attempt to re-enact the Bay of Pigs.
Rubio and Cruz? Humorless and transparently bought and paid for. I'd rather see these pair form a mercenary army of 2 in an attempt to re-enact the Bay of Pigs.
85
Hillary Clinton is looking better and better as each Republican Presidential Wannabee announces his entry into the increasingly crowded GOP race for the White House.
80
I have read three comments about his ethics and experiences ~~ against Hillary's ~~ really ? Hillary would have done nothing in her life without Bill and that includes her work at Rose. Zero experience except being a wife and one willing to except any behavior so she could someday run. What would anyone of my co-readers be writing if a Republican had his / her own server and then destroyed all emails AFTER being asked not to do so. Some intellectual honesty please
The Klown Bus is getting crowded and it's only April 2015!!
With his Cuban-American heritage, and his anti-immigration stance....
His version of American Dream: My parents got in, so I'm living it....but we're gonna shut the doors on anyone else trying to come for the same.
With Cuban-American relations normalizing, Rubio basically has nothing to stand out. No experience, nothing unique to offer....this is more about angling for more PR than any real shot at the White House.
His version of American Dream: My parents got in, so I'm living it....but we're gonna shut the doors on anyone else trying to come for the same.
With Cuban-American relations normalizing, Rubio basically has nothing to stand out. No experience, nothing unique to offer....this is more about angling for more PR than any real shot at the White House.
190
Amazing how the heirs of recent immigrants to America-Rubio, Cruz, Jindal, Romney, Trump- want to build fences and moats and install palace guards to keep others out.
Perhaps Rubio (and Cruz) could offer to return to their shared Cuban roots by self-deporting to Cuba and offering their deep insight or services to the ancient Castro brothers. Or they could volunteer to be our 1st Ambassador to Cuba ?
Cruz also has a Canadian political option.
Perhaps Rubio (and Cruz) could offer to return to their shared Cuban roots by self-deporting to Cuba and offering their deep insight or services to the ancient Castro brothers. Or they could volunteer to be our 1st Ambassador to Cuba ?
Cruz also has a Canadian political option.
Very similar to Ryan with government assistance. We got ours. Too bad for you! I can't stand these hypocrites.
Sounds like the Republicans have found their very own Barack Obama in these one term Senators like Rubio, Cruz and Rand Paul, These guys already bored with the Senate are just looking for greener pastures. Barack Obama really set a dangerous precident by being a one term wonder before moving into the White House without any legislative achievements under his belt to run on.
When he got caught spendig Florida Republican Party funds for personal expenses, his defense was that those credit cards confused him. You have to love Junior.
100
"Just because we believe that life--all human life--is worthy of protection at every stage of its development does not make me a chauvinist." (Speech at 2013 Conservative Political Action Conf., Mar 14, 2013)
"I thought the best way to topple Assad was to arm, equip, train and capacitate moderate rebel elements within Syria. I thought that was a better approach." (Face the Nation 2014 interview., Sep 7, 2014)
Pass the buck, senseless hawkish hypocrisy. That's the moderate candidate?
"I thought the best way to topple Assad was to arm, equip, train and capacitate moderate rebel elements within Syria. I thought that was a better approach." (Face the Nation 2014 interview., Sep 7, 2014)
Pass the buck, senseless hawkish hypocrisy. That's the moderate candidate?
30
"I thought the best way to topple Assad was to arm, equip, train and capacitate moderate rebel elements within Syria."
How would he tell the "moderates" from the ISIS guys? Simple – just ask them: "Hey, are you a moderate rebel, or one of those ISIS guys? Cuz we're not going to give any weapons to ISIS guys."
I wonder how a rebel would have replied to that question.
How would he tell the "moderates" from the ISIS guys? Simple – just ask them: "Hey, are you a moderate rebel, or one of those ISIS guys? Cuz we're not going to give any weapons to ISIS guys."
I wonder how a rebel would have replied to that question.
3
He'd reply with "all life is worthy of protection, here's a gun."
The problem with these Republican hopefuls is that they lack every quality necessary to be their party's leader. They are not capable of uniting their party, but will strive only to appease the power base. If elected they will be nothing more than a puppet with a hand up the back, mouthing whatever they are told to say.
For all her warts, Hillary has a quarter of a century of experience on the national stage. More so than any other politician today, she has the ability to unite Democrats of varying stripes.
For all her warts, Hillary has a quarter of a century of experience on the national stage. More so than any other politician today, she has the ability to unite Democrats of varying stripes.
66
That is hilarious! Where is Hillary's money coming from? Numerous special interest PACs with agenda's. Unlike Hillary, Rubio has a set of core beliefs. He is not looking for a set of beliefs that she thinks will get her elected. Rubio has something else, as do Paul and Cruz and Bush and Walker. They all have an integrity and trustworthiness that Clinton doesn't even comprehend. A Clinton presidency would be a continuation of the arrogance and deception of the Obama administration. More selective enforcement by the Justice Dept, more appeasement of her donors in regulatory actions by EPA etc.. I am amazed the Democrats are not looking for a more viable candidate.
J.E.B stole the 2000 election for his brother. He doesn't have integrity. Rubio lied about his family's immigration story. No integrity there. Paul has been caught stealing parts of his speeches from other sources (without giving credit). No integrity there either.
"It's the economy... stupid."
Many of us in this country would love a Clinton economy just about now.
Many of us in this country would love a Clinton economy just about now.
2
2012 republican presidential hopefuls of Michele Bachmann, Newt Gingrich and Rick Perry.
BECOME:
Ted Cruz, Rand Paul, and Marco Rubio of 2016!
I think this run will be first come first off the list!
BECOME:
Ted Cruz, Rand Paul, and Marco Rubio of 2016!
I think this run will be first come first off the list!
6
Since Senator Rubio has made clear that he is not a scientist, I am interested to see what qualified person will advise him on scientific issues for his campaign. No more cop-out responses.
8
he may eventually get nominated, but not this time around
3
I think the headline of this article is wrong- It should have read "Marco Rubio Announces his availability as a Vice Presidential running mate during Jeb Bush's 2016 Presidential Bid."
28
Per the Constitution, no two candidates from the same state may be on the same ticket.
Cheney, the Texas resident, somehow convinced the election commission he was really a Wyoming resident, but there is no way these Floridians could pull that off.
Cheney, the Texas resident, somehow convinced the election commission he was really a Wyoming resident, but there is no way these Floridians could pull that off.
Law forbids the president and VP as being from the same state.
The 12th Amendment: The Electors shall meet in their respective states, and vote by ballot for President and Vice-President, one of whom, at least, shall not be an inhabitant of the same state with themselves
The 12th Amendment: The Electors shall meet in their respective states, and vote by ballot for President and Vice-President, one of whom, at least, shall not be an inhabitant of the same state with themselves
I once read that Marco Rubio's mother had asked him not to mess with the immigrants, since his own family's story was that of immigrants, too. Let's see if he's really honest to family values as he forms immigration platforms for a national audience, or if he would sell out his own mother to toe the party line.
2
Could it be possible that both parties are fronts for Wall Street, the Pentagon and the corporations and the presidential race is a form of entertainment for the rest of us? Not great entertainment but distracting enough to get us through the day of low wage work and not insanely great afterwork lives? Just asking?
11
Said the big fish to the little fish:
"I am beginning to think that you don't like water."
"I am beginning to think that you don't like water."
Dead in the water along with any Republican congressional candidate: their stance on immigration has completely lost the Latino vote.
31
Rubio is trying to get the Vice presidential nomination to try to "capture" the elusive Hispanic vote the Republicans can not get
Senator Rubio is a provincial Floridian. He's like a mouse in a maze. His ideas on immigration reform were thoroughly rejected by his party's right wing. Instead of standing by his point of view, he allowed his proposal to languish. This is not the behavior of a genuine presidential candidate. This fear of crossing a line drawn by those without a plan is not worthy of presidential consideration. Senator Rubio is a follower, not a leader. The issue of climate change is now a permanent issue. Senator Rubio has not proven courageous enough to wean himself from his party's hard right on this issue or any other. He lacks the intellectual inquisitiveness of investigation. He denounces science as useless. He has no replacement for the president's ACA that he and his party seek to destroy. How does the Senator, if he's elected president, deal with his party's loathing of educational opportunity, of the infrastructure mess that a third world country would sneer at? Will he fund billions of improved and more efficient mass transit? What, exactly, are his plans for America, and how do they differ from his fellow Republicans, Senators Cruz and Paul, who've staked out the right? Where is the senator on the growing tolerance of Americans for gender equality? Senator Rubio is no moderate. That description applies to a person who is open to ideas, to serious deliberation, to persuasion. Where are you, Senator Rubio, on these and other matters?
70
What would happen if Tom Dewey, Earl Warren, Ike, Everett Dirksen, TR, Robert Taft or EVEN Nixon declared as candidates for 2016? They would all get tossed out because they would be too liberal ! That speaks volumes about today's Greedy Old Party...
It's great to have a young, forward looking Senator but one who actually has some experience under his belt. As Florida House Speaker and in his job in the Senate he has actually negotiated some deals. Unlike Obama who mostly avoided direct contact and had too many "present votes", Rubio has learned a bit about how Congress actually works.
I look forward to seeing how he does in the limelight. Unlike others here who automatically dismiss him because of the "R" next to his name, I'm interested in hearing what he has to say.
I look forward to seeing how he does in the limelight. Unlike others here who automatically dismiss him because of the "R" next to his name, I'm interested in hearing what he has to say.
2
So? You automatically support anyone with an R after their name. This is nothing new.
12
You automatically hate on anyone with an R after their name. This is nothing new.
"Rubio has learned a bit about how Congress actually works.
Americans' job approval rating for Congress averaged 15% in 2014, close to the record-low yearly average of 14% for the prior year.
I think Mr. Rubio needs to offer a little more than: I was a member of the most unpopular American Congress ever. Whatever deals he may have negotiated there clearly did not catch on with the American people.
Americans' job approval rating for Congress averaged 15% in 2014, close to the record-low yearly average of 14% for the prior year.
I think Mr. Rubio needs to offer a little more than: I was a member of the most unpopular American Congress ever. Whatever deals he may have negotiated there clearly did not catch on with the American people.
2
The candidate for Vice President on the GOP ticket . In the meantime running for office is a lucrative business.
6
Ah, at least we know why Rubio is running: he's younger than Jeb and Hillary. A LOT younger. That's a fine reason, and it's good to contrast yourself against your opponents.
Also he once was for immigration reform until he realized that's a loser in the Republican primaries.
One question: when asked about the age of the earth, he originally said it was 6,000 years old. When asked later, he said it was billions of years old. Now which is it? Maybe it's both, depending on who he's talking to. But this definitely needs clarification. Maybe he favors a young earth since he's a young candidate. There must be a winning bumper sticker here: "The earth is young, and so am I. Vote Rubio!"
Also he once was for immigration reform until he realized that's a loser in the Republican primaries.
One question: when asked about the age of the earth, he originally said it was 6,000 years old. When asked later, he said it was billions of years old. Now which is it? Maybe it's both, depending on who he's talking to. But this definitely needs clarification. Maybe he favors a young earth since he's a young candidate. There must be a winning bumper sticker here: "The earth is young, and so am I. Vote Rubio!"
10
stop, he never said the earth was 6,000 years old. Everyone here just keep repeating that. He didn't say that; look it up
This kind of candidate is why I left the Republican party and became an Independent. Just sitting here shaking my head from side to side.
39
So which Independent candidate has your support for President?
2 latino pre-candidates in the Republican Party, 0 latino pre-candidates in the Democrat party, Mmmmh! interesting...
7
You think it is just a coincidence that Obama is working so hard to unilaterally change the immigration laws? He needs enrollees for Obamacare (Hispanics are worried their families will run into immigration problems), and he's thinking elections.
2
What the headline should say is "Marco Rubio Announces 2016 Vice Presidential Bid."
He's probably playing Jackie Sharp to Jeb Bush's Frank Underwood (House of Cards fans know what I mean). Talk about a pretty craven move.
He's probably playing Jackie Sharp to Jeb Bush's Frank Underwood (House of Cards fans know what I mean). Talk about a pretty craven move.
8
How about a detailed discussion of policy?
16
Talk about an empty suit! For instance his so called "foreign policy" formula is "I hate Obama and now let's get back to war." Also, he's trapped in the same trickle down bubble that all Republicans are. I watched him try to defend it on Jon Stewart and he got himself so tied up in the irrationality and failed legacy of trickle down that he looked like a snake eating its tail.
44
Come on readers, show a little bit of respect. I don't agree with the man any more than you do, but unlike you he has put himself out there, thereby subjecting himself and his family to an unbelievable amount of scrutiny. It takes guts to do this. You, on the other hand, will just sit there and only go so far as to type in comments to the New York Times. Feel free to disagree with him, but be respectful in doing so -- he has shown a willingness to sacrifice more than you!
7
Civility. Good.
1
"Takes guts to do this...." really? What guts? He gets to play with others' money to pump his own image up a notch. What kind of "guts" does that entail?
36
Guts?! It takes colossal nerve for him to think he's qualified for the highest office in the land.
8
Despite what one may think of the declared Republican candidates, it is healthy to see a real contest for a nomination as important as the Presidency of the United States. It is distressing that the Democratic Party appears more interested in a coronation than a rigorous campaign where a full range of views can be aired and debated. In the end, it is counterproductive to the future of the Democratic Party.
6
Marco Antonio Rubio's youthful immature naïve intemperate reckless fickle ignorance has not been cured by his stint in the Senate.
And Rubio is just as white and familiar with Hispanic/Latino cultural traditions resting in Spanish language and culture as is Anglo-American John Ellis Bush. Which is contrary to the mestizo, mulatto, garifuna, Native and African American native and immigrant majority primarily from Mexico, Central, South America and the Caribbean.
What do white Cuban Americans like Rubio, Rafael Cruz and Robert Menendez have in common with them?
And Rubio is just as white and familiar with Hispanic/Latino cultural traditions resting in Spanish language and culture as is Anglo-American John Ellis Bush. Which is contrary to the mestizo, mulatto, garifuna, Native and African American native and immigrant majority primarily from Mexico, Central, South America and the Caribbean.
What do white Cuban Americans like Rubio, Rafael Cruz and Robert Menendez have in common with them?
8
This guy cannot be serious? Aside from a nice smile and a pretty face, what qualifications let alone achievements does he have. As with the current president, this guy has no executive experience. Sorry, the on the job training we have experienced for the last six years should tell everybody that Rubio is unqualified. Best Marco go back to Florida and serve two terms as governor and then if that is successful, we could consider him for a real job. All should be honest, we tried the 'change' stuff, generational or otherwise, and it did not work out. The only thing Marco is the embodiment of is 'gall'.
1
"Among the Republican Party’s announced and expected candidates, Mr. Rubio occupies a middle ground, which is both an asset and an obstacle"
Not entirely accurate once you actually see and hear his policy positions. Maybe middle ground in the GOP, but certainly not a centrist by any means. Remember, he is groomed from the Tea Party and was elected by that faction.
Not entirely accurate once you actually see and hear his policy positions. Maybe middle ground in the GOP, but certainly not a centrist by any means. Remember, he is groomed from the Tea Party and was elected by that faction.
8
Rubio thinks the planet is 6,000 years old.
Who else do the (R's) have?
Who else do the (R's) have?
29
Hillary thinks you need a separate device for each email account. Is that any better?
Piece of advise, Presidential politics is for the nation and not your Florida and New York suburbs. And that is the reason Chuck Schumer cannot be President of the United States of America. You do know why Al Gore lost. It is the choice of running mates
2
Question: Will Rubio campaign against his own immigration plan or will he campaign for it?
Answer: It depends. Is he campaigning in Iowa or in Florida?
Anyone who so rapidly changes positions depending on political winds is not fit to be president and will never earn my vote.
Answer: It depends. Is he campaigning in Iowa or in Florida?
Anyone who so rapidly changes positions depending on political winds is not fit to be president and will never earn my vote.
26
For the all the liberals out there who will feel the need to thrash Rubio, please stop. I assure you he is not running to be president.
He is not only unqualified for the job, he is, in my opinion even worse, a simplistic thinker. He cannot afford to hire the types of people who could sell him as president material to us.
Let him be.
He is not only unqualified for the job, he is, in my opinion even worse, a simplistic thinker. He cannot afford to hire the types of people who could sell him as president material to us.
Let him be.
3
I would let him be if he wasn't running for president. All bets are off, everything he said is recorded, he has to face the music he created. You are right he lacks intellect and character.
I am sure, like Hillary, everyone is expecting him to explain why HE is running.
18
As with Ted Cruz, Rand Paul, and now Marco Rubio---do we really need another inexperienced first-term senator in the White House? Can you imagine Rubio or the others successfully negotiating toe-to-toe with Putin or Ali Khamenei and holding prevailing?
I'm sure there are mature, strong, visionary candidates out there who could represent our interests much better. Let's hope they emerge very soon.
I'm sure there are mature, strong, visionary candidates out there who could represent our interests much better. Let's hope they emerge very soon.
73
Well, that inexperienced senator routine scenario worked well for Obama; why is it all of a sudden wrong for a Republican candidate?
1
"Can you imagine Rubio or the others successfully negotiating toe-to-toe with Putin or Ali Khamenei and holding prevailing?"
You mean like first term Senator Barak Obama?
You mean like first term Senator Barak Obama?
1
At least Obama won over millions of supporters when he was televised nationally. Rubio seems to have had the opposite effect on the masses, especially with his "watergate" congressional response speech. He serves an ultra-conservative faction that has substantial representation in North Florida, parts of Miami, and of course Texas and the southeast. Who does his handlers think are going to suddenly endorse him anywhere else in the country?
3
So he's a war hawk that waffles on immigration. Great. But where does Rubio stand on campaign finance reform; on reforming the tax system so that workers are no longer subsidizing giant corporations, inheritors and hedge fund operators; and on restoring our country's infrastructure and middle class. And oh yeah, what are his plans for social security, the ACA, and medicaid. And does he still believe the Earth is 6,000 years old?
299
He's not a scientist, man.
1
Are you implying that Hillary is good on these issues? Sir, you must be joking, except for the age of the Earth, which Hillary has not addressed, but surely will if asked, provided she has her notes with her.
Maybe we should as ALL Of them that question. Are you aware of who Hillary's donors are? What about the Columbia trade agreement she completely flopped on...due to money?
"Clinton initially opposed the deal while running for president in 2008, but changed her position in 2011 as Secretary of State after Frank Giustra, the Canadian founder of Pacific Rubiales, pledged to donate to the Clinton Foundation"
"Clinton initially opposed the deal while running for president in 2008, but changed her position in 2011 as Secretary of State after Frank Giustra, the Canadian founder of Pacific Rubiales, pledged to donate to the Clinton Foundation"
What a contrast to stale old Bush and Clinton candidates. The last thing we need is another Bush or Clinton in the White House. Rubio brings no baggage to 2016 and is young, energetic, moderate and has an Hispanic heritage. We also need a new face on the Democratic side.
38
He is young and energetic, but totally reactionary on the issues. Since 50 years of isolating our country has worked so well to get rid of Castro, he wants to try another 50 years of the same policy. He wants to implement huge transfers of wealth from the poor to the rich. Of course, there is much more, but it will come out.
It's too bad Rubio speaks so well, because it will help mask what he really stands for.
It's too bad Rubio speaks so well, because it will help mask what he really stands for.
157
^ He brings no baggage because he has never done anything.
His ideas are the same as the rest of the Stale Old Party.
His ideas are the same as the rest of the Stale Old Party.
34
You mean what a contrast to the highly-experienced, very well-accomplished Bush and Clinton? I agree. A huge contrast. This guy has zip on his resume.
I voted for Obama twice, the first time out of naïvety and a belief that one man could actually change Washington and indeed the country; the second time because, after his speech regarding the death of Ambassador Stevens, had Mitt Romney accidentally stepped in front of my car the skid marks would have been after the body. Marco Rubio is literally less accomplished than President Obama was when he ran. I used to argue that executive experience didn't matter - that's the chief of staff's job, handling the details. No longer. Candidates for President need managerial, government and executive experience - in droves - to run this country.
Don't get me wrong, I like Obama and I think he's a good guy, but he just didn't realize his position in the world when he got elected. He begged of congress instead of dictating to them. He could have kicked hindquarters and taken names; he just didn't grasp how much power and influence he had. The American people would have gone along with a return to Glass-Steagall, breaking up of the big banks, a new round of anti-trust, massive investments in infrastructure and higher taxes on the ultra-wealthy. He just didn't get it. Never again will I underestimate the value of accomplishment and experience in a presidential candidate.
Marco Rubio is an empty suit.
I voted for Obama twice, the first time out of naïvety and a belief that one man could actually change Washington and indeed the country; the second time because, after his speech regarding the death of Ambassador Stevens, had Mitt Romney accidentally stepped in front of my car the skid marks would have been after the body. Marco Rubio is literally less accomplished than President Obama was when he ran. I used to argue that executive experience didn't matter - that's the chief of staff's job, handling the details. No longer. Candidates for President need managerial, government and executive experience - in droves - to run this country.
Don't get me wrong, I like Obama and I think he's a good guy, but he just didn't realize his position in the world when he got elected. He begged of congress instead of dictating to them. He could have kicked hindquarters and taken names; he just didn't grasp how much power and influence he had. The American people would have gone along with a return to Glass-Steagall, breaking up of the big banks, a new round of anti-trust, massive investments in infrastructure and higher taxes on the ultra-wealthy. He just didn't get it. Never again will I underestimate the value of accomplishment and experience in a presidential candidate.
Marco Rubio is an empty suit.
9
I am not sure which is a greater waste of money, supporting Rubio or Cruz. Imagine if our billionaires truly cared about the country they made their fortunes in. On the other hand we don't even know where the money came from. Thanks again Anton , for making our elections so transparent.
58
I think there was a typo in the article - the breakfast for bundlers was a breakfast for bunglers.
2
Two Republican candidates from Florida, one from Kentucky, and another from Texas. What could possible go wrong?
152
Marco Rubio at least gives a credible appearance as being somewhat motivated for noble reasons. I don't love him. I don't like his views. I disagree with him on about 99% of his views but I do appreciate his views on South America which tend to mirror my own.
Still can't vote for him but he makes me considerably less sick to my stomach than do Ted Cruz, Rand Paul, and Jeb Bush.
Still can't vote for him but he makes me considerably less sick to my stomach than do Ted Cruz, Rand Paul, and Jeb Bush.
5
He makes me considerably less sick to my stomach than Hillary Clinton.
1
"Mr. Rubio is expected to cast himself as a forward-looking, next-generation leader...." Cuban nationals-in-exile all across this great land will turn out for him, in large numbers. A one-trick pony if ever there was one. What else you got, Marco?
33
Don't most of the "Cuban nationals-in-exile" younger than about 70 years of age favor normalizing relations with Cuba?
6
A meteoric rise
A pretty face, to boot.
Not so presidential:
He's Palin, in a suit.
A pretty face, to boot.
Not so presidential:
He's Palin, in a suit.
238
That is patently unfair!
Besides, he hasn't been in any drunken brawls with the neighbors and he can't see either Russia, or Cuba from his house!
Besides, he hasn't been in any drunken brawls with the neighbors and he can't see either Russia, or Cuba from his house!
6
Brilliant.
5
Perfect capture!
3
Why is he running? Doesn't he have to articulate why? I haven't heard it yet. Because he's an alternative to Jeb Bush?
68
But he's a young inexperienced first term senator who's only able to run since he's an electorially important minority. Don't Republicans know that's a disqualification for President?
14
As an American voter I feel ashamed for him and dirty all over. This is a bad joke. I need a shower and a stiff drink ( I never drink!) after reading this and turning red with rage! The entire list of Republican candidates are not worthy to hold the highest office in the nation. Liars, all of them. I don't trust any of them and they are ruining my country.
178
Is Hillary Clinton any better?
Has she given a reasonable explanation for denying Ambassador Stevens' repeated requests for additional security for the Benghazi facility?
Has she turned over her server to the State Department to ensure that she hasn't deleted any of the emails which were supposed to be archived?
When it comes to personal conduct, Hillary Clinton is obviously ethically challenged!
Has she given a reasonable explanation for denying Ambassador Stevens' repeated requests for additional security for the Benghazi facility?
Has she turned over her server to the State Department to ensure that she hasn't deleted any of the emails which were supposed to be archived?
When it comes to personal conduct, Hillary Clinton is obviously ethically challenged!
And ditto re the Democratic "list."
1
Excellent reporting, Ms. Parker. And then there were three. Perhaps they are announcing in the reverse order of the final delegate/primary totals. Nah, that can't be, as we've yet to (officially) hear from Rick Santorum. Can't wait for that. Maybe he can polish off last cycle's speech, just with more anger and transparent insecurity about the LGBTQ community. Again, can't wait for that.
It is very fitting that Rubio announced via his top donors; he is an establishment Republican through and through. Perhaps his message was: I took the heat for our failed effort to address our nation's immigration mess; you guys owe me your support. And perhaps they were listening until they had to excuse themselves for a conference call with Jeb Bush.
Rubio self-styles himself as a (or, even THE) candidate of tomorrow. The trouble is that his tomorrow doesn't look very friendly for the most vulnerable Americans, the ones whose services and benefits a President Rubio would gladly cut. And does he really strike anyone as someone willing to confront his own party on immigration in 2017, even to the point of endangering his own reelection? He had a chance to show genuine political courage a few years ago and passed. That would have given him something useful for his "leadership summit" in New Hampshire this week.
It is very fitting that Rubio announced via his top donors; he is an establishment Republican through and through. Perhaps his message was: I took the heat for our failed effort to address our nation's immigration mess; you guys owe me your support. And perhaps they were listening until they had to excuse themselves for a conference call with Jeb Bush.
Rubio self-styles himself as a (or, even THE) candidate of tomorrow. The trouble is that his tomorrow doesn't look very friendly for the most vulnerable Americans, the ones whose services and benefits a President Rubio would gladly cut. And does he really strike anyone as someone willing to confront his own party on immigration in 2017, even to the point of endangering his own reelection? He had a chance to show genuine political courage a few years ago and passed. That would have given him something useful for his "leadership summit" in New Hampshire this week.
127
"tomorrow doesn't look very friendly for the most vulnerable Americans, the ones whose services and benefits a President Rubio would gladly cut."
You're short sighted. A comfortable life shouldn't be based on the government dole, it should be based on real prosperity created by an environment that encourages new business formation and good job creation. Rubio is far more likely to offer that kind of path going forward than more of the same Democrat pandering to identity groups.
You're short sighted. A comfortable life shouldn't be based on the government dole, it should be based on real prosperity created by an environment that encourages new business formation and good job creation. Rubio is far more likely to offer that kind of path going forward than more of the same Democrat pandering to identity groups.
Dave - A comfortable life should be based on being able to grow up in a clean, safe environment, get an education and be paid a living wage in exchange for full time work. Rubio will offer none of those things.
1
The arrogance of ignorance.
157
He is not the third Republican to enter the contest. He may be the third big name Republican, but he is certainly not the third.
http://www.fec.gov/press/resources/2016presidential_form2dt.shtml
http://www.fec.gov/press/resources/2016presidential_form2dt.shtml
1
Of course there are differences between Rubio and his Republican opponents, but on the core issues they hold the same positions. Here are some of the provisions in the budgets that the Republican-controlled Senate and House recently passed:
Rubio proposed an amendment that would have increased military funding above the caps imposed by Congress without offsetting the cuts. $38 billion was added to the war fund which is not subject to caps. The House budget added $387 billion for the years 2017-2025.
The Senate budget repealed the estate tax for the top 0.2%, estates worth over $5.4 million for individuals and $10.9 million for couples. The Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit were not extended.
Cuts to Medicaid and CHIP, and repealing the ACA would throw 27 million people off health care.
There are cuts to Pell Grants, nutrition programs, and other programs for the elderly, children, and working families, while refusing to crack down on offshore tax havens, raise taxes on millionaires and billionaires when their taxes are the lowest in decades, and eliminate corporate tax loopholes when many corporations pay little or no taxes.
Republicans REJECTED amendments that would (1) invest in our crumbling infrastructure, creating millions of jobs, (2) raise the minimum wage, (3) now allow cuts to Social Security and Medicare to be privatized, (4) reduce interest rates for student loans, and (5) address pay equity for women.
Republicans are phony deficit hawks.
Rubio proposed an amendment that would have increased military funding above the caps imposed by Congress without offsetting the cuts. $38 billion was added to the war fund which is not subject to caps. The House budget added $387 billion for the years 2017-2025.
The Senate budget repealed the estate tax for the top 0.2%, estates worth over $5.4 million for individuals and $10.9 million for couples. The Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit were not extended.
Cuts to Medicaid and CHIP, and repealing the ACA would throw 27 million people off health care.
There are cuts to Pell Grants, nutrition programs, and other programs for the elderly, children, and working families, while refusing to crack down on offshore tax havens, raise taxes on millionaires and billionaires when their taxes are the lowest in decades, and eliminate corporate tax loopholes when many corporations pay little or no taxes.
Republicans REJECTED amendments that would (1) invest in our crumbling infrastructure, creating millions of jobs, (2) raise the minimum wage, (3) now allow cuts to Social Security and Medicare to be privatized, (4) reduce interest rates for student loans, and (5) address pay equity for women.
Republicans are phony deficit hawks.
173
"Now" should be "not" in no. 3 at the end of my comment.
Well, at this stage, like all Republicans, at least he has got his priorities in order. The first official announcement is to the people that are "paying the freight" for his ability to run, not to those(the majority of the electorate), that might actually want to consider voting for him.
28
Yesterday's NY Times regarding Clinton's announcement"
"The announcement came minutes AFTER emails from John D. Podesta, Mrs. Clinton’s campaign chairman, alerting DONORS and longtime Clinton associates to her candidacy."
The LEFT never holds its own to the same standards they expect of Republicans.
"The announcement came minutes AFTER emails from John D. Podesta, Mrs. Clinton’s campaign chairman, alerting DONORS and longtime Clinton associates to her candidacy."
The LEFT never holds its own to the same standards they expect of Republicans.
1
Marco Rubio in 2012 said that the age of the earth was still being debated by theologians which he clarified in a later interview where he acknowledged that the earth was 4.5 billion years old.
Doublethink means the power of holding two contradictory beliefs in one's mind simultaneously, and accepting both of them.”
― George Orwell, 1984
Doublethink means the power of holding two contradictory beliefs in one's mind simultaneously, and accepting both of them.”
― George Orwell, 1984
94
I'm less interested in a candidates views on the age of the earth than I am on what they think about our $18 trillion debt, lack of quality jobs, and future problems with social security and medicare. Oh and lets throw in ISIS and Iran for good measure.
1
Dave - Do you think you'll get any kind of sound policy from someone who can't grasp the most basic elements of life on earth?
5
And acknowledging from where that $18 trillion debt came. (hint: it wasn't all caused by Obama - except he, rightfully, put the cost of the wars on the books).
2
“one candidate in the race who’s from yesterday and who wants to take us back to yesterday,”
Things were pretty good yesterday, until the Civil Rights and Voting Rights acts were passed in the late 1960s, crowning the New Deal. Then the Republicans began siphoning off the worst elements of the Democratic party (the racist element enraged by those acts), and so began the destruction of all the gains our society had made since the Depression. The Republicans want to return us to the serfdom of the Gilded Age and the time before the Depression. Those are the yesterdays they've striven for. They've made pretty good strides in the past 40 years. I mean, every bank scandal and economic collapse since 1928 has been under Republican administrations. If we vote in another one, we're gluttons for punishment.
Things were pretty good yesterday, until the Civil Rights and Voting Rights acts were passed in the late 1960s, crowning the New Deal. Then the Republicans began siphoning off the worst elements of the Democratic party (the racist element enraged by those acts), and so began the destruction of all the gains our society had made since the Depression. The Republicans want to return us to the serfdom of the Gilded Age and the time before the Depression. Those are the yesterdays they've striven for. They've made pretty good strides in the past 40 years. I mean, every bank scandal and economic collapse since 1928 has been under Republican administrations. If we vote in another one, we're gluttons for punishment.
165
Résumé building—at the cost of the overall process.
9
Lucky for the Democrats. An extreme opportunist, but a clone otherwise of George W. Bush, though admittedly slightly smarter. I would caution the other Republican candidates, now and future, to not ever turn their backs on him. Although he has been known to put the knife in the front while staring right at you....,....
45
It's kind of an All About Eve situation isn't it? I imagine that Jeb et al thought it would be nice to let the young, eager kid hang around and it was until......
2
Edelman and Abrams are his foreign policy advisors?! Help!
123
Despite what the GOP presidential candidates may say, they are all variations on the same (tired old) theme.
77
Exactly. "Ask little of the rich" is not an economic policy or a solution to anything. In fatt, we need to do the exact opposite to get this economy, and opportunity for all, back on track.
3
GQ Magazine to Senator Marco Rubio in 2012: "How old do you think the Earth is? "
Marco Rubio: "I'm not a scientist, man. I can tell you what recorded history says, I can tell you what the Bible says, but I think that's a dispute amongst theologians and I think it has nothing to do with the gross domestic product or economic growth of the United States. I think the age of the universe has zero to do with how our economy is going to grow. I'm not a scientist. I don't think I'm qualified to answer a question like that. At the end of the day, I think there are multiple theories out there on how the universe was created and I think this is a country where people should have the opportunity to teach them all. I think parents should be able to teach their kids what their faith says, what science says. Whether the Earth was created in 7 days, or 7 actual eras, I'm not sure we'll ever be able to answer that. It's one of the great mysteries."
For the record, scientists agree that the Earth is 4.54 billion years old.
Marco Rubio is courting America's 6000-year-old Earth voters.
Marco Rubio is running for pastor and the Restore the Cuban Blockade Vote.
He really needs to take a water break.
He is not a President.
Marco Rubio: "I'm not a scientist, man. I can tell you what recorded history says, I can tell you what the Bible says, but I think that's a dispute amongst theologians and I think it has nothing to do with the gross domestic product or economic growth of the United States. I think the age of the universe has zero to do with how our economy is going to grow. I'm not a scientist. I don't think I'm qualified to answer a question like that. At the end of the day, I think there are multiple theories out there on how the universe was created and I think this is a country where people should have the opportunity to teach them all. I think parents should be able to teach their kids what their faith says, what science says. Whether the Earth was created in 7 days, or 7 actual eras, I'm not sure we'll ever be able to answer that. It's one of the great mysteries."
For the record, scientists agree that the Earth is 4.54 billion years old.
Marco Rubio is courting America's 6000-year-old Earth voters.
Marco Rubio is running for pastor and the Restore the Cuban Blockade Vote.
He really needs to take a water break.
He is not a President.
445
Back to my favorite Socrates of New Jersey.
Yes, you are absolutely right but, in this country, there are many more people who believe in a 'young' Earth than Socrateses from Verona, NJ.
In my opinion, Bush III, perhaps the best of all Bushes, may be our next president. I will NOT vote for him but he may be the best we can hope for. Although, according to the Times, Hillary has '100% name recognition'.
Yes, you are absolutely right but, in this country, there are many more people who believe in a 'young' Earth than Socrateses from Verona, NJ.
In my opinion, Bush III, perhaps the best of all Bushes, may be our next president. I will NOT vote for him but he may be the best we can hope for. Although, according to the Times, Hillary has '100% name recognition'.
Barack and Hillary are devout Christians, or at least they claim they are. I would love to hear their answers on that question but for some reason they are never grilled on their faith. Wonder why?
1
Jerry: probably because Barack and Hillary wouldn't say dumb things like claiming that scientific facts are just one of a menu of possible beliefs about the world.
As Socrates says, the Earth is over 4.5 billion years old, and it's Rubio's inability to go with that basic and well-known fact that's drawing the attention to him. It has nothing per se to do with the fact that he's religious.
As Socrates says, the Earth is over 4.5 billion years old, and it's Rubio's inability to go with that basic and well-known fact that's drawing the attention to him. It has nothing per se to do with the fact that he's religious.
9
Rubio, like most of the Republicans running for president, is not doing it to lead the country but to fill his pockets.
180
And candidates who charge $300,000 per speech, who were "flat broke" and now worth hundreds of millions -- are running for altruistic reasons?
The Left is so gullible.
The Left is so gullible.
8
Mookie - Why didn't you (or any other Republican) complain when Romney made money from speeches?
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2012/01/18/romneys-speech-income-bi...
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2012/01/18/romneys-speech-income-bi...
11
Comical comment considering Hillary is the Democrats leading candidate.
2
An excellent candidate!
7
How so?
7
Yet another person with an (R) after his name running for President who does not have the tools.
That is not a big surprise, since the (R) party and the Tea Party really do not want to govern, but rather want to shut diwn or abolish as much government as they possibly can. The 1880s were too regulated, to hear them tell it, and that was the era of the WIld West.
That is not a big surprise, since the (R) party and the Tea Party really do not want to govern, but rather want to shut diwn or abolish as much government as they possibly can. The 1880s were too regulated, to hear them tell it, and that was the era of the WIld West.
112
What "tools" does he lack?
Private server? Family foundation? Sting of checks from foreign countries and Goldman Sachs? Community organizer cred?
Private server? Family foundation? Sting of checks from foreign countries and Goldman Sachs? Community organizer cred?
4
More than half the country believes the country needs a change in direction. What you see as problematic republican behavior is actually their responsiveness to the American public.
2
As usual a false choice is promoted by the left. Nobody wants to return to the 1880s. Why would the choice be between the 1880s and 75,000 pages of federal regulations with a tax code even accountants barely understand?
1
Is he really running to be considered for a VP position? That's unlikely if Bush wins the primary. Or perhaps he's running just to get wider exposure for the future? Or maybe he's running simply to wipe the image people have of the thirsty young whippersnapper - aka Throato Lubio as Letterman named him?
15
Keep em coming, reps!
64
Rubio is being called "statesmanlike": http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/15/us/politics/its-just-folks-hillary-cli...
I look at him and I just see Dukakis.
Bobble-headed tank ride coming up soon.