In your list of possible headaches, Bill gets the nod. Your line on The Donald's age, real good, I like.
16
Are you kidding? Hillary Clinton is giving a gift to us on her birthday weekend.
She has given us the gift that it is possible at 67 a woman can sit in a hearing for 11 hours straight and be made of steel and come out the winner even when the opponents are trying to rake us over the coals. She has given us the gift that if we put our mind to it we can get educated and become an attorney - in her day that was not done a great deal. She has given us the gift that our country matters and let's do what is possible for us to honor that and pitch it to make it even better, we can do it, even while being a wife, mother, first lady, grandmother, Secretary of State, and more.
She has given us the gift that we can still look good, happy, smile even in bad times.
But you know - one great gift Hillary Clinton has given us - she has given us the line "I don't really care what any of you think of me......" and mean it.
Thanks, Hillary. You know, at this stage of the game don't we even more appreciate that what we think of ourselves gives us the strength to become better role models, to pitch in no matter what the obstacles might seem to be, to love those close to us and let them know - do not be afraid of what others think - think highly of yourself and you can lead the way.
Happy Birthday, Hillary. You make being 67 seem good again!!!
She has given us the gift that it is possible at 67 a woman can sit in a hearing for 11 hours straight and be made of steel and come out the winner even when the opponents are trying to rake us over the coals. She has given us the gift that if we put our mind to it we can get educated and become an attorney - in her day that was not done a great deal. She has given us the gift that our country matters and let's do what is possible for us to honor that and pitch it to make it even better, we can do it, even while being a wife, mother, first lady, grandmother, Secretary of State, and more.
She has given us the gift that we can still look good, happy, smile even in bad times.
But you know - one great gift Hillary Clinton has given us - she has given us the line "I don't really care what any of you think of me......" and mean it.
Thanks, Hillary. You know, at this stage of the game don't we even more appreciate that what we think of ourselves gives us the strength to become better role models, to pitch in no matter what the obstacles might seem to be, to love those close to us and let them know - do not be afraid of what others think - think highly of yourself and you can lead the way.
Happy Birthday, Hillary. You make being 67 seem good again!!!
96
Hillary came to Syracuse when Bill Clinton was first running for president & spoke at a Democratic luncheon in the old Hotel Syracuse's Persian Terrace. From that day forward, I have envisioned her running for the White House herself. "Proud" doesn't even begin to scratch the surface right now.
69
At the end of Thursday's "Hearings", Chairman Trey Gowdy approached Secretary Hillary R. Clinton. Gowdy had a sweaty look on his face, and Clinton looked just as fresh as when she arrived that morning.
All the while, Mrs. Clinton had a knowing smile on her face; because, she knew that she had, indeed, won that Debate too!
http://thetruthoncommonsense.com
All the while, Mrs. Clinton had a knowing smile on her face; because, she knew that she had, indeed, won that Debate too!
http://thetruthoncommonsense.com
53
Note to Republicans: Please schedule another Benghazi hearing for sometime in late October next year.
88
Hillary Clinton can´t rewrite history,can´t rewrite almost 20 years of widespread sentiment and public perception regarding her.And that is: a woman completely determined by her obsession (the U.S. Presidency),calculist,not genuine,and all that at some point in the future will ultimately hurt her chances for the 2016 election.Not the kind of politician anyone minimally intelligent would want to see U.S. President.Obama2008,Sanders2015 are just a reaction to her,and that is profound and will defeat her in the end.So,I don´t think she is specially happy.
13
Hillary's in great shape - focus, concentration, stamina, wit, memory. Most people her age would love to be so strong and sharp. And after that 11 hour marathon, her hair still looked great too.
Happy Birthday, Hillary.
You wear it well.
Happy Birthday, Hillary.
You wear it well.
72
The real gift Hillary received was the wide spread and unabashed love and blind servitude to Hillary as performed by the liberal media.
>
Consider how Hillary has now been proven beyond any doubt to have lied to the American public and even to the faces of the families of those who died in Benghazi and the press does not care. It is intuitively obvious that she did this to promote Obama's campaign propaganda about how he single handedly conquered terrorism in the world.
>
But it gets worse. Hillary claimed she knew nothing about Chris Steven's pleas for more security. Hillary said "Not my job" and then blamed her security organization at State for the fumble. I never heard any of this even though in the previous year there were hundreds of communications to and from Hillary about security in Libya and even though there was a classified conversation between the CIA, DOD, Hillary and others where it was recommended that the mission in Benghazi be combined with the CIA annex. She claimed that she never considered shutting down the Benghazi mission because no one from other agencies told her to. Huh?
>
But then it got worse still. She actually implied this was all Chris Steven's fault because he knew the dangers of working there. The liberal news media and Democrats love her now even more for all of this.
>
At is as though I have suddenly wakened in a different land where lying is a virtue and protecting those you lead is an absurd proposition. Ends and means.
>
Consider how Hillary has now been proven beyond any doubt to have lied to the American public and even to the faces of the families of those who died in Benghazi and the press does not care. It is intuitively obvious that she did this to promote Obama's campaign propaganda about how he single handedly conquered terrorism in the world.
>
But it gets worse. Hillary claimed she knew nothing about Chris Steven's pleas for more security. Hillary said "Not my job" and then blamed her security organization at State for the fumble. I never heard any of this even though in the previous year there were hundreds of communications to and from Hillary about security in Libya and even though there was a classified conversation between the CIA, DOD, Hillary and others where it was recommended that the mission in Benghazi be combined with the CIA annex. She claimed that she never considered shutting down the Benghazi mission because no one from other agencies told her to. Huh?
>
But then it got worse still. She actually implied this was all Chris Steven's fault because he knew the dangers of working there. The liberal news media and Democrats love her now even more for all of this.
>
At is as though I have suddenly wakened in a different land where lying is a virtue and protecting those you lead is an absurd proposition. Ends and means.
13
She has my vote.
48
Is there any doubt that Hillary Clinton is ready for that 3 am phone call?
57
If Malcolm Gladwell is considering a Tipping Point pt.II book he need look no further than the hearings on Thursday for material.
19
Those smug committee members asking Hillary if she spent the night alone?! Those smug committee members asking why she could give her personal email to Sydney (a long time personal friend and advisor) and not the ambassador?!
No other Secretary of State endured such a grilling.
Much of this was for show, and show Hillary did…..complete with a beautiful hairdo and 12 hour full proof make up job!
No other Secretary of State endured such a grilling.
Much of this was for show, and show Hillary did…..complete with a beautiful hairdo and 12 hour full proof make up job!
49
Fortunately for us, Supergirl is alive and well in Washington!
37
The French have a great word -- "trépigner." It's the word used to describe how small children stamp their feet in frustration when they can't get what they want. The Repubs on the committee "trépignaient beaucoup."
55
Basically, Ms. Collins, she drank their milkshake.
20
The GOP eventually has to realize how self destructive they are, how *shallow* they are how self righteous
...Their vicious, arrogant and self-righteous behavior in the name of Christ is anything but.
...Their vicious, arrogant and self-righteous behavior in the name of Christ is anything but.
26
Another birthday gift to Hillary: the wonderful photograph of her on Friday's NY Times front page after the Benghazi hearings. She looks like she just stepped out of a health spa: radiant, charming, dazzling. I know it's not of major importance, but someone should acknowledge that she is a beautiful woman!
41
Thanks, Gail! Your columns never fail to delight and amuse. Plus it is refreshing to read the writings of a woman Times columnist who isn't grinding an anti-Clinton axe.
37
Based on her performance in the debate and the Soviet style show trial Benghazi hearing I would say she puts the word commander back in the phrase Commander in Chief.
175
The Benghazi committee had no facts to support their inquisition, so they resorted to an 11 hour ad hominem attack on Hillary Clinton. The snippy youngish congresswoman who asked Mrs. Clinton if she was alone on the night of the attack was just short of apoplectic when Mrs. Clinton just laughed out loud. What was the relevance of that idiotic question?
Wake up, Republicans. Your idiocy, duplicitousness, dishonor and downright meanness are disgusting!
Wake up, Republicans. Your idiocy, duplicitousness, dishonor and downright meanness are disgusting!
77
Happy Birthday Hillary. You have proven yourself to be, over and over again, America's "Iron Lady." I look forward to your inauguration as the next President of the United States. When you become President, be a FDR Democrat. It is, in my view, the best way to restore our working and middle classes. All the best, Happy 68th!
50
I heard that Trey Gowdy is French for "very sweaty"
73
There are three Democratic presidential candidates, so why didn't you mention the youngest one? Gov. Martin O'Malley is 52. Age does matter, especially if you are looking at two terms as president. Bernie would be 83, Hillary would be 77, and Martin would be 62.
4
Koalas sleep 18-22 hours a day? Wow! Thanks for that.
14
I was tepid about Hillary until the Benghazi hearing. She proved something to me. She has the brains, stamina and womanly power to make the world a better place as our next President. Happy 68 Ms. Hillary.
60
Yes, this was an objective fact-finding mission, not a group of jackals trying to bring down their prey. What a pathetic, disgusting exhibition by the GOP. As Joseph Welch said six decades ago to Joe McCarthy, "At long last, sir, have you no shame?"
One good thing came out of these hearings, coming right on the heels of the Planned Parenthood inquisition. Voters of all stripes are starting to notice how much Republicans enjoy tormenting women.
Trying to gain the White House by alienating 52% of the electorate. Brilliant strategy!
www.newyorkgritty.net
One good thing came out of these hearings, coming right on the heels of the Planned Parenthood inquisition. Voters of all stripes are starting to notice how much Republicans enjoy tormenting women.
Trying to gain the White House by alienating 52% of the electorate. Brilliant strategy!
www.newyorkgritty.net
42
Yoga. Now GOPers will declare she will attack Christianity. Remember the schools in California where Yoga in elementary schools was viewed as an attack on values? Inquisitors not politicians.
23
Correction to previous post. Should read:
we'll celebrate HRC's 73rd Birthday by re-electing her President for a second term in 2020.
Or, if you prefer a different correction:
we'll celebrate HRC's 77th Birthday by re-electing her President for a Third term in 2024.
(Perhaps FDR and HRC should have more in common than progressive policies that restore democracy for the people ! As they say, the third time's the charm !)
Original Comment:
Hillary must share DNA with Queen Elizabeth II, ruling without apparent strain at age 89. Her Queen Mother indefatigably attended Royal functions throughout her long life. Her death five months short of age 102 was widely mourned; the passing of a great life spanning two centuries.
What Hill and Liz possess in abundance is a life-long commitment to service to others, combined with a tenacious optimism and devotion to duty. It doesn't hurt to have a cheerful disposition; the Queen Mum's sunshine smile a great antidote against hard times, Hillary's likewise.
With age comes wisdom: perhaps a tad might rub off on intransigent politicians.
We anticipate many more candles on many birthday cakes; we'll celebrate HRC's 77th Birthday by re-electing her President for a second term in 2024.
Happy Birthday, Hillary Rodham Clinton !
Live Long and We All Prosper !
we'll celebrate HRC's 73rd Birthday by re-electing her President for a second term in 2020.
Or, if you prefer a different correction:
we'll celebrate HRC's 77th Birthday by re-electing her President for a Third term in 2024.
(Perhaps FDR and HRC should have more in common than progressive policies that restore democracy for the people ! As they say, the third time's the charm !)
Original Comment:
Hillary must share DNA with Queen Elizabeth II, ruling without apparent strain at age 89. Her Queen Mother indefatigably attended Royal functions throughout her long life. Her death five months short of age 102 was widely mourned; the passing of a great life spanning two centuries.
What Hill and Liz possess in abundance is a life-long commitment to service to others, combined with a tenacious optimism and devotion to duty. It doesn't hurt to have a cheerful disposition; the Queen Mum's sunshine smile a great antidote against hard times, Hillary's likewise.
With age comes wisdom: perhaps a tad might rub off on intransigent politicians.
We anticipate many more candles on many birthday cakes; we'll celebrate HRC's 77th Birthday by re-electing her President for a second term in 2024.
Happy Birthday, Hillary Rodham Clinton !
Live Long and We All Prosper !
21
Hillary Clinton passed the 11 hour grilling by Trey Gowdy and emerged as
the winner of the Democratic Party. Considering what the G.O.P. candidates
look like, Hillary can be considered as the next President. The age factor?
Forget it. Look at Winston Churchill as a model for leadership.
the winner of the Democratic Party. Considering what the G.O.P. candidates
look like, Hillary can be considered as the next President. The age factor?
Forget it. Look at Winston Churchill as a model for leadership.
24
I'm in awe of Hillary Clinton for keeping her cool and her dignity. She really inspired me. She's courageous and smart and she knows how to pick her battles. When she does she emerges a clear winner. I hope she’s elected; I think she’ll be a brilliant President.
On the other hand, I was gobsmacked at the stupidity and mean-spiritedness of her questioners. I don't even want to call them inquisitors because that would imply that they had some degree of power but not one of them had any.
Weak, spiteful, silly men and women with weak, spiteful and silly questions. And they all positively sulked when they couldn't get Hillary to take their bait or lose her temper. Gowdy was really something, with his oily skin and eyes that were pinpricks of rage. Almost foaming at the mouth.
This is a perfect illustration of ‘Live by the sword, die by the sword’, the sword in this instance being lies and absence of integrity. I shake my head in amazement and distaste—and often horror—at the current GOP. It truly has some of the dumbest and nastiest people in it
On the other hand, I was gobsmacked at the stupidity and mean-spiritedness of her questioners. I don't even want to call them inquisitors because that would imply that they had some degree of power but not one of them had any.
Weak, spiteful, silly men and women with weak, spiteful and silly questions. And they all positively sulked when they couldn't get Hillary to take their bait or lose her temper. Gowdy was really something, with his oily skin and eyes that were pinpricks of rage. Almost foaming at the mouth.
This is a perfect illustration of ‘Live by the sword, die by the sword’, the sword in this instance being lies and absence of integrity. I shake my head in amazement and distaste—and often horror—at the current GOP. It truly has some of the dumbest and nastiest people in it
60
The Republicans keep testing Hillary and she keeps winning. She is obviously smarter and more competent than they are.
35
Like Hillary Clinton or not she proved in that 11 hours of repeated grilling that she is strong , disciplined, intelligent and had endurance enough to be the first female President of US of A.
A great October Surprise for the Birthday Girl.
A great October Surprise for the Birthday Girl.
31
President Hillary will be making decisions of how to make the World smarter, while celebrating her 74th Birthday in her 2nd term in the White House
20
The Congressional Benghazi Committee hearings have highlighted Hillary’s stamina and toughness but a lack of intellectual power too.
The most important fact wasn’t addressed at all. There was a 4.8-trillion-pound gorilla in that room that nobody talked about.
They discussed an incident that killed four Americans but nobody said a single word about waging two completely unnecessary wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Who was investigated for authorizing and launching them? Who is responsible for the deaths of more than 6,000 US troops? Who is responsible for two longest wars in the American history?
If those questions ever crossed the minds of the Bush and Clinton clans, they would not run for the presidents.
They would be ashamed of what they did and how they failed America…
The most important fact wasn’t addressed at all. There was a 4.8-trillion-pound gorilla in that room that nobody talked about.
They discussed an incident that killed four Americans but nobody said a single word about waging two completely unnecessary wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Who was investigated for authorizing and launching them? Who is responsible for the deaths of more than 6,000 US troops? Who is responsible for two longest wars in the American history?
If those questions ever crossed the minds of the Bush and Clinton clans, they would not run for the presidents.
They would be ashamed of what they did and how they failed America…
12
Isn't wonderful how she scapegoated a private US citizen for the debacle to maintain the fiction that Terrorism was vanquished? Isn't it fabulous how she was helping Sid Blumenthal with his business interests in Libya after the patently unconstitutional war she pushed for that resulted in a failed state filled with jihadis?
7
The flop-sweat on Trey Gowdy's face said everything about how the inquisition was going for the Republicans.
24
How many Republican candidates can you get on the back of an elephant in Botswana? How soon can we get them there? All important questions in the classic pre-election battle.
14
Comfort to see that there's no war on women, just individual women who have the audacity to speak up for other women, their rights including sovereignty over their own bodies, and the right to thought and free speech.
Sitting through any portion of the 11 hour Republican debacle of the Hillary Hearing made clear the focus of the venom as if the McCarthy brag on Sean Hannity's Show hadn't already driven this point home, but Hillary has been inoculated by 1,000 bites and it has only made her stronger. The Republicans are scared, very scared, and it shows in the comments from their old men like Ed Rollins.
The sincerity of the hate on the conservative base rings true and calls out for psychotropic medication and years of talk therapy about their feelings toward their mother. It's theories and suppositions sound infantile and irrational to such an extreme that you can only feel for those who have decided to suffer them in close proximity.
Meanwhile, HAPPY BIRTHDAY HILLARY, and remember that to the Republicans for whom money is the only thing that matters, that every dollar contributed toward the Clinton campaign over the next several days is a the most direct repudiation of their lies and ad hominem attacks that those who support her can deliver. It is a stake to their hearts and devastates the logic of their attempt to mount a media rape like assault.
Sitting through any portion of the 11 hour Republican debacle of the Hillary Hearing made clear the focus of the venom as if the McCarthy brag on Sean Hannity's Show hadn't already driven this point home, but Hillary has been inoculated by 1,000 bites and it has only made her stronger. The Republicans are scared, very scared, and it shows in the comments from their old men like Ed Rollins.
The sincerity of the hate on the conservative base rings true and calls out for psychotropic medication and years of talk therapy about their feelings toward their mother. It's theories and suppositions sound infantile and irrational to such an extreme that you can only feel for those who have decided to suffer them in close proximity.
Meanwhile, HAPPY BIRTHDAY HILLARY, and remember that to the Republicans for whom money is the only thing that matters, that every dollar contributed toward the Clinton campaign over the next several days is a the most direct repudiation of their lies and ad hominem attacks that those who support her can deliver. It is a stake to their hearts and devastates the logic of their attempt to mount a media rape like assault.
32
Tintin Goes to Congress
There was something about Gowdy's appearance that kept puzzling me...
Until I realized he is styling himself on Tintin.
Wait till the Freedom Caulkers finds out that their prime operative is metrosexual.
There was something about Gowdy's appearance that kept puzzling me...
Until I realized he is styling himself on Tintin.
Wait till the Freedom Caulkers finds out that their prime operative is metrosexual.
18
When you are a skilled liar, nothing really bothers you. I believe the Chinese are a actually taking lessons from her. Do you really want someone like this in the whitehouse? Of course she does have all the right qualifications we have seen in past presidents.
7
When I learned on Friday that Republicans have chosen Marsha Blackburn to head up their committee to investigate Planned Parenthood, my instant thought was, "OMG, these men have learned nothing!"
At this point, the whole nation should simply say, "Please proceed." Perhaps we, the people, have learned a lot from President Obama.
At this point, the whole nation should simply say, "Please proceed." Perhaps we, the people, have learned a lot from President Obama.
34
Gail, in my comments at your two previous columns I have praised you for being deadly serious rather than wildly hilarious. Today I can take the middle ground and praise you for being both. You provide a birthday card for Hillary that I will happily sign.
And as the perfect complement to your column I urge all to read gemli's tribute to Hillary Clinton in a comment that surely will be in the top 10 in Readers' Recommended land at the end of the day. I would love to take lessons from gemli in the writing of comments if she (see below) were to set up an On-Line school for comment writers. (Have believed that gemli is a she but a line in the comment lessens my certainty).
And, as Patti Smith might say, Hillary is "Just Kids".
Only-NeverInSweden.blogspot.com
Dual citizen-USA-SE
And as the perfect complement to your column I urge all to read gemli's tribute to Hillary Clinton in a comment that surely will be in the top 10 in Readers' Recommended land at the end of the day. I would love to take lessons from gemli in the writing of comments if she (see below) were to set up an On-Line school for comment writers. (Have believed that gemli is a she but a line in the comment lessens my certainty).
And, as Patti Smith might say, Hillary is "Just Kids".
Only-NeverInSweden.blogspot.com
Dual citizen-USA-SE
5
Ms. Collins, you have many individuals who write to you using your first name. So many friends, "Gail", could harm your ability to form a legitimate opinion on any subject. It is the committees' recommendation that to curtail the numerous pieces of advice you receive you need to focus on the recommendations of one or two individuals. Sydney Blumenthal might provide you with the kind of collegial guidance which would override all these friendly, perhaps too friendly, comments from distant admirers.
4
Speaking about generational energies, had Senator Rubio been grilled for about the same length of time HRC was subjected to, he would have consumed gazillion of high quality Trump-donated bottles of water for hydration.
13
Gail have a great weekend I just found out I have severe ligament damage in my right wrist and I may have a torn rotator cuff in my right shoulder Take good care of yourself. I am getting your book to read when I have surgery. It's time I listen to what you have to say I think that's only fair
5
Hillary must share DNA with Queen Elizabeth II, ruling without apparent strain at age 89. Her Queen Mother indefatigably attended Royal functions throughout her long life. Her death five months short of age 102 was widely mourned; the passing of a great life spanning two centuries.
What Hill and Liz possess in abundance is a life-long commitment to service to others, combined with a tenacious optimism and devotion to duty. It doesn't hurt to have a cheerful disposition; the Queen Mum's sunshine smile a great antidote against hard times, Hillary's likewise.
With age comes wisdom: perhaps a tad might rub off on intransigent politicians.
We anticipate many more candles on many birthday cakes; we'll celebrate HRC's 77th Birthday by re-electing her President for a second term in 2024.
Happy Birthday, Hillary Rodham Clinton !
Live Long and We All Prosper !
What Hill and Liz possess in abundance is a life-long commitment to service to others, combined with a tenacious optimism and devotion to duty. It doesn't hurt to have a cheerful disposition; the Queen Mum's sunshine smile a great antidote against hard times, Hillary's likewise.
With age comes wisdom: perhaps a tad might rub off on intransigent politicians.
We anticipate many more candles on many birthday cakes; we'll celebrate HRC's 77th Birthday by re-electing her President for a second term in 2024.
Happy Birthday, Hillary Rodham Clinton !
Live Long and We All Prosper !
10
Sorry but I cannot wish her a Happy Birthday. She lied to the American people and the parents of those killed in Benghazi just to protect her political career. The media is covering for her and that is another disgrace we endure.
6
Gail, after HRC's strong performance in the first Democratic debate, I couldn't believe the Benghazi Committee was giving her center stage for a bonus round of non-stop air time. She turned an 11-hour inquisition into a marathon campaign infomercial.
Words for Clinton: Articulate, controlled, gracious under fire, indefatigable, informed, intelligent, in command of her facts and recollections, savvy, "Teflon.'
Words for the committee and its chairperson: Dumber than a bag of hammers.
I'm wondering what's to become of Trey Gowdy after this fiasco. Given how much Republicans detest "losers," I'd be surprised if they let him run the PTA cookie committee!
Words for Clinton: Articulate, controlled, gracious under fire, indefatigable, informed, intelligent, in command of her facts and recollections, savvy, "Teflon.'
Words for the committee and its chairperson: Dumber than a bag of hammers.
I'm wondering what's to become of Trey Gowdy after this fiasco. Given how much Republicans detest "losers," I'd be surprised if they let him run the PTA cookie committee!
139
Gail should contrast Hillary's happy birthday with Trey Gowdy's horrible Thursday. Already seen as disingenuous for his serial misrepresentations of the true purpose of his Benghazi committee,he added the personification of an uncouth, ill-mannered, lout, badgering one of the most accomplished women in recent American history.Gowdy apparently forgot his role was to gather information not upbraid Hillary Clinton with the zeal of a prosecutor interrogating a confessed serial child killer. He certainly validated the the concept that there is a Republican "war on women". He can only hope that his last name doesn't become the synonym for "questioning women in an uncouth or disrespectful way", as in The prosecutor "gowdied" her. When Gowdy was asked what new information he had learned,he kind of stammered and with the look of a deer in the headlights, and acknowledged that almost nothing new had been learned. It will be interesting to see what the public opinion polls tell us about Gowdy's investigative farce.
139
Happy birthday, Mrs.Clinton. Not only do you have my enthusiastic vote for President, you also have my vote for Zen Master.
122
" There was a time when it seemed her age might be an issue." Then came Thursday's hearing when late in the day Hillary proved herself durable enough that she seemed far less tired than far younger committee members;and in many instances much more coherent with her answers,as the points many of her inquisidors tried to make made them come across like total illiterates. Where they drunk,perhaps ?
Rubio.." less energy than a Koala "...combine this with Jeb appearing to be a sleep walker,maybe in Florida retirement is a lifelong lifestyle.
Rubio.." less energy than a Koala "...combine this with Jeb appearing to be a sleep walker,maybe in Florida retirement is a lifelong lifestyle.
8
She's a liar. But she's your liar, Dems.
6
Beautiful! Ms. Collins you are one of a kind. This is one of your best.
8
She is a wonder, and I salute her. Happy Birthday!
11
Wow, Gail still hasn't let go of the Romney dog on the roof thing? I love it!!!
7
The gift that keeps on giving: Seamus! Thank you Gail!
6
Gail, you too are in your prime! I'll have what you're having.
10
Age 49 here. Marco Rubio and Toronto Ted Cruz, age 44, are in the same cohort. We are Generation X. We are not "pre-millenials."
And Rubio or Cruz of course, are not among our most shining examples. Our generation is the one tasked by history to CLEANING UP the messes left behind largely by the Republican party.
And Rubio or Cruz of course, are not among our most shining examples. Our generation is the one tasked by history to CLEANING UP the messes left behind largely by the Republican party.
10
Well done, Hillary! I doubt that anyone else running for President would have your strength and courage - truth always prevails. It is my hope that the world leaders were watching you and realize that you are a powerful and brilliant woman!
Trey Gowdy looked like a foolish bully compared to you - stay strong oh and keep doing yoga!!
Happy Birthday!
Trey Gowdy looked like a foolish bully compared to you - stay strong oh and keep doing yoga!!
Happy Birthday!
11
The humor is BACK! I laughed for three straight paragraphs withiout stopping!
Thank you, Ms. Collins.
And a special shout out to Seamus, now living life as his alter-ego, a Democrat living out of a car trunk. We almost thought you had forgotten him.
Thank you, Ms. Collins.
And a special shout out to Seamus, now living life as his alter-ego, a Democrat living out of a car trunk. We almost thought you had forgotten him.
6
I feel I feel so lucky to have someone this SMART, who WANTS to have the job of president; a thankless job! There are but a few people I can see who even remotely hold a candle to her, obviously in this current field of wing-nuts, but even in all of congress. I have been a Hillary supporter for eons; she's brilliant and tough.
18
HRC should thank Trey Gowdy (what sort of name is that???) for the Tea Party he already threw for her birthday earlier this week!
8
Can't we all just vote now? We KNOW who the best candidate is!
10
In all fairness to William Henry Harrison, EVEN THOUGH he died one month after becoming president, he featured on numerous US postage stamps as well as on at least one Liberian one.
5
Can any of us even BEGIN to imagine the posturing, squirming, threatening, and bullying tactics Mr Trump would have used had he been subjected to an 11 hour inquisition like that Mrs Clinton endured? Looking Presidential and in control throughout...she was amazing. And how, when considering the other candidates, would Dr Carson do? Would he resort to his usual false "facts" and bible thumping?
13
My only question, would we be having a special Benghazi hearing at this time if HRC wasn't a candidate for POTUS ??? We all know the answer to that question. HRC, Happy Birthday and continued success in your campaign.
10
Yes, it is an embarrassment for the Republicans to hammer away at her for political points -- it's disgusting, but it is also more disgusting to have her own party explain it away by comparing the four she lost to the numerous GW lost in the Iraq war. (We don't lose men, period.). And, now you tell me she states, "yoga, helps." Sorry! My condolences to the families of the four men who lost their lives.
2
If I were Hillary Clinton I'd ask Republicans for another Benghazi hearing. Beyond that, I can hardly wait for the debates between Hillary and whichever knucklehead emerges from the Republican swamp.
13
Phenix? No. But the holidays are coming and Hillary makes a great doormat.
FDR was halfway into his third term when I was born.
I now have learned Old age and cunning beat youth and enthusiasm any day of the week!
I now have learned Old age and cunning beat youth and enthusiasm any day of the week!
7
I'll throw a curve ball at the Benghazi discussion.
Let's imagine a reversal wherein Hillary Clinton is Trey Gowdy and Gowdy is Clinton.
Let's also reverse the sexes of the four people killed in Benghazi. Make them women instead of men.
In this reversal, Gowdy, as secretary of state, says just before the 2012 presidential election, "Was it because of a protest or was it because of guys out for a walk one night and decided they’d go kill some Americans?" He then adds emphatically, "What difference at this point does it make?"
How would Clinton, a feminist who tilts toward the ideological side, respond?
Let's imagine a reversal wherein Hillary Clinton is Trey Gowdy and Gowdy is Clinton.
Let's also reverse the sexes of the four people killed in Benghazi. Make them women instead of men.
In this reversal, Gowdy, as secretary of state, says just before the 2012 presidential election, "Was it because of a protest or was it because of guys out for a walk one night and decided they’d go kill some Americans?" He then adds emphatically, "What difference at this point does it make?"
How would Clinton, a feminist who tilts toward the ideological side, respond?
1
"Gloria Steinem celebrated her 80th birthday riding an elephant in Botswana."
To be fair, the elephant is doing most of the work.
To be fair, the elephant is doing most of the work.
6
OMG, she practices yoga? She must have been born in India and is therefore Hindu or Buddhist. By law, she can't be president. And she is a woman. No minorities allowed. Oops, Congressional Republicans only treat women like minorities, although women are actually the majority in the US.
10
Bengahzi Hearings: A fool's game has a fool's reward. Hillary Clinton sat composed alert intelligent as the fools before her embarrased themselves as pretend detectives. Yet Republicans vow to continue. Be sure your Vote is for a well anchored rope, as a fool's rope, as the joke would go, is tied to nothing and as it unravels, slips his hands on falls on his face. Our Union is more than nothing.
9
In fairness, Lucy radiates Jeffersonian intelligence and and Churchillian strength in comparison to these bumblers, a remarkable achievement.
6
What if Hillary was not alone that night or some part of it and the woman who asked this question knew that? Was that woman just nasty or she was setting up a trap?
5
Age? Look around you. The men get enfeebled and die and their spouses carry on, sad, heartbroken at the loss, but energetic, sharp and wise. Subtract at least ten years from Mrs. Clibton's age.
12
She was a formidable presence, particularly against such petty, vindictive, humorless, and dimwitted representatives of the GOP attempting to embarrass and humiliate her. It just reinforces our feelings about this 2016 race--there is absolutely NO ONE in the field of candidates more qualified and with more experience than Hillary.
And Mark Rubio is a punk.
And Mark Rubio is a punk.
17
For me, the "I Love Lucy" line that points closest to the Benghazi Committee is "(Phipps) is a great big bunch of gyps." Apologies to the Romany people for both the undeserved slur and the comparison.
1
I just had an image appear in my head of Hillary eating Marco Rubio's lunch, drinking his milkshake, and stealing his after lunch cookie. Where could that have come from?
6
Hillary is in
not even El Chapo can
hurt her chances now
not even El Chapo can
hurt her chances now
2
People definitely see what they want to see, on the left and the right.
How soft have your lives been, or partisan is your support, to swoon over sitting in a chair for half a day and answering questions that you have been well prepared for?
Is she the dauphine baby?
4 Americans died, it's a pittance compared to the debacle in Iraq, but get your facts straight:
She, and President Obama, blatantly lied when they peddled a story about the attack being a spontaneous response to a movie that practically no one, worldwide, saw until they mentioned it.
Please understand two things: She lied, and her performance was anything but arduous.
I wish all of you claiming her heroics did one shift at the Amazon fulfillment center where you'll be ordering your holiday presents.
How soft have your lives been, or partisan is your support, to swoon over sitting in a chair for half a day and answering questions that you have been well prepared for?
Is she the dauphine baby?
4 Americans died, it's a pittance compared to the debacle in Iraq, but get your facts straight:
She, and President Obama, blatantly lied when they peddled a story about the attack being a spontaneous response to a movie that practically no one, worldwide, saw until they mentioned it.
Please understand two things: She lied, and her performance was anything but arduous.
I wish all of you claiming her heroics did one shift at the Amazon fulfillment center where you'll be ordering your holiday presents.
4
Happy Birthday to the former supporter of Senator Goldwater who saw The Light!
However, as Hillary Clinton and Trump are both political products of New York, they underscore the view that the two geographic extremes, New York and California, are the foci and sources of much of the Unamerican evil emanating from them and afflicting the whole country.
However, as Hillary Clinton and Trump are both political products of New York, they underscore the view that the two geographic extremes, New York and California, are the foci and sources of much of the Unamerican evil emanating from them and afflicting the whole country.
2
How was the Benghazi hearing a "meltdown"? She was clearly demonstrated to be a serial liar, who was willing to say anything to the American people. Anyone else would have been indicted already for sending classified information illegally over personal email that was surely intercepted by foreign powers. She is a key player in the Clinton Family slush fund that fronts as a charity, but really serves to line the pockets of Hillary, Bill, and their cronies. She's up to her kazoo in scandals and she isn't even President yet!!
6
Gail is right about the birthday.The cool aplomb and remarkable stamina of Hillary Clinton completely thwarted the brutish, feral, assaults of Jim Jordan and Trey Gowdy, while deflecting other Benghazi questioners.The decision to make Sidney Blumenthal's E Mails an issue was an egregious and fatal error.Blumenthal did not work for the government, had no connection with Benghazi, and was not Clinton's top advisor on Libya, as was absurdly suggested by an apparently clueless interrogator.Referencing him totally substantiated the allegations that the Benghazi Committee wasn't about Benghazi, but a tawdry, disingenuous attempt, financed by taxpayers, to destroy Clinton's candidacy. The irony, of course, is that the only thing they accomplished was to guarantee her the Democratic nomination. The Benghazi hearing images of "her grace under pressure" will be in
sharp contrast to the bumblings, monotonal callowness, stream of consciousness rants, slick cynicism, and calculated self promotion of her Republican opposition.
sharp contrast to the bumblings, monotonal callowness, stream of consciousness rants, slick cynicism, and calculated self promotion of her Republican opposition.
17
Her apperance at the eleven hour Gong Show put the
age issue to rest.
When she fell and got a concussion, the usual suspects
falsely claimed she was faking it. When that fell apart
Rove and others claimed she was brain damaged.
Well that one died forever during her appearance in
Gowdy's Salem Trial event.
She emerged fresh as a daisy, while her GOP pursuers
looked like they had gone ten rounds with Ali.
She whupped them. And they know it.
age issue to rest.
When she fell and got a concussion, the usual suspects
falsely claimed she was faking it. When that fell apart
Rove and others claimed she was brain damaged.
Well that one died forever during her appearance in
Gowdy's Salem Trial event.
She emerged fresh as a daisy, while her GOP pursuers
looked like they had gone ten rounds with Ali.
She whupped them. And they know it.
16
44% of the people love her no matter what, 44% will never vote for he. It the rest of the people you have to convince. BTW, why did they make up that lame story?
4
Political liberal Pundits keep on saying that Hillary came out unscathed. Tell that to the families of the four murdered Americans,Who were lied to their faces when Hillary and Obama told them their sons were killed because of a video. Tell that to the American people who are disgusted with Washington and the dirty game of politics where the liberal press claims the winners to be Obama, Clinton and the most corrupt administration in my lifetime
5
Why didn't we have hours of public interrogation of George W. Bush after he ignored the warnings about Bin Laden and failed to prevent the death of nearly 3000 Americans on 9/11? Or, a day-long public interrogation of Cheney and Rumsfeld who blithely sent thousands of American troops to die in a ginned-up, lied-about, and totally unnecessary war in Iraq? Those were real crimes of dereliction and deceit.
26
After following Hillary Clinton for a couple of decades there is a simple sad conclusion about her.
That politician is incapable of speaking the truth in spite of the rest of the world being perfectly aware of all the facts.
The Bush and Clinton clans led us into two completely unnecessary wars that cost us several trillion dollars, more than 6,000 lives of the best trained troops, dozens thousands maimed soldiers, hundreds thousands of them saddled with PTSD, and colossal loss of the international credibility, but still all of those tragic events aren’t enough for her to understand she is incompetent to lead this country.
Even the kids learn during the kindergarten age the Biblical principle “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth” that should govern our decision making process.
Why would anybody invade Afghanistan and Iraq over the terrorist act committed by a handful of Saudi and Egyptian citizens?
Additionally, if those terrorist acts were inflicted upon us in a time frame of less than a couple of hours, that limits our response too.
The Bible would teach us to retaliate against Cairo and Riyadh, and not against the innocent people.
We should have retaliated against the Al Qaeda and the Saudi government that financed spreading of extremely rigid sect called the Wahhabism that is used as ideology of the radical fanatics, and not against the Muslim world…
That politician is incapable of speaking the truth in spite of the rest of the world being perfectly aware of all the facts.
The Bush and Clinton clans led us into two completely unnecessary wars that cost us several trillion dollars, more than 6,000 lives of the best trained troops, dozens thousands maimed soldiers, hundreds thousands of them saddled with PTSD, and colossal loss of the international credibility, but still all of those tragic events aren’t enough for her to understand she is incompetent to lead this country.
Even the kids learn during the kindergarten age the Biblical principle “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth” that should govern our decision making process.
Why would anybody invade Afghanistan and Iraq over the terrorist act committed by a handful of Saudi and Egyptian citizens?
Additionally, if those terrorist acts were inflicted upon us in a time frame of less than a couple of hours, that limits our response too.
The Bible would teach us to retaliate against Cairo and Riyadh, and not against the innocent people.
We should have retaliated against the Al Qaeda and the Saudi government that financed spreading of extremely rigid sect called the Wahhabism that is used as ideology of the radical fanatics, and not against the Muslim world…
2
Thanks to the partisan charade of the Congressional Benghazi investigation, the word Benghazi is now synonymous with overreach. I doubt very much that we will hear the word on Capitol Hill in the coming weeks and months.
18
It was a herculean task to withstand 11 hours of continuous badgering and maintain focus and intensity. She is truly an iron lady. It's one thing to work for 11 hours and it's quite another to have to put up with a trumped up witch hunt. Do the cops interrogate suspects for 11 hours at a time? Remember Kenneth Starr? He said that we don't know what we are looking for and we haven't found anything yet, but we have to keep looking just in case we might find something. This committee is a GOP Whitewater repeat.
Hillary's performance shows she has the right stuff to be President. It is maddening that so many people chastise her for not being warm and fuzzy enough. I want the tough as nails Hillary that withstood the interrogation. I don't want a nurturing grandma in the White House.
Let Hillary be Hillary. She is tough. She is strong. She is a fighter. She will never win a miss congeniality award. Being the President is not like winning a Miss America contest.
I was beginning to feel the Bern, but there is no candidate from either party that possesses her command of international affairs and sheer strength of intellect. Barack Obama won because people fell in love with him. Hillary is not a media darling. You don't fall in love with a person like Hillary. You admire and respect her.
If what we saw is who Hillary truly is, then be the Hillary we just saw. Be a President.
Hillary's performance shows she has the right stuff to be President. It is maddening that so many people chastise her for not being warm and fuzzy enough. I want the tough as nails Hillary that withstood the interrogation. I don't want a nurturing grandma in the White House.
Let Hillary be Hillary. She is tough. She is strong. She is a fighter. She will never win a miss congeniality award. Being the President is not like winning a Miss America contest.
I was beginning to feel the Bern, but there is no candidate from either party that possesses her command of international affairs and sheer strength of intellect. Barack Obama won because people fell in love with him. Hillary is not a media darling. You don't fall in love with a person like Hillary. You admire and respect her.
If what we saw is who Hillary truly is, then be the Hillary we just saw. Be a President.
59
Watching the hapless Republicans reminds me of Mark Twain's saying: "Im sure not all Republicans are bad people, but I never met one who wasn't." (or words to that effect. Happy Birthday, Madam future President.
27
The Republicans elected Hillary president.
14
To my fellow gender bearers -
Come on women - its time to bring our Hilary home to the WH!
Its time we showed not just our daughters - but even more so our sons that all women count - the success of our children's future depends on a World where it doesn't matter if you are born a boy or a girl - you have the god given potential to be anyone you choose to be.
This election cycle - everyone in this country eligible to vote MUST vote. Let's show special interest groups, PACs and the far right caucus' that America is a country with a beating heart and a welcoming soul. There is no room for anger, intolerance, racism and inequality. It's also time to get rid of the Second Amendment in its entirety. Why do we need toys that kill and maim. Let's learn to enjoy life - not take it. Yes, we will all still have our freedom and our Rights - but do we truly believe that a gun in every hand will keep this country stronger then a pen and a piece of paper.
The pen IS always mightier than the sword! Let's put a pen in every child's hand.
And... oh yes, HB Mrs. Clinton.
Come on women - its time to bring our Hilary home to the WH!
Its time we showed not just our daughters - but even more so our sons that all women count - the success of our children's future depends on a World where it doesn't matter if you are born a boy or a girl - you have the god given potential to be anyone you choose to be.
This election cycle - everyone in this country eligible to vote MUST vote. Let's show special interest groups, PACs and the far right caucus' that America is a country with a beating heart and a welcoming soul. There is no room for anger, intolerance, racism and inequality. It's also time to get rid of the Second Amendment in its entirety. Why do we need toys that kill and maim. Let's learn to enjoy life - not take it. Yes, we will all still have our freedom and our Rights - but do we truly believe that a gun in every hand will keep this country stronger then a pen and a piece of paper.
The pen IS always mightier than the sword! Let's put a pen in every child's hand.
And... oh yes, HB Mrs. Clinton.
12
I was incredibly proud of Secretary Clinton. She exhibited the calm and cool demeanor we need in a Commander in Chief.
17
Please try to convince leftists to register Democrat and vote in primaries for Clinton, not Sanders, as a show of solidarity and a message that the sane half of the country intends to hold on to the White House.
12
A marathon in hostile terrain and Clinton came through without a scratch against the overly emotive, undignified, tea party-republicans. Yet, Clinton's policy proposals don't go the distance for our country's future, as do Sander's proposals, nor does her political history. Wishing Clinton a happy birthday and will see what tomorrow brings in the campaigns.
6
It was an amazing performance. I can't believe the democrats on the committee let it go on so long unless she told them to just let it roll. draco malfoy's illegitimate son and his clowns looked really bad, but that was to be expected.
12
I opt for a new rule in this country --- dead men do not score political points for either party!
2
The House Select committee on the koala bear will meet immediately!
The koala's emails will be included in the committee's $20 million dollar activities, too! Just the mysterious fact that this mammal (Phascolarctos cinereus) is only awake for a few hours daily, is cause for concern! Please stay tuned!
The koala's emails will be included in the committee's $20 million dollar activities, too! Just the mysterious fact that this mammal (Phascolarctos cinereus) is only awake for a few hours daily, is cause for concern! Please stay tuned!
7
he best moment of the Benghazi day was at the end when she walked to the dais and shook hands with all the committee, and that wonderful full-faced smile radiated through all. Each Republican member could not help but respond with a sheepish grin in return. That was statesmanship on display.
Go, Hillary, go!
Go, Hillary, go!
27
Interesting. By honing her lying skills, HRC glosses over her "record" of incompetence. Ironically, because she has been in the hot seat due to her dubious conduct over two decades and thus has had ample opportunity to polish her performances, she gains praise and admiration. Just what the country needs- a wheeler and dealer in the WH with baggage to boot.
4
Many women will vote for Hillary, as well as the men who are strong enough themselves to admire strong and intelligent women. And Hillary is a prime example of a highly intelligent, experienced, inwardly stalwart and unshakable person, who happens to be a woman.
25
I think Donald Trump is gift enough for Hillary plus all of the press has chosen her before the election.
1
The most poignant moment in the testimony in case you missed it was when I think following comments by Elijah Cummings late in the session she said something like this: "We need to move to a point where we (in our government) all act like statesmen, work together and not as partisans. We can't go on like this."
After 25 years of "GOP currents" I saw her tear up.
After 25 years of "GOP currents" I saw her tear up.
15
Ms. Clinton, in the Benghazi hearing, continued throughout the disrespectful, partisan attacks on her character, her concern for the victims in Benghazi, and having received emails from an old friend, to show respect for her angry, hateful questioners.
All attempts to throw out bait, hoping she would rise to taking it, were spectacularly unsuccessful.
All attempts to throw out bait, hoping she would rise to taking it, were spectacularly unsuccessful.
17
I am cheered by the re-emergence of our old friend Seamus.
13
Just look at her activity as Secy. State and the millions of miles traveled, the jet lag, the long meetings, the running of the state dept., the involvement in many decisions etc. The 11 hours with the yelling and shouting men and women and her calm. Yes, she has it all. No matter who the repubs put forth, the lady has it.
34
So why don't we cut to the chase. Hillary is president; donate all the billions of dollars of campaign money to charity, and save us all a year of bloviation, lies, and accusations.
And let Bernie and Elizabeth have the task of reigning in the criminal Banksters and Wall Street shysters. Appoint at least one Obama to the SCOTUS, overturn Citizens United, restore Glass-Stiegal.
And let Bernie and Elizabeth have the task of reigning in the criminal Banksters and Wall Street shysters. Appoint at least one Obama to the SCOTUS, overturn Citizens United, restore Glass-Stiegal.
21
At the Benghazi hearings, Hillary Clinton demonstrated for all to see that she does indeed have the right stuff to be president. She has grit, she has wit, she has the knowledge, she has the wisdom. Whether she can generate enough enthusiasm among supporters, I don't know. But there is no one on the republican side who can match her list of qualifications and her demeanor.
19
Hillary Clinton has shown me that she is made of far sterner and better stuff than I had given her credit for.
But she and her supporters should not celebrate too much. The polls show her widening the gap between her and Bernie but, as I read in a story by Rick Perlstein in the Washington Spectator, pollsters are still not calling cell phones and Bernie is still drawing tens of thousands of people to his campaign. At the end of July he did a video feed to thousands of house parties around the Nation. They expected 30,000 to participate....100,000 was the final number. (Why aren't these things reported in the NYTimes?)
Remember in 2008 and 2012 when polls showed McCain and Romney ahead.
I am still holding out hope for the revolution Sander's is calling for and to see a non-establishment president really shake things up for the oligarchs. If Clinton is the eventual nominee and elected she will still need that revolution to rid the Senate and Congress of the radicals and fascist who have wrested control of those two bodies.
Go Bernie, but Hillary would do.
But she and her supporters should not celebrate too much. The polls show her widening the gap between her and Bernie but, as I read in a story by Rick Perlstein in the Washington Spectator, pollsters are still not calling cell phones and Bernie is still drawing tens of thousands of people to his campaign. At the end of July he did a video feed to thousands of house parties around the Nation. They expected 30,000 to participate....100,000 was the final number. (Why aren't these things reported in the NYTimes?)
Remember in 2008 and 2012 when polls showed McCain and Romney ahead.
I am still holding out hope for the revolution Sander's is calling for and to see a non-establishment president really shake things up for the oligarchs. If Clinton is the eventual nominee and elected she will still need that revolution to rid the Senate and Congress of the radicals and fascist who have wrested control of those two bodies.
Go Bernie, but Hillary would do.
12
Hillary came across as calm, intelligent, in-command, and ready to be President. Thank you "Select Committee on Benghazi" for giving her an opportunity to once again prove to the World that she's a great candidate to be our first female president. I was a strong supporter of Barack Obama in 2008, and didn't approve of Mrs. Clinton's tactics against him. This time around, however -- even though I like and admire Bernie Sanders a lot -- I'll vote for Hillary, as she's the only one who, I believe, can stand up to the crazies in the Republican Party (come to think of it, that's the entire Republican Party). It is time for the Democrats to stop pretending that the know-nothing Republicans have something important to say about national (or local) politics. It is no longer possible to tolerate their craziness; we should all stand up and tell to their faces that they're crazies and should just go away. Let us stand firmly for our values and principles, treat the crazies as people whose utterances need not be heard (nor tolerated), and move our Country toward lasting peace and prosperity without them. Enough airtime has already been given to warmongers and religious zealots who'd like to take us back to the age of the Cross Wars. Enough patience has been shown to proponents of hate and division and nastiness and trickle-down economics. Enough is enough. Let's ignore them (emphatically) and move on with our progressive agenda. (And, by the way Gail, the Koala comparison was delicious!)
31
Okay. So Hillary is better than all the Republican nut jobs. But this is still business as usual, corporations and billionaires picking the President while the hinterland keeps sending nation-destroying representatives to Congress. All due to redistricting, disenfranchising voters, and because those same powerful few are writing the laws and buying the courts.
9
Wow. I thought raising the most money from rich donors was all that qualified one for the Presidency. It seems as if maintaining a calm demeanor throughout a tough questioning session is also seen by many as sufficient qualification.
Except that a President often has to face situations where hours and days of preparation and rehearsals are not always an option.
Except that a President often has to face situations where hours and days of preparation and rehearsals are not always an option.
7
What a pleasure it is to read comment after comment giving credit where credit is due. My hope going forward is that perhaps Secretary Clinton's extraordinary substance gives a majority of Americans the desire to press the pause button, look around, and ask and answer the question, "Who and what do we want to be after next November?" Barring any miracles on the Republican side, the choices we face are as stark and frightening as they have ever been. During the next year we will see and hear a lot of politics. I beg that we remember the eleven extraordinary hours witnessed last Thursday and when we vote, say thank you to the woman who has given us hope.
22
Practice makes perfect. Voters should not be fooled by a polished performance which is no prediction of competence on the job.
Obama's polished campaigning did not predict his hesitant decision making regarding prosecuting war criminals or Wall Street banksters. He let everyone get away with everything, despite his campaign promises.
My vote goes to Bernie Sanders based on his long track record of making ethical decisions as a legislator. Speaking ability is learned behavior and should be weighted accordingly.
Obama's polished campaigning did not predict his hesitant decision making regarding prosecuting war criminals or Wall Street banksters. He let everyone get away with everything, despite his campaign promises.
My vote goes to Bernie Sanders based on his long track record of making ethical decisions as a legislator. Speaking ability is learned behavior and should be weighted accordingly.
13
Most commentators - including Bruni - said Hillary did better in the debate although I thought Sanders won. My vote is still with Bernie. However, after Mme. Secretary's killer-hit against clumsy, inexperienced, * (what's the opposite of intelligent?), frivolous Republicans and her poise and command of statecraft (political guile?), I'm willing to split my vote. I'll give her about 10% of my vote. Ah, well, what the heck, 25%.
[Unrelated but topical: Before the sun sets, can we have Kissinger in the stand?]
[Unrelated but topical: Before the sun sets, can we have Kissinger in the stand?]
9
It was an 11 hour job interview. Hillary was ready at almost every turn. And at the end of that day, I suspect, a majority of Americans are closer to getting ready for her.
What was refreshing for me to see was how all the Democrats on the panel fell into support for her. I've seen a *few* of these panels over the years and although I know the drill, one party grills while the other party defends the witness, it was still such a relief to see 5 Senators stand and deliver in support of her. They were unequivocal. they are ready for Hillary also.
The Clintons have always won endurance games with the press and the politico. They both understand the role America should be playing at home and abroad. They are both children of the New Deal and the War on Poverty. I suspect we're all ready to see that version of American dream back front and center.
What was refreshing for me to see was how all the Democrats on the panel fell into support for her. I've seen a *few* of these panels over the years and although I know the drill, one party grills while the other party defends the witness, it was still such a relief to see 5 Senators stand and deliver in support of her. They were unequivocal. they are ready for Hillary also.
The Clintons have always won endurance games with the press and the politico. They both understand the role America should be playing at home and abroad. They are both children of the New Deal and the War on Poverty. I suspect we're all ready to see that version of American dream back front and center.
31
She has taken her husband's mantle: The Comeback Kid.
Her performance on Thursday was an 11 hour commercial for her stamina, her mental toughness as an executive, and her knowledge and recall.
The turkeys that were the Republicans showed themselves to be arrogant, ignorant, and just plain inept about even trying to prosecute her. The right crowed its disappointment.
I do not agree with her on several issues especially in foreign policy however on Thursday she demonstrated beyond a reasonable doubt that she is ready. I understand that she has trust issues but I look at the others and really have very serious doubts about their competence and what they will do in the mideast and with Russia.
Having said that I will vote for Bernie Sanders in the primary but will have no problem in voting for her in the general...she has much more executive skill and intelligence than the "gang who can't shoot straight" which is entertaining us right now...no statespersons there.
Happy Birthday HRC.
Her performance on Thursday was an 11 hour commercial for her stamina, her mental toughness as an executive, and her knowledge and recall.
The turkeys that were the Republicans showed themselves to be arrogant, ignorant, and just plain inept about even trying to prosecute her. The right crowed its disappointment.
I do not agree with her on several issues especially in foreign policy however on Thursday she demonstrated beyond a reasonable doubt that she is ready. I understand that she has trust issues but I look at the others and really have very serious doubts about their competence and what they will do in the mideast and with Russia.
Having said that I will vote for Bernie Sanders in the primary but will have no problem in voting for her in the general...she has much more executive skill and intelligence than the "gang who can't shoot straight" which is entertaining us right now...no statespersons there.
Happy Birthday HRC.
30
The Benghazi hearings and the grilling of Anita Hill by the Democrats have both done wonders for the women of the United States. They have been so unjust as to fire up the supporters of women's rights and made heroes of both Hillary and Anita Hill. Congratulations to both of these women for being models for the rest of us who sometimes get discouraged with the way things are.
Thank you, Hillary and Anita. And while I am at it, thank you Ruth Bader Ginsberg.
Thank you, Hillary and Anita. And while I am at it, thank you Ruth Bader Ginsberg.
33
Cecile Richards too.
1
Much like a Fox News interview, where hectoring and bullying are the norm, this Beghazi committee de jour displayed for all to see what has become of today's Republican Party. I can imagine what President must have been thinking: "wow, they hate her almost as much as they hate me, and she isn't even President yet." And they hate her in the same way that school yard bullies hate the smart kids. It is time for my a republican friends to do some soul searching because their party has lost theirs.
39
Hilary was the smartest one in that room, hands down.
She has her flaws, but I don't see any candidate on either side of the aisle that appears more Presidential than Hillary.
She has her flaws, but I don't see any candidate on either side of the aisle that appears more Presidential than Hillary.
26
Head of State should broader vision and grip on general situation where as team of professional takes care of minutiae.The lady,Hillary demonstrated that in 11 hours grill that unfortunately wasted time trying to expose her weaker side forgetting to focus on tragic death ambassador and others. You did well and your conduct augers well the entire nation of USA. Be blessed on your birth day
8
Now imagine Hillary debating sweat-drenched man-boy Rubio.
This election is over.
This election is over.
23
The Republican Party needs to end its addiction to obstruction. They offer nothing to us but repeal of ObamaCare, climate change denial, permanent tax cuts, Benghazi insanity, Islamophobia, anti-immigrant and anti-poor hatred, intrusion on women's rights. The list only grows.
We would have seen George W Bush and Dick Cheney face the 9/11 commission (on TV screens) if Republicans were serious about national security.
As for Hillary's performance, she won my vote for 2016.
We would have seen George W Bush and Dick Cheney face the 9/11 commission (on TV screens) if Republicans were serious about national security.
As for Hillary's performance, she won my vote for 2016.
24
Something that is rarely mentioned about Hillary Clinton is her 2006 US Senate race. In her 6 years from 2000 to 2006, Clinton won the support and admiration of virtually ALL of New York's Upstate counties, which usually were strong Republican areas. She did this with both trust and "like-ability" The Republicans could hardly show a presence. When Upstate Republican areas got to know her, they supported her. Today, there is hardly a person who can remember who her Republican opponent was.
32
You are absolutely correct, Kevin. We have always loved Hillary up here!
1
Wasn't it that goofy Lazio fellow who tried to tower over her in a debate and lost the race right then?
1
An adumbration of things to come. Hillary will hold up well during the inevitable impeachment hearings should she become President.
3
She's 68? Wow! And she out-performed the bunch of pygmies Boehner put on that Benghazi inquisition?
She was attacked as being responsible for everything in Libya, including four deaths. Anyone who implies that an ambassador should get special treatment because he's a friend of the Sec must be a Republican. Anyone who thinks her job description involves detailed oversight of security is nuts. Anyone who thinks she's responsible for CIA security is sick.
If further evidence of the true purpose of that committee is political, consider why HC was grilled, badgered, and insulted for so long because of deaths she had no way or procedural mechanism of controlling. Will the CIA get the same nastiness? I doubt it. (Those eight dwarves are not only a disgrace to the GOP, they disgrace America.)
The Benghazi-rot pervades society. Andrea Mitchell, veteran reporter and interviewer (and wife of Alan Greenspan) faulted the committee for not exploring “who lost Libya?”. In her incorrigible neo-con opinion, Libya was a US asset or whatever. And someone mislaid it.
Part of the fuss about Benghazi is still about the various administration statements in the immediate aftermath. The drafting of those statements occurred in a changing scene, but the attack on their content, apart from being childish, was aimed at saying that Obama had again stolen an election. Therefore, he remained an illegitimate president. We have an illegitimate House of Representatives. God help us all!
She was attacked as being responsible for everything in Libya, including four deaths. Anyone who implies that an ambassador should get special treatment because he's a friend of the Sec must be a Republican. Anyone who thinks her job description involves detailed oversight of security is nuts. Anyone who thinks she's responsible for CIA security is sick.
If further evidence of the true purpose of that committee is political, consider why HC was grilled, badgered, and insulted for so long because of deaths she had no way or procedural mechanism of controlling. Will the CIA get the same nastiness? I doubt it. (Those eight dwarves are not only a disgrace to the GOP, they disgrace America.)
The Benghazi-rot pervades society. Andrea Mitchell, veteran reporter and interviewer (and wife of Alan Greenspan) faulted the committee for not exploring “who lost Libya?”. In her incorrigible neo-con opinion, Libya was a US asset or whatever. And someone mislaid it.
Part of the fuss about Benghazi is still about the various administration statements in the immediate aftermath. The drafting of those statements occurred in a changing scene, but the attack on their content, apart from being childish, was aimed at saying that Obama had again stolen an election. Therefore, he remained an illegitimate president. We have an illegitimate House of Representatives. God help us all!
22
Time was I simply could not warm to Hillary Clinton. Now I have grown to see her as an intelligent woman beleaguered by both evil people and idiots. What woman cannot identify with this?
57
Gowdy's haircut was enough to win the day for Hillary. I wanted to watch more, but I had a hard time watching the pack of weasels.
16
GOP may not have laid a glove on her (actually, they laid several, but we’ll adopt the columnist’s stance), but as usual, Hillary was her worst enemy. There’s clear evidence that she lied. At least once under oath; probably, a few more times on Thursday. But many times to the American people.
With so many questions about her financial dealings and those of her family, her thin resumé of actual accomplishments, her clear comfort with lying to the American public, and a wealth of good options available from sides of the political sphere, why does anyone really want to settle for Hillary for President?
With so many questions about her financial dealings and those of her family, her thin resumé of actual accomplishments, her clear comfort with lying to the American public, and a wealth of good options available from sides of the political sphere, why does anyone really want to settle for Hillary for President?
2
So you are admitting that the Benghazi Committee was about entrapment rather than trying to understand what happened and why?
Isn't this a gross abuse of government power?
Isn't this a gross abuse of government power?
12
I’ve been saying for decades now that being a good mother is the best preparation for management – that Eisenhower gets so much credit for managing the Normandy invasion, but working mothers do the equivalent every day!
One thing that even her harshest critics have to admit about Hillary Clinton is that, whatever else she was doing at the time, her daughter always was her first priority. Despite growing up in a governor’s mansion and the White House, Chelsea seems to have been a fairly normal child and now seems to be a rather pleasant, mature and well-balanced adult. Which means that Hillary has survived, managed & triumphed over Terrible-Two tantrums, five-year-old dawdling at bedtime, ten-year-old sass, and teen-age snark, eye-rolling, dumb choices, and, at times, adamant refusal to believe, despite evidence to the contrary, that Mom might know best, isn’t trying to deprive her of anything, and actually is right.
So, why are so many people surprised at the way Hillary handled the Benghazi Republicans, who displayed all of these traits, over *only* 10+ hours? She’d already done it all, over a much longer stretch, and for even higher stakes.
One thing that even her harshest critics have to admit about Hillary Clinton is that, whatever else she was doing at the time, her daughter always was her first priority. Despite growing up in a governor’s mansion and the White House, Chelsea seems to have been a fairly normal child and now seems to be a rather pleasant, mature and well-balanced adult. Which means that Hillary has survived, managed & triumphed over Terrible-Two tantrums, five-year-old dawdling at bedtime, ten-year-old sass, and teen-age snark, eye-rolling, dumb choices, and, at times, adamant refusal to believe, despite evidence to the contrary, that Mom might know best, isn’t trying to deprive her of anything, and actually is right.
So, why are so many people surprised at the way Hillary handled the Benghazi Republicans, who displayed all of these traits, over *only* 10+ hours? She’d already done it all, over a much longer stretch, and for even higher stakes.
42
Great Stuff again Gail. A lot of important stuff happened in Politics this week. Canada got rid of their dictator, and Hillary won the American voters (the few that do vote), with her Presidential like showing in front of the Republican clowns.
It's amazing how small minded, vindictive people have no sense of humor or shame. Keep exposing the crazies for what they are, fools!
It's amazing how small minded, vindictive people have no sense of humor or shame. Keep exposing the crazies for what they are, fools!
23
What Difference At this Point Does it Make?
The question that Ms. Clinton memorably raised in response to grillings at an earlier hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations committee increasingly looks like it could be turned back upon her accusers. At the time, her dismissive response looked premature and aloof, but as the Benghazi Inquisition went on and on without evidence of a smoking gun, it increasingly looked like a fair question to ask.
A couple of questions remain, will the Benghazi Gang resort to Water-Boarding? Who is that Alabama woman sleeping with? Come on Trey.
The question that Ms. Clinton memorably raised in response to grillings at an earlier hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations committee increasingly looks like it could be turned back upon her accusers. At the time, her dismissive response looked premature and aloof, but as the Benghazi Inquisition went on and on without evidence of a smoking gun, it increasingly looked like a fair question to ask.
A couple of questions remain, will the Benghazi Gang resort to Water-Boarding? Who is that Alabama woman sleeping with? Come on Trey.
19
The Republicans, those crazy, mixed up kids, seem to be having lots of trouble completing their pranks. Years back they declared they would pull every trick in their book to destroy President Obama = didn't work. Just a day ago, they pulled one of their scummier pranks to try to destroy Potential President Clinton and her credibility = didn't work. Now, they can't seem to get their act together long enough to select their own Lord of the Flies.
40
The Republicans' efforts to ensnare Hillary Clinton in a trap reminds me of Wile E Coyote's ceaseless efforts to trap the Road Runner, only to find himself in the trap(s) he constantly sets up to catch the bird.
I guess Trey Gowdy and his cohorts were hoping that scheduling a hearing and pummeling her with questions for 11 hours would wear Mrs. Clinton down and make her say something stupid that they could use for political gain. Instead, they wound up looking stupid in the process.
I guess Trey Gowdy and his cohorts were hoping that scheduling a hearing and pummeling her with questions for 11 hours would wear Mrs. Clinton down and make her say something stupid that they could use for political gain. Instead, they wound up looking stupid in the process.
204
I am surprised that no one has suggested an analogy to the Monty Python skit about the witch - it's perfect. All the Republicans on the committee yelling "Burn her, burn her," and Rep. Gowdy squeaking "She turned me into a newt."
18
I'm now looking forward to the Presidential deabtes between Hillary and whatever genius the Republicans decide to choose to run against her. Ben Carson? Donald Trump? If the Reps thought they looked bad at these hearings they haven't seen anything yet.
17
I understand that Bill Clinton and some other heavy-hitting fundraisers will be out and about doing their thing for Hillary over the next few weeks. Their job just got easier! I'd bet the cash haul for this reporting period will be around $80 million. And, this will be a great Christmas present too!
8
I like to thank Republican Party to present the Clinton as President of US to the American people. The Bengazi hearing is the ideal set up to demonstrate the grace, intelligence, endurance, eloquence, authority, and many other strengths required to be a President. Clinton showed these strengths to American people in the Bengazi hearing and in the voting booths this image will definitely play its part. Thank you Republican Party for this gift on her birth day.
15
I don't get it. Hillary wins by pleading incompetence. Can someone explain that reasoning?
4
Hillary is playing a different game than the GOP as personified by the Cruz/Gowdy clan. Cruz and Gowdy play little rhetorical "gotcha" games using high school debate team tactics to talk their opponents into a corner.
7
At the end of the day Americans are going to decide what kind of person they want to represent the nation. Among the top choices: someone measured and poised, who thinks on her feet, has a firm grasp of the issues, and can articulate them clearly and calmly; someone who says that slain students "shouldn't just have stood there and let themselves be killed" while his eyelids droop; someone who hosts a reality TV show and calls himself "fabulous" and "beautiful" and claims to be the smartest guy in the world while going bankrupt repeatedly; or someone who can't give a 15-minute rehearsed rebuttal from a prepared text without breaking out in a sweat and drinking copious water.
20
Hillary had one advantage in the hearings. She did not need to take it personally as she knew the questions had nothing to do with Benghazi and all to do with defeating her as a Presidential candidate. So she could afford to sit back a little and watch the clowns jump through their hoops
The adversity of running for the presidency and taking the fire of crazed Republicans has honed her into a strong woman and candidate, our best hope to blunt the shrill charge of the GOP reactionaries.
The adversity of running for the presidency and taking the fire of crazed Republicans has honed her into a strong woman and candidate, our best hope to blunt the shrill charge of the GOP reactionaries.
27
You would think that after all their experience with the Clintons that the Republicans would stop thinking that now this time we will outsmart them ---NO, NO, NO. The deep problem for the GOP is all the adults have left the room, the ones that would say: "don't do that." All that is left, and that includes Paul Ryan, are substitute teachers --- and we all know the fate of substitute teachers in the hands of poorly disciplined class.
25
No matter how well Clinton did on Thursday it will not change the fact that she will be beholden to the likes of the Monsantos of Wall St.
Nor will it change her hawkishness.
She has shifted to the left for the meantime to lure in progressives, which she is NOT, not matter her claim. She will shift back to her more Republican Lite tact
if she becomes president. She is still untrustworthy.
Nor will it change her hawkishness.
She has shifted to the left for the meantime to lure in progressives, which she is NOT, not matter her claim. She will shift back to her more Republican Lite tact
if she becomes president. She is still untrustworthy.
4
GOP has been gutting American education for about 30 years now, and they're starting to see the result.
13
Do you see why Libya is a mess. The problem is here. There is no rational solution here. There are crazies on both sides of the isle. It's not a question of the smartest getting ahead but the dumbest tripping over their feet. Democracy is wonderful, especially talking about it and practicing what we witnessed.
1
Those four men died needlessly. They were ignored by their own State Department thanks to some twisted belief that security would dampen the chill vibe Hillary wanted. She then tells a whopper of a lie... The YouTube video.. Just to improve democrat chances during the election.
She cared nothing for those fine men
She cared nothing for those fine men
3
Always good to send her a Happy Birthday via the internet, though "this week has given her all the presents she needs." Showing affection is probably the best gift ever.
5
Better yet, make a donation. Even a very small symbolic one to drive up the total number of contributors.
1
How many of us sit for that many hours without a potty break? On national TV, our every move scrutinized? And listening to potty mouth inquisitors? Without breaking a sweat? Wow.
18
Clinton's "endurance" and "staying power" were impressive.
The revelation in her e-mails that she was dishonest and misleading in her public statements about Benghazi are "depressive".
The euphoric claims of her supporters that "nothing new" was uncovered by her testimony, can only be true if everyone knew and accepted that she and the Obama administration were dishonest and covered up the Benghazi disaster for their own political gains.
The revelation in her e-mails that she was dishonest and misleading in her public statements about Benghazi are "depressive".
The euphoric claims of her supporters that "nothing new" was uncovered by her testimony, can only be true if everyone knew and accepted that she and the Obama administration were dishonest and covered up the Benghazi disaster for their own political gains.
I suppose if you think clumsy mendacity is funny, you might have enjoyed the forced victory dance in this column. But I challenge any liberal to read the following and then celebrate the documented machinations of their hero:
http://www.nationalreview.com/article/426019/hillary-clinton-benghazi-liar
Happy Birthday, Hillary. As a woman who has turned obstruction of justice into a fine art, you still have much to answer for. The Republican nominee will be much less accommodating in the actual campaign than your stalking-horse opponent Bernie Sanders who proved he had no intention of wanting to win the nomination during your so-called debate. That's the problem with coronations: they are just so predictable.
It's the Republicans vs. the Socialists. Bring it on, to quote GW Bush.
http://www.nationalreview.com/article/426019/hillary-clinton-benghazi-liar
Happy Birthday, Hillary. As a woman who has turned obstruction of justice into a fine art, you still have much to answer for. The Republican nominee will be much less accommodating in the actual campaign than your stalking-horse opponent Bernie Sanders who proved he had no intention of wanting to win the nomination during your so-called debate. That's the problem with coronations: they are just so predictable.
It's the Republicans vs. the Socialists. Bring it on, to quote GW Bush.
2
I think it's time for an IRS investigation of Republicans using taxpayer dollars for political purposes, especially now that they're planning a Pkanned Parenthood Committee. I vehemently object to my federal tax payments being used this way.
19
A preview of what's to come if she is elected. A serial liar who claims to take responsibility but never telling us what for. Protected by the media who lack objectivity and will do anything to protect their "queen".
A rich person who acquired their wealth the old fashion way, stealing it from the people in the name of helping others. A panderer of every interset group on the earth and even willing to make some of them up.
In the end and after all of the dust settles and she faces a real challenge from her opponent, all of this phony stuff will be exposed and then we'll wonder how could anyone have been fooled by all of these charades? Kind of like the last 7-years under Obama
A rich person who acquired their wealth the old fashion way, stealing it from the people in the name of helping others. A panderer of every interset group on the earth and even willing to make some of them up.
In the end and after all of the dust settles and she faces a real challenge from her opponent, all of this phony stuff will be exposed and then we'll wonder how could anyone have been fooled by all of these charades? Kind of like the last 7-years under Obama
2
Mrs. William Jefferson Clinton is younger than either Queen Elizabeth I was at her death (69) and Queen Elizabeth II (89) currently is and still going strong. But longevity, like seniority, is meaningless. Age is the only claim that Methuselah ever had for notice and remembrance. Both Mr. Reagan and Mrs. Clinton dyed their hair to fight against their ancient aged hoary status. But neither had a claim to divine royal nor prophet sanction. Hillary will be 68 years old. Her youth and middle age are history.
1
Happy Birthday to one smart, strong, good woman! The amount of energy the Repubs have put into trying to smear her for the last twenty plus years could fuel the country. Her energy is what we need, and age is less a factor than health and determination, and to judge by her recent appearance before the Faux-gazi hearing, she's got more than enough grit and gumption.
13
I've made up my mind, and I'll gladly vote for Hillary. She's the right person for the job and for the country.
The Republicans are hopeless--their policies, their tactics, their infighting. Their candidates are buffoons. Their cow-towing to religious fundamentalists is very troubling, and their idea to deny millions of people health care is obscene. Their leaders can't even control their own members. How can they possibly run the country?
The Republicans are hopeless--their policies, their tactics, their infighting. Their candidates are buffoons. Their cow-towing to religious fundamentalists is very troubling, and their idea to deny millions of people health care is obscene. Their leaders can't even control their own members. How can they possibly run the country?
23
After the concussion and her run as Secretary of State, she didn't look healthy and that gave me pause when thinking about her as president.
Republicans did her an enormous favor here, since she outlasted all of them, looking as vibrant and sharp after 11 hours of interrogation as at the beginning. Republicans reassured me that she has the stamina to be President.
Republicans did her an enormous favor here, since she outlasted all of them, looking as vibrant and sharp after 11 hours of interrogation as at the beginning. Republicans reassured me that she has the stamina to be President.
16
The public won't, as Ms. Collins suggests, "Remember the question about Sidney Blumenthal's email?" But it is very likely during the campaign Republican ads will remind people she told the Egyptian Prime Minister the day after attack "We know the attack had nothing to do with the film. It was a planned attack, not a protest." Yet she had just told the American people the attacks were related to the video and protests. This goes to the core of problem Mrs. Clinton faces, which is the perception she is less than forthcoming. To say, as she did in the hearings, she still believed the video played a part in the attacks when her own words the day after suggest she had not initially believed that just underscores the problem. The Benghazi hearings may ultimately not be the triumph they are now seen as.
2
For decades I have believed Bill Clinton is the coolest cat on the planet. Really, I should have realized that behind every successful man is a woman. We saw Bill turn the hounding of the Republicans into political hay. On Thursday we saw Hillary turn the Republicans into hayseed. Nothing left for her to do except use her pitchfork now and then.
13
Wondering if the NYT will post a comment critical of Hilary during this phase of public sympathy:
The Committee hearing played to Hilary's strengths. She's an outstanding and highly skilled debater, and has had to become immensely enduring to survive the decades of controversy accompanying her husband's career. Her political future was at stake and the hearing gave her the chance to do what she does best.
Lost amidst clouds of media sympathy, the Committee did disclose her late night email to Chelsea that the attack was an al Quaida type operation, and did disclose her next-day conversations with Libya's and Egypt's leaders that the attack was organized--not an emotional response to a U-tube video.
She knew all this during the pre-election weeks of the President's and Susan Rice's U-tube video apologies. That is immensely important new information resulting from the Committee's investigations.
The Committee hearing played to Hilary's strengths. She's an outstanding and highly skilled debater, and has had to become immensely enduring to survive the decades of controversy accompanying her husband's career. Her political future was at stake and the hearing gave her the chance to do what she does best.
Lost amidst clouds of media sympathy, the Committee did disclose her late night email to Chelsea that the attack was an al Quaida type operation, and did disclose her next-day conversations with Libya's and Egypt's leaders that the attack was organized--not an emotional response to a U-tube video.
She knew all this during the pre-election weeks of the President's and Susan Rice's U-tube video apologies. That is immensely important new information resulting from the Committee's investigations.
12
At this point there is virtually no doubt that from the night of 9/11/12 Republicans viewed the Benghazi attack as nothing more than a chance to repeatedly attack and publicly berate Hillary Clinton in an effort to harm her future political prospects.
The objective for the GOP now is to avoid losing a 3rd straight presidential election in 2016. Three is the magic number in US presidential politics. The GOP would have to seriously reform itself if it lost a 3rd straight presidential election, just as the Democrats did after losing a 3rd straight presidential election in 1988 (that defeat, ironically, is what gave Bill Clinton the confidence to see himself as a viable alternative to Carter-Mondale-Dukakis and all the big losses of the 1980s for the Democratic Party).
The objective for the GOP now is to avoid losing a 3rd straight presidential election in 2016. Three is the magic number in US presidential politics. The GOP would have to seriously reform itself if it lost a 3rd straight presidential election, just as the Democrats did after losing a 3rd straight presidential election in 1988 (that defeat, ironically, is what gave Bill Clinton the confidence to see himself as a viable alternative to Carter-Mondale-Dukakis and all the big losses of the 1980s for the Democratic Party).
6
Is anyone so brain-dead as to think that Hillary is anything more than a puppet for Bill? This couple presumably sleeps in the same bed - so will discuss everything of any significance. Bill is the family brain trust,
and she will defer to any position he has - so you are voting for Bill's third term - plain and simple.
Bill Clinton is responsible for the two greatest catastrophes to hit America and the world since WWII. First, his negligence over taking out Bin Laden led to 3000 killed on American soil on 9/11, unleashing a chain of wars,
destruction, and death that rages to this day with millions of casualties, and no end in sight. Second, Bill Clinton's elimination of Glass-Steagall brought on the great crash of 2008, which has wreaked financial havoc globally, created more income inequality, and left the world only propped up by money-printing of central banks and massive deficits that will likely cause a bigger collapse. These are his accomplisments, outside of chasing skirts around the White House.
Please be real and look past this irresponsible, disastrous, pathologically
narcissistic, opportunistic, incompetent, idiotic, and patently dishonest couple that has voraciously enriched themselves to the tune of over
$100 million while pretending to have your interests at heart - and now want to resume their rampage overseeing a world that is fraught with conflict and nuclear dangers. We would never survive it.
Billary - no; Bernie Sanders - yes. Think.
and she will defer to any position he has - so you are voting for Bill's third term - plain and simple.
Bill Clinton is responsible for the two greatest catastrophes to hit America and the world since WWII. First, his negligence over taking out Bin Laden led to 3000 killed on American soil on 9/11, unleashing a chain of wars,
destruction, and death that rages to this day with millions of casualties, and no end in sight. Second, Bill Clinton's elimination of Glass-Steagall brought on the great crash of 2008, which has wreaked financial havoc globally, created more income inequality, and left the world only propped up by money-printing of central banks and massive deficits that will likely cause a bigger collapse. These are his accomplisments, outside of chasing skirts around the White House.
Please be real and look past this irresponsible, disastrous, pathologically
narcissistic, opportunistic, incompetent, idiotic, and patently dishonest couple that has voraciously enriched themselves to the tune of over
$100 million while pretending to have your interests at heart - and now want to resume their rampage overseeing a world that is fraught with conflict and nuclear dangers. We would never survive it.
Billary - no; Bernie Sanders - yes. Think.
5
Or perhaps you should blame President Bush for events which happened on his watch. But you can give President Clinton credit for leaving behind a record surplus (which President Bush then turned into a record deficit).
2
Hillary punctuates how pitifully low our country has fallen. She has blatantly lied time and time again (under the cover of compliant media lapdogs), lined her pockets with millions running her pay-to-play scheme as secretary of state so she, Bill and their foundation could cash in on foreign donors and her foreign policies as secretary of state are a disaster. That doesn't matter to liberals and democrats (who oddly enough are fleeing the very states they destroyed for red ones) who themselves appear to lack any moral compass. Rome rotted from the inside out due to corruption and a divided society that forgot the principles that built their empire. If Hillary is elected she will continue the rot that Obama - another corrupt, lying, arrogant, unaccomplished liberal has set in motion. When our country fractures history will know why it happened - and we will know who to hold accountable.
3
Your comment makes clear the convulsive agony the far right wing is experiencing the morning after.
5
Laugh if we will. The charade of characters was straight out of Torquemada. Half the country enjoyed seeing old men with practiced dramatics go after a woman for no real reason other than the joy of so doing, and rejoiced with glee (Fox serving as cheerleader).
Not one among the republicans said: "stop! this is insane. Four brave Americans died. Looking for scapegoats motivated by misogyny, and hatred of Hillary is un-American."
Shame on Republicans. But shame on us too. We have a body politics that allows, tolerates this political theater. It explains the heady rise of 'politics as auction' Trump.
I know this, I will work extra hard, try my darnedest, and put aside any concern about Hillary - to get her elected next November. I am ready to send a strong "bleep you forever" to the band of misogynistic drama queens of the Republican party. You can count on it.
Kalidan
Not one among the republicans said: "stop! this is insane. Four brave Americans died. Looking for scapegoats motivated by misogyny, and hatred of Hillary is un-American."
Shame on Republicans. But shame on us too. We have a body politics that allows, tolerates this political theater. It explains the heady rise of 'politics as auction' Trump.
I know this, I will work extra hard, try my darnedest, and put aside any concern about Hillary - to get her elected next November. I am ready to send a strong "bleep you forever" to the band of misogynistic drama queens of the Republican party. You can count on it.
Kalidan
29
I'm old enough to have watched classic moments in politics play out on television. For sheer drama, nothing could top Watergate and the Saturday night massacre of the Justice Department by President Nixon. For making your skin crawl, the Anita Hill hearing was impossible to beat. The Benghazi Committee Hearing with Hillary Clinton could not reach those levels of drama because there was no drama to be had. But I think it will take its place in American politics as a touchstone of political futility, of a party with a Moby Dick obsession that eventually dragged it under. It's taken sixty years to displace the McCarthy hearings as a show of the partisan incompetence of Congress.
31
She was so poised, so articulate, so clearly knowledgeable and so patient with broken-record questioning - she put her inquisitors to shame.
16
Bernie Sanders is wonderful, but I worry about his health. He doesn't seem to have that center of calmness and strength that Hillary has cultivated. She's probably endured these marathons in her SOS job. She had my vote after I watched her encounter with the black lives matter rep. She was respectful, good at listening, masterful, wise, and helped guide the guy towards a path that might help the cause better. And it was all unscripted. She not only has my vote, but she's my model for how to deal with stress, big time. Wow.
19
She still won't get my vote unless several things happen, but I do admire and respect her for her performance at this piece of show theater.
1
Perhaps HC can spend a couple of reflective moments thinking about life, liberty and pursuit of happiness of those lost lives she affected.
2
She's probably still too busy thinking about that conspiracy to murder Vince Foster to think about how she also killed four people in Benghazi.
In the meantime, George W. Bush seems to sleep like a baby at night despite the thousands killed on his watch and the thousands more he sent to their deaths in a pointless, lie-based war. He mostly likes to clear brush and make child-like paintings of his toes in the bathtub.
In the meantime, George W. Bush seems to sleep like a baby at night despite the thousands killed on his watch and the thousands more he sent to their deaths in a pointless, lie-based war. He mostly likes to clear brush and make child-like paintings of his toes in the bathtub.
2
I watched the Bengazi trial from one and to the other, and I did so to see how so many mean men and women converge on one courageous woman. Meaningless questions and meaningless accusations. Questioning someone for 11 hours amounted to torture and I mean it. Most importantly the whole affair demonstrated the sorry state of the American politics. Is this the country that we hope to be the leader of the Free World?
18
No. Our time has passed. We are in an irreversible death spiral.
Ok, Hillary has had some good weeks lately. She has firmed up her support while making Republicans look as looney as they are. Truly beautiful. If everything holds, she will win big over the cracker barrels of hate and ignorance. With that realistic probability, how do we get her a Democratic Congress? Will enough of those gerrymandered districts flip-for-Hillary? Will the Republicans prove they are the party of small thinking but big propaganda? Will the "You Lie!" dunce heads meet their rapture and sink into the cess pools of their own making? Will intelligence win over stupidity?
13
I watched almost all of the hearing. Hillary blew me away.
How could this the same person who held the world's worst press conference after the email "scandal" broke?
I'm going to have to look into that yoga stuff.
How could this the same person who held the world's worst press conference after the email "scandal" broke?
I'm going to have to look into that yoga stuff.
13
Good funny column.
This was a performance for the ages - elegant, erudite, passionate, informed, articulate.
Wow, with the type of questioning she could have blown her top dozens of times. For sure I would have.
Even the haters accept Rhodes scholar Bill Clinton is a serious intellect but I doubt if he could have given an equal performance as HRC.
Every Republican on the Committee was severely diminished and the Republican members repeatedly saying it was ONLY about 4 dead Americans was abject and despicable and transparently a tissue of lies.
Some of us have been wobbly in regard to voting for HRC - I thank you Kevin McCarthy, Trey Gowdy and your supporters for obliterating comprehensively any doubts that we had on that decision. ONLY, in this respect your "Committee" has done a service to the nation.
This was a performance for the ages - elegant, erudite, passionate, informed, articulate.
Wow, with the type of questioning she could have blown her top dozens of times. For sure I would have.
Even the haters accept Rhodes scholar Bill Clinton is a serious intellect but I doubt if he could have given an equal performance as HRC.
Every Republican on the Committee was severely diminished and the Republican members repeatedly saying it was ONLY about 4 dead Americans was abject and despicable and transparently a tissue of lies.
Some of us have been wobbly in regard to voting for HRC - I thank you Kevin McCarthy, Trey Gowdy and your supporters for obliterating comprehensively any doubts that we had on that decision. ONLY, in this respect your "Committee" has done a service to the nation.
17
They all but guaranteed her election and confirmed my long held belief that evil always self destructs.
2
When I got home from work I turned on the TV and was surprised to see that it was still going on. I flipped through the channels and quickly figured out when I discovered that Fox News was not broadcasting it live, that Hillary must be holding her own!
20
Jack Benny was 39 well into his 70's, when he finally conceded that, no, he really wasn't 39...he was 40. And there he stayed until he died at the age of 80 human years. That, coincidentally, was on my 28th birthday; and (maybe not so coincidentally) another great comedian, W.C. Fields, died a few hours after I was born. The holidays are fraught times.
So, anyway, I'm 10 months older than HIllary. And I have yet reach the full sagacity that age bestows. Learning is a lifelong endeavor. Why, just this morning I learned I should not have had that last glass of wine -or was it the shot of Armagnac with my ice cream and chocolate- last night before bed.
So now we are to choose between ole Hillary or the even ole'er Bernie. That youngster Marty O'Malley is still officially a candidate, until he isn't, so we'll just simplify it now. And as long as we're celebrity name-dropping, lets add Bette Davis, Bob Hope, and a host of other entertainers to whom the wisecrack "Old age ain't for sissies" has been attributed. All of whom made it into their 80's and beyond. As Mark Twain noted: "Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter."
As for youth and and (in)experience and the (dis)advantages thereof, that, with the exception of youth in the case of the Donald, is pretty much on display in the Republican slate. I guess one advantage to putting diaper-clad Republican in the White House would be we can blame him or her a lot longer.
So, anyway, I'm 10 months older than HIllary. And I have yet reach the full sagacity that age bestows. Learning is a lifelong endeavor. Why, just this morning I learned I should not have had that last glass of wine -or was it the shot of Armagnac with my ice cream and chocolate- last night before bed.
So now we are to choose between ole Hillary or the even ole'er Bernie. That youngster Marty O'Malley is still officially a candidate, until he isn't, so we'll just simplify it now. And as long as we're celebrity name-dropping, lets add Bette Davis, Bob Hope, and a host of other entertainers to whom the wisecrack "Old age ain't for sissies" has been attributed. All of whom made it into their 80's and beyond. As Mark Twain noted: "Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter."
As for youth and and (in)experience and the (dis)advantages thereof, that, with the exception of youth in the case of the Donald, is pretty much on display in the Republican slate. I guess one advantage to putting diaper-clad Republican in the White House would be we can blame him or her a lot longer.
6
Congratulations Madame President Clinton. You have proven beyond any doubt that you own the government and that they are powerless to charge you with any crimes, no matter how compelling the evidence may be.
The Democratic Party, which controls the U.S. Department of Justice through a Democratic president, is not about to destroy its only viable presidential candidate. If Lois Lerner wasn't indicted after pleading the Fifth, there is no way Hillary Clinton will ever be brought to justice.
The Democratic Party, which controls the U.S. Department of Justice through a Democratic president, is not about to destroy its only viable presidential candidate. If Lois Lerner wasn't indicted after pleading the Fifth, there is no way Hillary Clinton will ever be brought to justice.
6
Republicans know that none of their 14, 15, or is it 16, presidential hopefuls can defeat Hillary.
So, its been Benghazi and e-mails.
You may be certain they will keep beating these dead horses right up to election day.
So, its been Benghazi and e-mails.
You may be certain they will keep beating these dead horses right up to election day.
21
The whole of the Republican party has been consumed by hate and anger, and the Republican members of the 'select' Committee on Benghazi chose to to act that way.
I'll never forgot Rep. Jordan's constant repetitive questions about what 'search terms' she applied when deciding which email were private and which were not. He barked his questions as fast as a machine gun, to no avail.
I'll also not forget the very sweaty face of the not-so honourable chairman, Rep. Gowdy, at the very end while Hillary looked as if she just came in from a touch up in the Green Room.
My absolute highlight though was when the supposed 'lady' of the not-so-great State of Alabama, Ms. Roby, asked Ms. Clinton if she spent the rest of the night after the attack by herself. Clinton started to laugh out loud and answered yes. The not-so-gentle, but very catty Ms. Jordan declared that she was not amused.
Was Ms. Jordan trying to find out if Sidney Blumenthal, Hillary's supposed main advisors of anything relating to Libya, spent the night on the sleeper couch in the Clinton's home after whispering talking points into her ear while sipping Dom Perignon with a side of some Iranian caviar?
I'll never forgot Rep. Jordan's constant repetitive questions about what 'search terms' she applied when deciding which email were private and which were not. He barked his questions as fast as a machine gun, to no avail.
I'll also not forget the very sweaty face of the not-so honourable chairman, Rep. Gowdy, at the very end while Hillary looked as if she just came in from a touch up in the Green Room.
My absolute highlight though was when the supposed 'lady' of the not-so-great State of Alabama, Ms. Roby, asked Ms. Clinton if she spent the rest of the night after the attack by herself. Clinton started to laugh out loud and answered yes. The not-so-gentle, but very catty Ms. Jordan declared that she was not amused.
Was Ms. Jordan trying to find out if Sidney Blumenthal, Hillary's supposed main advisors of anything relating to Libya, spent the night on the sleeper couch in the Clinton's home after whispering talking points into her ear while sipping Dom Perignon with a side of some Iranian caviar?
17
I have been an on the fence HRC fan, there's a lot to like and A LOT to dislike. However, after the hearing she has risen in my book. I think Bernie has nailed the issues in a way that no one else has but I'm not sure he's as steely, determined and ruthless as a President needs to be. HRC stared down the absolute worst example of misogyny (much like Cecil Richards did) and emerged stronger and more likable. Not warm and fuzzy, I don't want warm and fuzzy, I want steely, determined and ruthless.
28
Sanders has done heroic work in raising issues that otherwise wouldn't be discussed, and in pushing Clibton to take more progressive stands. So, whatever happens, he is to be applauded.
2
Though a yellow dog am I, I have never been a Hillary fan until now. And, while I intended to vote for her anyway, because she was the ONLY possible choice for sanity's sake, I am now enthusiastically on her side.
So, though I am sorry she had to run the gauntlet, I am pretty certain that her demeanor and courage under rude and really mean verbal attacks will bring other sensible citizens to her defense - even if she did wear that pale pink suit when Bill and Monica were cavorting around on the nation's stage.
So, though I am sorry she had to run the gauntlet, I am pretty certain that her demeanor and courage under rude and really mean verbal attacks will bring other sensible citizens to her defense - even if she did wear that pale pink suit when Bill and Monica were cavorting around on the nation's stage.
16
Please put aside your differences regarding Bernie and Hillary. Eight years ago disappointed Hillary supporters tried to splinter the party but we were lucky and Obama won in spite of us.
Focus on the greater issue: no more corrupt conservative Supreme Court Justice appointments.
The "Citizens United" experiment has failed miserably, and even Roberts is surprised at how low these "people/corporations" can go. Time to throw it on the same pile as the 18th Amendment.
Focus on the greater issue: no more corrupt conservative Supreme Court Justice appointments.
The "Citizens United" experiment has failed miserably, and even Roberts is surprised at how low these "people/corporations" can go. Time to throw it on the same pile as the 18th Amendment.
30
The Republicans made a fool of themselves in the very first hour. Why did they want to continue doing so for another 10 more hours?
17
When I started watching in the morning, Hillary Clinton was a politician to me.
Eleven hours later, Hillary Clinton was a president to me.
Eleven hours later, Hillary Clinton was a president to me.
419
Scott Walker bragged about being Hilary Clinton's age in 20 years. The difference is that, whatever her future, in 20 years Hilary Clinton will no doubt have grown in wisdom and stature, while Scott Walker will in all likelihood still be the same undereducated, mean-spirited rich man's puppet he has always been. I hope that Gloria Steinem is still riding elephants in 20 years and former President Hilary Clinton is with her.
22
First Walker should complete college. Then if he wants to match Hillary, he should get a J.D. from Yale Law School. Etc.
Hillary Clinton has shown us what I have known since 2008, she will be a great first female president and I look forward to another historic inauguration. I am glad to see that some Bernites are coming around to this line of thinking. He is a great senator and I am so happy he is in the senate, but, he is not able to play with the big boys and girls without coming across as an angry old man.
Hmm, I wonder how Maureen will try to spin this as Hillary the devil? Note to self Hillary, never shun an Irish columnist with a snarky side.
Hmm, I wonder how Maureen will try to spin this as Hillary the devil? Note to self Hillary, never shun an Irish columnist with a snarky side.
7
We should give the democrats on the panel credit also. Their ability to debunk the Republican line of questioning allowed Hillary to remain calm and objective.
21
Hillary Clinton appeared on Saturday Night Live three weeks ago and more or less hit it out of the park.
This evening, the SNL cast will be staging an encore performance of the United States House Select Committee on Benghazi, but the actors and writers are having trouble making their skit funnier than the skit that House Republicans performed on Thursday.
Tonight's SNL skit which will feature seven Republican representatives alternately foaming at the mouth, suffering strokes, seizures and psychotic breaks, physically charging the actor portraying Hillary and missing her but smashing her table to bits and wildly screaming 'murderer' as they conclude with Republican spontaneous human combustion....as Hillary calmly thanks the Committee for their time and graciousness.
Republican reality imitating SNL art is a wonderful thing.
This evening, the SNL cast will be staging an encore performance of the United States House Select Committee on Benghazi, but the actors and writers are having trouble making their skit funnier than the skit that House Republicans performed on Thursday.
Tonight's SNL skit which will feature seven Republican representatives alternately foaming at the mouth, suffering strokes, seizures and psychotic breaks, physically charging the actor portraying Hillary and missing her but smashing her table to bits and wildly screaming 'murderer' as they conclude with Republican spontaneous human combustion....as Hillary calmly thanks the Committee for their time and graciousness.
Republican reality imitating SNL art is a wonderful thing.
21
I was expecting to be holding my nose and voting for HRC next November. After Hillary's performance the other day I don't think I'll even have to hold my nose.
11
What she needs to worry about is when the Rank and file Democrats find out the self described "progressive that likes to get things done" is wholly dependent upon Wall Street and corporate cash while Bernie Sanders money comes from individuals - not ridiculous Republican talking points.
Our foreign policy is a shambles and Ms Clinton was there for most of it- like she is fond of claiming.
Our foreign policy is a shambles and Ms Clinton was there for most of it- like she is fond of claiming.
8
We contributed to Bernie's campaign. That said, who will you vote for in the general election? I hope you have enough sense to vote for Hillary because the alternative is frightening
Her knowledge of world affairs was very impressive.
I could not help thinking back to the famous Sarah Pailin reply to Katie Coric about what magazines she read.
"All of them". replied Pailin.
We soon learned that what she really meant was "None of them"
But Secretary Clinton replied to questioning as though she really did read all of them,
Quite a contrast between the parties as to which woman to follow.
I could not help thinking back to the famous Sarah Pailin reply to Katie Coric about what magazines she read.
"All of them". replied Pailin.
We soon learned that what she really meant was "None of them"
But Secretary Clinton replied to questioning as though she really did read all of them,
Quite a contrast between the parties as to which woman to follow.
11
A day's worth of testimony and this is what we've learned: Hillary didn't do a danged thing as Secretary of State. Had no idea what her staff were doing. Had no idea what regulations she was bound by. Had no idea staff at a dangerous outpost asked 600 times for assistance. Had no idea how to run email,yet was astute enough to remove Blumenthal's email address from mail she sent to President Obama. Hillary, apparently, was powerless over her staff, electronically incapable and only regularly available during work hours for food delivery people and Sidney Blumenthal.
So,what is she? The most incompetent person to ever enter the department of Secretary of State or a pathological liar? Well,we know Hillary is no dummy. A person who goes to such lengths to pick-up the cookie crumbs behind her is no idiot.
That leaves the alternative: She is comfortable with lying, outright and by omission. However, we've entered an era in our country where a portion of our population admires liars. They like people who can lie with style and these weights on our Democratic Republic are clapping and cheering about Hillary's performance because performance is all that matters, to them. Leave the substance and truth to the rubes. Hillary's supporters and The NYTimes pretend that deception is some great accomplishment, like none of us couldn't get everything we wanted in an instant if we had no ethics and morals. Wait until they get the surprise of their lives when the "crocodile" eats them, too.
So,what is she? The most incompetent person to ever enter the department of Secretary of State or a pathological liar? Well,we know Hillary is no dummy. A person who goes to such lengths to pick-up the cookie crumbs behind her is no idiot.
That leaves the alternative: She is comfortable with lying, outright and by omission. However, we've entered an era in our country where a portion of our population admires liars. They like people who can lie with style and these weights on our Democratic Republic are clapping and cheering about Hillary's performance because performance is all that matters, to them. Leave the substance and truth to the rubes. Hillary's supporters and The NYTimes pretend that deception is some great accomplishment, like none of us couldn't get everything we wanted in an instant if we had no ethics and morals. Wait until they get the surprise of their lives when the "crocodile" eats them, too.
2
Among those who viewed this lengthy hearing, you are in a small minority. Read the comments. Most viewers were bowled over by her statesmanlike competence. FOXNews was so freaked out by the powerfully positive impression Clinton made that they cut away from the hearing early to avoid airing a free Hillary Clinton campaign ad.
The Clintons have been subjected to an unending barrage of negatives and downright lies for decades. Enquiries and investigations turned up no criminal activity. Lying about sex? Wow! High crimes and misdemeanors!
Remember the rumor that Hill had an affair with Vince Foster--and then murdered him? Remember what Michael Moore showed--in early 2001, when Bush should have investigated terror threats, he had 200 FBI agents investigating the Clintons?
In 2006, my friend T.R. Konnel wrote that the purpose of all the sturm und drang about the Clintons had nothing to do with proving any of the multitude of accusations and insinuations, but had everything to do with keeping a Clinton out of the White House. This is old, stale, rotten nonsense.
is there a Republican left who is capable of patriotic thinking? Capable of governing? Even at the level of dog-catcher?
Remember the rumor that Hill had an affair with Vince Foster--and then murdered him? Remember what Michael Moore showed--in early 2001, when Bush should have investigated terror threats, he had 200 FBI agents investigating the Clintons?
In 2006, my friend T.R. Konnel wrote that the purpose of all the sturm und drang about the Clintons had nothing to do with proving any of the multitude of accusations and insinuations, but had everything to do with keeping a Clinton out of the White House. This is old, stale, rotten nonsense.
is there a Republican left who is capable of patriotic thinking? Capable of governing? Even at the level of dog-catcher?
18
No. There does not seem to be a Republican left who is capable of governing anything.
1
Happy Birthday, Hillary!
The fussing that came up a while ago about Hillary's age was just one of many misguided attempts to derail her candidacy which, fortunately, is thriving.
Regarding age in general in relation to a candidate, it should be taken into account that life expectancy for USA females is 81.2 years; for USA males, it's 76.4 years.
The fussing that came up a while ago about Hillary's age was just one of many misguided attempts to derail her candidacy which, fortunately, is thriving.
Regarding age in general in relation to a candidate, it should be taken into account that life expectancy for USA females is 81.2 years; for USA males, it's 76.4 years.
8
A true demonstration of knowledge, strength and power. Hillary left the so called "Select Committee" (selected to bring her down) cool as a cucumber while Howdy Gowdy and the rest of the Republican representatives sweated their way through the 11 hour inquisition.
Shame on them. They treated her with great amounts of hate and disrespect even though she has reached heights they can only dream of - First Lady, Senator and Secretary of State.
If this is government by the people, for the people, we should be very scared.
Shame on them. They treated her with great amounts of hate and disrespect even though she has reached heights they can only dream of - First Lady, Senator and Secretary of State.
If this is government by the people, for the people, we should be very scared.
23
I find the media's attempt to push the candidacy of Hillary Clinton down the throats of the public frankly revolting.
Clinton has been of the wrong side of fundamental issues during her entire public career. She has tailored her positions now just to get elected.
She is the friend of Wall Street; not the middle class.
She is a neo-liberal and that means that the pattern of foreign interventions, either open or subtle (see Syria, Lybia, Iraq, Ukraine), will continue.
I will not vote for an opportunist. I have had enough of those.
Clinton has been of the wrong side of fundamental issues during her entire public career. She has tailored her positions now just to get elected.
She is the friend of Wall Street; not the middle class.
She is a neo-liberal and that means that the pattern of foreign interventions, either open or subtle (see Syria, Lybia, Iraq, Ukraine), will continue.
I will not vote for an opportunist. I have had enough of those.
8
So I guess you will vote for Bernie. But who will you vote for in the genera election? I hope you have enough sense to vote for Hillary because the alternative is frightening.
1
Hilary Clinton reminds us that we do have some adults in the political arena -- in contrast to the Republican "deadbeats" on the Benghazi Committee -- that continue to manifest fortitude and intelligence, and that have an interest in doing some real work related to supporting the goals of advancing the common good set forth in the Preamble to our Constitution: "to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility...promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity.."
16
Hillary's Benghazi hearing was a debate between her and the Republican party and she was the overwhelming winner.
Compare her to Rubio who couldn't last 5 minutes under the pressure of his State of the Union rebuttal without breaking down and reaching for his water.
There are a number of fair criticisms of Hillary. The Iraq war vote, the 'bullets on the runway' bit, and something very small about email servers; but overall, she has matured quite a bit and stands far above any of the other candidates; especially every Republican.
Above all, the country needs a leader who doesn't see every decision through conservative red-colored glasses.
Predictwise only gives her a 54% probability of winning the presidency, I'd say she's a definite buy at that price.
Happy birthday Hillary.
I look forward to voting for you in Nov 16.
Compare her to Rubio who couldn't last 5 minutes under the pressure of his State of the Union rebuttal without breaking down and reaching for his water.
There are a number of fair criticisms of Hillary. The Iraq war vote, the 'bullets on the runway' bit, and something very small about email servers; but overall, she has matured quite a bit and stands far above any of the other candidates; especially every Republican.
Above all, the country needs a leader who doesn't see every decision through conservative red-colored glasses.
Predictwise only gives her a 54% probability of winning the presidency, I'd say she's a definite buy at that price.
Happy birthday Hillary.
I look forward to voting for you in Nov 16.
31
Gowdy, Roby and their ilk personify the adage "Better to keep your mouth shut and be thought a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt."
Not ready for prime time, to say the least. They are so out of touch with contemporary American concerns, I kept picturing them in Pilgrim hats waving bibles and stirring cauldrons of boiling newt. At a second-grade production of The Crucible.
Not ready for prime time, to say the least. They are so out of touch with contemporary American concerns, I kept picturing them in Pilgrim hats waving bibles and stirring cauldrons of boiling newt. At a second-grade production of The Crucible.
30
I was reminded of
I learned long ago, never to wrestle with a pig. You get dirty, and besides, the pig likes it. George Bernard Shaw
She stayed out of the mud, and left the pigs alone down there. Unlike those candidates on the GOP side who get into Twitter wars with each other.
I learned long ago, never to wrestle with a pig. You get dirty, and besides, the pig likes it. George Bernard Shaw
She stayed out of the mud, and left the pigs alone down there. Unlike those candidates on the GOP side who get into Twitter wars with each other.
2
I suspect that as awful as the interrogation by Republicans on the so-called Select Committee was for Hillary Clinton, it was a piece of cake compared to what she endured the night of the Benghazi compound attack. And I'm also convinced that she has thought about that night more than all of the Republican members of that committee. The difference is that she, unlike them, actually feels an obligation to find ways in which to improve security for American diplomats in dangerous parts of the world, whereas they obviously care only about destroying her.
16
Thank you Gail. I was 65 in June. I run about 3 miles a day, do yoga every morning, swim twice a week with my husband, and started my own business last year. Yesterday, I got up early, got my hair done, met most of the day with clients, discussed with my husband our plans to build on investment property upstate and went out to dinner. I am now reading the NYT, prior to getting up and doing the weekly shopping, after which I will grade papers for the two courses that I teach at a local college. I feel just fine, thank you. Both my parents worked into their 80s, and I have no reason to think – barring a catastrophe - that I will not do the same.
Yet like many older Americans– including Hillary- I face age-related prejudice – e.g., questions about when I am going to retire and "how I do it." I do it, because- see above -I feel just fine.
When I lost my job last year- guess why?-I searched for another, hoping to preserve my income while I grew a business. I have been told that, despite an Ivy League resume, I am unemployable due to my "seniority." I have several friends who have also been dumped from long-term jobs and can't find work. Some do not have skills to create a business of their own.
HRC is fabulous, but we all can't run for Presidemt. Age discrimination laws must be enforced. A generation is aging into its healthy 60s, many with continuing family responsibilities, including mortgages and other financial burdens. We are fully capable of working. Let us work.
Yet like many older Americans– including Hillary- I face age-related prejudice – e.g., questions about when I am going to retire and "how I do it." I do it, because- see above -I feel just fine.
When I lost my job last year- guess why?-I searched for another, hoping to preserve my income while I grew a business. I have been told that, despite an Ivy League resume, I am unemployable due to my "seniority." I have several friends who have also been dumped from long-term jobs and can't find work. Some do not have skills to create a business of their own.
HRC is fabulous, but we all can't run for Presidemt. Age discrimination laws must be enforced. A generation is aging into its healthy 60s, many with continuing family responsibilities, including mortgages and other financial burdens. We are fully capable of working. Let us work.
286
Birthday on Monday! She's a Scorpio! Republicans don't stand a chance!
10
Gail while you are on the age thing:
Nancy Pelosi - 75
Steny Hoyer - 76
Harry Reid - 75
Chuck Schumer - 65
Who knew that our Democratic future was to be so exclusively rooted in the oldies?
Nancy Pelosi - 75
Steny Hoyer - 76
Harry Reid - 75
Chuck Schumer - 65
Who knew that our Democratic future was to be so exclusively rooted in the oldies?
5
Because Democrats don't become hidebound, reactionary and senile as early as Republicans do. See Scott Walker, Ted Cruz et al.
Happy Birthday Hillary!!
Thank you Gail for reminding us that we have a very prepared competent woman we can trust more than anyone else to lead our country into a better future together.
Thank you Gail for reminding us that we have a very prepared competent woman we can trust more than anyone else to lead our country into a better future together.
19
The things I learn here. Gloria Steinem is past 80? Ruth Bader Ginsberg does push-ups? Bill Clinton could be a problem for Hillary? Susan B. Anthony did yoga?
The fact that you had to mention that Bernie Sanders is 74 is more negative New York Times press for our last, best hope to lose to a Republican whose last name begins with T.
As for Hillary being 68 this Monday, just send campaign donations to her as a gift. Or a yoga mat.
3
Hillary is cunning and smart ... and a liar.
In the eyes of the Left, it was perfectly fine to lie about Benghazi because Mr. Obama's "legacy" and reelection were on the line. Kind of hard to run on your false claim of dismantling terrorists when they murder four Americans two months before a national election.
But the ends justify the means. It was more important to keep the evil Romney out of the White House and so the spin masters concocted a lie about a video tape and fed it to the duped press who closed their eyes to reality.
"If you like your health care/doctor, you can keep it", lied Obama.
"I am not a crook," lied Nixon.
"I did not have sex with that woman," lied Bill Clinton
Hillary has learned from the best. The Left approves.
In the eyes of the Left, it was perfectly fine to lie about Benghazi because Mr. Obama's "legacy" and reelection were on the line. Kind of hard to run on your false claim of dismantling terrorists when they murder four Americans two months before a national election.
But the ends justify the means. It was more important to keep the evil Romney out of the White House and so the spin masters concocted a lie about a video tape and fed it to the duped press who closed their eyes to reality.
"If you like your health care/doctor, you can keep it", lied Obama.
"I am not a crook," lied Nixon.
"I did not have sex with that woman," lied Bill Clinton
Hillary has learned from the best. The Left approves.
3
Terrific column! I'm surprised Gail didn't milk the "we're you alone all night ? " question and Hilary's hilarity. For myself I was transfixed by Trey Gowdy's glistening sweaty forehead, Kind of like Nixon's upper lip during the JFK debate.
14
Trey Gowdy and his band of petty allies showed that their disdain for Mrs. Rodham Clinton is nothing more than all hat and no cattle. Their "High Noon" showdown was a bust and they, with the exception of Fox News know it. Well, maybe Fox News realized it, too ,when they cut short their coverage of the attempted Inquisition.
Her display of strength, endurance, command of her facts, her refusal to be brought low by this petty band of miscreants was something to behold. Beyond that, who but a chess master could display the Sitzfleisch of 11 hours of nonsense with such patience?
Does the GOP, and their "base," really think that "Uncle" Ben Carson, Donald Trump, Sonny-Boy Rubio, the Jeb!ster, or Carly F. could match wits with her?
Her display of strength, endurance, command of her facts, her refusal to be brought low by this petty band of miscreants was something to behold. Beyond that, who but a chess master could display the Sitzfleisch of 11 hours of nonsense with such patience?
Does the GOP, and their "base," really think that "Uncle" Ben Carson, Donald Trump, Sonny-Boy Rubio, the Jeb!ster, or Carly F. could match wits with her?
20
If anyone can make a hopeless cynic such as me like Hillary Clinton it is Gail. Still the ultimate Sanders fan, After reading Gails setups, I will feel less bad at maybe having to pull the Hillary switch. As for the GOP, you proved once again you are unworthy of the votes you have gotten. Who votes for these clowns? Rubes, go back to school.
14
Wow! Justice Ginsburg has a personal trainer? Ms. Steinhem rides elephants in Botswana to celebrate 80?
Thanks for the glimpse of how the other 1/2 lives; I've got to scrap the change our of my pockets just to buy a decent cup of coffee. Interesting how the wealthy can sustain such longer life spans; is there a possible connection between having lots of money and staying healthy all one's long life?
But on to HRC who is:
a. wealthy
b. doesn't look her age and
c. wants to be president.
Qualifications enough to be the president of this country indeed!
Although the "clown car" of GOP/TP/KOCH AFFILIATE candidates she's running against might make just about anyone with a brain running against them look refreshing.
As a side note, just what else do Koalas have to do besides eat and make more Koalas? I imagine if Koalas had eight legs and weren't furry, they wouldn't seem nearly as cute!
HRC certainly made the "Benghazi Witchhunt" really blow up publicly though Mr. McCarthy's inane, but truthful, comments certainly helped. Do you think this so-called "committee" really cares about the deaths of four Americans versus the possible "political death" of Ms. Clinton? These guys better hope she doesn't become president as their "committee" might have to start meeting in the nearest lavatory, quite where it belongs.
And thanks for telling me Mr. Rubio is still, well, I wouldn't call it 'running', 'ambling' for the presidency; it's tough keeping track of that entire crew!
Thanks for the glimpse of how the other 1/2 lives; I've got to scrap the change our of my pockets just to buy a decent cup of coffee. Interesting how the wealthy can sustain such longer life spans; is there a possible connection between having lots of money and staying healthy all one's long life?
But on to HRC who is:
a. wealthy
b. doesn't look her age and
c. wants to be president.
Qualifications enough to be the president of this country indeed!
Although the "clown car" of GOP/TP/KOCH AFFILIATE candidates she's running against might make just about anyone with a brain running against them look refreshing.
As a side note, just what else do Koalas have to do besides eat and make more Koalas? I imagine if Koalas had eight legs and weren't furry, they wouldn't seem nearly as cute!
HRC certainly made the "Benghazi Witchhunt" really blow up publicly though Mr. McCarthy's inane, but truthful, comments certainly helped. Do you think this so-called "committee" really cares about the deaths of four Americans versus the possible "political death" of Ms. Clinton? These guys better hope she doesn't become president as their "committee" might have to start meeting in the nearest lavatory, quite where it belongs.
And thanks for telling me Mr. Rubio is still, well, I wouldn't call it 'running', 'ambling' for the presidency; it's tough keeping track of that entire crew!
4
Carson and Trump threatened to boycott the October 28 debate "if it is longer than 120 minutes including commercials and does not include opening and closing statements.” This is a format where 10 candidates share the stage to impress us with soundbites.
In the 1858 Lincoln-Douglas race for the Illinois Senate seat two candidates faced each other for seven 3-hour debates.
With the grace of a Zen master Hillary Clinton shrugged off the coordinated, eleven hour assault from seven hostile litigators.
That aside, we desperately need a functioning political process where serious questions, such as in this case the safety of our diplomatic corps, are addressed.
In the 1858 Lincoln-Douglas race for the Illinois Senate seat two candidates faced each other for seven 3-hour debates.
With the grace of a Zen master Hillary Clinton shrugged off the coordinated, eleven hour assault from seven hostile litigators.
That aside, we desperately need a functioning political process where serious questions, such as in this case the safety of our diplomatic corps, are addressed.
11
HRC's demeanor throughout the latest Benghazi grilling convinced this on the fence Dem she will make an excellent president. Ms. Collins is correct...The Republican committee members gave HRC a beautiful, early birthday gift.
21
Mark's better half and a stronger half...
Loved your article Gail. In the same issue of NYT there was a guy writing about how the brain loses cognitive capacity at 55, etc....blah, blah, blah, Hogwash, total nonsense. My father travels at 80 in a third world country by train, car, auto riksha and plane...I cannot keep up with him and I am many years younger. He is also continuing to write papers and books. He remarried in his 50s and now, on top of his work and travels, he takes care of an ailing second wife.
I also know a 40 year old who looks 80, acts 70 and has an energy of very sick 90 year old.
My sister practices yoga and gets asked for her ID, no kidding, in restaurants that serve drinks...though she is 50. She is an example of how Yoga works. Hillary is living proof that yoga is certainly giving her energy and amazing endurance power. Love to hear her talk about it.
Hillary also looks great, and makes me envious though I am much younger than her.
We need these women to come to developing nations like India and be a great role model for what women are capable of after 50.
And you Gail look great too.
Thanks for writing your columns.
Loved your article Gail. In the same issue of NYT there was a guy writing about how the brain loses cognitive capacity at 55, etc....blah, blah, blah, Hogwash, total nonsense. My father travels at 80 in a third world country by train, car, auto riksha and plane...I cannot keep up with him and I am many years younger. He is also continuing to write papers and books. He remarried in his 50s and now, on top of his work and travels, he takes care of an ailing second wife.
I also know a 40 year old who looks 80, acts 70 and has an energy of very sick 90 year old.
My sister practices yoga and gets asked for her ID, no kidding, in restaurants that serve drinks...though she is 50. She is an example of how Yoga works. Hillary is living proof that yoga is certainly giving her energy and amazing endurance power. Love to hear her talk about it.
Hillary also looks great, and makes me envious though I am much younger than her.
We need these women to come to developing nations like India and be a great role model for what women are capable of after 50.
And you Gail look great too.
Thanks for writing your columns.
10
Gowdy may have just cemented Hill's rep as the Iron Lady.
12
Although, admittedly, she mastered those Benghazi Republican elephants pretty well this week, when Clinton "rides an elephant in Botswana," I'll vote for her. I could care less about her age. But I do care a lot about her enthusiast approach to war, her capriciousness on issues, and her warm and very fuzzy relationship with Wall Street, big pharma, the insurance industry, and the list goes on. I'd much rather feel the Bern than be seriously burned by a phony.
6
I swear, Gail Collins, you just might be the next person to fill Dave Berry's media shoes! Great column. Yes, the movement to finally pass the Equal Rights Amendment is gaining strength from the same women who started it in the 60s and 70s and they have plenty of energy and time now that children are reared and professions taken care of. They are joined by young, enthusiastic college-age women who and they are all joined by the men who love them. It's the dawn of a new day for America and Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton is going to lead the charge. WE need to elect many other true democrats and independents at national, state, county and city level to make sure she has the support she needs to restore democracy in America.
13
It's interesting how liberals continue to gloss over the main core problem with Hillary. She lied. What's more, she admitted she lied. She lied about the violence in Benghazi being started by an obscure Youtube video. In fact the staffers charged with finding "evidence" of this rejected other videos in favor of this one. So an innocent person was charged with a crime because HRC needed to cover her rear end. What is more, because of this fiction, this lie, this deliberate deception, there was related violence all through the Middle East and Egypt where property was destroyed, people were arrested and some people even died. This is all blood on Clinton's hands and playing Lady MacBeth will not change that view of her. I wonder now why the survivors of Benghazi haven't uttered a word. What threats or promises did then Secretary of State extort to keep their silence? Why has not one news agency submitted a FOIA to access those people? Have their rights been cut in order to sustain Hillary's run? What about the military commanders who were forced into premature retirement because they tried to circumvent the stand down order? And who called the stand down order and why is that such a secret? What of the families of the men who died-the same families Hillary promised to chase down the maker of the video? She lied then, she lies now, she has lied all her life to cover for Bill. She's not presidential.
4
You might consider writing for the Onion if you actually have told yourself that the whole world is protecting an all-powerful woman candidate for POTUS.
I see you are from Dallas. I grew up hearing people's off the all conspiracy stuff aimed at Dallas after the assassination of JFK. Perhaps you are too young to remember. It is irresponsible.
I see you are from Dallas. I grew up hearing people's off the all conspiracy stuff aimed at Dallas after the assassination of JFK. Perhaps you are too young to remember. It is irresponsible.
12
It is interesting how conservatives are terminally outraged when someone named Clinton lies, but remain in a deep slumber about how the art of lying fuels politics at all levels. Lying is part of running, part of governing and part of life. We all do it, and politicians do it best. Sometimes - and I hope this heresy does not cause Ellen K to faint - sometimes it is necessary, sometimes it is harmless, and sometimes it just doesn't matter a great deal. What the White House told it's representatives to say on Sunday talk shows in the aftermath of this incident fits well into the latter category, despite Republican efforts to turn it into the crime of the century. I do hope that Ellen K has her smelling salts handy.
4
For sure this was an attempted prosecution. And HRC was unflappable grace under fire, not only because of demeanor but also because, clearly, she did nothing wrong. This is actually an appropriate time to say "stuff happens" though of course she would not be so glib. She accepted a very tough and rigorous review, took responsibility, learned and made changes.
What I don't get is how anyone could have called this a hearing, an investigation or an attempt to learn anything. I barely even heard a question amid the long-winded visceral, pointed statements and assumptions masquerading as facts. But when I did, there was nary an open question, asked with an open mind. Thankfully, the birthday girl did not allow them to force her into the narrow alley they were pushing her toward and she adeptly and strategically took them out onto the broad boulevard. Big picture as well as details. So yes, we did learn something about how the real world operates. I am not convinced the GOP inquisition did.
What I don't get is how anyone could have called this a hearing, an investigation or an attempt to learn anything. I barely even heard a question amid the long-winded visceral, pointed statements and assumptions masquerading as facts. But when I did, there was nary an open question, asked with an open mind. Thankfully, the birthday girl did not allow them to force her into the narrow alley they were pushing her toward and she adeptly and strategically took them out onto the broad boulevard. Big picture as well as details. So yes, we did learn something about how the real world operates. I am not convinced the GOP inquisition did.
20
Hil is one of my heroes and always will be. I am excited to see the possibility that she might be the first woman to be President of the United States. It is beyond time for this to happen. Believe me, turn the world over to women and it will be a better place by far because we do not think like men and have a different way of communicating.
30
I am grateful for and to Hilary Clinton...for her intelligence, tenacity, and grace during a dreadfully long day of attempted denigration and badgering. But I am not surprised at her performance. During the years of her service as Secretary of State she engaged with some of the most difficult and intransigent actors across the world stage. The hubris displayed by the group of not-quite-ready-for prime-time antagonists at the hearing is laughable when compared with the very real dangers she has faced. Bravo and Happy Birthday Hillary!
39
I wish someone had the patience to calculate the TIH factor. T(imes) I(nterupted) per H(our) during the hearings. Her look of disdain with her head in her hands was perfect.
19
Gail Collins, you were in great form today, I loved the column.
Thank you,
Sotiris Kitrilakis
Thank you,
Sotiris Kitrilakis
16
.
.
Ahh, Gail.
It is altogether fitting and proper to celebrate the birthday of Hillary Clinton. You missed her 40th wedding anniversary (as did everyone, because it was the 40th anniversary of SNL too, which got all the publicity), which you have made up for. And you described in detail the feats accomplished by the heroines of American history long after their 50th birthdays. (I would have included Julia Ward Howe, but so be it.)
Yet, you left out the best part: Secretary Clinton has said she always enjoys seeing you among her traveling media because none of the other journalists is old enough to remember Sputnik!
And well she should enjoy seeing you. Gloria Steinem told us "this is what 80 looks like"; but you have shown us "this is what 70 writes like"! You columnize twice weekly, rarely showing a glimpse of fatigue with your subject matter; other female Times columnists, one of whom is a bit younger than you, are in the Sunday Review section maybe 40 times a year (if that). Your use of the language is always smooth, while your reporting shows that you retain all your faculties.
The person whose age must be a concern is Representative Martha Roby. At age 39, she was unable to see the humor in asking the former Secretary -- who attested that she went home alone at night after the Benghazi tragedy -- whether she was "alone ALL night"!
I have no idea what date it is/was, but happy birthday to you too, Gail! (Personal note: My Bar-Mitzvah was also on Oct. 11, 1975.)
.
Ahh, Gail.
It is altogether fitting and proper to celebrate the birthday of Hillary Clinton. You missed her 40th wedding anniversary (as did everyone, because it was the 40th anniversary of SNL too, which got all the publicity), which you have made up for. And you described in detail the feats accomplished by the heroines of American history long after their 50th birthdays. (I would have included Julia Ward Howe, but so be it.)
Yet, you left out the best part: Secretary Clinton has said she always enjoys seeing you among her traveling media because none of the other journalists is old enough to remember Sputnik!
And well she should enjoy seeing you. Gloria Steinem told us "this is what 80 looks like"; but you have shown us "this is what 70 writes like"! You columnize twice weekly, rarely showing a glimpse of fatigue with your subject matter; other female Times columnists, one of whom is a bit younger than you, are in the Sunday Review section maybe 40 times a year (if that). Your use of the language is always smooth, while your reporting shows that you retain all your faculties.
The person whose age must be a concern is Representative Martha Roby. At age 39, she was unable to see the humor in asking the former Secretary -- who attested that she went home alone at night after the Benghazi tragedy -- whether she was "alone ALL night"!
I have no idea what date it is/was, but happy birthday to you too, Gail! (Personal note: My Bar-Mitzvah was also on Oct. 11, 1975.)
17
Try to be soft on Ms Roby--she is from Alabama..
2
What will stay with me longest were the looks of real hatred on the faces of her Republican accusers. It’s one thing to read about how polarizing Hillary is, or how someone just can’t stand her – it’s another thing altogether to see faces, literally radiating hatred and barely contained fury in the face of her unflappable and poised demeanor. Truly frightening.
Secretary Clinton has my utmost respect for not just keeping her cool, but standing up to those whose only goal was to wear her down and trip her up.
We’re fortunate that people like her are still willing to serve and be part of our Government despite the craziness out there.
Secretary Clinton has my utmost respect for not just keeping her cool, but standing up to those whose only goal was to wear her down and trip her up.
We’re fortunate that people like her are still willing to serve and be part of our Government despite the craziness out there.
57
HRC's biggest pre-birthday gift this week is that Gail Collins had nice things to say about her.
The gift that keeps on giving? Only time will tell...
The gift that keeps on giving? Only time will tell...
6
Jason Chaffetz - Utah
Harold Gowdy - South Carolina
Truly, Republicans have appointed dogcatchers to run their dreary witch-hunt.
Harold Gowdy - South Carolina
Truly, Republicans have appointed dogcatchers to run their dreary witch-hunt.
14
Watching Trey Gowdy hem and haw while attempting to explain what his committee had accomplished was absolutely priceless. Yes, Hillary has her flaws and baggage. Still, she looks a heck of a lot more competent than any of the current Republican candidates.
1
Congratulations Mrs. Clinton! You have given the Republicans enough rope and they have hung themselves! Sadly, there are still some Americans who cling to the Republican Party, but even David Brooks acknowledges that they are all shackled to crazy people who want to destroy democracy.
For my grandchildren, I want free State college education, the end of the Social Security and Medicare tax ceilings, equal pay for women, parental leave for new parents of up to one year, and a guaranteed tax on all income, earning, and dividends combined above $500,000 per family and $250,000 for individuals of 35%. I would also request that corporations that behave like pirates be fined and/or have assets seized to the tune of 10% per month until they return their overseas profits for proper taxation. You want to start building the 21st Century and when everyone gets a fair share we get go to work. Happy Birthday!
For my grandchildren, I want free State college education, the end of the Social Security and Medicare tax ceilings, equal pay for women, parental leave for new parents of up to one year, and a guaranteed tax on all income, earning, and dividends combined above $500,000 per family and $250,000 for individuals of 35%. I would also request that corporations that behave like pirates be fined and/or have assets seized to the tune of 10% per month until they return their overseas profits for proper taxation. You want to start building the 21st Century and when everyone gets a fair share we get go to work. Happy Birthday!
18
Hurrah for older women!
13
Yes, Hillary Clinton is an example of sheer fortitude in the face of adversity, panache & aged perfection like a luxury bottle of 1946 Chateau Cheval Blanc. She is the shining star in a dark sky of dull & mentally unprepared political candidates. She is the track star Usain Bolt before an Olympic event, brimming with confidence. Hillary is the belle of the ball at the cotillion merrily dancing the French quadrille while her rivals gaze entranced by her poise & glitzy style like plain wallflowers. This woman is not content to stay home & bake cookies when she's got an entire world spinning in the palm of her hand.
Why with this much personality & charm what difference does it make if Benghazi was caused by an inflammatory video or months of planning by a terrorist group. This is Hillary we're discussing not some rag-tag General who thinks he knows everything because he has 5 stars sewn onto his suit. She's above any scrutiny just as Jesus walks on water. Hillary be now is a brand name. The woman that you'd love your daughters to grow up to be like. Just because she lead the State Dept. during a time when the US invaded Libya & removed Ghaddafi from power, spent millions of dollars for the CIA to train & arm Sunni al-Nusra rebels to destabilize Syria (w/ Saudi help) which morphed into ISIL or led the plan to destabilize the Ukrainian government toppling the government & led to a war in the country, these are small details that are of no concern to this leading lady.
Why with this much personality & charm what difference does it make if Benghazi was caused by an inflammatory video or months of planning by a terrorist group. This is Hillary we're discussing not some rag-tag General who thinks he knows everything because he has 5 stars sewn onto his suit. She's above any scrutiny just as Jesus walks on water. Hillary be now is a brand name. The woman that you'd love your daughters to grow up to be like. Just because she lead the State Dept. during a time when the US invaded Libya & removed Ghaddafi from power, spent millions of dollars for the CIA to train & arm Sunni al-Nusra rebels to destabilize Syria (w/ Saudi help) which morphed into ISIL or led the plan to destabilize the Ukrainian government toppling the government & led to a war in the country, these are small details that are of no concern to this leading lady.
2
Like the Republicans on the select committee, FoxNation is convulsing in impotent rage this morning.
1
Watching Trey Gawdy and his committee brought back so many parallels between chairman Gawdy and John E Rankin from the HUAC that it was amazing that history can repeat itself over and over.
I have to confess that i was unsure who I thought I would vote for until watching this. Hillary R Clinton sold me in less than eleven hours. Do you think Donald Trump or Ben Carson could have handled themselves as well for the eleven hours?
I have to confess that i was unsure who I thought I would vote for until watching this. Hillary R Clinton sold me in less than eleven hours. Do you think Donald Trump or Ben Carson could have handled themselves as well for the eleven hours?
19
Every woman in American recognized Republican Congressman Trey Gowdy and his sidekicks as they interrogated Ms. Clinton. A boss, a male co-worker or some “guy” in the office who wouldn’t stop; wouldn’t stop harassing or bulling the women in the office because there was no coffee, the break room microwave was dirty; or for leaving work early to pick up a sick child. Fortunately Ms. Clinton, like all working women, have dealt with these men in every job they have had and she was a champ. For one brief moment working women around the world said “Yes!” as Ms. Clinton stayed strong, calm, focused and never missed a beat. What the Republicans can’t seem to understand, as they deny that the Republicans have a war on women, is that Trey Gowdy and his sidekicks keep damaging the brand.
454
I have much more respect for Trey Gowdy than I have ever had for a woman who hired private investigators to intimidate her husband's accusers. For people who are so entranced by the idea of a woman in office, please remember, women can be just a vile and venal as men. And in this regard, Hillary is the proof.
I LOVED Hillary's laugh when asked by Roby from Alabama if she was "alone" the entire evening.
She get's my vote!
She get's my vote!
37
I was most impressed by Hillary’s ability to appear both awake and alert while actually enjoying 4th stage REM sleep. This is a very useful talent to have, as campaigning takes a lot out of you and every few winks you can catch in odd moments when you’re being lambasted by Trey Gowdy help.
The fact that Gail knows that Justice Ginsburg has a picture of Elizabeth Cady Stanton in her office suggests a profound level of familiarity with the Justice. As Gail will tend to write about anything she likes, that familiarity demands that the jurist recuse herself from all Court decisions that involve anything at all. So there.
Hillary did herself a lot of good on Thursday, and it turned out to be her first Hat Trick – the debate, the Biden announcement and the Benghazi Committee hearing. Bernie must be sweating. Now, that’s fine with me because I want this election to be extremely competitive on BOTH sides, and ANYONE other than Hillary means the Republican will win, so long as the nominee doesn’t have “Adolf Hitler” in his name. What’s left before her baggage train, as long as it is, recedes into the “knew that, don’t care” category for a lot of voters is EmailGate. The general impatience expressed by the Democratic candidates on this issue really means nothing. If the FBI hasn’t been intimidated by the president, it will be interesting to see what they uncover.
Happy birthday, Hillary. Don’t let Bill filch all the presents.
The fact that Gail knows that Justice Ginsburg has a picture of Elizabeth Cady Stanton in her office suggests a profound level of familiarity with the Justice. As Gail will tend to write about anything she likes, that familiarity demands that the jurist recuse herself from all Court decisions that involve anything at all. So there.
Hillary did herself a lot of good on Thursday, and it turned out to be her first Hat Trick – the debate, the Biden announcement and the Benghazi Committee hearing. Bernie must be sweating. Now, that’s fine with me because I want this election to be extremely competitive on BOTH sides, and ANYONE other than Hillary means the Republican will win, so long as the nominee doesn’t have “Adolf Hitler” in his name. What’s left before her baggage train, as long as it is, recedes into the “knew that, don’t care” category for a lot of voters is EmailGate. The general impatience expressed by the Democratic candidates on this issue really means nothing. If the FBI hasn’t been intimidated by the president, it will be interesting to see what they uncover.
Happy birthday, Hillary. Don’t let Bill filch all the presents.
3
She's my age. I complain of sore back, feet, calves, and neck muscles after my 1.5 hours teaching college freshmen. Sure, they are far better questioners than the vaunted congresspersons, but my goodness, she did it...and on live TV.
I also teach job interviewing and always warn candidates of the dreaded "stress interview" designed to prove their mettle or break them down. If this was Hillary's stress interview for the presidency, she aced it.
I also teach job interviewing and always warn candidates of the dreaded "stress interview" designed to prove their mettle or break them down. If this was Hillary's stress interview for the presidency, she aced it.
23
There is no way to take the Republican Party seriously on the Benghazi issue and here's why. We all know that people like Roskam, Jordan, Roby, Gowdy, and so forth dream of repealing the ACA completely and then *literally* marching into hospitals with glee and kicking out those patients who purchased insurance through the law. These people don't just feel a deep-seated hatred towards President Obama, they also feel a deep-seated hatred towards all Americans (including those living in their own congressional districts) who purchased subsidized health insurance through the ACA and view such people as lazy moochers. They have no interest in replacing the ACA and don't care to propose any.
What these people propose to do with the ACA would end up causing a good deal more stress and suffering beyond 4 Americans getting killed in Benghazi. That is the truth.
What these people propose to do with the ACA would end up causing a good deal more stress and suffering beyond 4 Americans getting killed in Benghazi. That is the truth.
53
There is much to recommend grandmothers and grandfathers; Elders who have experienced life, learned from it and grown.
Donald Trump is not an Elder. He is someone who has lived 69 years seeming to repeat year two over and over. Marco Rubio is a boy, and probably will be for life.
Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders are Elders with a capital E. While I like most of what Bernie has to say about the revolution that is needed to re-form this country, I prefer Hillary Clinton to lead the effort.
Donald Trump is not an Elder. He is someone who has lived 69 years seeming to repeat year two over and over. Marco Rubio is a boy, and probably will be for life.
Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders are Elders with a capital E. While I like most of what Bernie has to say about the revolution that is needed to re-form this country, I prefer Hillary Clinton to lead the effort.
32
I've intended to vote for Mrs. Clinton--sometimes with enthusiasm, other times not so much--from the get-go. This week made me feel a whole lot better about the whole thing.
Mind you, I've been open to alternatives. I love Bernie, who reminds a lot of us of that favorite uncle with his undimmed sense of decency and his fierce tales of struggle. Despite the best efforts of the press and other GOP operatives, he's done a lot to restore blunt honesty and wit and truth-telling to the public dialogue.
Importantly, he has refused to be manipulated by corporate journalists into providing canned attacks on his rivals. He has also refused to run away from honorable theories--justice and decency and equality and, yes, socialism.
He's the first politician to rise to national prominence in, I don't know, nearly 40 years--ever since the rise of Reaganism and all that slick right-wing well-poisoning they do so well--telling home truths without equivocation or too-clever-by-half triangulations.
The reactionaries have spent untold sums on toxic, divisive propaganda in an effort to silence and marginalize every pro-choice, pro-equality, pro-progress human being in America. But Bernie's not scared, and he's restored courage to a lot of other Democrats who had forgotten what it was like to fight the reactionary machine.
Still, Mrs. Clinton is the one who can, just maybe, win. She proved that to the nth degree this week. Fight on, Hillary: just don't forget who you're fighting for.
Mind you, I've been open to alternatives. I love Bernie, who reminds a lot of us of that favorite uncle with his undimmed sense of decency and his fierce tales of struggle. Despite the best efforts of the press and other GOP operatives, he's done a lot to restore blunt honesty and wit and truth-telling to the public dialogue.
Importantly, he has refused to be manipulated by corporate journalists into providing canned attacks on his rivals. He has also refused to run away from honorable theories--justice and decency and equality and, yes, socialism.
He's the first politician to rise to national prominence in, I don't know, nearly 40 years--ever since the rise of Reaganism and all that slick right-wing well-poisoning they do so well--telling home truths without equivocation or too-clever-by-half triangulations.
The reactionaries have spent untold sums on toxic, divisive propaganda in an effort to silence and marginalize every pro-choice, pro-equality, pro-progress human being in America. But Bernie's not scared, and he's restored courage to a lot of other Democrats who had forgotten what it was like to fight the reactionary machine.
Still, Mrs. Clinton is the one who can, just maybe, win. She proved that to the nth degree this week. Fight on, Hillary: just don't forget who you're fighting for.
26
I am betting on Seamus sleeping in the trunk. Like too much of politics, it will be a choice of lesser evils. Those shrill Republicans tossing out the same question after the same question and expecting a different response makes me question those who elected them. Could it be that they are as insane as those they elected? Yes, Hillary easily outlasted them. And yes, by comparison looked Presidential. But we already knew Hillary's staying power. After all, she's still married to Slick Willie. I have a few issues with your old age dictum. It seems contrary to current neuro science. And I am 80. I remember laughing at the Chinese because their leadership was ancient and unchanging. We now have a bunch of young ruffians who make me recall the halcyon days of McCarthy in tone and temper, and oldsters who ought to be looking back at their service and teaching us what was good and what didn't work instead of running for office. I am a self described Liberal, and there is not a single candidate who excites my imagination with an intellectual capacity to understand and articulate why things don't work and how they could be fixed. The right wing calls the poseur Ryan an intellectual. What was his first original thought I ask? On the left we have Bernie, a nice old guy with a big heart. We need a fresh face with functioning brain. Any suggestions. Elizabeth Warren is mine.
6
I am shocked that you suggest the Bernie Sanders brain is not functional. He is old, but he is by no means slow witted in any way.
I love Elizabeth Warren also, but I don't feel good about her chances of winning the presidency in 2016 because she's not running for it.
I love Elizabeth Warren also, but I don't feel good about her chances of winning the presidency in 2016 because she's not running for it.
Hillary Clinton endured eleven hours of non-stop verbal pummeling while having TV and still cameras focused on her to capture every gesture, brow wrinkle, etc. She did not waver once -- she was dignified, intelligent, calm, cool, and answered every question with authority devoid of any histrionics, self-pity, etc.
Now try to imagine any one of the nitwit Republicans running for president sitting in that same chair under the relentless questioning and haranguing and coming out of it looking good. No one can imagine that because not one of them would be up to the task.
Hillary Clinton will be our first female president because she's the smartest and most capable and most well-prepared person running and she's correct -- the Republicans are the enemy not only of her but also of the American people and democracy.
Now try to imagine any one of the nitwit Republicans running for president sitting in that same chair under the relentless questioning and haranguing and coming out of it looking good. No one can imagine that because not one of them would be up to the task.
Hillary Clinton will be our first female president because she's the smartest and most capable and most well-prepared person running and she's correct -- the Republicans are the enemy not only of her but also of the American people and democracy.
65
Ms. Clinton's 11 hour stint at the useless republican spendthrifts' Benghazi Hearings (they've cost millions to accomplish just about nothing--typical republican behavior--e.g., check out the wasted time and money uselessly voting town affordable health care) only proves her strong qualifications for the Presidential office, over against the wild-eyed stupidity of those like Mr. Gowdy whose qualifications even for a mere fool or legislator are proven highly questionable (as is the intelligence of those who voted for such as he is).
29
I'm a Bernie Sanders backer.
However, I must say, that if Hillary wins the election, one could arguably say that the Benghazi committee won it for her.
And to think that the committee was created to undermine Hillary's chances of becoming President. The Republican caucus does something, almost every week, to earn a new reason to call them clowns.
How long can they go on like this before their entire movement implodes upon itself? They are a bit like Wile E Coyote, running over the cliff but they think they are still running on land. Eventually comes the deluge.
However, I must say, that if Hillary wins the election, one could arguably say that the Benghazi committee won it for her.
And to think that the committee was created to undermine Hillary's chances of becoming President. The Republican caucus does something, almost every week, to earn a new reason to call them clowns.
How long can they go on like this before their entire movement implodes upon itself? They are a bit like Wile E Coyote, running over the cliff but they think they are still running on land. Eventually comes the deluge.
37
Governing--providing for the common good--and politics--casting blame--are two different activities that often follow the same path.
America mixes politics with governance. Slavery was its earliest intersection, exposing tensions between government and freedom, and freedom and equality. The two parties reflect these two positions in their ideals.
American democracy also has a tension between the common good and those who want to consolidate power over the common will.
Sworn in, Clinton remained seated at the witness table alone, in front of an elevated dais that curved around the room where the House members of both parties set. She was asked about emails.
However, the State Department does its most important correspondence, by cable to protect their security.
The unspoken politics in the room:
commanders are humiliated and retired for their battlefront errors—
a mission of duty completely at odds with today's quick strikes. But putting blame on Mrs. Clinton could score big: she is the leading candidate and favored to win the Democratic party's nomination next summer.
The Republicans tried to equate missing emails to neglect.
The entire 11 hours generated no suggestions for keeping Americans abroad safe from armed attacks. It is generally thought Mrs. Clinton won the day. Her calm, listening leadership made strong political points.
Her opponents had a much more difficult task: in order to generate blame, they would have to slander death.
America mixes politics with governance. Slavery was its earliest intersection, exposing tensions between government and freedom, and freedom and equality. The two parties reflect these two positions in their ideals.
American democracy also has a tension between the common good and those who want to consolidate power over the common will.
Sworn in, Clinton remained seated at the witness table alone, in front of an elevated dais that curved around the room where the House members of both parties set. She was asked about emails.
However, the State Department does its most important correspondence, by cable to protect their security.
The unspoken politics in the room:
commanders are humiliated and retired for their battlefront errors—
a mission of duty completely at odds with today's quick strikes. But putting blame on Mrs. Clinton could score big: she is the leading candidate and favored to win the Democratic party's nomination next summer.
The Republicans tried to equate missing emails to neglect.
The entire 11 hours generated no suggestions for keeping Americans abroad safe from armed attacks. It is generally thought Mrs. Clinton won the day. Her calm, listening leadership made strong political points.
Her opponents had a much more difficult task: in order to generate blame, they would have to slander death.
12
I think that anyone who can turn $1,000 into $100,000 by trading cattle futures with no knowledge of the market and without insider help, deserves to become president of the Unite States of America.
2
If you believe she had no insider data on that trade, I have some swamp land in Louisiana to sell you.
Ancient, discredited innuendo plucked from the bottom of the barrel. That sounds so desperate. I guess she did even better than I thought.
If she had the character of a Republican, she never would have smelled the rat and walked away from it.
1
I look more for substance than general appearance. The questioners may have been less equipped than Mrs Clinton was in demeanor. But I remain unconvinced by her answers. She knew that there was a terrorist attack immediately, but she promoted a false narrative. She tried to nuance this but it takes a real stretch to believe that she was not being deceptive, and that this was the same throughout the exec branch (President Obama, Susan Rice). She also said she delegated security, but it seems she was also not immediately outraged or felt deeply responsible for the breakdown. I wish she had been on the phone demanding answers from one of the four people who eventually resigned after investigation by an independent panel. If one of my friends had been killed, I would take it personally and demand answers immediately, regardless of I had felt I was directly responsible.
I remain skeptical after all of this, and it is very hard to objectively say we were not being deceived. One can look forthright and strong, yet also be mendacious.
I remain skeptical after all of this, and it is very hard to objectively say we were not being deceived. One can look forthright and strong, yet also be mendacious.
4
I watched all 11 hours of the inquisition by the pack of 'gentlemen' and 'gentlewomen' of the Republican (lynching) Party. Whatever doubts I ever had about Hilary Clinton completely disappeared. She is so strong and in command that I worry that something might happen to her before i get a chance to vote for the first woman as President of the U.S. Amazing and stalwart woman with intense intelligence and patience --worthy of our respect and our support. i can't wait.
31
HRC has had a good month indeed, but she is too compromised to win the election. People on both sides of the political spectrum want change not smooth talkers, and HRC is too compromised to win the election. I don't find her trustworthy and the email scandal pointed to the blatant covering up a conflict of interest with Bill's foundations sponsors. Her track record is always fighting for herself, not for the people, like Bernie Sanders, who had been too much of a gentleman during the last debate.
2
Hillary was splendid, simply splendid. I'm a big fan of Bernie Sanders, but judging from Hillary's performance, I am seriously considering making the switch. She was wonderfully Presidential.
Let's say for a moment that she wins the election. Almost each and every sour-grapes member of the GOP on Capital Hill seems to have taken an oath to block anything that Obama has tried to accomplish simply because he had the audacity to be born black and they're racists. Like a bunch of spoiled children or very bad parents, no matter what he wanted, good, bad or indifferent, their answer has always been a consistent "No!"
So are they going to try to pull the same stunt on Hillary as our first woman POTUS throughout her term of office? Block everything that she wants to accomplish simply because she's a woman and they're sexist? Although I would love to watch them try, if only to watch her squash them flat, she will have to work with these raging misogynists, who, judging from what the racists have tried to do to Obama, won't hesitate to pull out all of the stops. And considering the white backlash against the black community because Obama is the first black president, what kind of a backlash can American women expect when a woman, whether she is Hillary or not, does become the first Madame President?
Let's say for a moment that she wins the election. Almost each and every sour-grapes member of the GOP on Capital Hill seems to have taken an oath to block anything that Obama has tried to accomplish simply because he had the audacity to be born black and they're racists. Like a bunch of spoiled children or very bad parents, no matter what he wanted, good, bad or indifferent, their answer has always been a consistent "No!"
So are they going to try to pull the same stunt on Hillary as our first woman POTUS throughout her term of office? Block everything that she wants to accomplish simply because she's a woman and they're sexist? Although I would love to watch them try, if only to watch her squash them flat, she will have to work with these raging misogynists, who, judging from what the racists have tried to do to Obama, won't hesitate to pull out all of the stops. And considering the white backlash against the black community because Obama is the first black president, what kind of a backlash can American women expect when a woman, whether she is Hillary or not, does become the first Madame President?
11
They would try to block any Democratic president's initiatives.
1
Gail, The Clinton dog was Buddy - although I loved the Seamus line, may his soul rest in peace and not on the roof of a car. And to think I was afraid we would enter another presidential campaign season without a reference to Seamus.
5
It was a bravura performance and shows she's a consummate pro. It showed the GOP committee members in a way that wouldn't have been believed if not seen---the increasing hateful obsession and panic as they realized she was outlasting their show. A spectacle.
For the first time I'm wavering on Bernie, though I like his policies far better.
To take on this poisonous GOP trying to take the country down, the Clintons may be the only possible answer to wrest some balance back into our government. They'll be sued by the GOP from day one and it won't faze them or slow their roll.
I don't want to be a liberal version of the Freedom Caucus. But she's too much of a hawk. Hillary, please read Jimmy Carter's op-ed today in NYT. Crucial. War should always be the last option.
For the first time I'm wavering on Bernie, though I like his policies far better.
To take on this poisonous GOP trying to take the country down, the Clintons may be the only possible answer to wrest some balance back into our government. They'll be sued by the GOP from day one and it won't faze them or slow their roll.
I don't want to be a liberal version of the Freedom Caucus. But she's too much of a hawk. Hillary, please read Jimmy Carter's op-ed today in NYT. Crucial. War should always be the last option.
7
Because its a Saturday and I'm feeling a little daffy I'll go out on a limb now and say that Hillary is probably a lock for the big job, barring some major unforeseen disaster, like those carrier pigeons. She's pretty much handled everything the GOP can throw at her and is still fighting fit. I like what Bernie says a lot but in the hard cold world of presidential politics, let's face it - he's a long shot. Hillary has the cred, the experience, the brains and that magical ace in the hole, her gender. Ultimately, its always a compromise and I could live with Hillary. When I think of the alternatives - Carson or Trump! - she looks even better. At the end of the day, as long as the White House stays blue that's all that really matters.
17
Exactly! When you consider the fact that the next President will likely get to appoint several new Supreme Court Justices, I'll adhere to a friend's motto:
"If the devil himself is running for President on the 2016 Democratic ticket - he's my man!"
"If the devil himself is running for President on the 2016 Democratic ticket - he's my man!"
Some thoughts after the hearings:
I kept wondering if Trey Gowdy was somehow related to Eddie Haskell of Leave it to Beaver fame.
I wore out Google looking for a quote on Sydney Blumenthal stock.
No results on Blumenthal Enterprises but I found a definite link to Trey Gowdy and preacher Jonathan Edwards of, "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God."
Appreciated the committee majority giving us a crash course in Tea Party 101.
Could the committee be any less bipartisan?
Loved the call and response of Clinton and the democratic choir.
The Repubs were so spirited and feisty in the beginning, smelling email blood.
When people get so vicious it's hard not to start criticizing them on a personal basis. But I persevered.
Finally, I'm sure this process is as old as Congress itself, but there's got to be a better system to insure an investigation is legitimate.
I kept wondering if Trey Gowdy was somehow related to Eddie Haskell of Leave it to Beaver fame.
I wore out Google looking for a quote on Sydney Blumenthal stock.
No results on Blumenthal Enterprises but I found a definite link to Trey Gowdy and preacher Jonathan Edwards of, "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God."
Appreciated the committee majority giving us a crash course in Tea Party 101.
Could the committee be any less bipartisan?
Loved the call and response of Clinton and the democratic choir.
The Repubs were so spirited and feisty in the beginning, smelling email blood.
When people get so vicious it's hard not to start criticizing them on a personal basis. But I persevered.
Finally, I'm sure this process is as old as Congress itself, but there's got to be a better system to insure an investigation is legitimate.
10
The Clintons have a habit of pulling defeat from the jaws of victory, but maybe this time it will be different.
I hope so, not because I agree with her all the time, but for the sake of the future of the Supreme Court and the nation's judiciary.
The thought of a GOP president choosing more reactionary judges terrifies me.
I hope so, not because I agree with her all the time, but for the sake of the future of the Supreme Court and the nation's judiciary.
The thought of a GOP president choosing more reactionary judges terrifies me.
18
Yes, I always vote for the Supreme Court and women's rights. That's my standard.
Forget for the moment age. If Hillary is healthy, she'll survive her presidency if she's elected, and it's looking like she may be. The issue for me is questionable integrity. Does anybody doubt that Hillary's handling of sensitive/classified material, or her careless handling of her equipment, was any less of an issue than that for which General Petraeus's career was ruined? Because she's a Clinton, she skips while he gets hammered? After all, both made significant contributions to their country. Where's the fairness here? Or, is this some sort of birthday gift that she receives, and you gleeful celebrate?
Petraeus gave confidential info to his mistress, deserved jail time. This is a false analogy!!
4
No, she gets hammered because Fox and Limbaugh, Inc didn't think Bush and Cheney war crimes, invading the wrong country, and wrecking our economy were worthy of their partisan attention for GOP fundraisers.
1
And, Ms. Collins, you forgot to mention that Mrs. Hillary Clinton is kind as well to our feline friends. She had a wonderful Tux at the White House called Sox.
Joining others in wishing her the happiest of celebrations this coming Monday. She rose quietly like a phoenix at the Benghazi Panel, infuriating her interrogators and their conduct was less becoming than a rafter of turkeys.
Three minutes on CNN summoned up more than this American wants to know about these ill-measured, unprepared and devious 'representatives' of the People. We may have witnessed the birth of a President, graceful and enduring under fire, a presence to be reckoned with, I pledge my support to the Democrat hopeful, wishing her a Championship Season.
Joining others in wishing her the happiest of celebrations this coming Monday. She rose quietly like a phoenix at the Benghazi Panel, infuriating her interrogators and their conduct was less becoming than a rafter of turkeys.
Three minutes on CNN summoned up more than this American wants to know about these ill-measured, unprepared and devious 'representatives' of the People. We may have witnessed the birth of a President, graceful and enduring under fire, a presence to be reckoned with, I pledge my support to the Democrat hopeful, wishing her a Championship Season.
20
We should vote for someone because they're a cat lady? Seriously? By the way, if they are such friends to animals, how come their pet dog got hit by a car?
And don't forget the gifts from Saturday Night Live over the last few weeks -- the great skit when she played Val the bartender consoling Hillary on the campaign trail and then the marvelous send up of the Democratic debate with guest genius Larry David playing Bernie Sanders (so well that I actually can't remember what the real Bernie looks like!)
8
Thank you for this column, Gail, and for reminding us how much stamina any president must have. I can't imagine Rubio all on his own at an 11 hour hearing (how many bottles of water there?) any more than I can imagine him President,.
But even as I stayed glued to my TV, with my boyfriend, for all 11 hours, I have to say this: The woman is indomitable. I was in a recliner with all the comforts of home, all I had to do was snark here and there, and by the end I was utterly drained. I'm only one year older, but I couldn't help but marvel at her inner strength to keep from making a "What difference does it make" remark. Now that takes strength when the jackals are at your door.
I knew I'd support her, but now I support her with true conviction. I simply can't imagine anyone else I'd want as President, as jousting with Putin, as holding her own against a hostile Congress. Her intellect, memory for detail, and inner strength were on full display all day Thursday.
Many hate her, some are lukewarm, but you can't dispute her talents. She has inner qualities (not often shown unless under pressure) demanded of a President: intellect, measure, self-restraint, composure, and stamina. She actually seems to thrive on stress, where others wither.
In the past year, I'd been lukewarm on her because of her woodenness and some of her evasiveness. No more--she let us see the true Hillary and this liberal likes what she sees.
But even as I stayed glued to my TV, with my boyfriend, for all 11 hours, I have to say this: The woman is indomitable. I was in a recliner with all the comforts of home, all I had to do was snark here and there, and by the end I was utterly drained. I'm only one year older, but I couldn't help but marvel at her inner strength to keep from making a "What difference does it make" remark. Now that takes strength when the jackals are at your door.
I knew I'd support her, but now I support her with true conviction. I simply can't imagine anyone else I'd want as President, as jousting with Putin, as holding her own against a hostile Congress. Her intellect, memory for detail, and inner strength were on full display all day Thursday.
Many hate her, some are lukewarm, but you can't dispute her talents. She has inner qualities (not often shown unless under pressure) demanded of a President: intellect, measure, self-restraint, composure, and stamina. She actually seems to thrive on stress, where others wither.
In the past year, I'd been lukewarm on her because of her woodenness and some of her evasiveness. No more--she let us see the true Hillary and this liberal likes what she sees.
67
Can we all please stop calling Ms. Clinton by her first name? We don't give male candidates that treatment - even Trump, despite his having been media-dubbed The Donald. It's condescending, even infantilizing, to insist on calling a former United States Senator, a former Secretary of State, by her first name.
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
24
What are you talking about? Jeb Bush is Jeb!
Also, Hillary has encouraged use of her first name through her own branding. It's the natural result of sharing a last name with her husband. Just as Jeb Bush became Jeb! and not Bush.
Also, Hillary has encouraged use of her first name through her own branding. It's the natural result of sharing a last name with her husband. Just as Jeb Bush became Jeb! and not Bush.
Her campaign logo says 'hillary'...it's essentially her branding. No need to feel offended. 'The donald', 'jeb', 'rand'...yes, men are referred to by their first names, too.
I'm guessing no one on this thread saw the testimony where she said a video was not at all responsible for the attacks, yet lied to the public and invoked the video that same day. We still don't know if she turned over all of her emails...wonder why she was in such a rush to delete 30,000 personal emails? Seems as if a few would be saved for nostalgia, personal records, etc.
Oh well, both sides fall victim to myopia at times.
I'm guessing no one on this thread saw the testimony where she said a video was not at all responsible for the attacks, yet lied to the public and invoked the video that same day. We still don't know if she turned over all of her emails...wonder why she was in such a rush to delete 30,000 personal emails? Seems as if a few would be saved for nostalgia, personal records, etc.
Oh well, both sides fall victim to myopia at times.
I think it's partially because she uses her first name on campaign literature, bumper stickers, etc.
Though I'm a conservative, I have to admit Hillary has it all locked up. There are consolations, however. The stock market will do well because she is basically a centrist and the markets love business as usual. The poor won't fare so well, however. So much for her self-portrayal as a "progressive." It's a bigger sham than all of her excuses about Benghazi.
5
As a republican, I agree. The only concern is her tendency toward the corrupt and her ability to become entangled in unethical situations. She has the personality to descend into Nixonian paranoia.
And then there is the inevitable divisions in the country. Under another Clinton Administration, republicans will waste a lot of time trying to get to the truth. That's a fool's errand. Everyone knows they're lying. The problem is republicans still think they should do something about it.
Hillary would need a few "Get Out of Jail Free" cards if she becomes president.
And then there is the inevitable divisions in the country. Under another Clinton Administration, republicans will waste a lot of time trying to get to the truth. That's a fool's errand. Everyone knows they're lying. The problem is republicans still think they should do something about it.
Hillary would need a few "Get Out of Jail Free" cards if she becomes president.
1
"Everyone knows the're lying."
If only voting for politicians who always told the truth is your barometer, then you have spent your life on a fool's errand.
If only voting for politicians who always told the truth is your barometer, then you have spent your life on a fool's errand.
6
A conservative who cares about the poor? Refreshing.
1
I far preferred Bernie over Hillary except for one thing: How would Bernie deal with the attacks from the radical right-wing? I had the same concerns about Hillary. no more, Hillary has very definitively answered my concerns.
38
Bernie wouldn't have found himself the subject of such an investigation. He's not a compulsive liar and his integrity is intact. The Clintons bring out the worst in Americans.
5
Poor AACNY. Still trying to find a smoking gun. Still unable to prove anything. Still relishing playing the role of Inspector Javert to Hillary's Jean Valjean.
It must be lonely living in your bubble. It must be sad continuing to support a bankrupt philosophy. It must be frightening to be so self- unaware.
Lying about Iraq means little to you. Publicly saying you did not care where the ringleader of 9-11 was hiding leaves you unmoved.
Yet, you think our future Madame President is a compulsive liar, even though, as another of your favorite politicians recently said: "stuff happens", and sometimes that is the only rational answer, especially when the other side voted to cut funding for overseas embassy security.
It must be lonely living in your bubble. It must be sad continuing to support a bankrupt philosophy. It must be frightening to be so self- unaware.
Lying about Iraq means little to you. Publicly saying you did not care where the ringleader of 9-11 was hiding leaves you unmoved.
Yet, you think our future Madame President is a compulsive liar, even though, as another of your favorite politicians recently said: "stuff happens", and sometimes that is the only rational answer, especially when the other side voted to cut funding for overseas embassy security.
10
The Clinton's bring out the worst... Thanks for giving a demonstration of your assertion.
Happy Birthday, Mrs. President and many happy returns of the day! What a great pleasure it was to watch how unflappable and presidential Hillary Clinton was as she was being grilled like a Nathan's hot dog for eleven hours by the House Select Committee on Benghazi investigation - an inquiry that was an auto-da-fe, a Salem witch trial, a pillory-Hillory session that's been running from here to eternity since 2012. During eleven hours of grilling by the iggerodies and neanderthals (Republican men and women on that committee), Hillary proved herself to be the most intelligent, viable, worthy candidate for the US Presidency next year. If it hadn't been such a serious effort at stabbing Hillary at the Agora by the GOP/Tea Party committee members, Thursday's Republican questioning would have been akin to one of those 42nd street "All Day Laff-Riots" of the 1950s starring Laurel and Hardy, The three Stooges, the Marx Brothers. Abbott and Costello and all those Looney Toons and Merrie Melodies sparkling plenty. Time to submit George W Bush and his cabal of advisers who initiated the two ongoing wars in Afghanistan and Iraq to a House Select Grilling. Those men were the real hot dogs who brought us to the quag we're in today. Congratulations and continuing good luck to Mrs. Clinton. She has earned laurels, kudos and our heartfelt thanks for her decades of service to America.
43
Poor Hillary Clinton. She has been under siege by republicans trying to prove she not only withheld information from their investigations but also tells partial truths when answering their questions.
They are bad, bad, bad.
They are bad, bad, bad.
3
You swing a mean feather pillow.
5
Steve: more like a wet noodle.
1
The Benghazi hearing turned out to be the opposite of a detective story. In most detective stories, a crime is committed and all the evidence points to the culprit. All the details design a narrative that leads to the revelation of the criminal's identity. The Republicans worked it all backwards: they did not have a crime, but they imagined there was one and then tried to find an imaginary criminal to blame for the imaginary crime. If there is a crime there has to be a criminal, they believed. All they needed to do was get the imaginary criminal to confess to this imaginary crime. This is altogether not unlike Kafka's "The Trial" where Joseph K. is accused of a crime that never happened. His punishment is to be found guilty of being arrested. Hillary's crime, according to the Republicans, is to refuse to admit there was a crime, and that is in itself to them criminal. If the evidence points to her innocence, then she is guilty of manipulating the evidence that exonerates her. Your very proof of innocence makes you guilty of proving you're innocent. "That's some catch that Catch-22."
24
Exactly, Ron. Reminds me of Texas persecution of Planned Parenthood. Someone doctors a video to imply that a crime was committed, then the onus is placed on the subject of the video to prove they didn't commit a crime.
4
I don't think the Bengazi hearing was a waste of time. I was quite interested by the window Hillary Clinton opened into the workings of the State Department--how things are communicated, the events during the extreme events she described, the deep appreciation she had for the diplomats who put their lives on the line, and for the diplomatic security people.
Most of the rest was horrifying, of course, and makes you wish voters could fire their representatives more easily. But her contribution uplifted the hearing (or hearing impaired, you might say).
Most of the rest was horrifying, of course, and makes you wish voters could fire their representatives more easily. But her contribution uplifted the hearing (or hearing impaired, you might say).
258
In my dreams, when I grow up (although I've already accumulated more chronology than I care to admit) I want to be bright, balanced, well informed, tough, physically fit, well educated, sociable, articulate, knowledgeable, well adjusted, well known, in control of my emotions, and more than prepared, experienced, and fit to be our country's commander in chief. Just like Hillary.
39
Anyone who grows up wanting to be "just like Hillary" should refrain from running for public office. We don't need any more politicians "just like Hillary".
2
Great that Hillary triumphed over her Republican harassers. However, that does not make her a good choice for US president.
"The Vermont senator is the worst nightmare for a GOP challenger, primarily because his value system is the antithesis of Republican stances on war, foreign policy, Wall Street and the economy.
"
Why Sanders defeats Trump, but Trump defeats Clinton | TheHill
http://thehill.com/blogs/pundits-blog/presidential-campaign/257704-why-s...
"The Vermont senator is the worst nightmare for a GOP challenger, primarily because his value system is the antithesis of Republican stances on war, foreign policy, Wall Street and the economy.
"
Why Sanders defeats Trump, but Trump defeats Clinton | TheHill
http://thehill.com/blogs/pundits-blog/presidential-campaign/257704-why-s...
3
Yes, Ms. Clinton is an amazing woman who is supremely qualified for the presidency and I would love to see the first female behind that big desk. I would almost vote for her just because she has endured so much, both publicly and privately, and paid her dues. But. I still don't know what she stands for that she wouldn't give up in a fight. Women's reproductive rights and health, I'm sure of. But what will she give up to get a budget passed? Will she kowtow to the big banks? Is she serious about climate change remediation? In the debate, she just wasn't clear and convincing about where she will draw the lines. Bernie Sanders was clear and passionate. Sure, he'll have to modify some of his proposals and make a few deals I might not like, but he's starting from rock solid convictions. I wish Ms. Clinton well, but I'll vote for Bernie.
5
Over the last eight years we have seen how well lack of compromise has done for America. Yet you appear to endorse the Democratic Party adopt the same tactics of no compromise used by the Republicans.
Sanders is a good man with good positions, but he would lose the general election and that is a risk America cannot take
Sanders is a good man with good positions, but he would lose the general election and that is a risk America cannot take
1
Yes, Gail, you knew it was getting bad for Republicans when at 8:30 PM Gowdy launched his last ditch attempt to nail a resilient Hillary Clinton with his special "gotcha" questions that he'd been saving for 10 hours. Gowdy was a protesting eight year old being sent to bed.
I mean, Gowdy and his Republicans had led the committee deep into the swamp with the promise of clearing the alligators, and at 9 PM they were, alligator food.
This was a Soviet Show Trial. Since Reagan single-handedly defeated the Soviet Union, Republicans have adopted some of their cultural tactics. Grilling Democrats under the hot lights for 11 hours is one of them. But a sweaty Gowdy emerged as if having beaten Hillary Clinton severely about the fists with his head and shoulders.
The next time Repiblicans need to study the tactics at the Lyublianka. Giving Hillary Clinton time to take a throat lozenge was unacceptable and revealed Gowdy's weakness as an interrogator.
I mean, Gowdy and his Republicans had led the committee deep into the swamp with the promise of clearing the alligators, and at 9 PM they were, alligator food.
This was a Soviet Show Trial. Since Reagan single-handedly defeated the Soviet Union, Republicans have adopted some of their cultural tactics. Grilling Democrats under the hot lights for 11 hours is one of them. But a sweaty Gowdy emerged as if having beaten Hillary Clinton severely about the fists with his head and shoulders.
The next time Repiblicans need to study the tactics at the Lyublianka. Giving Hillary Clinton time to take a throat lozenge was unacceptable and revealed Gowdy's weakness as an interrogator.
18
I wonder if she will invite any of her inquisitors to her birthday party or if they would accept the invitation. They would probably be party poopers anyway, but they could contribute enough hot air to blow out Hillary's candles.
Yoga would be good for Hillary considering how many people try to twist her into a pretzel. Just keep watching your breath, Hillary.
Yoga would be good for Hillary considering how many people try to twist her into a pretzel. Just keep watching your breath, Hillary.
9
Yes! When asked how she withstood 11 hours /what helped her endurance, she stated something the the effect Yoga helps. (This paper has direct quote.)
Hillary demonstrates that she puts in the hard work, but women are often treated like work horses. I felt disrespected watching them keep her there for 11 hours. I thought it would be over by the time I got home. I get off at 7 pm and have a two-hour commute. When I got home I watched Gowdy lambast Hillary, talk over her, answer his own questions. My first thought was, "My God, is this what she has been subjected to for the past 11 hours?" In that moment, I heard and saw Hillary defend Adm. Mike Mullen, not herself. I thought to myself, "There's a president."
The Republicans always overreach. They are hypocritical. They are mean. And because of this they have virtually inoculated the Clintons from criticism. We have of Clinton outrage fatigue. If we have to take our country back, how about the 90s but better?
Hillary is a true stateswoman. Now, I hope she can defend the American people from the onslaught of hate as this campaign trudges on. We are depending on her to raise her voice against demagoguery in all its forms.
The Republicans always overreach. They are hypocritical. They are mean. And because of this they have virtually inoculated the Clintons from criticism. We have of Clinton outrage fatigue. If we have to take our country back, how about the 90s but better?
Hillary is a true stateswoman. Now, I hope she can defend the American people from the onslaught of hate as this campaign trudges on. We are depending on her to raise her voice against demagoguery in all its forms.
63
A birthday party fund-raiser -- my view is that Hillary Clinton (and the rest of the Clintons) has a real theme in her life about how she blends the personal with the public, that many of the controversies in her life fit under this rubric, that she is trying to work out how the two spheres fit together. As she does so, I think she sometimes goes further than she should, whether it's how she handled email or whom she relied on for advice or how personnel migrate between her government staff and her private staff. So part of my hesitation to see everything resolved in the way Clinton testified at the hearing is that I don't think how she did in any way means that we've seen the last of her working out this public/private issue. Hence my reaction to the birthday party fund-raiser news. Her supporters I understand see it through a different lens, a scenario in which Clinton is more of a beleaguered heroine, but I see it more as a scenario to which Clinton contributes her share to situations in which the public and the private spheres of her life have a porous boundary.
6
The federal government would likely be run like the Clinton Global Initiative if she becomes president. Publicly there would be "good works". Privately there would be questionable relationships and ties. With the Clintons the lines always blur between the their personal needs (their "poverty") and the people's.
The only thing standing between Hillary Clinton and impeachment or perjury would likely be her "beleaguered heroine" image. Just sit her in front of a group of grandstanding idiotic republicans, and her lack of integrity and ethics melts away.
The only thing standing between Hillary Clinton and impeachment or perjury would likely be her "beleaguered heroine" image. Just sit her in front of a group of grandstanding idiotic republicans, and her lack of integrity and ethics melts away.
How odd to call her out on this. It is the way of politics for most of our public figures. Wasn't the Bush family, Condoleeza, Cheney and the neocons the same old same old? Staffers moving in and out of DC, etc.
A variation on this is the revolving Monsanto door, for example, from inside USDA and Defense, etc. and back to the corporation and then back into an administration to wreak more damage.
No one gets to the top with morals and good judgment intact. We can only hope a residue remains so once there, they govern out of their better selves.
Hillary is flawed, duh. However, look around at the Republican alternatives, think Zupreme Court, and get over it"
A variation on this is the revolving Monsanto door, for example, from inside USDA and Defense, etc. and back to the corporation and then back into an administration to wreak more damage.
No one gets to the top with morals and good judgment intact. We can only hope a residue remains so once there, they govern out of their better selves.
Hillary is flawed, duh. However, look around at the Republican alternatives, think Zupreme Court, and get over it"
1
I suppose your giddy coronation of Hillary is mostly a reaction to the trials and tribulations she has endured at the hands of the Republican party. Fine. But please explain why this new Clinton presidency is our only choice. Are we really going to have another round of family dynasty politics? I'm not the only one sick of the Clintons and Bushes. Aside from the overly political aspect of any Clinton endeavor, Hillary has spent too much time and energy proving that she is just as macho as male politicians, and will just as quickly send young soldiers off to die. She has never met a rich donor that she doesn't like, and will happily do wall street's bidding. Is there no one else? And please don't lay Bernie Sanders on me.
2
"Dynasty" implies intergenerational blood ties.
The Clintons are not a dynasty. They are two exceptionally talented people from very modest backgrounds who happened to marry each other.
The Bushes, on the other hand, are a dynasty.
The Clintons are not a dynasty. They are two exceptionally talented people from very modest backgrounds who happened to marry each other.
The Bushes, on the other hand, are a dynasty.
8
There is nobody else who knows better what the job actually entails than Mrs. Clinton.
2
Two people are not a dynasty.
2
I couldn't help but think Trey Gowdy resembled nothing so much as a newly hatched pod person in The Invasion of the Body Snatchers. Outside, looking newborn. Inside, having as much imagination and knowledge as a thing born the day before. They rest of them hatched maybe a couple of weeks earlier.
I know who I want sitting across the table from Putin. No contest. No other living politician has Secretary Clinton's gravitas, brilliance, and, as already has been said a million times, endurance.
No more dithering about who gets my vote.
I know who I want sitting across the table from Putin. No contest. No other living politician has Secretary Clinton's gravitas, brilliance, and, as already has been said a million times, endurance.
No more dithering about who gets my vote.
55
I watched/listened to the entire 11 hour inquisition and although lukewarm to Clinton before this spectacle, I walked away with admiration and respect for her.
This was a grilling like nothing I have ever witnessed. As Clinton maintained her calm with question thrown at her with scorn and anger, she answered calmly and respectfully hour after hour.
At the very end, she may have been a bit hoarse but was still very much in charge. Gowdy and friends were shiny-faced and exasperated. Anyone who can sit through an interrogation of that magnitude, clearly has what it takes to occupy the Oval Office. Happy Birthday Hillary!
This was a grilling like nothing I have ever witnessed. As Clinton maintained her calm with question thrown at her with scorn and anger, she answered calmly and respectfully hour after hour.
At the very end, she may have been a bit hoarse but was still very much in charge. Gowdy and friends were shiny-faced and exasperated. Anyone who can sit through an interrogation of that magnitude, clearly has what it takes to occupy the Oval Office. Happy Birthday Hillary!
607
I'm sure that Franz Kafka, from his grave, is laughing his head off. Hillary dealt with a Kafkaesque interrogation the way Alexander did with the Gordian Knot.
2
Several commentators on this post have mentioned Bernie Sanders' candidacy in the context of Hillary's endurance run at the special committee hearing. While I admire Sen. Sanders very much, I have to say that I am tired of constantly reading about him in comments on stories that only tangentially have anything to do with him. Like this one, about Clinton's prospects after the hearing. He may be a factor in the primaries, I don't know. But the aggrieved tone of the Sanders supporters (on another post someone parodied them- "Let Bernie testify, too!") has finally begun to aggrieve me. Can't even the liberal 'Hillary haters' guess that their animosity towards this woman is at least PARTLY the result of 20+ years of anti-Clinton investigations (paid for by taxpayers, just like Benghazi-Gate), which, for all the Clinton's ethical lapses, have proven nothing against them (except for the consensual sex), and are essentially nothing more than anti-Clinton campaign commercials? FOX recycles these memes and then airs them, on an endless loop. Can we really pretend that our feelings about this woman are unaffected by years of extremists repeatedly calling her a manipulative liar? (Who have never been called on it- even now that this grotesque spectacle has exposed it- by the media?)
59
Granted Bill isn't Hilary, but the criticism of the Clintons isn't about scandals. It's about Glass-Stegal, about NAFTA, about detrimental welfare reform, and the continuing of getting "tough" on crime. All policies that came home to roost 20 years later. And Hilary does have wall street ties, that isn't a scandal. Republicans wish they were as tied to wall street.
Well said, SSS. The GOP machine has been the master of spewing negativity. From the consistent lying drumbeat to war in Iraq, to focus on any possible "scandal" around the Clintons. There have been a myriad of investigations, causing many millions and there is "no there, there". It has left the uncurious public with skewed opinions. I am appalled at how inept the democrat machine is in countering the republican negativity and allowing that to be the continuous distorted record.
3
I have never been a huge fan of Hillary Clinton's, but she is growing on me. Not only is she the best hope to save us from the crazies, she does understand the nuances of the situation in the Middle East and north Africa What a stark contrast to the republican hopefuls for president. And while I had long ago lost all hope the republicans could set aside personal aspirations and represent the best interests of this country, the hearing last night was utterly depressing.
I was curious as to how Fox News could possibly put a positive spin on what was unfolding. Apparently, we are unable to gauge the proceedings as mere citizens. But there are FBI agents listening to the testimony and they are poised to indict Hillary for perjury. Of course they won't. Because Obama intervened I am sure.
Fox News created the Benghazi scandal. The rest of the media allowed it to happen. We can try to rescue our father-in-laws, aunts and uncles, from the bubble. And I will try. But really isn't there really a better way?
I was curious as to how Fox News could possibly put a positive spin on what was unfolding. Apparently, we are unable to gauge the proceedings as mere citizens. But there are FBI agents listening to the testimony and they are poised to indict Hillary for perjury. Of course they won't. Because Obama intervened I am sure.
Fox News created the Benghazi scandal. The rest of the media allowed it to happen. We can try to rescue our father-in-laws, aunts and uncles, from the bubble. And I will try. But really isn't there really a better way?
206
So you ignore that four Americans died after more than 600 requests to Hillary in her position of Secretary of State for more security? Stephens even pointed out that there was an Al Qaida training facility right near the embassy. And then Hillary lies about the source of the violence to the families over the caskets carrying their loved ones....what part of this is not her fault?
I watched about 1 minute of Megan Kelly's show last night and they aren't backing off at all. They are still pushing the emails and claiming new evidence has com out. I guess Kelly is their rising start but she certainly isn't a journalist. She is a Roger Ailes foot soldier. She obeys orders and doesn't dare think independently. In the republican debate she asked no questions of substance and was given the job of takin down Trump because Ailes can't control him. She failed miserably.
1
A stelar display of how, with grace and bravura, to out-maneuver a room full of malicious Republicans.
Now if Hillary could let go only let go of her enthusiasm for declaring wars I could more easily declare my enthusiasm for her.
As it stands, a vote for Hillary is a vote for improved health care system, attention to civil rights, reasonable reforms of rogue banks, and a continuation of our disastrous involvement in the midEast.
Now if Hillary could let go only let go of her enthusiasm for declaring wars I could more easily declare my enthusiasm for her.
As it stands, a vote for Hillary is a vote for improved health care system, attention to civil rights, reasonable reforms of rogue banks, and a continuation of our disastrous involvement in the midEast.
15
I turned on MSNBC at 8:40-ish and was surprised the silly hearing was still on. In the few minutes I watched I saw a red-faced and perspiring, in October, and visibly agitated, Trey Gowdy and a calm, cool, collected Hillary Clinton. Then, tonight, on Rachel Maddow, I saw a personable, knowledgeable, relatable, comfortable Hillary. Maybe now she is her prime because what I saw was not an affectation or some transformation. Indeed she was genuine. She is more than able to be president. In my heart of hearts I want Bernie's agenda to be enacted. Hopefully, this fully matured Hillary will be progressive the American people need her to be.
57
I did not want HRC to be the Democratic nominee in 2016 before Thursday. Under the harshest spotlight glare imaginable, HRC totally dominated her inquisitors. The silly proceeding portrayed overmatched Trey Gowdy and his GOP bullies as guys who furtively walk quickly away from a shadowy doorway with a brown bag under their arms. HRC exuded much more energy, exhibited much more staying power, and disgraced her ineffectual interrogators with the calm disposition of a person who would not flinch from the sternest need of her country when that phone rings at 3:00 a.m.. Hers was. in short, a presidential performance. This observer found fault with the Times recently for what appeared a premature rush to HRC's coronation next year. The composition of Congress may look different in January, 2017 from what it is now, but even if it retains its signature cesspool stench, they won't dare mess with the new president.
37
Clinton's appearance before the committee of hateful Republican hyenas was masterful: knowledgeable, unflappable, whip-smart. Nothing will change the minds of the delusional far-right who will continue to see her as the devil incarnate, or the minds of the delusional far-left who will continue to believe that an elderly socialist preaching "revolution" has a ghost of a chance in this country, but her appearance before the committee was certainly a revelation to me and others like me.
I know I'm not alone in my distaste for Clinton, but what I saw was a woman with the right stuff to be a president. I don't have to like her, I just have to believe that she can do the job better than any of the alternatives, and after this week, she's proven that she can.
I know I'm not alone in my distaste for Clinton, but what I saw was a woman with the right stuff to be a president. I don't have to like her, I just have to believe that she can do the job better than any of the alternatives, and after this week, she's proven that she can.
591
"or the minds of the delusional far-left who will continue to believe that an elderly socialist preaching "revolution" has a ghost of a chance in this country"
I am not delusional, Bernie is where Democrats prior to the DLC have stood and the political revolution is getting citizens organized and involved in politics.
Ms Clinton and her husband helped found the DLC that drug the Democratic Party into the embrace of Wall Street, she is second only to Jeb Bush in taking Wall Street cash, yet flip-flopped on over half her platform in her latest reinvention just before the first debate.
If Ms Clinton is a Progressive Democrat, then pigs can fly.
I am not delusional, Bernie is where Democrats prior to the DLC have stood and the political revolution is getting citizens organized and involved in politics.
Ms Clinton and her husband helped found the DLC that drug the Democratic Party into the embrace of Wall Street, she is second only to Jeb Bush in taking Wall Street cash, yet flip-flopped on over half her platform in her latest reinvention just before the first debate.
If Ms Clinton is a Progressive Democrat, then pigs can fly.
1
If Bernie is electable, pigs do fly. I hear them overhead every day in Forest Hills. Do us all a favor--count the Electoral College votes Bernie can win---and can't win. Where will he get 270 votes?
1
You say "elderly" to describe Sanders, who is just 5 years older than Hillary Clinton. Why use "elderly" as a pejorative? I would agree with Ms. Collins. Many people find their strength and wisdom as they age. I hope that you do as well, and perhaps, along the route, you'll eschew ageist comments.
1
Yes, quite funny how the Cons dropped the age issue when Bernie started catching wind in the polls as anything to deflate Hillary is "two legs good" for the old white men. In fact the only one denigrating age now is little Marco Batista but then kids say the darnedest things. Why is nothing of substance concerning Hillary covered by the insipid NYT political coverage, other than her choice of a navy pantsuit announced in a lead article on the hearing of course by two NYT male reporters? Her speech on Thursday to the Women's Leadership Council of the DNC which she started 20 years ago, was a raucous inspiring one: "of course Republicans will say I am playing the gender card, but if equal pay, paid leave, and women's health is playing the gender card, then deal me in". I think we saw Wednesday how vicious, and dirty and crass the old white men will be to try to destroy her with their slimy tactics by pinhead prosecutors from the swamps, but US women just have to accept that every nasty trick they play is to prevent women from sharing opportunities for power. We can't let Roverian politics steal our chance this time for a very elegant qualified patriot who happens to have a cervix as Rush, the true face and physique of GOP's angry white men, likes to point out. Fifty two percent of US voters are women and it is time we let the old fascists hear us roar, loudly and proudly. We will swamp you, little man Trey, with our massive collective power.
51
Since you included one zoological illustration I will add another. The fact that a middle-aged woman may be in her prime brings to mind the scientific theory that the postmenopausal female in humans (and a few other long-lived and social mammals) constitutes a social caste in the same sense that, for example, ant societies have specialized worker, soldier, and reproductive individuals. The idea being that historically a woman who lived long after she no longer could bear children was a source of wisdom contributing to the survival of her descendants.
54
To quote Kurt Eichenwald: "And what was also clear from the House Intelligence Committee Report was that the intelligence went back and forth three times in the course of 24 hours. And so when Hillary Clinton was talking to the president of Egypt, at that time, she was reciting what the intelligence was .At that time. 12 hours later it was different. 12 hours later after that it was different again. But that was not from Hillary Clinton's emails."
But let not facts come in the way of Pillory Hillary!
But let not facts come in the way of Pillory Hillary!
37
Sorry. It wasn't the intelligence that was different but the narrative, or do you honestly believe that the video theory had as much credence as her definitive earlier email to the PM of Egypt regarding Al-quaeda involvement? If so, that suddenly discovered video would have been heaven-sent for Obama. I tend not to believe in such miracles. As Theseus said in "A Midsummer Night's Dream," one should not believe in "such fairy toys and fantasies." He was the greatest of realists.
1
And do you honestly believe that to anyone outside the Fox/Republican bubble it matters one bit whether that attack was a spontaneous violent reaction to a video or a planned attack? As one not inside that particular bubble of irrationality let me tell you that it does not. Just as it has not mattered in any of the prior instances of Americans losing their lives while serving in dangerous locales.
Further, does any thinking person actually believe that the Secretary of State is expected to be conversant in the security arrangements of every U.S. diplomatic station in the world? That's bit like expecting the CEO of GM to know what every junior auditor in every far-flung office is up to at any given moment.
That the Republicans have seized on this distinction without a difference is ample proof of how desperate they are to defame HRC in particular and Democrats in general. And of how completely devoid they are of any semblance of honor, ethics, decency and fair play. This hearing did wonders to cast their true character in stark relief.
Outside of the Fox/Republican bubble, Benghazi is viewed as a sad but not unpredictable event in the most tumultuous and violent spot on the globe; not a massive and insidious failure on the part of Obama or Clinton.
As long as the Republicans keep pitching to their base, who live and breath in the bubble, they will continue to offend the vast majority of the rest of us out here who find that the bubble reflects the worst of America.
Further, does any thinking person actually believe that the Secretary of State is expected to be conversant in the security arrangements of every U.S. diplomatic station in the world? That's bit like expecting the CEO of GM to know what every junior auditor in every far-flung office is up to at any given moment.
That the Republicans have seized on this distinction without a difference is ample proof of how desperate they are to defame HRC in particular and Democrats in general. And of how completely devoid they are of any semblance of honor, ethics, decency and fair play. This hearing did wonders to cast their true character in stark relief.
Outside of the Fox/Republican bubble, Benghazi is viewed as a sad but not unpredictable event in the most tumultuous and violent spot on the globe; not a massive and insidious failure on the part of Obama or Clinton.
As long as the Republicans keep pitching to their base, who live and breath in the bubble, they will continue to offend the vast majority of the rest of us out here who find that the bubble reflects the worst of America.
9
People who don't have a clue what the fog of war is sure have a tendency to blunder into it.
1
Going up against a cadre of conspiratorial prevaricators that appeared before her is really a low bar if you have the facts on your side. I also am not sure going toe to toe by using barely evident humiliation against your opponents is a winning strategy in the long run. A wounded animal can be dangerous. HRC even said she viewed Republicans in this light, stating they are her enemies during the debate. The more politically savvy Joe Biden without mentioning her by name took issue with such a label, preferring the opposition. Her favorables, to date, with the American public has not been stellar. I admit Bernie will have to do more to display her shortcomings in the next debate in a proper way, but others have succeeded. Again Bernie Sanders has the weight of reliability on his side while Hillary Clinton is a bit off in that department.
3
It is easy to seem reliable if you only have to represent a state with 625,000 people of nearly exclusively a single ethnic group.
It is less diverse than Staten Island, and only somewhat larger. Sen/Sec Clinton represents it and the city of New York ( a city larger than the countries Sen. Sanders so admires) and all the suburburbs, and the rural areas and the old dead manufacturing towns and....
A fair portion of the world's languages and ethnicities were in her district and she that she had to try to find ways to speak to all of them, and address such a diversity of issues that it is easy for some positions to come into conflict. Sen. Sanders merely had to be a progressive who liked guns.
It is less diverse than Staten Island, and only somewhat larger. Sen/Sec Clinton represents it and the city of New York ( a city larger than the countries Sen. Sanders so admires) and all the suburburbs, and the rural areas and the old dead manufacturing towns and....
A fair portion of the world's languages and ethnicities were in her district and she that she had to try to find ways to speak to all of them, and address such a diversity of issues that it is easy for some positions to come into conflict. Sen. Sanders merely had to be a progressive who liked guns.
19
The people who came away from that hearing feeling humiliated had humiliated themselves.
2
Hillary, like Bill, is a consummate politician. The Republicans should know by now that putting either of them in front of an investigative committee is not the way to score political points. In this case it backfired.
The Clintons' mastery of the political stage is a strength and weakness. The strength is obvious. The weakness is their propensity to act outside the law and think they can talk their way out of it. Many, myself included, do not trust them for this reason. Not that I would vote for Trump or Carson. I will just offer a prediction: If Hillary is elected, we can look forward to 4 years of gridlock over niggling character issues.
The Clintons' mastery of the political stage is a strength and weakness. The strength is obvious. The weakness is their propensity to act outside the law and think they can talk their way out of it. Many, myself included, do not trust them for this reason. Not that I would vote for Trump or Carson. I will just offer a prediction: If Hillary is elected, we can look forward to 4 years of gridlock over niggling character issues.
12
Oh please. Let us not be naive. If any Democrat wins there will be continued gridlock. Why are we failing to understand that on the right we have a group of people who believe that it is their God given duty to burn the house down and then rush in to rebuild it exactly to their specifications and no one else's?
12
If Bernie Sanders is elected you can look forward to 4 years of gridlock and shouting. And complete inability to do much else.
Is that better?
Is that better?
2
"If Hillary is elected, we can look forward to 4 years of gridlock over niggling character issues."
I like Clinton, but was actually leaning towards Sanders, but after watching/listening to the entire "Nuremberg" trial, I am a Clinton supporter. Anyone who can sit through that kind of abuse and not lose her cool, can most certainly handle anything else that might come her way.
I like Clinton, but was actually leaning towards Sanders, but after watching/listening to the entire "Nuremberg" trial, I am a Clinton supporter. Anyone who can sit through that kind of abuse and not lose her cool, can most certainly handle anything else that might come her way.
6
Judging from how the stress of the office of the presidency seems to put its occupants into an age acceleration machine and the poor performance of Ronald Reagan in his second term, the glib dismissal of the age issue here seems a bit overly optimistic.
I probably will vote for Hillary when the time comes. If anyone can overcome the liability of the inevitable cognitive decline of the aging process she is the one, but this is one job where I would prefer a younger candidate.
It is time this country had a woman president, but there is something wrong with our political process that out of all the talent this country has to offer we are given a single choice- and the wife of a former president at that. Either Bernie or Hillary- that's it?
I probably will vote for Hillary when the time comes. If anyone can overcome the liability of the inevitable cognitive decline of the aging process she is the one, but this is one job where I would prefer a younger candidate.
It is time this country had a woman president, but there is something wrong with our political process that out of all the talent this country has to offer we are given a single choice- and the wife of a former president at that. Either Bernie or Hillary- that's it?
9
Who better to be president than the spouse of a former president, Alandhaigh? She will bring to the office the historically unique advantage of insider, first-hand experience of global politics, survival saavy in the face of "niggling" Republicans, proven lasting power, admirable ability to handle the invitable mean-intended attacks and Bill . . . there for her with his unique understanding of the pressures of office -- with advice at the right time, in the right tenor of sympathy and guidance, and with deep comprehension of the slippery landscape of diplomatically interacting with all possible factions in Washington D.C. and among the international financial/political power elite.
What's not to like?
What's not to like?
4
The Republicans seem intent on making Hillary stronger.
Thank you Mr. Gowdy. Are you actually paid by Mrs. Clinton's campaign?
Thank you Mr. Gowdy. Are you actually paid by Mrs. Clinton's campaign?
104
It is a good thing we no longer have star chamber proceedings where everyone "confesses" under torture. Now we just waste taxpayer money.
In my lifetime I have lived through the Great Depression, World War Two, the Korean War, Vietnam, the administration of George W Bush. I was in City Hall Park when the first tower collapsed on 9.11.01 and am a witness to the Republican party’s assault on American democracy and constitutional government the outcome of which is like the World Series still undecided.
People who are stupid at 20 will be stupid at 70 and will die stupid having learned little about the important things in life. The stupid, bigoted, mean spirited and selfish generally do not improve with age and likely get worse.
The highly intelligent, well educated, industrious and ambitious learn from experience and are at 70, baring ill health or physical or mental breakdown, more formidable than at 35 and this is true of Hillary. At 68 given her experiences from 2008 through her service as Secretary of .State, she is at the peak at her powers and she will not be fooled by Republican bad faith.
Ted Cruz, in his mid 40's calls for a new generation is the most dangerous man in America and those like him who value being young with no experience to speak of and no accomplishments, bringing political meaning to the term “half baked.” So happy birthday Hillary. 68 candles and you earned them all and have something of value to show for it. Ah, to be 68 again.
In my lifetime I have lived through the Great Depression, World War Two, the Korean War, Vietnam, the administration of George W Bush. I was in City Hall Park when the first tower collapsed on 9.11.01 and am a witness to the Republican party’s assault on American democracy and constitutional government the outcome of which is like the World Series still undecided.
People who are stupid at 20 will be stupid at 70 and will die stupid having learned little about the important things in life. The stupid, bigoted, mean spirited and selfish generally do not improve with age and likely get worse.
The highly intelligent, well educated, industrious and ambitious learn from experience and are at 70, baring ill health or physical or mental breakdown, more formidable than at 35 and this is true of Hillary. At 68 given her experiences from 2008 through her service as Secretary of .State, she is at the peak at her powers and she will not be fooled by Republican bad faith.
Ted Cruz, in his mid 40's calls for a new generation is the most dangerous man in America and those like him who value being young with no experience to speak of and no accomplishments, bringing political meaning to the term “half baked.” So happy birthday Hillary. 68 candles and you earned them all and have something of value to show for it. Ah, to be 68 again.
322
Ah, Sheldon, many good things come with age if you survive. Hillary is strong and intelligent enough to wage the good fight against the Republican bad faith and corruption. I don't see any choice for us. The Republicans have proven that they are anti-democracy.
I agree that Cruz is a menace. He is obviously intelligent but warped. As far as intelligence goes I am always reminded of the old days when I worked with highly intelligent programmers. They typically did not comb the back of their head because the couldn't see it. Lots of that mind set going around still.
I agree that Cruz is a menace. He is obviously intelligent but warped. As far as intelligence goes I am always reminded of the old days when I worked with highly intelligent programmers. They typically did not comb the back of their head because the couldn't see it. Lots of that mind set going around still.
5
Loved your comments and agree on all counts! Power to seniors!
4
I bow to the wisdom presented in this piece.
Trump (69) is the same age as Bill Clinton (69) and George W. Bush (69). All three are college class of '68. Hillary, from the class of '69, is 68 Monday. If Trump or Hillary serve 8 years in the White House, the class of '68, or classes of '68 & '69, will occupy the Oval office for almost a quarter of a century. Must have been something Presidential in the water.
9
1968 was a most interesting year. We easily remember the deaths of MLK & RFK, but so much else was going on:
-- Tet Offensive and later Mai Li in Vietnam -- student revolt in Paris -- Praugue Srping followed by Soviet army quashing the Chech attempt for freedom --- Mayor Daly, the Democratic convention and the demonstrations in Chicago -- Apollo 8 and orbiting the Moon, and much more.
If not in the water, there was certainly a lot in the air at that time. In some ways, I envy my oldest brother, also of those class years: they were of political age while in the midst of all those goings on.
Maybe the influence of social activism of that a time is why I'm "feeling the Bern" -- most likely voting for him during the Primaries. However, come Election Day November next year, I'll probably be casting my vote for Hillary.
-- Tet Offensive and later Mai Li in Vietnam -- student revolt in Paris -- Praugue Srping followed by Soviet army quashing the Chech attempt for freedom --- Mayor Daly, the Democratic convention and the demonstrations in Chicago -- Apollo 8 and orbiting the Moon, and much more.
If not in the water, there was certainly a lot in the air at that time. In some ways, I envy my oldest brother, also of those class years: they were of political age while in the midst of all those goings on.
Maybe the influence of social activism of that a time is why I'm "feeling the Bern" -- most likely voting for him during the Primaries. However, come Election Day November next year, I'll probably be casting my vote for Hillary.
1
After I finish laughing, I will write a sober and serious response. Meanwhile, I thank you, Gail, for your delicious word-play.
37
Unflappable and steady, she was and now the Republican rancor has subsided only to ferment when the Republicans turn their attention toward their horse race, a brokered convention in the offing this summer in Cleveland.
It'll be a circular firing squad and the last candidate standing will be too wounded to pose a serious threat to a Democratic party, united to continue the Obama legacy. Hillary is keeping the coalition together and benefits greatly with a Grand Old Party in disarray.
It'll be a circular firing squad and the last candidate standing will be too wounded to pose a serious threat to a Democratic party, united to continue the Obama legacy. Hillary is keeping the coalition together and benefits greatly with a Grand Old Party in disarray.
52
We probably won't remember Blumenthal's email 63 years from now. But we might remember that in the early 21st century there was a period of time with a constant chant, "Benghazi!" It might even become an expression whose original meaning is lost somewhere around 50 years on, for instance something like, when you've endured a great trial with grace and humor, "Benghazi!"
HB, HRC! Knock 'em dead!
HB, HRC! Knock 'em dead!
64
I'll donate to the first candidate who turns "Benghazi" into a verb:
As in, "Don't try to Benghazi me."
As in, "Don't try to Benghazi me."
1
The look of contempt, hatred, and even disgust on Chairman Gowdy's face at those hearings told a lot about the character of the one whom the right wing would like to see as speaker. This umpteenth "hearing" was nothing but a monkey trial. It cost the taxpayers millions (pointlessly spent by the supposedly fiscal conservatives) and accomplished nothing. Thankfully, it gave Hillary a chance to show her metal.
140
I think you mean mettle. Though I'm now convinced HIllary is made of steel!
5
And show her mettle as well!
2
Gowdy was visibly shamed. After skipping lunch to pore over the files to find any way out of his corner, he spent the afternoon sweating as if he were in a Turkish bath. What a miserable man he is.
4
Those of us who are even older than Hillary Clinton enjoyed ourselves on Wednesday. To the leaders of the Republican Party, the seven members of The Select Committee on Benghazi are fearsome firebrands to be held in awe and respect. After all, the Tea Party minority of the Republicans have led the fight to do absolutely no governing. They have more status and clout on Capitol Hill than anyone.
To Hillary, of course, they are merely juvenile delinquents.
If you watched Mrs. Clinton watching Trey Gowdy and his gang, you may have noticed that she was gauging how much longer they could last until they fell completely into exhausted disarray. She seemed to be thinking, “Do I give the punks a scolding or just let them make fools of themselves?” She chose the latter.
Other than reinforcement of our memories about just how strong and, if you will, even presidential Hillary Clinton is, we learned far less from the marathon Hearing than we typically learn from a Gail Collins column.
Speaking of koalas, you would sleep 18 to 22 hours daily if tomorrow you could only look forward to a strict diet of eucalyptus leaves. What is Marco Rubio’s excuse?
To Hillary, of course, they are merely juvenile delinquents.
If you watched Mrs. Clinton watching Trey Gowdy and his gang, you may have noticed that she was gauging how much longer they could last until they fell completely into exhausted disarray. She seemed to be thinking, “Do I give the punks a scolding or just let them make fools of themselves?” She chose the latter.
Other than reinforcement of our memories about just how strong and, if you will, even presidential Hillary Clinton is, we learned far less from the marathon Hearing than we typically learn from a Gail Collins column.
Speaking of koalas, you would sleep 18 to 22 hours daily if tomorrow you could only look forward to a strict diet of eucalyptus leaves. What is Marco Rubio’s excuse?
509
I don't know why, but I watched the hearings. Sort of like the Army-McCarthy hearings as reenacted by my high-school drama class. Rep. Roskam made me think of an SNL version of a Fox News interviewer (i.e. less funny than an actual Fox News interviewer, but with more human mannerisms). Clinton was more like a professional actor; you almost believed that she actually thought the Republicans were listening when she answered their questions--which did not make her look good. I even started wondering: if she were president and the Republicans were terrorists, would she just put on that impassive face and assure them she wanted to be helpful? But she won me over with the coughing fit.
9
"I even started wondering: if she were president and the Republicans were terrorists, would she just put on that impassive face and assure them she wanted to be helpful?" Wow, so the logic here is that her calm measured responses to the Republicans prove she's unfit because if they were terrorists she would be too cooperative. Is there no end to this crazed hatred for this woman, that would lead someone to now compare their own party to imaginary terrorists?
14
Ah, yes, the Army-McCarthy Hearings 61 years ago.....I was a high school sophomore at 16 and home from school in bed for eight weeks with a case of hepatitis, so I got to watch the whole thing from beginning to end including the majesty and cleverness of Joe Welch, the prosecutor. The country had been waiting for years for someone to take down Tailgunner Joe McCarthy and his Communist witchhunt, and Welch did it so quiretly and patiently and persistently. It was such a lesson the power of words and reason, and it was the end of McCarthy and G. David Shine and Roy Cohn and ultimately McCarthyism which could not stand the light of day. May we sometime soon find a Joe Welch equivalent to expose to the whole country the Tea Party Republicans for what they are.
1
I think the whole thing was more Wizard of Oz than I Love Lucy. Gowdy looked like the Wicked Witch of the West. Hillary looked like Glenda. Jordan looked like one of those flying monkeys. The lady with 80s hair-doo and the 2 piles of emails looked like one of the Munchkins. The fat guy with the address questions looked like the Cowardly Lion.
53
I commented this nearby, but it's probably better here.
Fantasy: Rep. Roby asked if Sec. Clinton spent the WHOLE NIGHT alone at home. Clinton responds: "Well, there was Guido the pool boy, but don't tell Bill." That brought down the house! Chair Pee Wee Herman, er, Rep. Gowdy complained that she had impugned the dignity of the committee and the hearing. Clinton responded: "You don't need my help to do that."
Reality: Humor is an inappropriate weapon in the face of abject idiocy.
Fantasy: Rep. Roby asked if Sec. Clinton spent the WHOLE NIGHT alone at home. Clinton responds: "Well, there was Guido the pool boy, but don't tell Bill." That brought down the house! Chair Pee Wee Herman, er, Rep. Gowdy complained that she had impugned the dignity of the committee and the hearing. Clinton responded: "You don't need my help to do that."
Reality: Humor is an inappropriate weapon in the face of abject idiocy.
60
Don't you go dissing Pee Wee Herman like that!
1
Roby didn't know why that was so funny? "Why is that funny?" she asked. Does someone actually need to explain the joke to her?
1
Hillary Clinton has been the subject of a witch hunt. No previous secretary of state has been held accountable for deaths at embassies or consulates. Far more deaths occurred in the Beirut bombing, but George Schultz was not dragged before Congress to account for every hour of his time during that tragic event.
The Bush administration and its officials, including the secretaries of state, were not held accountable for any of the deaths from attacks on its embassies and consulates. No one in the Bush administration was held accountable for using any of the several private servers that they used (including the RNC's), nor were they held accountable for the millions of emails that they deleted.
Gail Collins went back to the public women such as Elizabeth Cody Stanton who are good parallels for Secretary Clinton who has steadfastly supported the rights of women and children throughout her career.
But Ms. Collins could just as easily gone back to the Salem witch trials of 1692 and compared the transcripts of those trials to what just happened in Congress.
As one point, one of the witch hunters asked a victim, "Why did you say if you were a witch, you should have no pardon?" The answer: "Because I am a woman."
Shame on the Republicans in Congress. Shame on their many witch hunts including their next one against Planned Parenthood. This isn't the 19th century, and it isn't the 17th century in America. Women now have rights, including the right to vote.
The Bush administration and its officials, including the secretaries of state, were not held accountable for any of the deaths from attacks on its embassies and consulates. No one in the Bush administration was held accountable for using any of the several private servers that they used (including the RNC's), nor were they held accountable for the millions of emails that they deleted.
Gail Collins went back to the public women such as Elizabeth Cody Stanton who are good parallels for Secretary Clinton who has steadfastly supported the rights of women and children throughout her career.
But Ms. Collins could just as easily gone back to the Salem witch trials of 1692 and compared the transcripts of those trials to what just happened in Congress.
As one point, one of the witch hunters asked a victim, "Why did you say if you were a witch, you should have no pardon?" The answer: "Because I am a woman."
Shame on the Republicans in Congress. Shame on their many witch hunts including their next one against Planned Parenthood. This isn't the 19th century, and it isn't the 17th century in America. Women now have rights, including the right to vote.
933
Republicans in congress are not afflicted by shame and decency; they have adjusted to seeing the world through their conservative red-colored glasses.
It's a requirement for being a Republican.
It's a requirement for being a Republican.
7
Apparently they aren't done with hammering on PP, even now! They want another investigation.
These people seem completely unhinged. Hillary looked like she was facing down a bunch of juvenile delinquents.
These people seem completely unhinged. Hillary looked like she was facing down a bunch of juvenile delinquents.
2
Great historical reference, SMB, and hopefully women will unite behind this capable woman.
5
The reality, like it or not, is that at this point in time, before the first nomination vote takes place, is like spring training in minor-league baseball.
The real contest will be between two human beings. There will be at most a dozen states where the outcome will be in doubt - Massachusetts, NY, California will furnish electoral college votes - the ones that actually matter - to the Democrat. Texas, Alaska, Georgia etc. will go Republican.
The swing states will go to the less objectionable, more appealing candidate, simply because the majority of voters are less concerned with issues and policy than who will be their country's representative to the rest of the world.
The President's major function is being the face and voice of the United States of America.
Mrs. Clinton's major difficulty in this regard is that she has little or no appeal to any voters right of the political center. She is too old, too controlled, too clever, too unusual (smarter, tougher, more determined than the average human being). She just doesn't relate well.
Bernie Sanders has an insurmountable obstacle. Not his age. His two Jewish parents and his self-proclaimed stance as 'not particularly religious' [and his marriage to a divorced Roman Catholic]. Not a chance in the USA.
All that said, she would probably beat Trump or Carson. One is a buffoon, the other is nonwhite. She'd have her hands full vs. Jeb, and not a chance against Rubio.
Remember, you read it here first.
The real contest will be between two human beings. There will be at most a dozen states where the outcome will be in doubt - Massachusetts, NY, California will furnish electoral college votes - the ones that actually matter - to the Democrat. Texas, Alaska, Georgia etc. will go Republican.
The swing states will go to the less objectionable, more appealing candidate, simply because the majority of voters are less concerned with issues and policy than who will be their country's representative to the rest of the world.
The President's major function is being the face and voice of the United States of America.
Mrs. Clinton's major difficulty in this regard is that she has little or no appeal to any voters right of the political center. She is too old, too controlled, too clever, too unusual (smarter, tougher, more determined than the average human being). She just doesn't relate well.
Bernie Sanders has an insurmountable obstacle. Not his age. His two Jewish parents and his self-proclaimed stance as 'not particularly religious' [and his marriage to a divorced Roman Catholic]. Not a chance in the USA.
All that said, she would probably beat Trump or Carson. One is a buffoon, the other is nonwhite. She'd have her hands full vs. Jeb, and not a chance against Rubio.
Remember, you read it here first.
3
When the only thing bad you can say about a candidate is that her display of competence makes you feel stupid, you have good reason to think yourself stupid if you don't vote for her.
3
Nope: I think she appeals to a lot of folks: strong and tough, just the Mom or Grandmom you want on your side.
I went to Medical school at the age of 50. There were a lot of old white male docs who might not have approved of women in medicine but they liked me because I was beyond the age of reproduction and wasn't leaving my kids in the lurch. All Clinton has to do is help folks remember what a good Mom she was and what a good wife she was, and now what a formidable, capable, smart, and touch president she'll make. I think she'll get the vote from every male who doesn't hate his mother, and from most females, as well as blacks and latinos and latinas. Latina women have a lot of power and most latinos have a great Mom behind them. We've had faltering fathers and good fathers as presidents. It's time for a great Mom.
I went to Medical school at the age of 50. There were a lot of old white male docs who might not have approved of women in medicine but they liked me because I was beyond the age of reproduction and wasn't leaving my kids in the lurch. All Clinton has to do is help folks remember what a good Mom she was and what a good wife she was, and now what a formidable, capable, smart, and touch president she'll make. I think she'll get the vote from every male who doesn't hate his mother, and from most females, as well as blacks and latinos and latinas. Latina women have a lot of power and most latinos have a great Mom behind them. We've had faltering fathers and good fathers as presidents. It's time for a great Mom.
4
Holding a doctorate, as you and I both do, is not a unique position. It's common. Some earn it early, some late. And once you get it, it's yours for life.
Being elected President of the United States has happened to exactly 44 human beings, only one of whom was in office for more than eight years.
My comment had nothing to do with who would perform well as President, but who has the best chance of winning the 2016 U.S. Presidential election. Clinton has the best chance of winning the nomination, by far, but I stand by my guess that she would probably beat Trump or Carson. One is a buffoon, the other is nonwhite. She'd have her hands full vs. Jeb, and not a chance against Rubio.
For the record, I have cast votes since 1964 for Democrat winners and losers, Republican winners and losers, and third-party candidates, and once stayed home because I didn't think either was worthy of my vote.
Being elected President of the United States has happened to exactly 44 human beings, only one of whom was in office for more than eight years.
My comment had nothing to do with who would perform well as President, but who has the best chance of winning the 2016 U.S. Presidential election. Clinton has the best chance of winning the nomination, by far, but I stand by my guess that she would probably beat Trump or Carson. One is a buffoon, the other is nonwhite. She'd have her hands full vs. Jeb, and not a chance against Rubio.
For the record, I have cast votes since 1964 for Democrat winners and losers, Republican winners and losers, and third-party candidates, and once stayed home because I didn't think either was worthy of my vote.
Since no one wants to say it, I will.
a. Was Ambassador Stevens aware of the security threats? - Yes he was.
b. Was he ordered to go to Benghazi? - As far as the public record has it, he was not ordered to go, he went of his own volition.
c. Was he aware he was short of resources? - Certainly, yes.
d. What was the compelling interest that made him weigh his shortage of resources and the security threats against this interest, and go nonetheless? -- We've never been told. Perhaps the real story, and perhaps scandal (for US foreign policy) is there, and not in all this sideshow.
e.g., there is a story out there of dubious reliability, that there was a Saudi-US effort to recruit Libyan jihadis to fight Assad in Syria. The imagination can run riot.
a. Was Ambassador Stevens aware of the security threats? - Yes he was.
b. Was he ordered to go to Benghazi? - As far as the public record has it, he was not ordered to go, he went of his own volition.
c. Was he aware he was short of resources? - Certainly, yes.
d. What was the compelling interest that made him weigh his shortage of resources and the security threats against this interest, and go nonetheless? -- We've never been told. Perhaps the real story, and perhaps scandal (for US foreign policy) is there, and not in all this sideshow.
e.g., there is a story out there of dubious reliability, that there was a Saudi-US effort to recruit Libyan jihadis to fight Assad in Syria. The imagination can run riot.
25
With apologies to conspiracy theorists, could it have been simple bad judgment on his part?
The irony of having older president is precisely because of the juveniles like Gov Walker, Sen Cruz and Sen Rubio. How so, you may ask. Through their actions, juveniles like the list above are forcing older folks to work past their retirement age. Remember some rich folks said regular folks should work till 80? Or the Republicans have tried to decimate the retirement programs at every turn? Their idea of right to work means work until you drop.
So these youngsters deserve to have seniors Mrs. Clinton and the Notorious RBG to show them how it is done. And the hilarious Benghazi Committee meeting is just a taste of it if these anti-government Congress(wo)men insist on giving governing a bad name
So these youngsters deserve to have seniors Mrs. Clinton and the Notorious RBG to show them how it is done. And the hilarious Benghazi Committee meeting is just a taste of it if these anti-government Congress(wo)men insist on giving governing a bad name
41
The real present is the one that star prosecutor Gowdy and his gang of losers gave her: the Presidency.
132
And honorable mention among the gift givers goes to Kevin McCarthy. I wonder if he is watching her pole numbers now?
Too bad Anthony and Stanton couldn't meet Hillary-how they would respect and admire her. They were stars in their time she is one for our time.
61
Hillary Clinton's principal saving grace is the pathetic comedy of the rest of the field of candidates, R&D alike. Since Obama has preempted meaningful State Department participation in foreign policy leadership, all she, like Kerry, has to show for her sojurn at State is a lot of posturing and a ton of frequent flier miles. Her brief Senatorial career was largely cosmetic and, as has been evident all too often, past and present, living in the White House is no vaccine against incompetence. But in a world of Donalds and Bernies she looks like the pick of a litter full of runts.
11
I see. This is how you rationalize to yourself the complete and abject dissolution of your party. Nice try.
1
By far Hillary's best birthday gift was the Benghazi inquisition.
Republicans, wearing cloaks and hoods of the Order of Gowdy, emerged in ritual chant from their dark crevices, to put the Democratic candidate on trial. She was ceremonially tied to a stake to be burned alive on national television; Republicans would light the fire and ridicule her mea culpas as she repented her hand in the murder of her friend the ambassador and 3 other Americans. Republicans not only intended to prosecute and persecute her, they intended to defeat her long before the 2016 election. But something went wrong with the script; the Republicans had underestimated the target of their ritual victimization. Under the 10 hours of glaring light cast from the Republican flame-licking torches, through the dark smoky Gowdyism of character assassination, Hillary emerged unscathed, calm and composed, commanding in facts, demonstrating intelligence and wit. She was presidential. By contrast, the Republicans were exhausted, dim witted and defeated. Slumped over in fatigue from holding their torches, which at times nearly set their own cloaks afire, but in the end, like them, were burned out.
Happy Birthday Hillary!
Republicans, wearing cloaks and hoods of the Order of Gowdy, emerged in ritual chant from their dark crevices, to put the Democratic candidate on trial. She was ceremonially tied to a stake to be burned alive on national television; Republicans would light the fire and ridicule her mea culpas as she repented her hand in the murder of her friend the ambassador and 3 other Americans. Republicans not only intended to prosecute and persecute her, they intended to defeat her long before the 2016 election. But something went wrong with the script; the Republicans had underestimated the target of their ritual victimization. Under the 10 hours of glaring light cast from the Republican flame-licking torches, through the dark smoky Gowdyism of character assassination, Hillary emerged unscathed, calm and composed, commanding in facts, demonstrating intelligence and wit. She was presidential. By contrast, the Republicans were exhausted, dim witted and defeated. Slumped over in fatigue from holding their torches, which at times nearly set their own cloaks afire, but in the end, like them, were burned out.
Happy Birthday Hillary!
192
Thank us all, every one. Behind the morning drizzle the sun waits to shine, there is the sound of mouth harps calling to the Ozark hills, fragrant smoke rises from the trenches facing each other across the no man's land where, nonetheless an unwonted calm blesses our Saturday best.
As if in the spell of a good witch respite from cacophony and confusion reigns.
Long live our queens! Raise your shot glass or teacup with limoncello once again.
As if in the spell of a good witch respite from cacophony and confusion reigns.
Long live our queens! Raise your shot glass or teacup with limoncello once again.
14
Undoubtedly, the 11 hour Bengazhi Committee hearing that is widely televised and watched by Americans is one of the biggest mistake made by the Republican Party in the 2016 Election cycle. I hope that the Democratic Party would find ways to capitalize on Clinton's success and the glaring Republican weakness and win back seats in both the House and the Senate that had been lost in the last 8 years.
127
If you seriously think the average American (regardless of party affiliation) actually watched the whole Benghazi hearings, you are daft. I'd be surprised if most Americans knew it even occurred, and if they did, they saw a few seconds of highlights on the evening news.
In any event, it would have zero effect on Congressional races in 2018.
In any event, it would have zero effect on Congressional races in 2018.
Great editorial and spot-on. While I never doubted her, I was thrilled to see her stand up to those neanderthal Republican witch-hunters in Congress and chew them up/spit them out for all the world to see. The REAL high-point over the last month was Kevin McCarthy going on national television and admit that the Benghazi committee fiasco was put together to sabotage her campaign. Well it hasn't sabotaged her campaign but it drove him into the gutter where he and the rest of his reactionary friends belong. It's going to be a Clinton-Rubio match, mark my words, and I am going to be one of millions who will cast his vote for Hillary come election day and proudly elect her as our next president.
107
Well, McCarthy is still Majority Leader of the House; so, not exactly kicked into the gutter. But, your point is well taken: Hillary has brains and stamina. Her ability to withstand the Benghazi witch trial has convinced me she has everything needed to be a highly competent and effective President.
2
Was Hilary's time at State more attuned to moving American interests ahead or having Sidney Blumenthal coordinate deozens of influence deals that would next cash to Bill & Hillary to accumulate in the ''foundation?''
Figure that out and you'll have a preview to Sid flying all around the world making influence deals while Hillary distracts you with shiny objects. Perhaps she will put her idol Saul Alinsky on memorial coin sets.
Figure that out and you'll have a preview to Sid flying all around the world making influence deals while Hillary distracts you with shiny objects. Perhaps she will put her idol Saul Alinsky on memorial coin sets.
8
I thought Saul Alinsky always was Obama's (the community organizer) idol, not Clinton's. Aren't you mishmashing Republican talking points?
29
@Steve Austin: Incoherent and almost completely unintelligible, but still funny.
5
Something tells me Steve's nearest supermarket must be sold out of Reynolds Wrap.
1
HRC is indeed a force to be reckoned with for sure! I remember when she was a Senator and she said "we are not back on the plantation boys" and she won my heart then.
91
If the Republicans' intent was to expose Hillary's flaws (and it was) they did a masterful job of doing the exact opposite: elevating her candidacy. She beat them at their own game of attrition and emerged unscathed and champing at the bit to engage in debate whoever the Republicans select from a woefully weak menu of options. Everything's coming up roses for Hillary, from Biden's no-go, Webb's and Chafee's no-show, and her uncanny knack for skating through 10+ hours of agonizingly monotonous grilling. She may not win any popularity contests but it's difficult if not impossible to overlook her tenacity, intelligence, and savvy. The Republican establishment cannot like its odds, given that their two front-runners are no match for Hillary's command of the issues. Even if Trump and Carson falter, there is no one in the GOP ranks ready to step up to the plate against her.
632
I take issue with your claim that she may not win any popularity contests. It took the hearings on Benghazi to draw the line between those who are Presidential and those who are minions of the 158 Tea Party families—politicians whose minds and hearts are so shriveled from sacrificing their souls for the sake of wealth. Hillary is a dedicated, sincere and dynamic woman, fully primed to take on the job of President.
3
I was in awe of Hillary Clinton's professional performance at the Benghazi inquisition. Her ability to recite so many details and give intelligent responses to refute asinine questions was remarkable. She never waved off or disparaged any question no matter how ridiculous.
All of this I guess can be the result of many hours of preparation. The one area that was most remarkable to me is she never showed any normal involuntary ticks. She never rolled her eyes or signed or pouted. She smiled through everything. I would trust her with dealing with any issues.
I had my doubts, but no more. Hillary Clinton has my vote.
All of this I guess can be the result of many hours of preparation. The one area that was most remarkable to me is she never showed any normal involuntary ticks. She never rolled her eyes or signed or pouted. She smiled through everything. I would trust her with dealing with any issues.
I had my doubts, but no more. Hillary Clinton has my vote.
1062
Well, she did laugh out loud when she was grilled about when she went home to sleep ... all alone...all night? OK, who can blame her for that!
3
Ms. Clinton has now confirmed what her critics contended all along, that the "video" story was merely a trope to ensure her bosses re-election. She stood by that lie as she greeted grieving family members beside flag-draped coffins.
But sure, she appeared "tough." Joe is out. Bernie's a lost cause. Life is good!
There may be no better metaphor for the desperate shape this country is in than the fact that a Clinton-Trump UFC match seems to be looming. But don't expect much pay-per-view when the fighters are two clowns.
But sure, she appeared "tough." Joe is out. Bernie's a lost cause. Life is good!
There may be no better metaphor for the desperate shape this country is in than the fact that a Clinton-Trump UFC match seems to be looming. But don't expect much pay-per-view when the fighters are two clowns.
4
Obama mentioned terrorism as a cause of the attack within a couple of days. Perhaps you don't remember, but Romney so believed this line of Republican talking points ("video story was a trope, etc.") , that he walked into it in one of the debates with Obama, and ended up with egg all over his face.
8
Please consult the historical record, as for example in this newspaper: http://www.nytimes.com/projects/2013/benghazi/#/?chapt=0
The video inspired the original attack, as it inspired protests by tens of thousands of people around the Middle East and attacks on multiple American diplomatic facilities. The diplomats in Tunis had to retreat to a safe room when attackers climbed over the walls -- that very same week.
Education and history have facts rather than Fox fantasies.
The video inspired the original attack, as it inspired protests by tens of thousands of people around the Middle East and attacks on multiple American diplomatic facilities. The diplomats in Tunis had to retreat to a safe room when attackers climbed over the walls -- that very same week.
Education and history have facts rather than Fox fantasies.
This is shameful.
Not only is what you write completely untrue, you have every reason to know now that it is untrue.
But I suppose if you are so out of touch with reality as to believe that America is in 'desperate shape', then you probably don't have much contact with facts.
Not only is what you write completely untrue, you have every reason to know now that it is untrue.
But I suppose if you are so out of touch with reality as to believe that America is in 'desperate shape', then you probably don't have much contact with facts.
3
Did those petty and vindictive Republicans on the committee actually think they were hurting Hillary by badgering her for hours? Apparently Fox News knew they were helping Hillary when they cut away from the hearings early.
103
Perhaps Fox et al. feared someone would actually mention the millions of dollars this committee has spent that might have actually been designated for security procedures at American embassies around the world.
38
Yes, that was remarkable that they cut away. But they did not stop spinning the same ideas they spun before--that she was guilty. no matter what the evidence proves.
10
Roger Ailes pulled he plug early on the hearings? I didn't know that! That's a REAL indicator that her appearance completely swamped the goal of the Bore-Ghazi (thank you judgeroybean!) Committee. They wanted to humiliate her and they were the ones thoroughly humiliated. Ooooh, thanks for that info, Dave from PA.
5
Oh man! Trey Gowdy is no Joe McCarthy, that's for sure! Uncle Joe must have been rolling in his grave yelling, "You call that a witch-hunt?!" Hillary sunk those "Bore-ghazi" knuckleheads like a three-foot put!
85
Of course, there won't be a presidential election in 2034, but that's Scott Walker for you. Molotov, Governor!
38
Some reporter interviewed Trey Gowdy after his Big Day With Hillary, and I thought the guy looked shell-shocked and grey. Plus greasy/sweaty/Nixonian.
Hillary looks like the yoga must be paying off- she looked like she could hand him his behind all over again if she felt like it.
Hillary looks like the yoga must be paying off- she looked like she could hand him his behind all over again if she felt like it.
125
After you have elected Hillary, just rememer that she is very accomplished at looking you straight in the eye and lying. There may be one or fifty lies being told by a Clinton administration because the truth is simply too politically damaging. The honesty many demand from a spouse will never be there from a Clinton White House.
I have no idea if truth is all that big a deal to today's Left-fringe liberals.It was gigantic to Walter Cronkite, who destroyed any hope for the Vietnam military effort to succeed and Johnson's re-election along with it.
But the 1960's were a different time, when appearances were sort of nice to have but not anything you'd make a decision on a candidate about. Today, appearances are all the Democrats have had since the Bush-Gore disaster.
Tne billion or two earded from the sale of influence to foreign gov'ts and businesses will turn into tens of them, but Hillary won't steal as much as Putin has, even though they know that Gail, Paul, Charles, David, or Joe will NEVER call her on it.
I have no idea if truth is all that big a deal to today's Left-fringe liberals.It was gigantic to Walter Cronkite, who destroyed any hope for the Vietnam military effort to succeed and Johnson's re-election along with it.
But the 1960's were a different time, when appearances were sort of nice to have but not anything you'd make a decision on a candidate about. Today, appearances are all the Democrats have had since the Bush-Gore disaster.
Tne billion or two earded from the sale of influence to foreign gov'ts and businesses will turn into tens of them, but Hillary won't steal as much as Putin has, even though they know that Gail, Paul, Charles, David, or Joe will NEVER call her on it.
11
Politics makes money. You can't honestly believe that those politician that reach a governing level are living on the income that comes with their election or can you be so naive?
Yes, the 60's were different. Then journalists filmed the caskets coming off the airplanes. They filmed the combat as it was taking place. They wrote well, with certain conviction that what they were doing was a public service to our nation and not in with a Hollywood movie based upon their work which would hopefully make them rich. Remember, they had an integrity to challenge Nixon. So yes, Cronkite was an important voice, among many. But what tanked the Vietnam War were the marchers and protests based up what was seen on TV new channels and on the front pages of newspapers. Walt did not tank Johnson. It was a journalist named R. W. Apple Jr who worked for the NYT who caused him to doubt that the US Intelligence Department's reports about the Vietnam war. Johnson retired and then died from a heart attack while Nixon worked through his first term of the Presidency.
Finally if you think GW Bush got rich from honest endeavors then you probably also believe that he was Texan.
Yes, the 60's were different. Then journalists filmed the caskets coming off the airplanes. They filmed the combat as it was taking place. They wrote well, with certain conviction that what they were doing was a public service to our nation and not in with a Hollywood movie based upon their work which would hopefully make them rich. Remember, they had an integrity to challenge Nixon. So yes, Cronkite was an important voice, among many. But what tanked the Vietnam War were the marchers and protests based up what was seen on TV new channels and on the front pages of newspapers. Walt did not tank Johnson. It was a journalist named R. W. Apple Jr who worked for the NYT who caused him to doubt that the US Intelligence Department's reports about the Vietnam war. Johnson retired and then died from a heart attack while Nixon worked through his first term of the Presidency.
Finally if you think GW Bush got rich from honest endeavors then you probably also believe that he was Texan.
6
you seem to be saying truth is important, and then it is a problem. Which is it? And not sure what you mean by 'appearances are all Dems have'.... I'd say President Obama's run has been more than an appearance..some of us feel a lot has been accomplished! We know you don't agree, but that doesn't change the fact that many people feel we're better off.
7
You have only one trope: you accuse her of lying. Just think about it!
She's competent, tough, and believes in voting rights for all citizens instead of stupid Republican lies about voter fraud.
Benghazi focused Republicans have been lying about the purpose of their investigative committee: one of their own admitted this in the past month.
Republicans spit out more lies in ten minutes than most Democratic politicians give out in ten years.
But: caveat: an old law school buddy of my husband was a brilliant older student: he came from economic deprivation in an economically deprived Southern state. He had saved up law school tuition from his job as a used car salesman and he told my husband: "They want you to lie to them."
That's the truth: low income southern whites want their politicians to lie to them.
They don't want to face the truth: they lost the Civil War; that war was unjust and unwise; African Americans are smart, capable, and above all enduring (ask Bill Faulkner re Dilsey "They endured"); the republican party is controlled by plutocrats who don't give a d---- about abortion or Christianity or gay marriage and who have manipulated these voters to take away almost all the wealth in America from the middle and blue collar classes.
Republican lies run deep deep deep.
She's competent, tough, and believes in voting rights for all citizens instead of stupid Republican lies about voter fraud.
Benghazi focused Republicans have been lying about the purpose of their investigative committee: one of their own admitted this in the past month.
Republicans spit out more lies in ten minutes than most Democratic politicians give out in ten years.
But: caveat: an old law school buddy of my husband was a brilliant older student: he came from economic deprivation in an economically deprived Southern state. He had saved up law school tuition from his job as a used car salesman and he told my husband: "They want you to lie to them."
That's the truth: low income southern whites want their politicians to lie to them.
They don't want to face the truth: they lost the Civil War; that war was unjust and unwise; African Americans are smart, capable, and above all enduring (ask Bill Faulkner re Dilsey "They endured"); the republican party is controlled by plutocrats who don't give a d---- about abortion or Christianity or gay marriage and who have manipulated these voters to take away almost all the wealth in America from the middle and blue collar classes.
Republican lies run deep deep deep.
13
Perhaps she has also laid to rest talk of 'entitlement,' 'dynasty' and so on? She earned the place of respect she now occupies, and by playing the long game just like Stanton and Anthony. Imagine any other present candidate enduring the same 11 hours with the same presence and poise. No, you can't, really.
Clinton didn't just 'look' or 'appear' presidential. She WAS presidential, in a way that few presidents have been before growing into the office. You may still hate or disagree with her for whatever reason, but you have to respect her. She earned that respect.
Clinton didn't just 'look' or 'appear' presidential. She WAS presidential, in a way that few presidents have been before growing into the office. You may still hate or disagree with her for whatever reason, but you have to respect her. She earned that respect.
1188
Imagine any other (male) candidate being grilled for 11 hours for this level of "sin." Talk about double standards. There would have to be several hundred congressional committees running 24/7. Oops--don't want to give the Republicans any more bad ideas.
2
This was a fun article to read. Clever humor!
20
Tough, strong, smart, gets stuff done, makes Republicans look like the losers they are... Sure looks like a great President to me.
102
I agree with gemli's comment. The issue is not finding someone with stamina, it is finding someone who wants to go in the right direction.
That person is Bernie Sanders. It is not Hillary Clinton, who wanted to invade Iraq and refuses to tax either capital gains or inheritance.
To see the direction in which we should go, visit YouTube and watch Comedy Party Platform (2 min 9 sec). Compare that with Bernie's program and with Hillary's. Then send a buck to Bernie and invite me to speak to your group. Thanks.
That person is Bernie Sanders. It is not Hillary Clinton, who wanted to invade Iraq and refuses to tax either capital gains or inheritance.
To see the direction in which we should go, visit YouTube and watch Comedy Party Platform (2 min 9 sec). Compare that with Bernie's program and with Hillary's. Then send a buck to Bernie and invite me to speak to your group. Thanks.
9
Val in Brooklyn, NY
It's funny. I particularly like reading about Gloria Steinem (one of my idols) riding an elephant in Botswana on her 80th b'day. (My mom "the fire cracker" became a breathtakingly frisky 81 last month).
Having said that, I remind myself that the Dem debates aren't over and the primaries ( or, at least the one in New York State) and actual Pres. election are next year. It ain't over yet.
Submitted 10-23-15@11:19 p.m. EST
It's funny. I particularly like reading about Gloria Steinem (one of my idols) riding an elephant in Botswana on her 80th b'day. (My mom "the fire cracker" became a breathtakingly frisky 81 last month).
Having said that, I remind myself that the Dem debates aren't over and the primaries ( or, at least the one in New York State) and actual Pres. election are next year. It ain't over yet.
Submitted 10-23-15@11:19 p.m. EST
2
I was actually shocked to read about Gloria Steinem riding the elephant. I'm a lifelong feminist of a certain age, and Gloria Steinem has always been one of my heroes. Can she possibly be unaware of the terrible brutality involved in training elephants to do things so against their nature as, for example, carrying humans on their backs? Has she never heard of an elephant hook? Observed protests in front of a circus?
Come on, Gloria, get off the elephant. You're better than that.
Come on, Gloria, get off the elephant. You're better than that.
I watched the GOP Tea Party criminal prosecution of Hillary Clinton with their partisan disrespect, ignorance, and grandstanding speeches. It was not a fact finding inquiry. It was a kangaroo show trial.
But Hillary showed her presidential mettle by calm resolve, patient answers, and in depth knowledge.
We the People acquitted her.
She's stronger now than before.
So I guess we have to thank the Select Committee after all.
But Hillary showed her presidential mettle by calm resolve, patient answers, and in depth knowledge.
We the People acquitted her.
She's stronger now than before.
So I guess we have to thank the Select Committee after all.
92
It was strange to see the Republican National Convention held in October 2015 since the 2016 primaries are months away....but the Republican 2016 Benghazi-Hillary strategy required an early convention -- so who are we to judge the hearts of Republican darkness ?
And what a marvelous convention it was !
A wild pack of feral, rabid GOP junkyard dogs with their foaming mouths and canine IQs gnawing away at Hillary's impenetrable flesh, superior intelligence and Presidential aplomb made her an overnight sensation and sent every one of the nation's independent voters into a Hillary 2016 lifeboat as they scurried away from the collapsing volcano that was the Republican Party.
The Republicans, who have been remarkably successful at making up stuff while ignoring reality for 35 years, just figured that if they kept on repeating 'Benghazi' a few million times, Americans would just go with the GOP flow of political effluent and equate 'Benghazi' with Pearl Harbor....because Up Is Down in the GOP insane asylum.
Insanity has been a critical ingredient of Republican political success - and a basic requirement of their incoherent voter base - but when all the curtains get pulled open in the GOP mental ward, it's not a place anyone but paranoid schizophrenics and delusional bipolar patients feel overly comfortable.
The GOP just nominated Hillary for President by acclamation.
The GOP just flushed itself down the toilet as it was trying to flush America down the toilet..........whoops !
And what a marvelous convention it was !
A wild pack of feral, rabid GOP junkyard dogs with their foaming mouths and canine IQs gnawing away at Hillary's impenetrable flesh, superior intelligence and Presidential aplomb made her an overnight sensation and sent every one of the nation's independent voters into a Hillary 2016 lifeboat as they scurried away from the collapsing volcano that was the Republican Party.
The Republicans, who have been remarkably successful at making up stuff while ignoring reality for 35 years, just figured that if they kept on repeating 'Benghazi' a few million times, Americans would just go with the GOP flow of political effluent and equate 'Benghazi' with Pearl Harbor....because Up Is Down in the GOP insane asylum.
Insanity has been a critical ingredient of Republican political success - and a basic requirement of their incoherent voter base - but when all the curtains get pulled open in the GOP mental ward, it's not a place anyone but paranoid schizophrenics and delusional bipolar patients feel overly comfortable.
The GOP just nominated Hillary for President by acclamation.
The GOP just flushed itself down the toilet as it was trying to flush America down the toilet..........whoops !
311
Hillary certainly set an endurance record for maintaining focus and humor while being questioned by some of the most dim and dull witted people ever assembled in a Congressional hearing room. She even managed to crack a joke about being "Home Alone" while a fierce and grim congresswoman was undeterred from reading the names of every staff member Hillary left behind in a conference room. Use whatever sport's analogy you wish; lapped the field; skated circles around, etc. but Hillary demonstrated that a lively intellect and grasp of issues in a give and take discussion will always trump people who possess painfully obvious limited abilities. She had to feed off their weaknesses.
71
That nasty little Martha Roby basically showed the entire planet, on live TV, what an utter scrub-team bumpkin she is. It was comical and I expect great things of SNL tonight.
2
Hillary showed that she is not perfect but very competent with a staggering command of the process of government. Gowdy's boys seemed small-minded and incompetent. The GOP members did not appear to even understand the chain of command inside State, foolish and lazy.
93
Happy Birthday, Hillary! Please embrace your age and remember:
You are much better to look at than either Rush Limbaugh or Donald Trump, now or over time.
You always carry yourself with dignity and look more graceful as others try to trip you up.
There's nothing silly about pantsuits (especially coming from a group of stuffed shirts).
Your hair compliments you, whether or not you wear a headband.
Your eyes sparkle, no matter how many punches you have thrown at you.
Your most radiant feature is still your mind - and that is why you will have my vote this time next year.
You are much better to look at than either Rush Limbaugh or Donald Trump, now or over time.
You always carry yourself with dignity and look more graceful as others try to trip you up.
There's nothing silly about pantsuits (especially coming from a group of stuffed shirts).
Your hair compliments you, whether or not you wear a headband.
Your eyes sparkle, no matter how many punches you have thrown at you.
Your most radiant feature is still your mind - and that is why you will have my vote this time next year.
843
The GOP minions keep calling her "cankles". How about I promise that if all the male candidates on both sides roll up their pants legs and parade across a stage, I will vote for the one with the cutest legs?
1
I love Sander's domestic stands -- an American Trudeau, with white hair, but ... is he tough enough to deal with Putin.
No doubt Hillary is.
I think I'm switching my preference to Hillary. Good for her.
Actually the Republicans are worse than Putin. All in all, I think we need a very very very very very tough president. And, she's it.
No doubt Hillary is.
I think I'm switching my preference to Hillary. Good for her.
Actually the Republicans are worse than Putin. All in all, I think we need a very very very very very tough president. And, she's it.
87
For all the poisoned arrows in their quivers, the Republicans do not seem to be able to hurt Hillary Clinton. It almost seems as if she is able to suck up all the negative energy and grow stronger. Her troubles have not ended and the path to presidency could still pass through many a minefield, but there can be no doubt that her display of dignity, patience, compassion and stamina during the hearing will convince many undecided voters that she has the right stuff.
627
Their arrows can't hurt Hillay because they're all tipped with rubber suction cups, and the arrows are crooked. They can't hurt her because they've got nothing. There maybe something, but the Republicans haven't found it in eighteen months of looking. The trouble is, the lies they've been spouting have stuck just enough to blotch her reputation. It seems that about 40% of American voters are just dumb.
1
Pity that for all the GOP nonsense & hot air, they couldn't ask a few Q's, for which a few honest answers would have been enlightening … why was the US waging war against Libya, what was the US objective, what was the end game, and was the current highly volatile anarchy in Libya caused by the war the intended result?
4
Watch Rachel Maddow's splendid interview of Ms Clinton. She discusses many subjects in depth but has some very nuanced positions on Libya and the option of using force to move diplomacy forward. As much as I admire and like Bernie Sanders, I hate his supporters saying that she wanted to invade Iraq. As she has explained many times, her vote was cast to give leverage (all options on the table) to then President Bush to seek a solution to the trumped up charges of WMD without having to go to war. Her mistake was in not recognizing the stupidity and aggressiveness of the Bush/Cheney team, who were hellbent before even taking office on the PNAC plan for restructuring the middle East and of course for ensuring the interests of big oil companies. And it was a huge mistake and one that caused her to lose the 2008 race to Mr. Obama. But it was one that many others, both Rs and Ds made to their regret and our ongoing misfortune. I, for one, think that she has learned from that experience and that it will make her an even better President.
40
@adel: I agree that Maddow's interview with Clinton is well worth watching. I've watched it twice and am even more impressed than I was before with both interviewer and interviewee.
5
Hillary did everything the republican Javert's and Javertette did.
Except with class, panache, knowledge, not suffering fools lightly AND she did backwards, in heels.
Except with class, panache, knowledge, not suffering fools lightly AND she did backwards, in heels.
35
The hearing had exactly the opposite effect the Republicans had hoped for. Those sitting on the fence, like me, are now solidly in support of Hillary.
Can we stop these Republicans from wasting our taxpayer money on this nonsense. How about a hearing on that?
Can we stop these Republicans from wasting our taxpayer money on this nonsense. How about a hearing on that?
69
Hillary won the election last week (and I'm a Bernie fan.)
50
I'm a Bernie fan too, but I really never thought he could win the general election. I like Hillery. She was a good Senator and a very good Secretary of State. Given her knowledge of foreign policy and GOP duplicity, she will also be a competent, if not very good President. Besides, it's high time we gave a woman a chance to govern our ungovernable country.
1
Thanks to Trey Gowdy and the GOP members of the Benghazi Committee, taxpayers just made a most generous contribution to the Hillary for President election campaign. I have to say: it was money well spent. Ms Clinton couldn't buy that much airtime and that kinda GOP demonstrated incompetence at any price. I tip my hat to the committee for showing the GOP's ineptitude at governing and for showing how much more capable Hillary is than the lot of them combined.
116
Remember when Bill was the come back kid?
2
Hillary Clinton should be eternally thankful to the GOP-led Congress for underfunding the public education here in the USA. Imagine if the school teachers of kindergarten classes had enough money to take their students to visit our national capital and the Congress.
Envision a group of children stumbling into the chamber where the Congressional Benghazi Committee was cross-examining the Secretary of State Clinton.
Imagine the stunned children shouting: Teacher, teacher, why is everybody in this room naked?
Of course, Jeopardy-style answer to this riddle is “Who is Hans Christen Andersen?”
Imagine if those children asked the Congressmen that authorized the wars and the Secretary of State that was in charge of conducting our foreign policy:
Why did you invade Afghanistan and Iraq if we were attacked on the 9/11 by a handful of the Saudi and Egyptian citizens?
Why did you disobey the Biblical principle “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth” demanding proportional response? Why did you overreact?
Why didn’t you stop the longest wars in the US history?
Why do you investigate the killings of four Americans in Benghazi but you never launched the investigation into wrongfully waged wars in Afghanistan and Iraq?
Of course, the journalists, pundits and columnists following the Congressional hearings failed to ask those crucial questions too.
That’s why a child claiming that everybody in that room was naked would be smarter than all the present adults…
Envision a group of children stumbling into the chamber where the Congressional Benghazi Committee was cross-examining the Secretary of State Clinton.
Imagine the stunned children shouting: Teacher, teacher, why is everybody in this room naked?
Of course, Jeopardy-style answer to this riddle is “Who is Hans Christen Andersen?”
Imagine if those children asked the Congressmen that authorized the wars and the Secretary of State that was in charge of conducting our foreign policy:
Why did you invade Afghanistan and Iraq if we were attacked on the 9/11 by a handful of the Saudi and Egyptian citizens?
Why did you disobey the Biblical principle “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth” demanding proportional response? Why did you overreact?
Why didn’t you stop the longest wars in the US history?
Why do you investigate the killings of four Americans in Benghazi but you never launched the investigation into wrongfully waged wars in Afghanistan and Iraq?
Of course, the journalists, pundits and columnists following the Congressional hearings failed to ask those crucial questions too.
That’s why a child claiming that everybody in that room was naked would be smarter than all the present adults…
8
I'm still in mourning over Biden not running, as he was the only potential candidate who had the skill set to bring the country together. But maybe not. Maybe no one can bring us together, and if that's the case, might as well have a fighter in the Oval. Hail Hillary!
9
Gail,
A columnist trained to fail.
She prefers throwing a softball to Hillary,
Doesn’t care at all that our President lied to us hilariously.
Told us that he deployed our troops to Iraq to serve as the advisers.
Really deadly missions…
Frankly, how many Obama’s personal advisors have died in the line of duty?
Why didn’t he send his White House advisers to Baghdad to train the Iraqis?
How come that the Iraqi government doesn’t need any advice from us
How to run their country or be tolerant
But always ask for our military to die on their behalf
And are willing to accept our sacrifices and our money…
A columnist trained to fail.
She prefers throwing a softball to Hillary,
Doesn’t care at all that our President lied to us hilariously.
Told us that he deployed our troops to Iraq to serve as the advisers.
Really deadly missions…
Frankly, how many Obama’s personal advisors have died in the line of duty?
Why didn’t he send his White House advisers to Baghdad to train the Iraqis?
How come that the Iraqi government doesn’t need any advice from us
How to run their country or be tolerant
But always ask for our military to die on their behalf
And are willing to accept our sacrifices and our money…
3
I notice that Gowdy - ex-banjo-prodigy - has changed his hairstyle 3 times since the beginning of this tortuous inquisition. Hillary, hardly.
She's all pants and he's no suit. Couldn't have gone better.
She's all pants and he's no suit. Couldn't have gone better.
25
We are off to the races now Gail. But don't let your guard down. The smear machines are still running at full capacity and they won't let up until Chelsey has completed her second term in the White House.
My biggest fear is that the media, who can't stand a run-away campaign, will join the smut dealers in lambasting HRC just to keep the race "interesting" and their ratings up.
My biggest fear is that the media, who can't stand a run-away campaign, will join the smut dealers in lambasting HRC just to keep the race "interesting" and their ratings up.
27
As a young American I was glued to the TV coverage of the Congressional Watergate Investigation and I was proud of American governance and politics at its best.
Over 40 people were indicted, convicted and served prison sentences as a result of the Watergate Investigation.
I'm embarrassed by the House Benghazi investigation. It's a new low point for American governance and politics.
The Benghazi hearing was a shameful Republican stunt in complete violation of the House of Representitive's own rules own rules of conduct and a complete waste of over $5 millions taxpayer dollars yielding absolutely nothing.
As for Hilliary...Happy Birthday Madam President!
Over 40 people were indicted, convicted and served prison sentences as a result of the Watergate Investigation.
I'm embarrassed by the House Benghazi investigation. It's a new low point for American governance and politics.
The Benghazi hearing was a shameful Republican stunt in complete violation of the House of Representitive's own rules own rules of conduct and a complete waste of over $5 millions taxpayer dollars yielding absolutely nothing.
As for Hilliary...Happy Birthday Madam President!
231
Couldn’t agree with you more, Don P. Those of us old enough to remember watching the McCarthy hearings on kinescope (never mind, it’s an obsolete term) grew up knowing how vicious and dishonest an ambitious Republican politician can be. The grilling of Hillary fell into that category, but Joe McCarthy had better camera presence that the Gowdy Gang.
A word of caution: Before we take another victory lap for Mrs. Clinton, be ready for more desperate smears by the Select Committee. Kate Quigley the sister of the murdered security contractor at Benghazi, Glen Doherty, seems prepped to plaster Hillary for inappropriate consoling remarks allegedly made to her at Andrews AFB when the bodies were returned. In other words, the inquisitors have lost so much face, they’ll probably climb farther into the gutter by manipulating family members.
A word of caution: Before we take another victory lap for Mrs. Clinton, be ready for more desperate smears by the Select Committee. Kate Quigley the sister of the murdered security contractor at Benghazi, Glen Doherty, seems prepped to plaster Hillary for inappropriate consoling remarks allegedly made to her at Andrews AFB when the bodies were returned. In other words, the inquisitors have lost so much face, they’ll probably climb farther into the gutter by manipulating family members.
3
Disingenuously ignoring the dynasty baggage that Billary trails behind it, I remember a garish cartoon from Paris in the 1780s that had a four-legged animal with the two heads of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, saying that "the two are but one." This cute adage applies not only to Bill and Hillary but also to the Clintons and Bushes, who encumber themselves with their predecessors' legacies, political and moral. Let's don't vote for Hillary, not because she is a woman, but because she is too compromised to rule effectively. Time for a presidential candidate from outside the dynastic box.
8
In reality, how on earth can Bill and Hillary be considered a "dynasty"? Bill served 1993-2001. It is 2015. More importantly, I only count two. Tell me, what is the minimum number of family members serving (nonconsecutive) that qualifies as a dynasty?
"Dynasty" is one of those fallback line, a retreat go-to, following an eleven GOP castration before the Benghazi panel. Except if you ask "Matt Drudge".
"Dynasty" is one of those fallback line, a retreat go-to, following an eleven GOP castration before the Benghazi panel. Except if you ask "Matt Drudge".
21
hmm, since I was not registered as a Republican last time I checked, I wonder if you can grasp the fact that the Clintons have had their moment. They remind one of a political Meryl Streep, cast in every other movie and with 2 dozen Oscar nominations. Isn't it high time to give someone else a chance, out of the 310 million people inhabiting the USA?
4
The word "dynasty" implies intergenerational blood ties.
If Chelsea is elected president one day, then it will be appropriate to talk of dynasties.
If Chelsea is elected president one day, then it will be appropriate to talk of dynasties.
15
I'm glad to say job well done and "Happy Birthday".
123
Republicans are the gift that keeps on giving to Ms. Clinton. She survives attacks by what can be charitably called a group of lunatics and everyone, including Ms. Collins. fall all over themselves in praise.
The irony is if the Republicans cannot get one of their crazies elected they would much prefer Ms. Clinton over Bernie Sanders. With Ms. Clinton there will be 4 or 8 years of scandals (many made up of course) and hearings grinding the country to a halt. That is what the Republicans want because that means nothing changes. Income/wealth inequality will continue exploding and neoliberal policies will continue unabated.
The greatest fear of Republicans and many establishment Democrats is a candidate who actually talks about policies--real policies that affect Americans. You know like single payer healthcare for ALL, climate change, trade policies, income/wealth inequality, debt free education, infrastructure spending, jobs programs, more equitable taxation, public transit. Policies pundits don't write about.
There is only one candidate who actually believes and will follow through on what he says. The others, including Ms. Clinton. are bought off by the economic/corporate elite. Follow the money all the way to Ms. Clinton's birthday party which is really a birthday for the donors whose policies will be championed by her if elected.
Ms. Collins--any chance you can write a serious column about Mr. Sanders?
The irony is if the Republicans cannot get one of their crazies elected they would much prefer Ms. Clinton over Bernie Sanders. With Ms. Clinton there will be 4 or 8 years of scandals (many made up of course) and hearings grinding the country to a halt. That is what the Republicans want because that means nothing changes. Income/wealth inequality will continue exploding and neoliberal policies will continue unabated.
The greatest fear of Republicans and many establishment Democrats is a candidate who actually talks about policies--real policies that affect Americans. You know like single payer healthcare for ALL, climate change, trade policies, income/wealth inequality, debt free education, infrastructure spending, jobs programs, more equitable taxation, public transit. Policies pundits don't write about.
There is only one candidate who actually believes and will follow through on what he says. The others, including Ms. Clinton. are bought off by the economic/corporate elite. Follow the money all the way to Ms. Clinton's birthday party which is really a birthday for the donors whose policies will be championed by her if elected.
Ms. Collins--any chance you can write a serious column about Mr. Sanders?
72
I agree with the thrust of your arguments in favor of Bernie Sanders. In another age I too would hold out for him. I hope HRC eventually melds her platform to reflect Bernie's. But instead of "following the money", we should follow the philosophy. The philosophy that will change the makeup of the Supreme Court. You must agree that HRC has a greater chance of defeating any of the Republican candidates than does Bernie in the national election, thus ensuring the positive selection of the next Supreme Court justice(s). We cannot vote with only our heart in this election. If Bernie was not a declared Democratic Socialist, I believe he would be a better challenge to Hillary, but the "socialist" tag is a hurdle I do not believe Americans can manage at this time. It is still a word that most Americans associate with communist dictatorships. It is for this reason alone that I have decided to endorse HRC's candidacy. Now I must explain to my eighteen year old granddaughter of the need for her to transfer her "feel the Bern" from a wonderful first emotional vote (which I, contradictorily, had with my first vote for President Kennedy) to a sober vote for Hillary. I do not relish this duty, but I do fear more a republican presidential victory.
5
Gail Collins does not write serious columns dissecting policy. She writes funny, light columns that touch but glancingly on serious issues.
1
You are my favorite, Gail Collins!
But, Andy Borowitz had one of the all-time great headlines awhile back in The New Yorker:
Fox: New Evidence Hillary Killed Lincoln
But, Andy Borowitz had one of the all-time great headlines awhile back in The New Yorker:
Fox: New Evidence Hillary Killed Lincoln
135
The ARB chaired by Ambassador Pickering and Admiral Mullins listed 29 areas where improvements were needed to better protect our State Department officials and staff in some of the most dangerous areas abroad. That's what the focus of any Select Committee on Benghazi should have been about. Have they been implemented? Have they been funded? Their report pointed out that the State Department's security budget has been cut and severely underfunded for years. That's what the committee should have been investigating.
One thing I found quite remarkable was how enraged most (all?) of the Republicans on the committee became as the day wore on and it was becoming more and more obvious that Hillary Clinton would win this round, hands down. They tried to keep a lid on it but they couldn't hide the hatred in their eyes when they failed to take her down. It was chilling. I've read about how much Republicans hate her for years but I never understood its depth and its creepiness until I saw it in real time.
Eleven hours of that, never losing her focus, never losing her cool and never losing her astonishing ability to recall facts hour after hour was a testament to her incredible endurance and mental prowess, which in all fairness, Bernie Sanders also exhibits. He also has the ability to transform our political system to one of greater economic fairness and social justice, something Hillary Clinton has not convinced me she also has.
One thing I found quite remarkable was how enraged most (all?) of the Republicans on the committee became as the day wore on and it was becoming more and more obvious that Hillary Clinton would win this round, hands down. They tried to keep a lid on it but they couldn't hide the hatred in their eyes when they failed to take her down. It was chilling. I've read about how much Republicans hate her for years but I never understood its depth and its creepiness until I saw it in real time.
Eleven hours of that, never losing her focus, never losing her cool and never losing her astonishing ability to recall facts hour after hour was a testament to her incredible endurance and mental prowess, which in all fairness, Bernie Sanders also exhibits. He also has the ability to transform our political system to one of greater economic fairness and social justice, something Hillary Clinton has not convinced me she also has.
321
I am glad to read the facts stated in your first paragraph about the unwillingness of Congress to fully fund the State Department's security budget. There is not too much talk about this, however, isn't this where the blame should lie? To put people in harm's way and then find it too inconvenient or unpopular to allocate the money to protect them seems to me an egregious dereliction of duty on the part of our elected representatives. The fact that so much taxpayers' money has been spent on this 'witch hunt' is, frankly, criminal.
301
Pres. Clinton was able to cut defense spending and raise taxes on the wealthy, which balanced our budget and gave us 8 years of peace and prosperity even with the GOP in control of Congress, through his much maligned triangulation. I hope Bernie can do half as well if he can get elected.
18
I thought that Bernie might yell at them, if here in Hillary's seat.
2
Gail, thanks for the carrier pigeon line. I haven't laughed so much in long time. I need a good laugh to distract from the thought of Paul Ryan as Speaker of the House. I couldn't watch the abusive inquisition of Hillary Clinton. There were no laughs to be had there despite its farcical nature.
148
i beg to differ--there was a great laugh, for all of us, not just for HRC, although she did laugh a lot, when she was asked whether she was alone "all night"
http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2015/10/at_benghazi_hearing_hillary_cl....
I particularly enjoyed watching Rep. Roby's face turning red.
http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2015/10/at_benghazi_hearing_hillary_cl....
I particularly enjoyed watching Rep. Roby's face turning red.
12
The best thing about the GOP'ers making an 11-hour commercial for HRC was that every time the camera was on them, or they asked another asinine question, in comparison to HRC's calm, deliberate, tolerant bearing, the GOP'ers were more and more revealed for the Pirates they are - they are the Grand Old Pirates, looking to de-regulate, loot, pillage, obfuscate, tear up, and create as much chaos as possible, following their animal spirits/free markets dogma of laissez-faire-ism all the way back to feudal times.
Those times were called the dark ages for a reason (no matter the glories depicted in online games) and HRC's clear-eyed stare revealed the brigands for who they are, as they squirmed and foamed at the mouth to get at her.
Those times were called the dark ages for a reason (no matter the glories depicted in online games) and HRC's clear-eyed stare revealed the brigands for who they are, as they squirmed and foamed at the mouth to get at her.
560
The Grand Old Pirates need to go to Viking School, they keep trying to burn before they loot and pillage.
14
once you feel the Bern you realize that Hillary's vote to go to war in Iraq is something that will stick with voters again just as it did 9 years ago. Bernie smelled the rat that was Cheney's war in Iraq and he said no no.
6
spb - Bernie is the definition of Senator in our mind; if you go to Webster's and look up the word, there should be a picture of Bernie. And though we had a problem with HRC's war vote, which she paid a price for in the '08 campaign, and are concerned her pal Sen. McCain may show her leanings on military adventurism, we're equally concerned about Bernie's stance on gun back-ground checks, which he attributes to the differences between his constituents and ' urban ' America.
In the general election, HRC's war vote would not hurt her any more with GOP'ers or Independents than Bernie's stance on back-ground checks would hurt him with the same crowd.
In the general election, HRC's war vote would not hurt her any more with GOP'ers or Independents than Bernie's stance on back-ground checks would hurt him with the same crowd.
13
As someone who is Hillary's age I have a lot of energy and plan to keep on keepin' on for a long time. I also thought I had stamina; but after watching Hillary make like the Energizer Bunny I was duly impressed. She was amazing. I watched the entire hearing, which reminded me of some of the men I encountered during my long corporate career -- the ones who sneer at and interrupt women they are trying to bully and intimidate. I broke for lunch when they did, and was dutifully back on the sofa when everyone reconvened. (But I did have to slip out to use the loo and couldn't understand how they weren't taking any more breaks.) When we slipped into the evening hours and I saw Hillary sipping water I yelled to my husband -- who was working and listening with one ear -- that they'd better let her go to the restroom! I was beginning to worry about her; to me the Republicans now resembled the most repulsive Dickensian characters. My husband asked if they had started waterboarding her yet. He's an Independent as well as a WWII buff; he said Rep. Jordan reminded him of Goebbels and that he was done with the Republicans.
When Hillary started coughing and Chairman Gowdy asked her if she wanted to take a "60 second-two minute break" I was so angry I burst into tears. Big of him. When he finally cried "uncle" at 9:00 p.m. I was a wreck. But Hillary looked as fresh as when she started at 10:00 a.m.
Of course she has my vote. And I'm definitely looking into yoga.
When Hillary started coughing and Chairman Gowdy asked her if she wanted to take a "60 second-two minute break" I was so angry I burst into tears. Big of him. When he finally cried "uncle" at 9:00 p.m. I was a wreck. But Hillary looked as fresh as when she started at 10:00 a.m.
Of course she has my vote. And I'm definitely looking into yoga.
1026
Good funny column, great post!
This was a performance for the ages - elegant, erudite, passionate, informed, articulate.
Wow, with the type of questioning she could have blown her top dozens of times. For sure I would have.
Even the haters accept Rhodes scholar Bill Clinton is a serious intellect but I doubt if he could have given an equal performance as HRC.
Every Republican on the Committee was severely diminished and the Republican members repeatedly saying it was about 4 dead Americans was abject and despicable and transparently a tissue of lies.
Some of us have been wobbly in regard to voting for HRC - thank you Kevin McCarthy, Trey Gowdy and your supporters for obliterating comprehensively any doubts that we had on that decision.
This was a performance for the ages - elegant, erudite, passionate, informed, articulate.
Wow, with the type of questioning she could have blown her top dozens of times. For sure I would have.
Even the haters accept Rhodes scholar Bill Clinton is a serious intellect but I doubt if he could have given an equal performance as HRC.
Every Republican on the Committee was severely diminished and the Republican members repeatedly saying it was about 4 dead Americans was abject and despicable and transparently a tissue of lies.
Some of us have been wobbly in regard to voting for HRC - thank you Kevin McCarthy, Trey Gowdy and your supporters for obliterating comprehensively any doubts that we had on that decision.
39
Jeanne, I could not agree with you more.
8
One would be delusional if one takes good acting for substance. Good actors can recall stuff and work long hours but they are actors after all. How do you ignore who is sponsoring her? Perhaps you should consider Bernie Sanders. Before you say, if he has "endurance", look up his 8 hr filibuster to tax cut to the wealthy. Very quickly you will realize who is working for people and who is working for mega corporations.
5
No question that Hillary had a good week. She doesn't get a medal for facing off against the Benghazi Committee's Representative Gowdy, though, or for Biden dropping out. It's obvious that the Republican Party has cracked up, and even the rank and file are starting to notice.
As for her much praised by the media debate performance, the signature moment was flag waving (:This is the United States of America"), while both CNN and the audience failed to note that she whiffed on the key issues. Pressed by other candidates and even a reporter, Mrs. Clinton refused to support a return of Glass Steagall, a carbon tax, reductions in our endless overseas military occupations, major tax increases for the 1%, and single payer health care.
Bernie addressed all of these issues, and laid out policy prescriptions.
We can trust him both to speak directly, and to act on behalf of all of the American people.
Our media have tried to anoint Mrs. Clinton as the nominee because she survived. Bernie Sanders inspired. Many of us voters don't care any more who you journalists are trying to sell us. We can see what's going on.
As for her much praised by the media debate performance, the signature moment was flag waving (:This is the United States of America"), while both CNN and the audience failed to note that she whiffed on the key issues. Pressed by other candidates and even a reporter, Mrs. Clinton refused to support a return of Glass Steagall, a carbon tax, reductions in our endless overseas military occupations, major tax increases for the 1%, and single payer health care.
Bernie addressed all of these issues, and laid out policy prescriptions.
We can trust him both to speak directly, and to act on behalf of all of the American people.
Our media have tried to anoint Mrs. Clinton as the nominee because she survived. Bernie Sanders inspired. Many of us voters don't care any more who you journalists are trying to sell us. We can see what's going on.
324
I agree with, and would welcome almost everything Bernie Sanders has proposed becoming policy. But 2016, unfortunately, is not the time for a Sanders like candidate. The only politics which matters is to keep in check the lunacy of the Republican party as it is now constituted. To this end, I am supporting the candidacy of HRC.
I don't expect much from a Clinton Presidency, other than to have a strong Democratic Party force in place to deal with the dysfunctional Republican Party. I do expect more political gridlock, character attacks, and policy proposals based on fantasy and a flawed interpretation of the Constitution from the GOP.
These are the times we live in. Someday a Sanders like candidate will once again become a viable alternative. But not in 2016.
I don't expect much from a Clinton Presidency, other than to have a strong Democratic Party force in place to deal with the dysfunctional Republican Party. I do expect more political gridlock, character attacks, and policy proposals based on fantasy and a flawed interpretation of the Constitution from the GOP.
These are the times we live in. Someday a Sanders like candidate will once again become a viable alternative. But not in 2016.
95
The people who were too good for the realistic choice voted for Nader and gave us Bush and Cheney.
76
Thank you for writing this. Corporate media is shoving her down people's throat.
7
When an investigation becomes a series of accusations, it has turned into a inquisition.
The chief inquisitor Congressman Trey Torquemada Gowdy, was unable to make the heretic HRC confess to false religion, despite the threat of encasement in her husbands presidential library for life.
Mr. Gowdy seemed surprised that HRC did not have a computer in her Secretary of State Office. A ranking member of congress, the committee chair had not bothered to go to the state department and see how it operates. His questions if you could call them that, were just a collection of suppositions. It seems as if the Sec of State does not sit in an office working on the computer all day, that is not her job. When she traveled which was considerable, we can assume an assistant would have a portable computer if needed.
This "hearing" was one of the best campaign stops she will have. You could see the Yoga take hold when she faced what most of us would consider an insult, were a direct accusation of lying. She would take a breath, hold it, and let it pass by. Most of us would have asked Gowdy if it would be OK to come to the bench and punch him in the face.
What I wonder is, are the Republicans more worried about her being in the White House, or that Bill will also be there too? I'll bet one of the first things they will challenge is the voter restrictions being imposed in several states.
The GOP con game is going to meet the bunco squad.
The chief inquisitor Congressman Trey Torquemada Gowdy, was unable to make the heretic HRC confess to false religion, despite the threat of encasement in her husbands presidential library for life.
Mr. Gowdy seemed surprised that HRC did not have a computer in her Secretary of State Office. A ranking member of congress, the committee chair had not bothered to go to the state department and see how it operates. His questions if you could call them that, were just a collection of suppositions. It seems as if the Sec of State does not sit in an office working on the computer all day, that is not her job. When she traveled which was considerable, we can assume an assistant would have a portable computer if needed.
This "hearing" was one of the best campaign stops she will have. You could see the Yoga take hold when she faced what most of us would consider an insult, were a direct accusation of lying. She would take a breath, hold it, and let it pass by. Most of us would have asked Gowdy if it would be OK to come to the bench and punch him in the face.
What I wonder is, are the Republicans more worried about her being in the White House, or that Bill will also be there too? I'll bet one of the first things they will challenge is the voter restrictions being imposed in several states.
The GOP con game is going to meet the bunco squad.
686
Even though I voted for Bill, I'm not looking forward to his being in the White House again. No question in my mind he will say and do something outrageous.
2
I'm so glad this was written by Gail
Had it been Maureen then without fail
There'd be torrents of spleen
Picking poor Hillary clean,
A target Dowd loves to assail!
Had it been Maureen then without fail
There'd be torrents of spleen
Picking poor Hillary clean,
A target Dowd loves to assail!
837
Tomorrow night Larry, tomorrow night.
4
Mr. Eisenberg, if you insist on writing AABBA poetry, at least learn to count syllables so the meters match.
Also, remember this: ALL of the Times op-ed columnists have their strong and weak points, as well as personal biases that are not that difficult to discern.
Also, remember this: ALL of the Times op-ed columnists have their strong and weak points, as well as personal biases that are not that difficult to discern.
1
This made me laugh out loud.
8
Just like Bernie Sanders said..sick of hearing about Clinton's damn emails. Can't we talk about something else? We have problems to solve in this country.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/h-a-goodman/almost-every-major-poll-shows-....
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/h-a-goodman/almost-every-major-poll-shows-....
260
I agree! I'm also sick of hearing about Bernie's damn revolution! LOL
85
As long as you admit that she got people killed having ignored hundreds of requests to build up security there and the total lie about the video that she fed you for two weeks after admitting the truth to Chelsea.
But does this sort of thing even bother you from a spouse or child?
As a bonus, you will get to see the very first time she ever deals sucessfully with a problem in the United States.
But does this sort of thing even bother you from a spouse or child?
As a bonus, you will get to see the very first time she ever deals sucessfully with a problem in the United States.
3
Fact challenged. Ambassador Stevens refused, twice, DoD site security teams offered to him after August 25, 2012.
44
I haven’t been an enthusiastic Hillary Clinton supporter. I’d prefer Bernie Sanders to win, because instead of the same old program he’d be the equivalent of pressing CTRL+ALT+DEL, and the government is in serious need of a re-boot.
But Hillary was remarkable. A slow-cooked brisket could not have endured that much grilling. Yet she remained poised and professional. She looked presidential, and she made the Republicans look petty, vindictive and ultimately foolish. Even chairman Gowdy couldn’t explain why they had gone through the exercise. Maybe that’s because Kevin McCarthy had already explained it very candidly a few weeks ago. What more could Gowdy add?
I don’t know how she did it. During the 90 minutes that I watched, I had to go to the bathroom three times. I felt red-faced anger at the hectoring and the taunting. I yelled suggestions at the TV screen that I’m glad she didn’t pick up on. I don’t think you can say those things on CNN. Yet she maintained her cool.
After the first Democratic debate, she looked strong. After this, she looked indomitable.
I have great respect for Bernie Sanders, and I would still like to see what this country might look like with someone in the Oval Office actually supporting the middle class, and not taking no for an answer. But after watching Hillary’s performance I think she could stand toe-to-toe with pooty-poot and not break a sweat.
And woe betide the hapless Republican who has to run against her.
But Hillary was remarkable. A slow-cooked brisket could not have endured that much grilling. Yet she remained poised and professional. She looked presidential, and she made the Republicans look petty, vindictive and ultimately foolish. Even chairman Gowdy couldn’t explain why they had gone through the exercise. Maybe that’s because Kevin McCarthy had already explained it very candidly a few weeks ago. What more could Gowdy add?
I don’t know how she did it. During the 90 minutes that I watched, I had to go to the bathroom three times. I felt red-faced anger at the hectoring and the taunting. I yelled suggestions at the TV screen that I’m glad she didn’t pick up on. I don’t think you can say those things on CNN. Yet she maintained her cool.
After the first Democratic debate, she looked strong. After this, she looked indomitable.
I have great respect for Bernie Sanders, and I would still like to see what this country might look like with someone in the Oval Office actually supporting the middle class, and not taking no for an answer. But after watching Hillary’s performance I think she could stand toe-to-toe with pooty-poot and not break a sweat.
And woe betide the hapless Republican who has to run against her.
1418
And now you know why Bill said: "when you are in a desert island with nothing else to survive, you want Hillary there with you." Energizer bunny of politics.
19
Presumably Clinton will tell Putin to "cut that out" just as she did to the Wall Street banksters, in her bold effort to stave off a world economic collapse.
I am surprised that so many are surprised by Hillary's grit in the face of a threat to her political ambitions. The Clintons can always be counted on to ome through for themselves. Unlike gemli, whose reasoning I generally admire, I'm going to withhold my admiration and my vote until I see a few dozen of exhibitions of political courage in furtherance of something other than Mme Secretary's campaign, or her corporate investors' fortunes.
I am surprised that so many are surprised by Hillary's grit in the face of a threat to her political ambitions. The Clintons can always be counted on to ome through for themselves. Unlike gemli, whose reasoning I generally admire, I'm going to withhold my admiration and my vote until I see a few dozen of exhibitions of political courage in furtherance of something other than Mme Secretary's campaign, or her corporate investors' fortunes.
6
.
Anyone who wishes a reboot of our broken system needs to look first at amending our Constitution, second at adding, repealing, and changing a whole bunch of Federal statutes, and third at doing everything possible to increase the percentage of adult citizens who participate in every election on every level.
And I'm not even mentioning what needs to be done at the State level.
Could a President help in those areas? Sure. But s/he cannot be the prime force behind all that change on a longterm basis. We need energetic, organized private citizens and courageous legislators to play that role. Bernie Sanders has been a private citizen active on public issues, then a mayor, then a longtime member of Congress. I would be very pleased to see him create coalitions in Congress to advance some of the goals he has propounded!
It is disappointing, though, that he has so few endorsements from people who served with him in the US House or the US Senate, while so many of those people have endorsed Secy. Clinton. It makes me wonder whether he would have the legislative support for his agenda, should he become President.
Anyone who wishes a reboot of our broken system needs to look first at amending our Constitution, second at adding, repealing, and changing a whole bunch of Federal statutes, and third at doing everything possible to increase the percentage of adult citizens who participate in every election on every level.
And I'm not even mentioning what needs to be done at the State level.
Could a President help in those areas? Sure. But s/he cannot be the prime force behind all that change on a longterm basis. We need energetic, organized private citizens and courageous legislators to play that role. Bernie Sanders has been a private citizen active on public issues, then a mayor, then a longtime member of Congress. I would be very pleased to see him create coalitions in Congress to advance some of the goals he has propounded!
It is disappointing, though, that he has so few endorsements from people who served with him in the US House or the US Senate, while so many of those people have endorsed Secy. Clinton. It makes me wonder whether he would have the legislative support for his agenda, should he become President.
11
The men who presided over the inquisition dragged it on for eleven hours, trying to exhaust Clinton, like a dog pack trying to bring down a deer. Surely she'd show fatigue, forget a question--maybe even cry! That would be a victory for them, the kind of victory this ordeal was meant to achieve. Fodder for campaign ads and accusations quite apart from embassies or e-mails. But she outran them, out-thought them, and outlasted them. And they slunk away, as such a pack does in defeat. It was a triumph for her that won't be tarnished, no matter how armchair commenters and opinion writers pick at it. She's got my vote.
1250
There were conservative women on the GOP side who were just as nasty as the men.
661
So much so, Chair Gowdy waited in line to shake her hand, while she celebrated with committe Dems.
21
Not only as nasty but as dumb. Especially that woman from Alabama.
113