Let me get this straight. You are blaming Trump for exploiting fears that you created. Mr. President, that's rich.
8
I have nothing much to say in Obama's defense that hasn't already been said. History will judge him correctly as one of the most thoughtful presidents in America's history regardless of what the racists say. I however would like to express my disappointment with some of the comments that made "editor's picks". The language in some of it is downright disrespectful and if the mods really were doing their jobs, some of the comments shouldn't even make it through the first screen. It is ok to disagree with what the president has said, but the disagreements should be substantive and not reduce to name-calling. I guess Donald Trump irreverence is infectious and has made us to all reduce our standards.
6
"In an interview with NPR, the president also said some of the scorn directed at him personally stemmed from the fact that he is the first African-American in the White House."
It has nothing to do with him being an African-American in the White House and everything to do with his politics. He is using race as an excuse as if he were the "victim in chief." If it were all about him he wouldn't have been elected twice by such an overwhelming majority.
It has nothing to do with him being an African-American in the White House and everything to do with his politics. He is using race as an excuse as if he were the "victim in chief." If it were all about him he wouldn't have been elected twice by such an overwhelming majority.
8
I find it abhorrent that that so many comments are made here that have little to do with what Obama has done and everything to do with expressing hate and outrage about the man himself. At the same time a slovenly would be president Trumps the media and excites a dumbed down public with filthy and false innuendo about this president, Clinton, Bush, Rubio, Mexicans, Muslims and anyone who dares criticize him and seems to get a pass every time he does it.
Where is Edward R. Murrow when we need him. He needs to come out pretty quick as we have a Trumpeting rogue elephant spewing hate and racism "fixin" to destroy the GOP (or what's left of it) and a fear mongering Joe McCarthy look alike, sound alike Crusin right along behind him waiting for the fall.
Willful ignorance, racism, hate and fear seem all seem to be alive and well. The sizable public endorsement of the current conduct of certain national candidates is proving it every day and our media is too cowardly to call them out on it and by media I mean ABC,CBS, ABC, Fox, MSNBC, CNN and even the pubic tv and radio (which must be overly careful as the GOP wants to cut them off of all funding anyway.)
It is a sad day when the BBC becomes the more objective news source for American news and sadder still when the American pubic embraces this conduct from its would be leaders and its media.
Where is Edward R. Murrow when we need him. He needs to come out pretty quick as we have a Trumpeting rogue elephant spewing hate and racism "fixin" to destroy the GOP (or what's left of it) and a fear mongering Joe McCarthy look alike, sound alike Crusin right along behind him waiting for the fall.
Willful ignorance, racism, hate and fear seem all seem to be alive and well. The sizable public endorsement of the current conduct of certain national candidates is proving it every day and our media is too cowardly to call them out on it and by media I mean ABC,CBS, ABC, Fox, MSNBC, CNN and even the pubic tv and radio (which must be overly careful as the GOP wants to cut them off of all funding anyway.)
It is a sad day when the BBC becomes the more objective news source for American news and sadder still when the American pubic embraces this conduct from its would be leaders and its media.
7
Now this is rich, President Obama accuses Trump of exploited working class fears for political gain, which is the exact same thing the Democrats have been doing for decades! As for his claim that people question his loyalty due to his race, I think it is more his name that may contribute to that more than his race.
4
I am so pleased that President Obama is comfortable enough now to speak the truth as to why blue-collar white men have disliked him from day one. He's black! Pure and simple. And disreputable lowlifes such as Donald Trump will exploit that as he pretends to be on their side. Never underestimate the stupidity of the electorate.
7
Your pleased? Please don't take this personally because I had the nerve to ask you why you posted as you did. So why did you? So what if he's black, does that matter to you? So what if someone is white, do you hold that against them?
But more importantly, do you think its wise to just assume our President is on YOUR side? Why? Because you support him? Doesn't it concern you just a little when him doing everything he can imagine in order to navigate around the safeguards in our Constitution designed deliberately to protect us from doing what he intends to do by going around them to do it?
And let me ask you this,what has he done for YOU lately? Anything? Please don't say, "well, if it weren't for the _______ he would have done it but the other guys hate us so he couldn't get it done.
Before you call someone stupid to believe Trump is on their side, ask yourself this... Is your President on your side when he ignores YOUR Constitution or does that not matter to you? Or when he does everything he can to "jump the turnstile" by acting outside the separation of power? How about trying to convince enough of us to take away the rights of all of us?
In my opinion, when our President is disloyal to SOME of us he is being disloyal to ALL of us. United WE stand, divide WE fall. Do you agree with me?
But more importantly, do you think its wise to just assume our President is on YOUR side? Why? Because you support him? Doesn't it concern you just a little when him doing everything he can imagine in order to navigate around the safeguards in our Constitution designed deliberately to protect us from doing what he intends to do by going around them to do it?
And let me ask you this,what has he done for YOU lately? Anything? Please don't say, "well, if it weren't for the _______ he would have done it but the other guys hate us so he couldn't get it done.
Before you call someone stupid to believe Trump is on their side, ask yourself this... Is your President on your side when he ignores YOUR Constitution or does that not matter to you? Or when he does everything he can to "jump the turnstile" by acting outside the separation of power? How about trying to convince enough of us to take away the rights of all of us?
In my opinion, when our President is disloyal to SOME of us he is being disloyal to ALL of us. United WE stand, divide WE fall. Do you agree with me?
5
Obama doesn't listen to what people say, he interprets it, in a condescending way that drives many people over the edge. He psychoanalyzes them. If they have concerns and express them, Obama renders a lofty judgment on their "fears." As an academic, I recognize this as the standard M.O. of people who feel inherently superior to people with whom they disagree. Most people hate this kind of smug and insulated attitude. One should recall that Bill Clinton was opposed at least as vociferously, and of course he was also impeached. But Clinton's polls never went as low as Obama's. Mainly because he was never condescending. He identified with people, even his political enemies. He became friends with the man he drove from office, George H. W. Bush... Expect Obama's popularity numbers to fall more after the fallout from this interview.
6
Maybe it's time we admitted that the unspoken divide in American politics is not socio-economic status, race, or gender, but intelligence. For years, some Republican candidates have cynically exploited this fact and used fear and simplistic religious arguments to convince many to vote against their own self-interest. Now the chickens have come home to roost, as this strategy has spawned the current barnyard of leading candidates who are not in on the joke. The more mainstream Repuplican establishment is panicking as they cannot rein in their wayward offspring.
5
The spoiled brats that have no common sense in the so-called "elite" colleges now are Democrat offspring. They seem completely oblivious to real life issues and would flunk most high school tests I had to take.
3
What makes you think Obama's particularly "intelligent"? He has no aptitude for analyzing his own mistakes. Unlike George Bush whose college/MBA transcripts are public record, Obama's are a closed state secret. It's likely that a self-confessed stoned slacker, as Obama was in high school, didn't get into elite colleges on his academic record. He published nothing in law school, not even a student "Note", yet was elevated to president of the Harvard Law Review. The myth of Obama's "intelligence" has been a governing theory of the last 7 years.
7
It is easy to point your finger at others and chide them about fear for their families when you and your family are surrounded by maximum security 24/7. The "fear" the President should be most concerned about is the lack of fear of consequences the international community feels for acts against the United States and its allies. Our most aggressive foes have learned from a consistent trail of underestimates and inaction. Our allies fear they are on their own. If you want to be the world leader you have to pay the price. If you don't want to be the leader you don't have to pay the price...now. But you will pay later.
3
"He cited as examples student protests last year of planned appearances by Christine Lagarde, the head of the International Monetary Fund, at Smith College, and Condoleezza Rice, the former secretary of state, at Rutgers that led both women to withdraw.
“'Feel free to disagree with somebody,' the president said, 'but don’t try to just shut them up.'”
Of course, college students couldn't shut Condoleezza Rice up even if they wanted to. Her views get amplified in just about whatever forum she chooses - even though she should be tried as a war criminal.
Free speech is a right. Speaking at a university and receiving an honorary degree is a privilege and students have every right to protest their university associating itself with controversial public figures.
One could just as meaningfully argue that the President (who, like Condoleezza Rice and unlike university students gets his free speech amplified) is trying to shut the students up. The truth of the matter is that elites feel entitled to their megaphone even while they feel entitled to receiving no pushback for their amplified views. That the opinions of meaningless little people might actually have consequences for them always comes as a nasty shock.
“'Feel free to disagree with somebody,' the president said, 'but don’t try to just shut them up.'”
Of course, college students couldn't shut Condoleezza Rice up even if they wanted to. Her views get amplified in just about whatever forum she chooses - even though she should be tried as a war criminal.
Free speech is a right. Speaking at a university and receiving an honorary degree is a privilege and students have every right to protest their university associating itself with controversial public figures.
One could just as meaningfully argue that the President (who, like Condoleezza Rice and unlike university students gets his free speech amplified) is trying to shut the students up. The truth of the matter is that elites feel entitled to their megaphone even while they feel entitled to receiving no pushback for their amplified views. That the opinions of meaningless little people might actually have consequences for them always comes as a nasty shock.
1
Mr. Obama who wouldn't point fingers at George W. Bush apparently has no problem pointing fingers at Mr. Trump for exploiting the working class despite Mr. Obama's complete failure to rein in the wealthy who have run wild during the Obama Administration as they have exploited the working class citizens. Who has allowed tax breaks to the 1% class, wasted billions in pointless military surges, and generally been a poodle for Wall Street speculators more than Mr. Obama? If he wants to point fingers let him go back and start with Jeb's brother and his associates, including General Powell and his dishonest TV slide show.
4
So people reject his policies simply because he is black???? Intellectual dishonesty on full display
7
That's right - play the race card when you have no other excuse for your poor performance - lousiest, rottenest "chief executive" we've ever been stupid enough to elect - twice! He and his worthless congress should all hang their heads in shame!
4
My what short memories we have. Bush destroyed this country both by losing a stupid war of choice, not winning a necessary war when he could have and totally tanking the economy and the middle class with it. And last I checked, the Congress was a GOP Congress sworn to stop all things Obama, whether in the national interest or not, to wit: Immigration reform, gun control and a host of other things. The GOP has had the 60 vote Senate obstruction even in Obama's first tetm so they blocked him then to. How soon we forget the horror years of Bush, Cheney and their "mushroom" clouds to take us to the stupidist military blunder in American history.*
1
The pot calling the kettle black.
How many times have I heard M. Obama demonize the "Wealthy"?
Make them pay just a little bit more ... the implication being that they can afford to.
Mr. President, don't throw rocks if you're living in a glass house.
As Linda Little Trees used to say ... "DUMB."
How many times have I heard M. Obama demonize the "Wealthy"?
Make them pay just a little bit more ... the implication being that they can afford to.
Mr. President, don't throw rocks if you're living in a glass house.
As Linda Little Trees used to say ... "DUMB."
1
But the richest among us pay the least!
3
"Mr. Obama also argued that some of the scorn directed at him personally stemmed from the fact that he is the first African-American to hold the White House." That's not what he said.
2
Hmmm. Exploiting class and identity fears for political gain. What despicable person would do that? These are some of the demagoguery positions that some politicians have taken to exploit fears:
1. War on women by the GOP.
2. Racial bias by anyone that disagrees with Obama on any subject.
3. White men are "bitter" racists and religious bigots who cling to their guns and religion. They should be on the list of dangerous people by Homeland Security
4. GOP will end social security for the elderly.
5. Anyone who defends traditional marriage is a bigot and should shut up.
6. Anyone who wants a pause in immigration is a racist.
7. Anyone who refuses to accept 'man-made' global warming should be tried under the criminal RICO statutes.
8. Guns are not inanimate. They must be controlled--or better yet,simply confiscated-- and their owners are encouraging mass murders.
Back in the day, anyone who espoused these fear-mongering positions would be called a despicable demagogue.
1. War on women by the GOP.
2. Racial bias by anyone that disagrees with Obama on any subject.
3. White men are "bitter" racists and religious bigots who cling to their guns and religion. They should be on the list of dangerous people by Homeland Security
4. GOP will end social security for the elderly.
5. Anyone who defends traditional marriage is a bigot and should shut up.
6. Anyone who wants a pause in immigration is a racist.
7. Anyone who refuses to accept 'man-made' global warming should be tried under the criminal RICO statutes.
8. Guns are not inanimate. They must be controlled--or better yet,simply confiscated-- and their owners are encouraging mass murders.
Back in the day, anyone who espoused these fear-mongering positions would be called a despicable demagogue.
11
Oh come on. Try listening. Try understanding what people are saying.
4
Zejee is the one who isn't listening.
3
Why is it that the working class...particularly the white, native-born working class, has 'fears', but other groups have 'legitimate concerns?
Mass immigration, overwhelmingly non-white, is not in the white working class interest. Free trade uber alles is not in white working class interests. Having people who obviously identify more with others, including foreign born Muslims (whether here or abroad), is not in the white working class interests.
You could also add white, middle class interests to all of above.
White working and middle class interests are every bit as legitimate as those of 'La Raza' or the NAACP. It is long past time that the white working and middle class organize to pursue them. Trump is just the beginning of that.
Mass immigration, overwhelmingly non-white, is not in the white working class interest. Free trade uber alles is not in white working class interests. Having people who obviously identify more with others, including foreign born Muslims (whether here or abroad), is not in the white working class interests.
You could also add white, middle class interests to all of above.
White working and middle class interests are every bit as legitimate as those of 'La Raza' or the NAACP. It is long past time that the white working and middle class organize to pursue them. Trump is just the beginning of that.
8
The President's intelligence and humility continues to impress me. His subtext reveals a reality about the American people in general. Which is:
"Look, human beings are essentially fear-based creatures who don't like change (especially a large share of conservative Americans), and are prone to invest far more in anger and hysteria than they do in actual facts, reason and logic. We're not rational creatures. And that's unfortunate, because I'm sort of a rational guy. Y'know, I believe in facts, reason. But I only have a year left, so I'm not going to focus on the roughly 45% of Americans who would hate me even if I saved them from drowning, and try to focus on the people who will still listen and try to get done as much as I can."
And I must say, having followed American politics (as well as studied my fair share of neurology and psychology) over the past 20 years, I would have to fully agree with that subtext.
"Look, human beings are essentially fear-based creatures who don't like change (especially a large share of conservative Americans), and are prone to invest far more in anger and hysteria than they do in actual facts, reason and logic. We're not rational creatures. And that's unfortunate, because I'm sort of a rational guy. Y'know, I believe in facts, reason. But I only have a year left, so I'm not going to focus on the roughly 45% of Americans who would hate me even if I saved them from drowning, and try to focus on the people who will still listen and try to get done as much as I can."
And I must say, having followed American politics (as well as studied my fair share of neurology and psychology) over the past 20 years, I would have to fully agree with that subtext.
9
No matter what the Republicans have to say, Obama has been performing well to the satisfaction of most people in this county. He would remain in the history as one of the best Presidents of America.
7
Just because a politician tries to exploit the fears of a certain group of citizens does not mean that , as a citizen, you have to allow yourself to be exploited.They cannot exploit any citizen's fears without the citizen allowing it.
1
When this president says he is confident about an issue, he remains largely ineffective about it. I take anything he says as lip service at this point.
4
Mr. President, the students who objected to giving honors at commencement exercises to Christine Lagarde and Condoleezza Rice were not objecting to "hearing other points of view."
As they made clear, if Lagarde or Rice wanted to come to campus and give a speech -- and have to answer questions from the audience, as is customary in campus speeches -- there would be no problem.
But the idea that Rutgers should award an honorary degree to Rice, and that Rutgers would pay $30,000 for this dubious privilege, is off-the-wall crazy.
Rice is widely denounced as a war criminal. Her complicity in torture is especially odious: just for example, the lies she told about the kidnapping and torture of innocent Canadian citizen Maher Arar, a crime for which this newspaper urged you, Mr. President, to officially apologize on behalf of the US government, but which you have failed to do.
As for Lagarde, the well-informed, and informative, protests by Smith students raised real questions about IMF policies that should have been addressed in the media and in colleges and universities, but have not been.
Rice and Lagarde have no trouble getting very powerful microphones and sound systems whenever they want to promote their views.
Students deserve opportunities to make their views known, too. Thanks to them for doing so.
As they made clear, if Lagarde or Rice wanted to come to campus and give a speech -- and have to answer questions from the audience, as is customary in campus speeches -- there would be no problem.
But the idea that Rutgers should award an honorary degree to Rice, and that Rutgers would pay $30,000 for this dubious privilege, is off-the-wall crazy.
Rice is widely denounced as a war criminal. Her complicity in torture is especially odious: just for example, the lies she told about the kidnapping and torture of innocent Canadian citizen Maher Arar, a crime for which this newspaper urged you, Mr. President, to officially apologize on behalf of the US government, but which you have failed to do.
As for Lagarde, the well-informed, and informative, protests by Smith students raised real questions about IMF policies that should have been addressed in the media and in colleges and universities, but have not been.
Rice and Lagarde have no trouble getting very powerful microphones and sound systems whenever they want to promote their views.
Students deserve opportunities to make their views known, too. Thanks to them for doing so.
7
Democrats are terrified Trump is exposing the fact that endless immigration for 50 years has stagnated blue collar wages. it has.
Democrats are terrified Trump is exposing the fact that H1B visas are causing downward wage pressure on baby boomers in tech and healthcare jobs struggling to save for retirement.
they should worried. we are just getting started.
Democrats are terrified Trump is exposing the fact that H1B visas are causing downward wage pressure on baby boomers in tech and healthcare jobs struggling to save for retirement.
they should worried. we are just getting started.
13
Obama is causing those fears, trump is offering an alternative. That's not fear-mongering, its fear prevention
11
Under Bush we had everything, worst terror attack on our homeland, American auto industry collapsing, banks and wall street collapsing, housing collapsing with people losing their equity and many their homes. Job losses by the millions, two unpaid war's in the trillions of dollars, thousands of our young military members killed and hundreds of thousands more maimed for life, the highest deficit ever, and a government run amuck. Not to mention torturing our enemies which constantly put our men and woman in uniform at a much higher risk of being tortured themselves. Thank you President Obama for taking us from the brink of collapse and bringing us back some normalcy, including gaining respect from other countries around the world.
9
There are valid arguments to be made that every item in your parade of horribles can be traced back to one "progressive" policy or another.
1
The national debt has already doubled under Obama.
Other countries around the world have less respect for us, and it is because of Obama. Please read some foreign press, or even a few sites in the US.
Other countries around the world have less respect for us, and it is because of Obama. Please read some foreign press, or even a few sites in the US.
Donald Trump is exploiting the fact that the President is a failure. All three of Obama's Defense Secretaries have criticized Obama for a lack of leadership. Leon Panetta, a career Democrat, wrote that Obama "avoids the battle, complains, and misses opportunities. Trump is a demagogue who is exploiting the void created by a weak, indecisive and emotionally detached President. People from across the political spectrum are weary of being lectured by a President who speaks incessantly and does very little.
8
The anti-Obama comments here, most of them, are so sad and so demonstrative of what a Pandora's box was opened by rightwing "entertainment" programming and "news." This is a level of commentary one does not always see at the New York Times, but it is both informative and depressing. The commenters are kind of proving the President's point, in much of his NPR remarks. We have an angry and often purposely misinformed populace.
7
Well, he claimed that it was "blue collar" men (he did not say "white" but obviously he meant it) that were experiencing "anger, fear, and frustration." Obviously, as per these comments, it is NOT only blue collar white men. The left's response whenever the majority of people disagree with them is to say "obviously these people have been misled and brainwashed by Fox news." Yet the comments that you are responding to are by NY Times readers who have probably got the highest education level of any readers in the country (outside of, maybe the WSJ) and who get their information FROM THE NY TIMES. Here's a thought -- you do have an angry populace and they are angry precisely because they do know what is going on.
8
If the populace hadn't been (intentionally, and some just by low amounts of information they were aware of) so misinformed, esp in 2012, Obama would never have been elected.
2
Why don't you enlighten us.
We have an intelligent, thoughtful president. Hard to believe the American public
voted him in twice! Now the ignorant, brain-washed masses support the demagogic, ignorant, racist Republican candidates. Eisenhower warned us of the "military-industrial complex," but he should have specified right-wing corporate media.
voted him in twice! Now the ignorant, brain-washed masses support the demagogic, ignorant, racist Republican candidates. Eisenhower warned us of the "military-industrial complex," but he should have specified right-wing corporate media.
4
no, trump is the savior for the white working class, someone to help them fight back against the persecution of the white working class by the media and the corporations that fund the media via advertising.
7
Donald Trump doesn't like Latino immigrants and calls them all rapists and murderers. Trump has called for a wall to be built between the US and Mexico. And he wants Mexico to pay for it. Mexico will never pay for a wall. Trump denigrates women. Trump demonizes Muslims and wants a ban on all Muslim immigrants to the United States. Is there anyone who Trump likes? Trump is an angry racist. Pure and simple, no decent American would vote for Trump.
5
What is the business of politics other than to exploit this or that for an advantage? Here it might do well to revisit the adage: when you point a finger at another person, three fingers point back at you.
4
America faces many problems. President Obama has tried to address some of them while Congress has not been willing to consider any of our nations problems. Republican's in Congress only answer is No. That is a sad an unhelpful response.
5
People are generally efficient with their concerns and fears. And "exploiting working class" fears over flat lining wages for decades, while food and housing goes through the roof is fair game for our next presidential candidates. More than fair game. If Obama and the Democrats didn't want the issue exploited, then perhaps they could have focused some of their attention on the problem.
9
"History shows that self-conscious minorities tend to vote cohesively, as blacks have for 150 years and Southern whites did for 90. It's an understandable response to feeling outnumbered and faced with an unappealing agenda. In that case, Romney's 59 percent or House Republicans' 60 percent among whites may turn out to be more a floor than a ceiling."-- Michael Barone Nov. 14, 2014
It's worth reminding folks that not everything is about Barack Obama. This began long before anyone heard the name. The President is playing by the same progressive playbook he inherited. The result was predictable and not unprecedented.
It's worth reminding folks that not everything is about Barack Obama. This began long before anyone heard the name. The President is playing by the same progressive playbook he inherited. The result was predictable and not unprecedented.
4
Obama really has shed the old presidential image of a sitting president... Mature, classy, and above the fray of politics. Time and again, he wades into political matters beneath him, where his voice really resonates with no one. Besides that, people need to really just ignore trump. The more people make comments about him and whatever it is he is trying to do, it just gives him more mileage. Leave him alone and leave him out of the news. Unlike Hillary, who is working that strategy just fine because she has things locked up, trump thrives on any and all headlines.
3
Every candidate for President of the United States exploits the fears and hopes of their socioeconomic political educational ethnic sectarian gender racially colored supporters. And in an America born in African enslavement and nurtured in Jim Crow bigotry against a physically identifiable colored minority there is no such thing as a half white by biological nature and all white by cultural nurture human being person named Barack Hussein Obama. With the bigotry hidden behind rhetoric about "political correctness", "playing the race card" and being "color-blind".
2
Wow, the Great Divider and Class Warrior and Ridiculer-In-Chief calls the kettle black.
14
So addressing the issues is now Exploitation??? These fears and anxieties are a direct result of YOUR failed policies President Obama. We wouldn't have these fears if you had done your job or what you had promised. In addition to the fact you exploited the race card to get elected and you're doing it again. When you leave office, the reason you got nothing done will be because of race and how everyone's racist. Now that you've done everything possible to cause a divide in America, I'm sure that you will continue to be scared of Trump because he would end you and everyone of your pals.
10
I remember when the Bush regime brought out pictures and videos of OBL and pals before his second election. Scare the masses, pretend another attack is imminent and then tell them you are the "fixer." Then we found out from W himself that OBL wasn't even on his list of priorities. Fool me once.
3
HE should talk!
6
It's refreshing to hear the President and the media talk frankly about class differences in our society. What we need to hear more about are the entrenched upper and upper middle classes who are sucking the life out of the rest of American society.
5
So "talk" refreshes you? Action might do it for me, but, sadly, I have see, and I currently see, none from this President
2
The questions raised by Trump are basically: 1. Who is responsible for keeping this country safe? 2. Why are they not doing their job? 3. How will they be held accountable for their actions (or lack thereof)?
5
I just heard half an hour of the interview on line. The President's carefully worded, thoughtful answers do not lend themselves to ten second sound bites, as do the utterances of Mr. Trump. nor does the management of complex problems such as conflict in the Middle East or race relations on college campuses or protecting Americans against domestic terrorism lend themselves to Mr. Trump's style of jingoistic sloganism.
8
The first and probably the last black president.
1
I see your far left editorial and news staff who select which comments to publish have weighted their selections way in favor of a failed President and the anti-Obama comments are mild. Is this really Fair & Balanced?
6
Obama is tone deaf if he thinks only old white guys don't like him because their lot in life keeps getting worse. Imagine what Black folks must think as they have suffered even worse than old white guys.
It must be very convenient for Obama to be sort of Black. Whenever anyone disagrees with him, he can just declare them racist.
The House just voted 400 to 17, if memory serves, to pretty much do as Trump suggested and take a pause on admitting people from several Moslem countries. That would imply massive support across both parties for Trump's position.
Kerry announced that we will not insist on Assad's exit,for now, and will first focus on fighting ISIS. Isn't that precisely what Trump said we should do?
They call the man crazy, and then implement his policy recommendations.
It must be very convenient for Obama to be sort of Black. Whenever anyone disagrees with him, he can just declare them racist.
The House just voted 400 to 17, if memory serves, to pretty much do as Trump suggested and take a pause on admitting people from several Moslem countries. That would imply massive support across both parties for Trump's position.
Kerry announced that we will not insist on Assad's exit,for now, and will first focus on fighting ISIS. Isn't that precisely what Trump said we should do?
They call the man crazy, and then implement his policy recommendations.
10
This coming from the most racially divided President we have had in decades.
Obama always turns to the race card when he tries to defend himself. Didn't he promise to bring the races together? Instead he has worked hard to do the opposite. It's going to be a very long year. Who knows what Obama will do next to divide this country? Want to guess?
Obama always turns to the race card when he tries to defend himself. Didn't he promise to bring the races together? Instead he has worked hard to do the opposite. It's going to be a very long year. Who knows what Obama will do next to divide this country? Want to guess?
8
Much of what the President says is obvious to anyone who listens to the rhetoric spewed about and against him. However, regarding his comments about the white working class, while all of it is true, I never thought that he attempted to change what was happening to it, as he never seemed to do likewise for the black or any other working class. His support of trade bills, including now the TPP, only further harm the entire working class in the United States. The only jobs left in America are service jobs that do NOT pay living wages. He left a whole segment of Americans - working class of every color - unprotected for his years as president. And the nation as well, because I would like to know who will do the manufacturing in the next war in which we find ourselves? Which is why that fool Trump can say aloud in Michigan that he will penalize Ford for building a car plant in Mexico and win working class support. I voted for him; I would vote for him again; but he needs to take a hard look at what his own policies did to the working class in America.
6
I will try one last time.
Obama accuses Trump of exploiting working class fears
I suggest that Obama/Reid have done that.
Didn't Obama say that millions of jobs were suppose to be created by the Stimulus and that the unemployment rate was suppose to drop below 6%? In fact it stayed above 7% for a record 42 weeks. Weren't people counting on those shovel ready jobs?
Why did Senate Democrats block Obama's jobs bill. Did it have to do with the fact it did not include a 5% increase on top wage earners? And when asked if he would bring it up for a vote again, didn't Harry Reid say "The Senate has more pressing business?"
And why did Senate Democrats block the following jobs bills passed by the House
1) Hire More heroes act (HR 3474)
2) The Success and Opportunity through Quality Charter Schools Act (HR 10)
3) The Innovation Act (HR 3309)
4) The Cybersecurity Information Sharing and Protection Act (HR 624)
5) The American Research and Competitiveness Act (HR 4438)
6) The American Small Business Tax Relief Act (HR 4457)
7) The Domestic Prosperity and Global Freedom Act (HR 6)
8) The S Corporation Permanent Tax Relief Ac (HR 4353)
9) The Coal Residuals Reuse and Management Act (HE 2218)
10) The Small Business Capital Access and Job Preservation Act (HR 1105)
I think Obama has stoked middle class fears The Stimulus did not produce the jobs he promised and Democrats repeatedly blocked House jobs bills.
Once again Obama is the victim. I thought he could handle it I was wrong
Obama accuses Trump of exploiting working class fears
I suggest that Obama/Reid have done that.
Didn't Obama say that millions of jobs were suppose to be created by the Stimulus and that the unemployment rate was suppose to drop below 6%? In fact it stayed above 7% for a record 42 weeks. Weren't people counting on those shovel ready jobs?
Why did Senate Democrats block Obama's jobs bill. Did it have to do with the fact it did not include a 5% increase on top wage earners? And when asked if he would bring it up for a vote again, didn't Harry Reid say "The Senate has more pressing business?"
And why did Senate Democrats block the following jobs bills passed by the House
1) Hire More heroes act (HR 3474)
2) The Success and Opportunity through Quality Charter Schools Act (HR 10)
3) The Innovation Act (HR 3309)
4) The Cybersecurity Information Sharing and Protection Act (HR 624)
5) The American Research and Competitiveness Act (HR 4438)
6) The American Small Business Tax Relief Act (HR 4457)
7) The Domestic Prosperity and Global Freedom Act (HR 6)
8) The S Corporation Permanent Tax Relief Ac (HR 4353)
9) The Coal Residuals Reuse and Management Act (HE 2218)
10) The Small Business Capital Access and Job Preservation Act (HR 1105)
I think Obama has stoked middle class fears The Stimulus did not produce the jobs he promised and Democrats repeatedly blocked House jobs bills.
Once again Obama is the victim. I thought he could handle it I was wrong
7
Why is this news? Obama plays the race card all the time. He's an expert at ginning up people's fears. It's what he does -- basic Alinsky.
8
The ruling elite, including this President maintain power and justify almost anything by giving us an enemy to fear, whether or not that fear is rational or justified. Our fear and the wars (read profits) they generate keep power in the hands of those who profit from it most-- that same ruling elite.
We have been told that we are in mortal danger for nearly 15 years. This has generated a massive new industry of security providers, military and private who never eradicate the threat, but just keep it close enough to maintain or fear. Obama campaigned on George Bush's fearmongering. Obama does the same thing, but more subtly.
We have been told that we are in mortal danger for nearly 15 years. This has generated a massive new industry of security providers, military and private who never eradicate the threat, but just keep it close enough to maintain or fear. Obama campaigned on George Bush's fearmongering. Obama does the same thing, but more subtly.
3
Trump is raw, unvarnished Republicanism. America has a sinful past, genocide of Native Americans, slavery of African Americans, the pursuit of wealth that treats all others, especially minorities as expendable. The sins of our past remain with us as new sinners join the GOP.
5
To lump all Republicans together is wrong.
2
You are funny. Haven't you read the history of the Democratic Party? Go look on encyclopedia britanica to refresh your memory. The democrats were pro slavery. Andrew Jackson was a democrat also; remember he fought against the Native Americans.
3
Connie, in the '50s and '60s, the southern democrats became republicans to a man (or woman)--at least the racist contingent, which in that days was most of us. This followed LBJ's signing of the Civil Rights Act. And they are republican to this day, which is why the people in the republican party lean to the pale side. The worst of us combined with the big money eastern republicans, and it's been that way ever since.
4
"That’s not to suggest that everybody who objects to my policies may not have perfectly good reasons for it" an important point to clarify oh humble one.
5
Cite a republican saying that, please.
2
Lots of circular reasoning here.
______________________
"Me and all my friends hate Obama."
* Why do you and all your friends hate Obama.
"Because he's divisive!"
* How can you say Obama's divisive?
"Just look how much me and all my friends hate him!"
______________________
"Me and all my friends hate Obama."
* Why do you and all your friends hate Obama.
"Because he's divisive!"
* How can you say Obama's divisive?
"Just look how much me and all my friends hate him!"
11
This isn't about race. This is about Obama and his inability to do the job.
7
So tired of hearing about class, there are no "classes in America, just the men who work harder than Obama. I'm in the " working" class. I'm a welder. Trump is doing nothing but speaking aloud the opinions of the millions in the "working" class. I guess that's why they call it the "working class" because we actually work for what we have and don't have time to moan and complain all the time like the social activist that is Obama
10
I'm not sure that Trump has exploited people's fears any more than Bernie has. On the one hand Trump points blame for our current economi condition at the government while Bernie blames corporate greed.
I am terrified of the possibility that either one of them might be president. Bernie would gut corporate America's competitive stength to the point that we would loose millions of jobs to more competitive corporations in other countries. Trump is so vague in what he proposes that no one knows what he would try to do but it would definitely entail less regulaltion of corporations and that could be dangerous.
Truth be told we need a president that will help lead us by creating legislation that will make US corporations as competitive as possible while ensuring that the employees of those companies are paid and treated fairly.
They both are campaigning by blaming certain groups for our economic ills and instilling voter paranoia and fear to gain votes......
All in all we a pretty dismal choice of candidates... Maybe, just maybe, Hillary will rise to the occasion.
I am terrified of the possibility that either one of them might be president. Bernie would gut corporate America's competitive stength to the point that we would loose millions of jobs to more competitive corporations in other countries. Trump is so vague in what he proposes that no one knows what he would try to do but it would definitely entail less regulaltion of corporations and that could be dangerous.
Truth be told we need a president that will help lead us by creating legislation that will make US corporations as competitive as possible while ensuring that the employees of those companies are paid and treated fairly.
They both are campaigning by blaming certain groups for our economic ills and instilling voter paranoia and fear to gain votes......
All in all we a pretty dismal choice of candidates... Maybe, just maybe, Hillary will rise to the occasion.
1
The working-class have never been exploited more than when Hope and Change came to town.
No matter if one is referring to religion, politics, race, gender, economy, noble peace prize or world war.
No matter if one is referring to religion, politics, race, gender, economy, noble peace prize or world war.
7
Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you and God Bless you and your family. I hope you have a wonderful holiday.
20
If the title-headline of this piece was supposed to get my attention, it worked.
Obama's right and I've had enough.
12-22-15@1:07 am est
Obama's right and I've had enough.
12-22-15@1:07 am est
11
Now watch as Republicans trash this admirable, honest president for this interview, just as they do every other word that he utters and his every action. His patience and good will even toward his enemies is a model for us all. Americans will realize later how unjust his critics have been.
27
He has been anything but honorable. I'd like to get a montage together of how many times Bush criticized people and how and how many times Obama has done it and how.
3
Every other word? See TARP and get back to me.
2
Thw interview I noticed was the too-candid one where he admitted never watching cable news and not understanding how upset Americans were about the Islamist terrorists.
Lots of Muslims are loyal to the U.S. I'd prefer his being a loyal Muslim to his being not-too-much of any religious faith and damaging every shred of what America has always been because he as raised by people who wished America didn't exist.
Lots of Muslims are loyal to the U.S. I'd prefer his being a loyal Muslim to his being not-too-much of any religious faith and damaging every shred of what America has always been because he as raised by people who wished America didn't exist.
2
"Mr. Obama pushed back against criticism of his approach and said he was “confident that we are going to prevail.” "
Sure we will prevail. Just at a much higher cost than if you hadn't ignored the rise of ISIS. Remember how you lied about ending the war in Iraq and leaving it with a stable government? How ISIS was just the "junior varsity'?
How you called for regime change in Syria? How your SOS Hillary Clinton joked about Khadaffy's death ("we came, we saw, he died")? Like I said, at a higher cost due to your leadership.
Sure we will prevail. Just at a much higher cost than if you hadn't ignored the rise of ISIS. Remember how you lied about ending the war in Iraq and leaving it with a stable government? How ISIS was just the "junior varsity'?
How you called for regime change in Syria? How your SOS Hillary Clinton joked about Khadaffy's death ("we came, we saw, he died")? Like I said, at a higher cost due to your leadership.
8
Conveniently ignoring the mother pf all blunders, the invasion of Iraq by the previous administration. Mr. Bush broke it, and Mr. Obama got to own it. Has Mr. Obama been perfect? No. But considering what he was handed, he's done very well.
7
We --all of us-- get the economy we deserve, no more, no less. If we disdain teaching by hiring teachers out of low-quality education diploma mills, or failing to support the good ones; if we miss out on talent because we hired people like us instead of people with different backgrounds; if we shop at Walmart,where 99% of the product comes from China, instead of learning how to make and repair things for ourselves: if we do all that, what do we expect?
9
All of the President's comments are correct. Trump is a jerk, and I shudder at the thought of him running foreign policy. Obama's current position and level of aggressiveness in dealing with ISIS are also correct -- ultimately Iran is a bigger threat to the U.S. than ISIS, and why help Iran expand its influence further by taking on ISIS aggressively? However, where Obama erred was with overly deep caution on overseas involvement, withdrawing troops too quickly from Iraq, and leaving a power vacuum, which was inevitably filled by radicals.
4
RBSF is right about Obama completely failing Iraqis by leaving it in a power vacuum. R is as free to opinionate on stuff and everyone else commenting here.
The question is will Obama ever admit a mistake himself.
The question is will Obama ever admit a mistake himself.
4
GWB's administration made the deal with Iraq to withdraw on a specific timeline, and the Iraqi's insisted on maintaining that schedule. We got out of Iraq (though not completely) when Iraq insisted that we do so.
3
If you believe Iran is the bigger threat, why do you think the President did such a great job when they will get $150 billion for essentially nothing.
1
What the media obdurately refuses to reveal to us is that Sanders is currently polling considerably higher than Trump. That, despite the media's infuriating neglect in reporting anything about Sanders' campaign, his goals, his voter base, and his astonishing progress. I personally take heart in that. And, of course, I am voting for Sanders.
12
ISIS "has gained a foothold in ungoverned spaces effectively in Syria and parts of western Iraq,” Wrong. Prior to being governed my ISIS, those spaces were governed by Syria and Iraq, respectively. But this administration was determined to see the Assad regime go, without consideration for the far worse warlords that would rise up in the territories Assad lost; and this administration was determined to bolt from Iraq, rather than providing the few more years of support that would have allowed Iraq's democratic institutions to successfully take root, and would have preserved our hard-won gains.
"This is not an organization that can destroy the United States.” Isn't that comment awfully reminiscent of how he called ISIS "a jayvee team"?
"This is not an organization that can destroy the United States.” Isn't that comment awfully reminiscent of how he called ISIS "a jayvee team"?
4
Please, enlighten us on what constitutes, "a few more years"? Five, Twenty? Fifty? (We've been in Korea for sixty-five years. And we still have a presence in Germany after seventy years.)
3
What's sad today is that no President, including Obama, has the courage to ever admit they're wrong, so they all come off looking arrogant. That's one reason Obama is so disliked, but the same was true for Bush, who, when asked, said he couldn't think of a single mistake he'd made, and it's true for Hillary Clinton, as well, who even 20 years ago blamed "A vast right-wing conspiracy" for her problems.
All this makes it hard to sympathize with our leaders, or see them as truly human. And the reason they can't show themselves to be human is the ubiquitous media and endless TV campaign that highlights and exploits any sign of weakness. I've always admired JFK for saying, "I'm the responsible officer of the government" when asked to explain how things went wrong with Bay of Pigs, and Harry Truman for saying, "The buck stops here." But admissions like that would be torn apart today rather than being seen as signs of character.
All this makes it hard to sympathize with our leaders, or see them as truly human. And the reason they can't show themselves to be human is the ubiquitous media and endless TV campaign that highlights and exploits any sign of weakness. I've always admired JFK for saying, "I'm the responsible officer of the government" when asked to explain how things went wrong with Bay of Pigs, and Harry Truman for saying, "The buck stops here." But admissions like that would be torn apart today rather than being seen as signs of character.
9
I think the President, any president, should take as a source of pride that he/she is struggling to capture 36% support amongst "white voters who do not have a college degree." Trump does well with this group, which speaks for itself.
Respectfully, you sound like Mr. Trump here. Not having a collage degree does not imply lack of intelligence or being unable to pick a good president. Also, some PhDs can be pretty low on the intelligence scale and vote very unwisely.
6
Given the Democrats claim the underclass as their primary constituency, are they proud to have the most uneducated party? It's ok to have uneducated minorities, but heaven forbid wanting to support uneducated Whites?
3
"Been working everyday since I was twenty
Haven't got a thing to show for anything I've done
There's folks who never work and they've got plenty."
Don't these words by the great Merle Haggard sum it up. What has president Obama, the progressive democrats and establishment republicans done to help the working man?? The working man competes against all the cheap labor brought into the country, his wages stagnant. The cheapest Obama care plan has $6000 deductibles meaning he pays money every month in premiums but still can't afford to go to the doctor. He has to worry about crime because he can't afford to live in the safer areas. He has people ridiculing him saying he clings to guns and God. Then a politician comes in and says that this country can be great again. He says we should close the border and send the illegals back. He thinks its ridiculous letting in Muslim immigrants who could be terrorists without being properly vetted. He doesn't make fun of people for wanting to conserve their country and pray to God. He smiles when this person stands up to the smug people who think they are better than him. He feels like the hope and change promised before might really happen.
Haven't got a thing to show for anything I've done
There's folks who never work and they've got plenty."
Don't these words by the great Merle Haggard sum it up. What has president Obama, the progressive democrats and establishment republicans done to help the working man?? The working man competes against all the cheap labor brought into the country, his wages stagnant. The cheapest Obama care plan has $6000 deductibles meaning he pays money every month in premiums but still can't afford to go to the doctor. He has to worry about crime because he can't afford to live in the safer areas. He has people ridiculing him saying he clings to guns and God. Then a politician comes in and says that this country can be great again. He says we should close the border and send the illegals back. He thinks its ridiculous letting in Muslim immigrants who could be terrorists without being properly vetted. He doesn't make fun of people for wanting to conserve their country and pray to God. He smiles when this person stands up to the smug people who think they are better than him. He feels like the hope and change promised before might really happen.
13
You are right a hundred thousand percent!
The guys that have made this countrys gears turn for a long time are tired oh so tired of being pushed around.They watch as their children who should have it better then them are being set up for failure. The government is telling them to apply for food stamps, only get offered a part time job because most company's can't afford to make them full time employee. Then apply for subsidized housing so you can raise a child. Gov. section 8 housing or county hud housing is the way for these so called "Single mothers". But they seem to have a man or men who keep getting them pregnant so they qualify for assistance. The kids she had will end up doing just like she did.
But the one brought up right is trying to work hard and buy his first house. He or she will be penalized for getting married. They get no help in renting a place, buying a place, or getting groceries because both parents work a job over 40 hrs a week trying to get ahead in life and hopefully have a baby and start a family.
NO ONLY THE WELFARE QUEENS GET THE HELP.
After all they chose to live a certain lifestyle where she got pregnant then where she could not care for herself or the child.SHE GETS REWARDED FOR BEING IRRESPONSIBLE.
But the responsible individuals who lived by God's word and brought up by responsible parents must fend for themselves.More and more are irresponsible and less are responsible.
The guys that have made this countrys gears turn for a long time are tired oh so tired of being pushed around.They watch as their children who should have it better then them are being set up for failure. The government is telling them to apply for food stamps, only get offered a part time job because most company's can't afford to make them full time employee. Then apply for subsidized housing so you can raise a child. Gov. section 8 housing or county hud housing is the way for these so called "Single mothers". But they seem to have a man or men who keep getting them pregnant so they qualify for assistance. The kids she had will end up doing just like she did.
But the one brought up right is trying to work hard and buy his first house. He or she will be penalized for getting married. They get no help in renting a place, buying a place, or getting groceries because both parents work a job over 40 hrs a week trying to get ahead in life and hopefully have a baby and start a family.
NO ONLY THE WELFARE QUEENS GET THE HELP.
After all they chose to live a certain lifestyle where she got pregnant then where she could not care for herself or the child.SHE GETS REWARDED FOR BEING IRRESPONSIBLE.
But the responsible individuals who lived by God's word and brought up by responsible parents must fend for themselves.More and more are irresponsible and less are responsible.
6
You are certainly right about the insurance plans available through the ACA, though it is much better than the deal that the uninsured had before. But the ACA plans are what they are because that's the best we could get when the program was created by Max Baucus to please the insurance companies and the republicans. It is essentially the plan the Heritage Foundation developed, based on Richard Nixon's proposal of the 1970s. It is what the Rs said they would accept, then they wouldn't support it anyway.
Sanders is right, as was Ted Kennedy, that we should have a single payer plan, Medicare for all.
Sanders is right, as was Ted Kennedy, that we should have a single payer plan, Medicare for all.
4
Both the democrats and republicans get a lot of money from insurance, drug and heal are companies which is problematic. According to this paper in 2007: In all, the Democratic presidential candidates have raised about $6.5 million from the industry, compared with nearly $4.8 million for the Republican candidates. Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton of New York has amassed the most of any candidate, even as she calls for changes to the health care system that could pose serious financial challenges to private insurers, drug companies and other sectors.
Mrs. Clinton received $2.7 million through the end of September, far more than Mitt Romney, the Republican who raised the most from the health care industry, with $1.6 million. The industry’s shift in contributions toward Democratic candidates mirrors wider trends among donors, but the donations from this sector are particularly notable because of the party’s focus on overhauling the health care system.
Look at the cost of drugs. They were allowed to charge what ever they wanted in the ACA which has led to hefty price increases in many drugs. Generics that previously cost pennies have gone up over 500%. Pharmaceutical companies were involved in writing the ACA.
Mrs. Clinton received $2.7 million through the end of September, far more than Mitt Romney, the Republican who raised the most from the health care industry, with $1.6 million. The industry’s shift in contributions toward Democratic candidates mirrors wider trends among donors, but the donations from this sector are particularly notable because of the party’s focus on overhauling the health care system.
Look at the cost of drugs. They were allowed to charge what ever they wanted in the ACA which has led to hefty price increases in many drugs. Generics that previously cost pennies have gone up over 500%. Pharmaceutical companies were involved in writing the ACA.
1
Obama has not done a great job handling Syria and Isil. He was incorrect in calling Isil the JV team, and he has not been aggressive enough in seeking to depose Assad after Assad crossed the line with the use of chemical weapons.
But still, we have had seven years of mostly peace and prosperity. Obama helped wind down our involvements in Iraq and Afgansstan and avoided many an unnecessary battle since. The agreement with Iran appears to be an absolute breakthrough, at least at this time.
Obama's coolness and patience have paid off time and again. The last thing the country needs now is to revert to warmongering and bluster. Obama hasn't been perfect, but his foreign policy successes greatly outweigh his failures.
Sorry to bring up old baggage, but we are so much better off now than we were in the days of the Iraq war, when the US was known for its torture and Guantanamo Bay. We have moral leadership of the international community again, and we act in the world not just with military might but with great suasion and multilateral power.
But still, we have had seven years of mostly peace and prosperity. Obama helped wind down our involvements in Iraq and Afgansstan and avoided many an unnecessary battle since. The agreement with Iran appears to be an absolute breakthrough, at least at this time.
Obama's coolness and patience have paid off time and again. The last thing the country needs now is to revert to warmongering and bluster. Obama hasn't been perfect, but his foreign policy successes greatly outweigh his failures.
Sorry to bring up old baggage, but we are so much better off now than we were in the days of the Iraq war, when the US was known for its torture and Guantanamo Bay. We have moral leadership of the international community again, and we act in the world not just with military might but with great suasion and multilateral power.
10
Isn't it refreshing when a politician is freed from concern about reelection and can speak honestly and openly. It happens all too infrequently.
11
I think the greatest fear might be of the people that actually believe anything President Obama or Hillary Clinton say. These libs are in the business of smoke and mirrors. The President is deflecting as his approval numbers slip. A paper champion can only stand for so long. Your skin color has never been the issue with conservatives. But the libs love it so much as they think the world is so much closer now to social utopia. Stop all the whining and crybaby talk Mr. President. Where are your facts? Have you been out talking with Trump supporters? You're no ML King Mr President.
But Clinton for president, which equates to the current status quo for another 4 years? No way we can afford that! It's not just white men that are frustrated, black young men are really struggling to feed their families Mr. President. I do not want to succeed at the expense of anyone, I want all to succeed and do well. I thought that is what you Dems talk about all the time. You been in office since 2008, stop blaming Bush. You were voted in with a Mandate and have failed your voters miserably with crafty speech and lip service, but no results that can be felt in the wallets of your own constituents. Sure millions more get food stamps now, but that will not move them up to the position of the middle class. WHERE ARE THE JOBS? Rather than lift up the poor, you have simply created more poverty. This is your idea of social justice, we are all poor together, with no security? Get real.
But Clinton for president, which equates to the current status quo for another 4 years? No way we can afford that! It's not just white men that are frustrated, black young men are really struggling to feed their families Mr. President. I do not want to succeed at the expense of anyone, I want all to succeed and do well. I thought that is what you Dems talk about all the time. You been in office since 2008, stop blaming Bush. You were voted in with a Mandate and have failed your voters miserably with crafty speech and lip service, but no results that can be felt in the wallets of your own constituents. Sure millions more get food stamps now, but that will not move them up to the position of the middle class. WHERE ARE THE JOBS? Rather than lift up the poor, you have simply created more poverty. This is your idea of social justice, we are all poor together, with no security? Get real.
7
Why does Barack Obama think it is ALWAYS about HIM? Not his failed policies, not his inability to create jobs after eight years on the job, not his abortion extremism, not his racial dividing of America, not his ideological agenda, but "the first African-American president."
8
He has failed to create jobs? Unemployment was at 10 percent when he took office and it's at five percent now. Under his administration, We've had the longest period of private sector job growth since World War II. Which specific policies of his have been racially divisive? Are employers only allowed to hire Hispanics for the new jobs they have created? Does the Affordable Care Act apply only to Asian-Americans? As far as abortion is concerned, abortion rates have been declining since the 1990s, due in part to demographics (an aging population means fewer women can get pregnant). Abortion rates also decline when Democrats are in office because greater economic prosperity and a better safety net means fewer women feel they have to have abortions for economic reasons. This is true for the current Administration as well.
5
Obama is an ego maniac
1
Hmmmm....... . More jobs created in each of the past six years than in all of GWB's presidency. But Faux News isn't reporting on that.
5
Obama's intelligence, balance, and tolerance still shine a great light.
Those who label him label themselves as lacking in tolerance and perspectives.
It is indeed sad that the President must make compromises, but that's a whole lot better than some of the people he's had to compromise with.
Those who label him label themselves as lacking in tolerance and perspectives.
It is indeed sad that the President must make compromises, but that's a whole lot better than some of the people he's had to compromise with.
18
Susan, you do realize we don't live under a dictatorship? When you speak of compromise, you may want to consider this!
2
Balance and tolerance? Where do you get that from? His approach to Fergeson where a criminal was attempting to kill a policeman? He overlooked the fact that the majority of the rioters were bussed in from out of town. It was well known that ugly things were going to happen yet he kept the national guard away and let these hoodelems do serious damage to private businesses that could have been protected by the national guard! Balanced? He's quick to imply racial discrimination against him instead of considering that most of his decisions have done great damage to this country. His actions would bring the same criticism regardless of his color.
8
Huh? I'm talking to my fellow Democrats, who seem to think he should have the powers Trump claims he will have if he is president, which is just flat-out ridiculous. Obama has faced nonstop opposition from day 1 with grace and humor and done what he could.
10
NYT did The President finally use the term ISIS:“This is a serious challenge — ISIS is a virulent, nasty organization that has gained a foothold in ungoverned spaces effectively in Syria and parts of western Iraq,” Mr. Obama said"or is this a misprint?
Having voted for him twice I was completely let down one year into his presidency when he spoke at West Point. He went back on the reason he was elected bu so many people and many yes white. He decided to cave in to the pressure or threats of the Military Industrial Complex and entangle us in extended warfare for no good reason except the scripted ones of the people who run the game.
The only reason I voted for him a second time is the other candidate represents the worst of Wall Street and could care less about the American people. Who would vote for the creator of Bain Capital to run America? The are the success story of American Greed.
But Obama is either insincere or has never followed the course he campaigned on and now Americans have lost their way to being the pawns of the media and the rich.
At least Trump is exposing all the nonsense of the ruling elite while not revealing himself.
I would not trust Sanders either. Don't forget he's been in the Senate for awhile and is tainted no matter what he says.
Having voted for him twice I was completely let down one year into his presidency when he spoke at West Point. He went back on the reason he was elected bu so many people and many yes white. He decided to cave in to the pressure or threats of the Military Industrial Complex and entangle us in extended warfare for no good reason except the scripted ones of the people who run the game.
The only reason I voted for him a second time is the other candidate represents the worst of Wall Street and could care less about the American people. Who would vote for the creator of Bain Capital to run America? The are the success story of American Greed.
But Obama is either insincere or has never followed the course he campaigned on and now Americans have lost their way to being the pawns of the media and the rich.
At least Trump is exposing all the nonsense of the ruling elite while not revealing himself.
I would not trust Sanders either. Don't forget he's been in the Senate for awhile and is tainted no matter what he says.
3
Golly. You don't like lies, so the guy who lies for a living is your favorite? Wow!
17
Working class fears are precisely what a real democratically elected President would be worried about. Yet this president persists in thinking it doesn't matter. The living standards of the working class -- white and black -- have been plunging downward like a stone for DECADES.
Affluent people like Obama have no idea but would be wise to pay heed. Ironically, the wealthiest person in this race is conversing -- alone -- with the American working class. Sanders, who isn't going to be nominated, is an honorable mention.
Affluent people like Obama have no idea but would be wise to pay heed. Ironically, the wealthiest person in this race is conversing -- alone -- with the American working class. Sanders, who isn't going to be nominated, is an honorable mention.
8
During this Christmas season, I reflect on how appreciative I am of our president. He is an intelligent, thoughtful, and compassionate commander in chief. I will continue to pray for him and his family and that the good Lord continues to bless him with wisdom and patience.
18
Please start thinking of him as President of the People and not the ingrained "Commander in Chief". Maybe then there will be less bluster and war.
4
Constantly referring to the President as the "Commander in Chief" began in the Reagan years, but really took hold under GWB. In the U.S. Constitution that phrase sounds almost like an afterthought, though of course, it is an important, substantial duty. Civilian control of the armed forces is a hallmark of our country, and differentiates it from many others. It is no accident that only a tiny handful of presidents have come from the ranks of military leadership.
I would rather have a campaign effort focused on appointing Supreme Court justices than one focused on the title Commander in Chief. At least, the phrase should be used in its entirety: Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces. As it is, it sounds like Alexander Haig is being resurrected.
I would rather have a campaign effort focused on appointing Supreme Court justices than one focused on the title Commander in Chief. At least, the phrase should be used in its entirety: Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces. As it is, it sounds like Alexander Haig is being resurrected.
1
Judging by some of these comments, the showup on Bear Grylls was the last straw for a whole passel of illiterates and know-nothings.
Sorry. Best president of my lifetime, and I been around a while, and some of you folks ought to be ashamed of yourself for your cheerful replays of some of the stupidest comments possible from Rush, Coulter and the rest of the loons.
Disagreement and criticism are one thing, and this President's earned some of both. But a lot of what I am reading here is just nuts.
Sorry again, but it's hard to be poiite. about this much hatred for America.
Sorry. Best president of my lifetime, and I been around a while, and some of you folks ought to be ashamed of yourself for your cheerful replays of some of the stupidest comments possible from Rush, Coulter and the rest of the loons.
Disagreement and criticism are one thing, and this President's earned some of both. But a lot of what I am reading here is just nuts.
Sorry again, but it's hard to be poiite. about this much hatred for America.
24
So disagreeing with President Obama's policies is equivalent with "hatred for America"? Questioning the patriotism of those who dare not share your views is a very low form of debate.
10
But the comments here are not primarily disagreement with the president's policies. They don't address the policies. Like Trump, they just bray out complaints and sound bites.
4
Blue collar workers aren’t getting the same bargain? What on earth does he mean? It has never been a bargain to be blue collar. It’s the other way around; white collar wants blue workers - at a bargain. That Obama doesn’t appear to see this is exactly the complaint.
And to be completely clear - let’s do away with the idea that blue collar always equals unskilled. In this day and age, it might mean some of the only people with actual skills, aside from checking email on a computer. Obama really is tone deaf when it comes to white working class Americans; it’s a group he has never reached - and I can’t help but think he doesn’t care that much about them. Trump resonates - of course wrongly in the big picture - because he’s speaking directly to them. They will vote for the recognition.
And to be completely clear - let’s do away with the idea that blue collar always equals unskilled. In this day and age, it might mean some of the only people with actual skills, aside from checking email on a computer. Obama really is tone deaf when it comes to white working class Americans; it’s a group he has never reached - and I can’t help but think he doesn’t care that much about them. Trump resonates - of course wrongly in the big picture - because he’s speaking directly to them. They will vote for the recognition.
11
Bargain has more than one meaning. It can mean getting something that's worth more than you paid for it; but it also means a contract, and that's the president's meaning. The bargain, the contract, used to be that anyone who was willing to work hard could have a good job that provided a good living for himself and his family, and keep it till he retired, and have a pension. That's the world I grew up in, and it has disappeared.
I thought when I heard the word "bargain" that it wasn't a good choice of word, that people might think he meant exactly what you and and other commenters think. But though he's sometimes a bit tone deaf, do you really think he would insult the workers of America by saying that they used to get more than they paid for?
I thought when I heard the word "bargain" that it wasn't a good choice of word, that people might think he meant exactly what you and and other commenters think. But though he's sometimes a bit tone deaf, do you really think he would insult the workers of America by saying that they used to get more than they paid for?
5
Anna - Are you sure there was a bargain/contract out there that protected working class people anywhere? The only thing that was somewhat protected in the US, perhaps, was that there were jobs that hadn’t been outsourced. But even that is a little revisionist. Yes, I do think he would insult white American workers. By mistake maybe, but I fully believe that it’s a group he doesn’t warm up to at all. He’s elite, and chose black over white in his own being. He sided with the professor over the cop, instantly, and he sided with Martin over Zimmerman. His minister was as racist as they come, later called activist. I am not claiming Obama is racist; I don’t think it goes that far. But I do think his instinct/experience goes in another direction and working class whites are a demographic he never really talked to during the past eight years. Could be wrong but that’s my impression.
1
Working class Americans are like chickens who vote for The Colonel Sanders when they vote Republican. For forty years the middle class has voted for its executioners. They are easily fooled by war mongering "ban Muslims," race baiting "Willy Horton," and the demonizing of women, minorities and immigrants. After all, it is easier to take on the weak than the strong. Let us not forget that a small oligarchy of very rich white males still own and run America; they make all the laws, write all the policy, and create all the tax havens, loopholes and other rich man benefits, like "legacy" at colleges and country clubs et al. How do we knock down these towers of elitism? We can't. Not without a Teddy Roosevelt. Not with a "dumbed down" working and middle class in America. We are doomed to be led around like sheep by the rich, us bleating, complaining, while they consolidate the last of our productivity gains for...only themselves. Again. I am ashamed my generation was raped by these Wall Street crooks. We did nothing. We should have fought back. I hope my children, and my grandchildren, learn how to fight for their fair share. I hope there is a revolution, of some kind, in America, soon.
21
@Tropicalgardener,
Wow! From your first sentence. all the rhetoric in the middle and your last sentence it seems that you really have some issues. Your last sentence is actually very disturbing. Do Serbia, Syria. Libya and Egypt come to mind? There is no such thing as a peaceful revolution.
Wow! From your first sentence. all the rhetoric in the middle and your last sentence it seems that you really have some issues. Your last sentence is actually very disturbing. Do Serbia, Syria. Libya and Egypt come to mind? There is no such thing as a peaceful revolution.
1
"They are easily fooled by war mongering "ban Muslims," race baiting "Willy Horton," "
Many of those working class folks among paroled violent felons. Their fears were and are real.
"We can't. Not without a Teddy Roosevelt."
Have you ever read Teddy Roosevelt's writing and speeches regarding immigrants? If a white working class male stated those same things you would call him xenophobic and "race baiting".
Many of those working class folks among paroled violent felons. Their fears were and are real.
"We can't. Not without a Teddy Roosevelt."
Have you ever read Teddy Roosevelt's writing and speeches regarding immigrants? If a white working class male stated those same things you would call him xenophobic and "race baiting".
1
Most of the analysis has been about Mr Obama defending himself rather than what it should be: Donald Trump stoking paranoia and using this to say what those that are paranoid want to hear. The President is saying that DT is saying some pretty nasty things to gain support from folks outside the mainstream. And he also says the media doesnt help. That is the real message.
13
Let's remember how Republicans aided the exodus of American manufacturing and wealth ( workers pensions ), and then denied millions extended unemployment help.
15
Boy oh boy are some of these comments vicious and unjustifiable about this President. Whenever I read such comments, I remind myself that not all commenters are your run-of-the-mill reader but rather people paid explicitly to say bad things about the President.
15
Why do liberals need to find some extreme explanation for why anyone would dare not share their political views? Comes off as very intolerant.
3
True enough. But you see conservatives say the same type of things any time a liberal dares to comment on a WSJ article. If you'll be honest with yourself, I'm sure you'll admit it goes both ways.
2
I LOVE THIS GUY. He's been our best modern president for sure. The next round of candidates pale by comparison.
13
That's a bit rich! The democrats have been doing that for years around here, fearmongering the poor and minorities in return for votes.
6
You should see what the republicans have done here for decades, in the land where so many still love and long for their confederate flags.
8
So Obama gets blamed for the dearth of middle class jobs, but don't I recall the Republicans running on a platform of middle class job creation in 2010 and 2012? They won the House, yet we have not seen a single Republican jobs bill put forth for a vote. That said, I haven't seen the President out there using speeches to urge any type of action from the Congress the last couple of years. Face it, middle class America, neither party is your friend.
12
If ISIS didn't already exist, the GOP would have loved to invent it. To them, ISIS is Christmas in July, it's heaven sent, their prayers answered. They needed a crisis they could exploit and manufacture into an existential threat so badly they could taste it. Secretly, they must be giving each other high fives each time they pass each other in a hallway in the senate that doesn't feature a security camera. God bless the stupid citizens of the United States of America quivering in their sneakers. And God bless the kerchief-clad killers of ISIS.
Now they don't have to focus on the state of the economy (improved), climate change (in their view a bummer for the economy but it is real and has to be dealt with), gun violence (out of control but not so bad that we should stop terrorists from getting their hands on them), the eroding infrastructure, failing schools, income inequality, people dying because they still can't afford their medication. Moderators at the debates don't even ask about those things anymore. It's now all terrorism, all the time. Groovy.
Now they don't have to focus on the state of the economy (improved), climate change (in their view a bummer for the economy but it is real and has to be dealt with), gun violence (out of control but not so bad that we should stop terrorists from getting their hands on them), the eroding infrastructure, failing schools, income inequality, people dying because they still can't afford their medication. Moderators at the debates don't even ask about those things anymore. It's now all terrorism, all the time. Groovy.
22
All ISIS does is prove that this president feels much more strongly for Muslims' feelings than he ever will for the safety of Americans. Were the political party names switched, all you would be reading in the liberal media is how terrible the jobs situation is for the American family.
3
Odd that the problems you're citing are precisely the probs Rick Perry presided over in Texas, ain't it?
2
That's the kind of nonsensical post that stirs contempt for America's right wing.
2
Exploiting fear?
That's nothing new. It's the entire strategy of the Federal, States, Counties, and local governments.
It's called a protection racket.
That's nothing new. It's the entire strategy of the Federal, States, Counties, and local governments.
It's called a protection racket.
2
Was any mention made of our insane trade policies which are undermining all middle class Americans regardless of race color or creed? Trump has latched on to that issue, which all other politicians except Bernie Sanders are too chicken to touch. They don't want to offend their corporate and rich sponsors.
11
Honestly, I think some Americans believe Obama has a button under his desk he could push and poof! terrorism would be over. He just won't use it! Most Americans don't know a Sunni from a Shia, a Syria from an Iran, an Assad from their Uncle Henry. Resentments and alliances that took decades to build -- somebody like Trump is going to wipe away with a sweep of his arm. Go Team America! -- that should do it. I look forward to Trump's supporters volunteering to be the boots on the ground in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Tunisia, Nigeria and Libya. ISIS is losing ground, but the more important battle is for the minds of those who would join them. This will take long, strategic planning -- not an afternoon's war. And the Pentagon doesn't run on Monopoly money. Please people -- keep the grownups in charge.
28
There is no point in stating this obviousness. The white collar, upwardly mobile will bobblehead "yep" (myself included,) and the working clash will gnash and rage because, frankly, that's what they want to do. They are rage onanists and Trump is there to lend them a hand.
4
the race card...played by POTUS...really? he was elected twice by the American public. And that was racist against him how? And for someone so articulate, why all the stammering when admitting he didnt communicate ISIS plans very well? and he still didnt communicate his NEW plans for dealing with the JV team. Are there new plans? leadership seems to be lacking. change may be a good thing.
12
Oh, in only we had European-style early elections.
If we had European-style early elections it would have been great in 2006, because Bush would have been easily voted out. Watch what you wish for - it works the same for both parties.
1
This is excellent. Barack Obama is criticizing Donald Trump because he's starting to make it difficult for the final days of the Obama Presidency.
The public is finally starting to wake up and realize that the Emperor doesn't have any clothes on. Suddenly "Hope and Change" is finally being recognized it as the con it always was.
Further, Donald Trump is already affecting the national landscape. Without his sounding the alarm about immigration and terrorism Barack Obama could have been able to continue to blow Smoke up the public's rear end.
Now, he actually has to do something about the world's problems, and he doesn't like that.
And, not only that, all the politicians, even the Democrats are starting to sing the same tune, because to ignore what Donald Trump says is an invitation to political disaster.
Finally, realize that Barack Obama got elected because people were fed up with George Bush. Donald Trump will become our next president because people are fed up with Barack Obama.
Donald Trump is a threat to Barack Obama's legacy and his spin on the world events.
For the first time in Barack Obama's presidency he now has to take the issues of terrorism and immigration seriously, and then on top of that do something about them or risk a loss of the White House to the Republicans in 2017.
The public is finally starting to wake up and realize that the Emperor doesn't have any clothes on. Suddenly "Hope and Change" is finally being recognized it as the con it always was.
Further, Donald Trump is already affecting the national landscape. Without his sounding the alarm about immigration and terrorism Barack Obama could have been able to continue to blow Smoke up the public's rear end.
Now, he actually has to do something about the world's problems, and he doesn't like that.
And, not only that, all the politicians, even the Democrats are starting to sing the same tune, because to ignore what Donald Trump says is an invitation to political disaster.
Finally, realize that Barack Obama got elected because people were fed up with George Bush. Donald Trump will become our next president because people are fed up with Barack Obama.
Donald Trump is a threat to Barack Obama's legacy and his spin on the world events.
For the first time in Barack Obama's presidency he now has to take the issues of terrorism and immigration seriously, and then on top of that do something about them or risk a loss of the White House to the Republicans in 2017.
13
"For the first time in Barack Obama's presidency he now has to take the issues of terrorism and immigration seriously..."
He's deported 2,000,000 people during his term -- he's set records for deporting -- see http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2014/10/02/u-s-deportations-of-immi...
Bush promised America would find and kill Bin Laden, but never did. It was Obama who gave the orders that finally fulfilled that promise.
But you have such momentum on your narrative, it would be a shame to let a few facts get in the way.
He's deported 2,000,000 people during his term -- he's set records for deporting -- see http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2014/10/02/u-s-deportations-of-immi...
Bush promised America would find and kill Bin Laden, but never did. It was Obama who gave the orders that finally fulfilled that promise.
But you have such momentum on your narrative, it would be a shame to let a few facts get in the way.
12
Obama changed the definition of "deportation" so that when someone is stopped at the border and turned away, that is now called a deportation. So if one individual comes every day for a year, is stopped at the border, that counts as 365 deportations. And you expect anyone to take what this man says seriously?
2
Seriously people, is Trump really the man and possible leader of the free world who you want with his finger on our nuclear button? Think of his reckless language, his temper, his lack of any political experience at all. If some of you think you are afraid now, just wait.
13
It's refreshing to hear someone speak the truth at a time when all the candidates are calculating the effect of every word they say.
12
I've seen Saul Alinsky's name pop up enough times in these comments to lead me to believe that all these absurd anti-Obama rants are a coordinated attack.
20
I'm an unabashed liberal and yellow dog Democrat and I had never heard of Saul Alinsky until I started reading obsessive references to him by right-wing delusionals.
13
He's some part of the conspiracy-laden, delusional fantasy world that has been constructed on the right, complete with books, television, radio, and other purveyors for that world's "truths". And these people believe it all, hearing it echoing with that oddly repetitive phrasing that denotes propaganda; it's on down where I live all the time. Never mind that it isn't true, or that even sheer memory should tell them something's very wrong with the picture. They believe it because they want to, and find enough support that they won't give it up, the dream that they would all be wealthy and secure if not for the evil demons who oppose the republican or right-wing plans and candidates. And arguing doesn't dent it because these people have been assured that any argument is proof of the other person's wickedness. It's a religion, really, and a very dangerous one. But it's why they are so vehement, why they can't compromise. It's their religion now.
12
It's the same way they've fixated on "Gruber" and use it over and over. During the Benghazi era, "Sidney Blumenthal" was also popular. I note an interesting similarity in the three names. There's probably a copy of the "Protocols" lurking somewhere nearby.
7
Hey working class folks out there, you're Trump's chumps. Don't you realize that? This BILLIONAIRE who knows nothing about you or your problems is climbing to the top on your backs. And when he gets to the top he'll kick the ladder out from under you. Excuse me for being so blunt but the guy is a bedbug.
30
hey, Trump always needs a few folks to clean his pools, shine his shoes, detail his cars.
5
It is fundamental to free market capitalism that competition be allowed to play out among entities selling and buying goods and services. The Republican Party holds the primacy of competition as a core value. They want competition to seep into every corner of the economy. The schools, the hospitals, the parks, the military are all improved by competition, by privatization, by competitive bidding on contracts. Cheap foreign labor has been competing with American workers for some decades now. At one time, it was only the immigrants taking low paying jobs. Then the manufacturing jobs started going over seas. Now white collar workers are training the foreign workers on temporary visas who will take the jobs with them when they go back home. Guess what? It is CAPITALISM - THE MOST FUNDAMENTAL PREMISE OF CAPITALISM AT WORK. The Republicans will defend the exportation of each and every job (except their own).
So we have elected an American-African President, and Republicans manage to blame him for middle class stresses resulting from competition. No elected Republican has ever lifted a single finger to prevent the export of a single job because that exportation is due to competition fundamental to capitalism. (Actually they might strike down clean air and clean water regulations behind the lie that such actions would protect American jobs.) So, are the Republicans profiting from Obama's color to stir existential anxiety among those whose wages have stagnated? Of course.
So we have elected an American-African President, and Republicans manage to blame him for middle class stresses resulting from competition. No elected Republican has ever lifted a single finger to prevent the export of a single job because that exportation is due to competition fundamental to capitalism. (Actually they might strike down clean air and clean water regulations behind the lie that such actions would protect American jobs.) So, are the Republicans profiting from Obama's color to stir existential anxiety among those whose wages have stagnated? Of course.
19
How did DEMOCRATS prevent the export of a single job?
It was Clinton who signed NAFTA.
It was Clinton who signed NAFTA.
5
And which Congess approved it in the first place? i forget.
5
Well, Obama is certainly the expert at exploiting populist sentiment, so he should know.
12
The blatant racism in this comment section is really something to be seen.
And it is beyond disgusting.
How do these people live with themselves? Their minds full of sewage?
And it is beyond disgusting.
How do these people live with themselves? Their minds full of sewage?
32
It's been going on since the day Obama got in office. These are now the Trump supporters.
23
I totally agree, and might I respectfully add that some blue collar workers are no doubt geniuses and some white collar workers, or even a non working billonaires are of very low intelligence?
We have a president whose government has a problem with looking at the facebook pages of people we are considering for refugee status. Why shouldn't people not trust him?
10
The article you referred to that implied the San Bernadino terrorist posted her intentions on Facebook was a NYT article that was proven to be incorrect. The newspaper corrected it the other day with an editor's note apologizing for the mistake.
A lie runs 1,000 miles before truth even puts on its shoes.
A lie runs 1,000 miles before truth even puts on its shoes.
1
The strangest thing about the anti-Obama hatred is that on almost every measure (economy, jobs), he's done extraordinarily well. The only area where he hasn't helped much is blue-collar jobs, but when he suggests things that might help (such as when he raised the federal minimum wage to $10) he gets resistance.
No serious economist, either left-wing or right-wing, says that immigrants are a major driver of working-class poverty. So that's not something the wealthy believe. It's something they know they can convince the working class is true. Get the people who are earning 40K to be furious at the people on welfare, so they won't ask why they are earning only 40K/year when in the 1950s they'd have been paid the equivalent of 75K, and meanwhile the CEO is earning 50 times as much as he used to?
When will Republicans admit that companies like Walmart (that pay $7/hr and manufacture in China) own the Republican party? The conservative voter is bending over backwards to blame anyone but the people who actually make and set policies, like large corporations. The ACA isn't perfect but at least it's an attempt to get people like Walmart to pay for the health of their workers, so the taxpayers don't have to do it through Medicaid.
Do conservatives think if the billionaires get even more money, they will suddenly get nicer to the working class? Do they think if all the Mexicans go away, the billionaires will raise their salary? Good luck with that.
No serious economist, either left-wing or right-wing, says that immigrants are a major driver of working-class poverty. So that's not something the wealthy believe. It's something they know they can convince the working class is true. Get the people who are earning 40K to be furious at the people on welfare, so they won't ask why they are earning only 40K/year when in the 1950s they'd have been paid the equivalent of 75K, and meanwhile the CEO is earning 50 times as much as he used to?
When will Republicans admit that companies like Walmart (that pay $7/hr and manufacture in China) own the Republican party? The conservative voter is bending over backwards to blame anyone but the people who actually make and set policies, like large corporations. The ACA isn't perfect but at least it's an attempt to get people like Walmart to pay for the health of their workers, so the taxpayers don't have to do it through Medicaid.
Do conservatives think if the billionaires get even more money, they will suddenly get nicer to the working class? Do they think if all the Mexicans go away, the billionaires will raise their salary? Good luck with that.
33
The meat packers who lost their UNION jobs to illegal aliens, then had NO JOBS due to illegal immigration -- not $40K jobs vs. $75K jobs.
You have no idea what you're talking about. You have no idea what life is like in "flyover country", or how many illegals they are in this country.
You have no idea what you're talking about. You have no idea what life is like in "flyover country", or how many illegals they are in this country.
8
Obama is still the only adult in DC politics. Bless him.
35
Obama has no credibility in accusing Trump of exploiting the fear of terrorism. The president cannot even utter the phrase "Islamic radical" or "Islamic terrorist." Obama is the man who threatened Assad with reprisal if he used gas warfare and then Obama ran from the battlefield. Almost 100 years ago the great powers of the time agreed to ban gas warfare as too horrific but Mr. Obama can't bring himself to deal with that horror or the consequences of reneging to severely punish Assad.
It is Mr. Obama who has created fear for Americans by refusing, absolutely refusing to confront terrorism and bring it to an end. Yet Mr. Obama is critical of Donald Trump for calling him out on his failings. That is not exploitation. That is simply telling the truth. It is Mr. Obama who abandoned our friends and allies alike. It is Mr. Obama who ran from the battlefield. It is Mr. Obama who created the anger, fear and frustration that American citizens experience everyday. Now, finally Obama says he reacted too slowly to address American fears and concerns. And it's not just white voters who did not attend college who loathe Mr. Obama. Being president means having courage and being a leader. Its more than having good approval ratings. Being president means being able to defend the United States. Mr. Obama has failed us and now is upset that Donald Trump and others have taken notice. That is not fear mongering. Sadly, Trump is right. Pursuing ratings is not ending fear. It creates fear.
It is Mr. Obama who has created fear for Americans by refusing, absolutely refusing to confront terrorism and bring it to an end. Yet Mr. Obama is critical of Donald Trump for calling him out on his failings. That is not exploitation. That is simply telling the truth. It is Mr. Obama who abandoned our friends and allies alike. It is Mr. Obama who ran from the battlefield. It is Mr. Obama who created the anger, fear and frustration that American citizens experience everyday. Now, finally Obama says he reacted too slowly to address American fears and concerns. And it's not just white voters who did not attend college who loathe Mr. Obama. Being president means having courage and being a leader. Its more than having good approval ratings. Being president means being able to defend the United States. Mr. Obama has failed us and now is upset that Donald Trump and others have taken notice. That is not fear mongering. Sadly, Trump is right. Pursuing ratings is not ending fear. It creates fear.
13
I just heard the prime minster of Iraq, al-Abadi, say NO AMERICAN BOOTS ON THE GROUND. What is it exactly, aside from air and drone strikes, that Obama isn't doing? You may know, but none of the Republican candidates have suggested anything else. Trump thinks that just because he says so, Russia is going to take care of ISIS. And Republicans take him seriously.
15
So if he says your magic words, Daesh will disappear? Or you'll think he's a better leader. Not holding my breath on either.
You do know that he got the chemical weapons away from Assad, right? With John Kerry and diplomacy, not "on the battlefield." Here's a link for you:
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/obama-syrian-chemical-weapons-destroyed-but-...
Looking back at the last 20 years, please show me where "confronting" terrorism has ended it. Confrontation acts more like throwing water on a grease fire -- it spreads the flames wider instead of extinguishing them.
You do know that he got the chemical weapons away from Assad, right? With John Kerry and diplomacy, not "on the battlefield." Here's a link for you:
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/obama-syrian-chemical-weapons-destroyed-but-...
Looking back at the last 20 years, please show me where "confronting" terrorism has ended it. Confrontation acts more like throwing water on a grease fire -- it spreads the flames wider instead of extinguishing them.
9
Most Americans have nothing against Obama EXCEPT his record!
23
Talk about fear mongering. Obama has exploited class warfare for the past eight years. It would be nice if someone would write about that.
17
Maybe no one is writing about it because it is your personal fantasy without substance.
13
And where is your factual information to refute it?
1
The fears of the middle class are very real and growing no thanks to Obama. Dismiss them at your own risk.
17
Case in point, my father in law, a white Republican from Alabama, after a few scotches will make comments about things like "the watermelon patch" at the White House. Personal experiences like these have me agreeing that fundamentally it is the color of Obama's skin that arouses a visceral hatred within some for our President.
33
The people you refer to need to know that, apparently, humanity began in Africa. Such ignorance is appalling.
3
so your racist father in law is representative of everyone that disagrees with Obama? I know a rocket scientist from Cal-Tech who thinks Obama is soft on terrorism. Therefore...
2
Our Country is experiencing a nightmare. Some of us are holding on for dear life in this turmoil, and undivided we stand. As for the unfortunate 'Trump Phenomena' as this America interprets it, the rise in hatred and mistrust, the self-proclaimed men of God among us, it has all been a disheartening State of Affairs,.
It is the President who continues to give me hope. The finest leader of our Nation, seen in a life time by this white American, and beyond a shadow of a doubt in my heart.
Wishing Mr. and Mrs. Barack Obama and their family, friends and loved ones, a restful and enjoyable Christmas, a time to thank the President for everything he has taught me to strive be a better person and an American.
Happy holidays, dear Sir, Happy New Year to you and yours. it is privilege and honor to extend to you my deepest appreciation.
It is the President who continues to give me hope. The finest leader of our Nation, seen in a life time by this white American, and beyond a shadow of a doubt in my heart.
Wishing Mr. and Mrs. Barack Obama and their family, friends and loved ones, a restful and enjoyable Christmas, a time to thank the President for everything he has taught me to strive be a better person and an American.
Happy holidays, dear Sir, Happy New Year to you and yours. it is privilege and honor to extend to you my deepest appreciation.
43
Haven't I seen you saying this before? You really love Pres. Obama, don't you? I mean, don't get me wrong; he's a nice guy, but he's not without flaw. Far from it. His foreign policy, which I see as a byproduct of an inevitablist worldview, is problematic. (E.g., We'll triumph because we're "on the right side of History"; that's a dangerous way to think about the world.) I like the guy, but I can't bring myself to worship him. I also think it's true that he does not really understand the people he governs and that his complete isolation from, and hence non-understanding of, Joe America have really hurt him. And this has made conspiracy theories seem much more plausible to Joe America. It's not just that he's black; it's his cosmopolitan background, his Carteresque lecturing of the American people; his shooting down of American exceptionalism, and so on. Look at the "he was born in Kenya," or the "he's a Muslim" nonsense. This is a result of deep suspicion. It's the average person's way of saying, "This guy is not one of us."
Of course, he can't help his background. But he could've done so much more to ingratiate himself with the common American people and to build, if not their trust, at least their respect and thus gain their attention. As it is, they have zero respect for him, and they will not listen to a thing he says, however reasonable. He has been a total failure in showing people that he isn't the Other in the White House.
Of course, he can't help his background. But he could've done so much more to ingratiate himself with the common American people and to build, if not their trust, at least their respect and thus gain their attention. As it is, they have zero respect for him, and they will not listen to a thing he says, however reasonable. He has been a total failure in showing people that he isn't the Other in the White House.
1
You make some good observations about Obama, David. Indeed, he doesn't make noise about American "exceptionalism," he doesn't beat the patriotic drum, he is cosmopolitan and he sometimes sounds a bit haughty and lectures like a professor he once was.
But it sounds like you're suggesting he should be a phony and pretend to be somebody he's not just because the average American likes to hear that our country is exceptional, and wants our President to be a "down home" type from the South like Bill Clinton or George W. But he's not that. I admire him for being true to the person he is. And it's worked. Remember, he won the majority of the vote in both 2008 and 2012. The last Republican to do that two times in a row was over 30 years ago. Maybe your party should nominate people who are as competent and intelligent as Obama.
But it sounds like you're suggesting he should be a phony and pretend to be somebody he's not just because the average American likes to hear that our country is exceptional, and wants our President to be a "down home" type from the South like Bill Clinton or George W. But he's not that. I admire him for being true to the person he is. And it's worked. Remember, he won the majority of the vote in both 2008 and 2012. The last Republican to do that two times in a row was over 30 years ago. Maybe your party should nominate people who are as competent and intelligent as Obama.
2
Two things, ISIS, and the working class.
I agree that The ISIS threat is overblown somewhat the same way Ebola was a couple years ago. They may be nasty like Nazi Germany, but will never be able to project that kind of power. I like a strategy of containment better than one of 'annihilation'. Killing this kind of enemy is like playing 'whack-a-mole'. Still, Obama does need to do a better job on his theatrics. When the people are upset, that in itself is a problem.
Now, the 'working class'. This is THE key issue facing our society (ignoring climate change). The working class has to be kept healthy, and it is presently very sick. Illegal immigrants compete for working class jobs. And free trade policies put american workers in competition with workers in developing countries.
So it is no surprise that someone like Trump can exploit these issues. They need to be addressed.
We have two choices: 1) adopt immigration and trade policies that protect the working class, AND offer a real jobs program (repair infrastructure or, heck, build a 'beautiful wall'). 'Training programs' are nice, but offering actual JOBS is lots better.
Or, 2) fail to help the working class, sit on your hands, and watch while their hurt builds and the rhetoric around their distress sounds more and more 'fascistic'.
I agree that The ISIS threat is overblown somewhat the same way Ebola was a couple years ago. They may be nasty like Nazi Germany, but will never be able to project that kind of power. I like a strategy of containment better than one of 'annihilation'. Killing this kind of enemy is like playing 'whack-a-mole'. Still, Obama does need to do a better job on his theatrics. When the people are upset, that in itself is a problem.
Now, the 'working class'. This is THE key issue facing our society (ignoring climate change). The working class has to be kept healthy, and it is presently very sick. Illegal immigrants compete for working class jobs. And free trade policies put american workers in competition with workers in developing countries.
So it is no surprise that someone like Trump can exploit these issues. They need to be addressed.
We have two choices: 1) adopt immigration and trade policies that protect the working class, AND offer a real jobs program (repair infrastructure or, heck, build a 'beautiful wall'). 'Training programs' are nice, but offering actual JOBS is lots better.
Or, 2) fail to help the working class, sit on your hands, and watch while their hurt builds and the rhetoric around their distress sounds more and more 'fascistic'.
9
"offer a real jobs program (repair infrastructure or, heck, build a 'beautiful wall')"
We probably would have had an infrastructure repair program a while ago if the democrats did not demand that all of the work be done by overpaid union members who would kickback most of their union dues to the democrats with the result that a much as 10% of such spending would wind up as kickbacks.
We probably would have had an infrastructure repair program a while ago if the democrats did not demand that all of the work be done by overpaid union members who would kickback most of their union dues to the democrats with the result that a much as 10% of such spending would wind up as kickbacks.
2
There is nothing fascistic about workers lobbying for their democratic right to govern their country. There IS something fascistic about a government exploiting and insulting its own people who founded the country and voted the government into existence. They can also vote it out of existence.
3
It is striking that on the same day that this enlightening interview is broadcast, the NYT publishes an article detailing the decades-old discrimination practiced by a sheet metal union in NYC.
The system has always been rigged to ensure a middle class existence for blue-collar whites to the detriment of deserving blacks and hispanics. Now that the playing field is (slowly) being leveled, blue-collar whites feel under siege and that their country is "being taken away" from them. Welcome to the new world order - game on!
The system has always been rigged to ensure a middle class existence for blue-collar whites to the detriment of deserving blacks and hispanics. Now that the playing field is (slowly) being leveled, blue-collar whites feel under siege and that their country is "being taken away" from them. Welcome to the new world order - game on!
7
Do you really believe that allowing floods of unskilled illegal immigration has "leveled" the playing field? If anything, it's depressed wages for all of the U.S. working class - regardless of race.
From your comment, I would guess you must be a member of the upper class yourself to have such little empathy for fellow U.S. citizens?
(I certainly don't support systematic discrimination, but to cite one story and then act as though it's representative of all U.S. labor union practices is a bit much... btw, I am a union member and the president of my local union chapter is a black woman)
From your comment, I would guess you must be a member of the upper class yourself to have such little empathy for fellow U.S. citizens?
(I certainly don't support systematic discrimination, but to cite one story and then act as though it's representative of all U.S. labor union practices is a bit much... btw, I am a union member and the president of my local union chapter is a black woman)
The spending bill included an increase to unskilled worker visas - is it 200,000 now? Why? Never any answer given, just be sure there's big PAC money beating out common sense.
Why shouldn't working class Americans be anxious?
Why shouldn't working class Americans be anxious?
17
You can't have a Republican Congress and a Democratic president and not get Republican stuff in budgets.
11
Dougl1000 - when there's PAC money it doesn't matter which side of the aisle they're on, everyone gets some incentive and how much depends on who brought it up first.
2
Great interview. EVERYONE should watch this. Esp if you complain about Obama.
9
Very nice softball interview by NPR. Questions appear to be written by the DNC. Basic premise- if I had only communicated better my approval ratings would be up. What we have here is "a failure to communicate."
The implication is that the electorate is to dumb to understand.
The implication is that the electorate is to dumb to understand.
16
With the economic situation this guy inherited he could have been an FDR type of president who fought for the middle and working classes. Instead he has been a puppet of the rich and powerful. I'm sure when he's finished he will be making $200,000 speaking engagements to his neoliberal friends espousing the glory of free trade agreements and the new world order. Good luck to these folks because eventually angry majorities will turn against you. Trump is not inducing the frustration and anger. He is just acting as a barometer which is showing how frustrated people have become.
11
This headline does not help. President Obama did not "accuse" anyone of anything. He supplied a long and thoughtful answer to a question from a respected journalist. Please do not equate the president's answers to the false bravado and invective that certain candidates for the office are always shouting about. The president has been vilified and insulted for more than 7 years. Surely he deserves an opportunity to give his opinion on the negative accusations that are constantly being thrown at him.
23
And George W Bush was never vilified? Bill Clinton? The problem is many white Americans voted for Barack because of "hope and change". Instead we have ended up with "despair and incompetence". Racism is not the problem for Barack. It is results and his attitude of "to cool to care".
4
It really is amazing the negative comments, made up facts and the recommends that those comments get ... You know what lets go back to 8 years ago ... 10% unemployment, 2 major car companies and 1 big insurance company ( AIG ) on the brink, mortgage crisis, Iraq, our country basically falling off a cliff. Yea lets go back to that .... This President has been decent and dignified, I don't agree with some of the things he tried. I think Obamacare is creating more problems than it solved. But health care before was a disaster, At least he tried. And something has got to be done about it. He has faced the worst obstruction and dis-respect I have ever seen. These people talk about our status in the world. Wake up. Our respect in the world was shattered along with just about everything else from that criminal joke of an administration before Obama. The things they caused we may never recover from. I wish these commenters would see what's actually being done, instead of just mouthing off. Trump ... please... he's captivating to listen too, just like a train wreck. Go ahead elect a fool like that and you think it's bad now, forget it ... We'll be looking at total chaos in a matter of months ........
37
OBAMA VS TRUMP What a match! Or better, What a mismatch! The Professor versus the bored billionaire CEO who left TV quiz shows to entertain himself with a run for the presidency. Obama's reasoned, insightful comments shown in this piece and broadcast on NPR today contain thoughtful observations about what motivates those who support Trump. President Obama shows a depth of commitment, intelligence and gravitas, all essential to his performing his duties well. Alas, Trump shows little or no interest in any of them. I'll grant you that Trump is very intelligent; I'll even go so far as to say that I think he's got a high IQ. But he bombs out on his EQ--his emotional quotient or understanding of how we're all interconnected and need to come together to get the US to run well. Trump's default response, which he uses almost exclusively in answer to all comers is to come back with one liners in which he delivers a punch line, often spiced up with salty language, that get applause, laughs, hoots and hollers. But nary a thought to be found in the interaction. To say that Trump is drunk with his own power is redundant; to say that he gets people to become intoxicated--to have whatever he's drinking when they pick their poison--explains Trump's party. And it's only connected to the GOP by lip service. But before we dismiss him, let's just remember that Ted Cruz, hot on Trump's heels, is universally hated. He's dangerous. Better join the brawl and hoist a tankard with Trump.
6
I thought the NYT supported a moderated comments section. The comments accompanying this article would suggest otherwise.
I heartily support President Obama and am very thankful that this country has such a brilliant, thoughtful and deliberate leader at this time in our history.
Yet, I accept that reasonable people can disagree with me and the President and the majority of Americans who elected President Obama twice.
I would listen to people critical of his policies, or better yet, offering constructive advice for improving specific policies.
But I don't listen to people who offer nothing but enmity, name-calling, unsupported conclusions and facts without citation.
People subscribe to the NYT because they want to hear facts, they want to hear opinions, and the distinction between the two is clear.
I hope the NYT returns to moderating the comments section to bring more light than heat, otherwise it is just another venting wasteland of no value.
I heartily support President Obama and am very thankful that this country has such a brilliant, thoughtful and deliberate leader at this time in our history.
Yet, I accept that reasonable people can disagree with me and the President and the majority of Americans who elected President Obama twice.
I would listen to people critical of his policies, or better yet, offering constructive advice for improving specific policies.
But I don't listen to people who offer nothing but enmity, name-calling, unsupported conclusions and facts without citation.
People subscribe to the NYT because they want to hear facts, they want to hear opinions, and the distinction between the two is clear.
I hope the NYT returns to moderating the comments section to bring more light than heat, otherwise it is just another venting wasteland of no value.
17
Thank you BFL for illustrating another unsupported conclusion
13
Trump et al is doing the work of ISIS: turning the Home of the Brave, into the Home of the Afraid to Leave My House, Afraid to Go Shopping, Afraid to Go to Church, School or Any Where Else Without a Gun...
16
OK, so no dissent against the supreme leader lest the enemy get wind of it. Looks like a fear-based argument to me.
7
The only fear I have is that Donald Trump might become president of the United States.
8
TPierre gives us a nice demonstration of the Olympic-sized leaps of logic necessary for belief in Radical Conservative dogma. My head would explode from 200-proof dissonance if I even tried.
2
When President Obama came into office he asked the country to help solve the great challenges our country faces; and the Republicans not only ran away but actively worked against him every day for the past seven years. So who's the real divider here?!
22
I have never seen or heard so many ugly, hateful and disgusting thing's said about one of our Presidents, ever. A man who brought our country back from the brink of a total collapse. Starting with the right wing media and their base. They should be ashamed of themselves. But, every dog has their day, and theirs is coming soon. Always does.
38
Evidently you missed all the hateful comments the left made about Bush. Or were you making them yourself?
11
Right, no one ever said anything nasty about George W Bush.
8
Well, we DID have a terrible habit of quoting his autobiography, wondering about the Champagne Guard unit he didn't show up for much that kept him out of Vietnam, questioning his willingness to stick the past president of the Arabian Horse Association in as FEMA chief, and invade Iraq based on zip without much planning or budgetting and getting 4500 Americans and at least 100, 000 Iraquis killed while running up a $2 trillion bill and destablizing the entire region.
So I can certainly see your point.
So I can certainly see your point.
4
Donald Trump does not have a policy proposals.
He has whatever coming out of his whatever wherever.
He has whatever coming out of his whatever wherever.
9
Actually he does. His policy on immigration is the only one that would have prevented San Bernadino.
8
Actually I meant to say:
Donald Trump does not have a policy proposal:
He has whatever coming out of his whereever whenever.
His policy is very simple:
- Newyork is worse under DeBlasio. Blacks are running amok. They all need to be locked up and stored away in NJ.
- Muslims are destroying US. They should be banned from US.
- Everyone who is not as idiotic as him is being politically correct.
- He will exclude all mexicans except those who keep the sheets clean in his hotels(whatever happened to that? I guess now that he has the enemies of the day, Muslims, this no longer is a burning issue).
- Those who are richer than him are so because they have daddy's money(where did his own come from)?
Donald Trump does not have a policy proposal:
He has whatever coming out of his whereever whenever.
His policy is very simple:
- Newyork is worse under DeBlasio. Blacks are running amok. They all need to be locked up and stored away in NJ.
- Muslims are destroying US. They should be banned from US.
- Everyone who is not as idiotic as him is being politically correct.
- He will exclude all mexicans except those who keep the sheets clean in his hotels(whatever happened to that? I guess now that he has the enemies of the day, Muslims, this no longer is a burning issue).
- Those who are richer than him are so because they have daddy's money(where did his own come from)?
5
The reason for Americans' fear? It's so simple. It's obviously much to simple for the brilliant president.
The primary cause of Americans' fear is that they don't believe the president has a handle on national security.
One day he's dismissing ISIS. The next day he's claiming our "strategy" is working. And the next, he's lecturing Americans on treating Muslims fairly. These are not the actions of someone who has a solid handle on Americans' concerns about terrorism. They are the actions of someone who lives in a world with his own version of events.
The primary cause of Americans' fear is that they don't believe the president has a handle on national security.
One day he's dismissing ISIS. The next day he's claiming our "strategy" is working. And the next, he's lecturing Americans on treating Muslims fairly. These are not the actions of someone who has a solid handle on Americans' concerns about terrorism. They are the actions of someone who lives in a world with his own version of events.
13
With many surrounding he and family with those ugly guns he wants to take away from ordinary citizens.
3
I think the Presidents comments are "spot on". Every President has detractors and supporters. What is happening again as has been pointed out by the NYT or the Washington Post or the Wall Street Journal, is that major shifts in the political climate have been occurring over the last few years which have paralyzed the legislative processes . This will change in time, when compromise
is affirmed as a preferred way of conducting the People's business.
is affirmed as a preferred way of conducting the People's business.
2
Thanks President Obama for speaking out against the blatant racism heaped upon you by certain faction of the Republican Party and those who blindly follow them. President Obama is a decent man who has done his best. Donald Trump is the purveyor of fears and insecurity in America not president Obama.
He will Not Make America Great Again. How can a boogeyman make anything great? Wake up America!
He will Not Make America Great Again. How can a boogeyman make anything great? Wake up America!
17
President Obama, you're doing a great job in a challenging time. You are the sane, refreshing voice of reason and I wish I could vote for you again. I look forward to seeing you on the Supreme Court one day. Hope you are enjoying your vacation.
34
Obama is dead on regarding Trump's m.o. His method is to use fear as the lowest common denominator to get votes. Much to my chagrin it is working among certain voters. But if one looks at the whole picture logically, he will get annihilated by Hillary. Are latinos, muslims, blacks, women, veterans, the disabled, immigrants, gays, etc going to vote for him? No. It will be a pyrrhic victory for him. He might win the battle, but he will lose the war.
10
President Obama acknowledges that "this new economy" promotes "anger,frustration and fear" in large segments of the population but feels that the antipathy focused on his administration and party is "misdirected". He would be correct only if he's inferring that the Democrats aren't SOLELY to blame for the slow-motion train wreck that is 21st Century America. That the GOP is as guilty in derailing, permanently, the American Dream for so many of the people they falsely claim to represent, is undeniable. The bill now coming due for the duopoly's strict adherence to, and unwavering faith in, Capitalism and Empire will be paid by the growing number of those left behind in the so-called homeland. Slamming the charlatan Trump for tapping this vein is as hypocritical as it is... misdirected.
3
"That the GOP is as guilty in derailing, permanently, the American Dream for so many of the people they falsely claim to represent"
As guilty? When did your coma begin? Which party does nothing but tax cuts for the rich? Which party is anti union? Which party is itching to privatize social security, medicare, and public education? Which party believes most of us are takers? At least Mitt was honest about Republicanism. Trump is not. Get real.
As guilty? When did your coma begin? Which party does nothing but tax cuts for the rich? Which party is anti union? Which party is itching to privatize social security, medicare, and public education? Which party believes most of us are takers? At least Mitt was honest about Republicanism. Trump is not. Get real.
8
What I believe the President clearly understands is the deteriorating "position" of the white middle class. There has always been a fierce battle in the "position trenches" in this country between those at the lower margins of the socioeconomic strata and newer competitors. Marginalized whites in this country see those people Mr. Trump wants to exclude as being good targets: they are nipping at and hence, threatening their position in the strata. Mr. Obama is representative of a group which is the biggest threat to the position of these people: increasingly successful and educated African Americans. Mr. Trump can exploit this group as much as he likes but it will get him nowhere in the long run.
9
Most people commenting didn't hear the interview. He was asked abut the racial thing. It's not something he routinely brings up, as so many in this comments section have suggested.
Unfathomable how so many Americans are unhappy with this guy. Good luck finding anyone better in the foreseeable future.
Unfathomable how so many Americans are unhappy with this guy. Good luck finding anyone better in the foreseeable future.
30
Regardless of who brought it up, he wouldn't have responded the way he did unless he believed that. Disgraceful and divisive.
10
We don't need "luck," just an honest election count!
4
Here are 2 reasons why working class people are fearful:
1. Our Free Trade Agreements have led to out-sourcing of working class jobs. While running for the Democratic nomination in 2008, Obama made statements against NAFTA and CAFTA such as the following:
While NAFTA gave broad rights to investors, it paid only lip service to the rights of labor and the importance of environmental protection. Ten years later CAFTA – the Central American Free Trade Agreement – had many of the same problems, which is why I voted against it.
These statements gave us the expectation that he would amend the Free Trade agreements. Not only has he not done so, he is trying to push through yet another Free Trade agreement - the TPP.
2. The huge number of Mexicans and Central Americans, who have illegally slipped into our country, are keeping blue-collar wages from keeping up with inflation. American citizens can’t afford to work for such little money. To survive, many Americans have turned to the underground economy. Others have turned to Social Security Disability even though they could still work if decent-paying jobs were available. Instead of “feeling the pain” of unemployed Americans, the President is more concerned for the welfare of illegal immigrants.
Whether or not one agrees with Trump’s overall persona, he is against our Free Trade agreements and allowing illegals to remain here.
1. Our Free Trade Agreements have led to out-sourcing of working class jobs. While running for the Democratic nomination in 2008, Obama made statements against NAFTA and CAFTA such as the following:
While NAFTA gave broad rights to investors, it paid only lip service to the rights of labor and the importance of environmental protection. Ten years later CAFTA – the Central American Free Trade Agreement – had many of the same problems, which is why I voted against it.
These statements gave us the expectation that he would amend the Free Trade agreements. Not only has he not done so, he is trying to push through yet another Free Trade agreement - the TPP.
2. The huge number of Mexicans and Central Americans, who have illegally slipped into our country, are keeping blue-collar wages from keeping up with inflation. American citizens can’t afford to work for such little money. To survive, many Americans have turned to the underground economy. Others have turned to Social Security Disability even though they could still work if decent-paying jobs were available. Instead of “feeling the pain” of unemployed Americans, the President is more concerned for the welfare of illegal immigrants.
Whether or not one agrees with Trump’s overall persona, he is against our Free Trade agreements and allowing illegals to remain here.
17
Why do Republicans vote against raising the minimum living wage, health insurance for all, and unionization? Illegal immigrants don't qualify for any of those. Your thoughts?
9
Why should any Republican vote pro-unionn since it will only result in more kickbacks of union dues to the Democrats?
3
because each of those things reduces employment
1
To paraphrase Shakespeare, many of these comments definitely bring to mind the phrase "thou doest protest too much." Trump has attacked Obama from day one of his presidency as not "one of us." Deny that there is any racism in Trump's birtherism all you want, it's blatantly obvious that it was a component of Trump's smears. To now accuse Obama of being divisive (as many here have) is beyond ludicrous. After suffering 7 years of Trumps foolishness, the man has clearly had enough.
28
"To now accuse Obama of being divisive (as many here have) is beyond ludicrous."
Pot calling kettle black.
Pot calling kettle black.
11
This is a COMPLETELY BIPARTISAN attempt to draw Mr. Trump into a race dialogue in hopes that he says something "incorrect" so BOTH PARTIES (BUSH/CLINTON) can use that to destroy him. That's my humble opinion at least.
11
No one has to "force" Trump into saying something "incorrect". He does it on his own every day, and his followers eat it up like starving dogs.
11
The once-great (not since Lincoln) Republican has earned, deserves and will suffer the severe punishment that is the plague of Donald Trump.
8
There is Roosevelt, Eisenhower, Reagan, about the same on the Demos with FDR, Truman, Kennedy. Don't get ahead of yourself thinking you are "American". American are not as extreme as you.
2
Maybe these are not fears, but reality. Democrats have long espoused their working for the ‘working class’. How much has improved for them? Attacks on Republicans does nothing to benefit the working or middle class.
Hey President Obama: You and many politicians have created a vacuum for the ‘working class’ and all Mr. Trump is doing is filling.
Hey President Obama: You and many politicians have created a vacuum for the ‘working class’ and all Mr. Trump is doing is filling.
18
A good start, Mr. President, but now take off the gloves. Stand up against the macho rhetoric some Republican are preaching, and speak out, one-on-one to us, as Americans: Carpet-bomb. Impenetrable fences Throw out immigrants. The talk of cowards, ready to send our sons and daughters to fight their battles – but never their own.
We Americans are pretty smart; we know that these ‘solutions’ are nonsense. Address your words to us, Mr. President, and not to the Know-Nothings who will dismiss anything you have to say. Appeal to us to shout: “Enough! We’re Americans, first, and ethnics second. Our strength is our inclusiveness, our racial and religious diversity, our tradition of welcoming immigrants with the guts to fight for a better life. There may be some bad apples among them; we’ve dealt with such problems before.
We are looking to you for candor, Mr. President. Some lone-wolf attacks will succeed. They will create agonizing grief and misery locally – but have little real effect nationally. Except psychologically. Panic is the one measure that can destroy us. Those that fan the flames of hatred for narrow political goals, or to build viewership and sell newspapers - they are the true enemies of democracy.
2,500 years ago the legendary Chinese general, Sun Tsu, advised his emperor: “The way to defeat the enemy is to let him defeat himself.” Don’t remain professorial, Mr. President, while the Know Nothings work mindlessly to help ISIS achieve its goal.
We Americans are pretty smart; we know that these ‘solutions’ are nonsense. Address your words to us, Mr. President, and not to the Know-Nothings who will dismiss anything you have to say. Appeal to us to shout: “Enough! We’re Americans, first, and ethnics second. Our strength is our inclusiveness, our racial and religious diversity, our tradition of welcoming immigrants with the guts to fight for a better life. There may be some bad apples among them; we’ve dealt with such problems before.
We are looking to you for candor, Mr. President. Some lone-wolf attacks will succeed. They will create agonizing grief and misery locally – but have little real effect nationally. Except psychologically. Panic is the one measure that can destroy us. Those that fan the flames of hatred for narrow political goals, or to build viewership and sell newspapers - they are the true enemies of democracy.
2,500 years ago the legendary Chinese general, Sun Tsu, advised his emperor: “The way to defeat the enemy is to let him defeat himself.” Don’t remain professorial, Mr. President, while the Know Nothings work mindlessly to help ISIS achieve its goal.
10
Is it possible that right wing organizations pay people to comment in the NY TIMES ? I suspect that is the case.
15
That may be, or they may simply have a means of organizing the fox-bots to come over and chant their upside-down sloganized views in the thread. Not long ago, there was a case of computer-generated recommends for a pro-Trump fella (appearing in masses at intervals too odd to be otherwise); so it appears that the NYT is a target of a sort for the right--but that's not news.
6
I wish they would pay these people to actually read the NY Times.
8
Meanwhile Obama has just removed the tax on foreign investment on US property.
The middle class does have a lot to worry about, like Obama thinking we need foreign investors exploiting our resources. Foreign credit is only going to put more pressure on the middle class. This will only raise property taxes.
But no, we're all just wacky conspiracy theorists who hate progress, oh and of course the color of your skin. I just want a better future for the next generation. But all I see is Obama, for the second time in weeks, feeding the man who only gains from people attacking him.
Mr. Obama, you've got no reelection to worry about, stop playing politics for once and address the concerns many people have over our future, instead of borderline insulting blue collar Americans.
The middle class does have a lot to worry about, like Obama thinking we need foreign investors exploiting our resources. Foreign credit is only going to put more pressure on the middle class. This will only raise property taxes.
But no, we're all just wacky conspiracy theorists who hate progress, oh and of course the color of your skin. I just want a better future for the next generation. But all I see is Obama, for the second time in weeks, feeding the man who only gains from people attacking him.
Mr. Obama, you've got no reelection to worry about, stop playing politics for once and address the concerns many people have over our future, instead of borderline insulting blue collar Americans.
13
President Obama took advantage of resentment and anxiety of the under privileged during his 2008 and 2012 campaigns. Tell me - what is the difference? It is wrong for Donald Trump to play to the fears of the middle class while it is right to play to the fears of the poor?
13
The difference? President Obama did not "take advantage," he appealed to them and not by sowing hatred to do so.
3
Brings to mind the Thomas Frank's book, Whats the Matter with Kansas, in that the working middle class is just taken for chump by the likes of Trump.
17
Thank you President Obama for your service, especially toward those grief filled Americans who have lost loved ones to gun violence. I really respect your courage and intellect
25
Here are 2 reasons why working class people are fearful:
1. Our Free Trade Agreements have led to out-sourcing of working class jobs. While running for the Democratic nomination in 2008, Obama made statements against NAFTA and CAFTA such as the following:
While NAFTA gave broad rights to investors, it paid only lip service to the rights of labor and the importance of environmental protection. Ten years later CAFTA – the Central American Free Trade Agreement – had many of the same problems, which is why I voted against it.
These statements gave us the expectation that he would amend the Free Trade agreements. Not only has he not done so, he is trying to push through yet another Free Trade agreement - the TPP.
2. The huge number of Mexicans and Central Americans, who have illegally slipped into our country, are keeping blue-collar wages from keeping up with inflation. American citizens can’t afford to work for such little money. To survive, many Americans have turned to the underground economy. Others have turned to Social Security Disability even though they could still work if decent-paying jobs were available. Instead of “feeling the pain” of unemployed Americans, the President is more concerned for the welfare of illegal immigrants.
Whether or not one agrees with Trump’s overall persona, he is against our Free Trade agreements and allowing illegals to remain here.
1. Our Free Trade Agreements have led to out-sourcing of working class jobs. While running for the Democratic nomination in 2008, Obama made statements against NAFTA and CAFTA such as the following:
While NAFTA gave broad rights to investors, it paid only lip service to the rights of labor and the importance of environmental protection. Ten years later CAFTA – the Central American Free Trade Agreement – had many of the same problems, which is why I voted against it.
These statements gave us the expectation that he would amend the Free Trade agreements. Not only has he not done so, he is trying to push through yet another Free Trade agreement - the TPP.
2. The huge number of Mexicans and Central Americans, who have illegally slipped into our country, are keeping blue-collar wages from keeping up with inflation. American citizens can’t afford to work for such little money. To survive, many Americans have turned to the underground economy. Others have turned to Social Security Disability even though they could still work if decent-paying jobs were available. Instead of “feeling the pain” of unemployed Americans, the President is more concerned for the welfare of illegal immigrants.
Whether or not one agrees with Trump’s overall persona, he is against our Free Trade agreements and allowing illegals to remain here.
9
Bernie is against the free trade agreements as well. But he is not advocating blocking all Muslim immigrants and calling illegal immigrants racists.
4
Let me tell you why this working class white guy dislikes the president. My wife and I went out with a couple of close friends. The subject of health insurance came up. We were telling our friends about how we have been kicked around by the health insurance industry since the beggining of obamacare. Lost our family doctor and our health insurance company went out of business just to name a few of the problems we have come across. We both still work at our family owned business. Our friends are retired . We were telling them that our new premiums were north of $1,000 a month for the two of us. They told us they were both covered and had great insurance for $100 per month total for the both of them. I asked how is that possible . They explained that they were covered under obamacare. I asked how a wealthy couple like themselves qualified for obamacare. They explained that obamacare does not check their assets only their income. Although they accumulated enough money to retire before 60 with no pension ,live on the water and own two boats they still qualify for an obamacare subsidy because they have no to very little income. Their retired we are still working part of my taxes goes to paying their health insurance premiums. Talk about not fair.Thanks for nothing mr. President.
20
Healthcare companies kick everybody around and always have. You would have learned that if you had gone to college. Pity that you didn't.
4
Clever people can always game the system. Income level is the criterion for acceptance.
3
I'm self-employed, middle-aged and divorced. Buying an individual policy on our state insurance exchanged lowered my costs by $200 a month, without the subsidy. And the insurance company can't refuse to cover my few potential health problems because they're "pre-existing."
With any system, there are people who abuse it. It doesn't mean the system is bad for everyone else or that it isn't a lifeline for many people, as it was for me.
With any system, there are people who abuse it. It doesn't mean the system is bad for everyone else or that it isn't a lifeline for many people, as it was for me.
12
"...where they are no longer getting the same bargain that they got when they were going to a factory and able to support their families on a single paycheck"
"bargain" ?
They worked honestly for honest pay, growing the US economy after WW II.
"bargain" ?
They worked honestly for honest pay, growing the US economy after WW II.
16
I believe the president means the definition of "bargain" as an agreement, not the definition you're using here.
7
Those fears wouldn't exist or would be less acute if Obama did something to mitigate/eliminate their sources.
19
Yes, because the president can fix everything if he would just blink three times. And he won't. Because he's a devil. We know, we know.
13
Barack Obama may not be able to "fix" everything but he could have pursued policies that helped working people instead of those that favored the wealthiest Americans. He simply chose not to. Like the Bushes, the Clintons and Reagan (etc.) before him he represents the interests of the people who matter. He may appear marginally more sophisticated, decent and appealing to some (or, many) but he's achieved the position he's has because of his reflexive willingness to serve power.
4
He did pursue that kind of policy. Your health insurance company can no longer refuse to cover you if you get sick by calling the illness "pre-existing." And adult children can remain on your policy until they're 26. Self-employed people like me can shop for decent individual policies with lower premiums than before the ACA.
He would have done more if the opposition hadn't reflexively worked to block his every move instead of doing what almost all Congresses have done previously -- work with the other side.
He would have done more if the opposition hadn't reflexively worked to block his every move instead of doing what almost all Congresses have done previously -- work with the other side.
6
If a white First Couple had said and done the exact same things as the Obamas, no one would have batted an eye. You can disagree with the President on policy. I do not agree with everything he's done but I was shocked to hear how much raw ugly racism has been directed at him personally, whether a given stereotype applies or not, and regardless of how many absurd contradictions they create:
He's brilliantly devious and he's stupidly naive.
He's too kum-ba-ya and he's too divisive.
He's an out-of-touch elite and he's a Chicago "thug."
He's a Christian-hating Muslim and his Christian minister is racist.
He's lazy and he never stops working to destroy America. H
e's too weak to take control; he wields power like a dictator.
The Muslim names his family gave him prove he's not American and his family conspired at his birth to hide that he's not American.
He's secretly a drug abuser -- the proof is right in his memoir.
I could go on.
The Obamas have not behaved differently than white inhabitants of the White House, and in fact have been squeakier clean than many. These are the people who did everything right, everything we tell black people they should do and be to succeed like white people. What do they get for it? Being attacked with the same old racial slurs by people who can falsify every defiance of stereotype into "proof" of the stereotype. It's...I can find no word to describe such hate-filled hypocrisy.
He's brilliantly devious and he's stupidly naive.
He's too kum-ba-ya and he's too divisive.
He's an out-of-touch elite and he's a Chicago "thug."
He's a Christian-hating Muslim and his Christian minister is racist.
He's lazy and he never stops working to destroy America. H
e's too weak to take control; he wields power like a dictator.
The Muslim names his family gave him prove he's not American and his family conspired at his birth to hide that he's not American.
He's secretly a drug abuser -- the proof is right in his memoir.
I could go on.
The Obamas have not behaved differently than white inhabitants of the White House, and in fact have been squeakier clean than many. These are the people who did everything right, everything we tell black people they should do and be to succeed like white people. What do they get for it? Being attacked with the same old racial slurs by people who can falsify every defiance of stereotype into "proof" of the stereotype. It's...I can find no word to describe such hate-filled hypocrisy.
34
You're the only one talking about his 'behavior', and I really do believe 'you could go on'. The constant whiney droning on is the liberal hallmark. No action, just perceived injustice... on and on and on.
4
When I was growing up no one would have been elected president if they smoked pot in high school. Just saying....
7
So you're not disputing my facts, Joe -- you just don't like the tone of the comment? If you have an argument of substance to make, make it.
6
Obama has only one real enemy, and that's the Republican Party. There, he is a tiger, will never give an inch that jeopardizes his hard left agenda, and will destroy anyone who gets in his way.
8
Paper tiger maybe... at least that's how other world leaders see him.
6
Yep this is exactly his problem (and the problem of Progressives in general). You view half the country as the enemy. And this is exactly how Obama has governed. So pardon us if we return the enmity this president has shown us.
9
Actually, Joe, let me place a pin in your pantaloons. Quite a few other world leaders politely think that Americans are dolts for not recognizing that the President is one of the most sophisticated they have met in decades. We look like a sloppy crew to them, a herd of cattle, and to quote Hyon Kim, Obama is a 'tiger', one much put upon by our stupid antics to defeat him in every endeavor he attempts to get off our seat and stand strong in the times we are living.
7
The loss of unions in this country, and the unwillingness of worker groups to unionize now, has led to a completely unbalanced system, with all the power in the hands of business. Workers gave in....and now they are suffering because of it.
23
Yes, we were slow to realize what was happening, way too slow. When the pensions that once nearly all working people had were stripped under Reagan, we should've put up a fight. But we didn't. We still believed that hard work and honesty would lead to success in America. And we were part-timed, temped, contract-labored out of benefits and raises, and still didn't fight. We thought that the bosses were our friends, as if we had never read the history of the robber barons, the aristocrats, and the hunger of the poor in the past. We forgot the truth of what power and wealth do when they can. But the bosses didn't forget; they just waited while we did. And here we are. We believed the lies that led us to hate the unions, to despise as "socialist" any regulation of greed--the very engines that would be our undoing, we applauded often enough. And some still do, and the lies go on, better now, more skilled and sophisticated now. And we're being led to blame anyone else but those who have gotten filthy rich off it all.
19
Workers bought Reagan's snake oil, the aftertaste from which was weakening of unions. Workers got what they voted for.
11
President Obama left the unions in Wisconsin to hang out to dry, yet, they helped get him elected ! He is not for the working middle class Americans ... he is pushing TPP that benefits Wall Street and global corporations. He and the democratic establishment have created this vacuum and the american people are not being represented ... case in point, Walt Disney kicked their american IT workers to the street ! They had to train their replacements with immigrants, didn't hear one word from President Obama or any democratic politician but we sure heard him pushing for Syrian refugees and getting them jobs ! Qatar is one of the most wealthy countries in the world but no pressure on them to step up financially and help with the refugee problem. The list of grievances for working Americans is getting longer while our politicians bend over backwards for global corporations that push out working Americans for foreign workers in our own country.
6
The establishment still doesn't get it or at least pretends really effectively not to. There could be no "exploiting of fears" if someone was really looking out for them. You call American companies for customer service and you get someone from India who can barely speak English on the line--that's an American job lost. You go to Home Depot and you see nothing but illegals waiting to do construction jobs that went to American citizens twenty years ago--those are American jobs lost. If Obama and his ilk really cared about the working class, no way would he be pushing for that trade deal or advocating for illegal aliens to stay in the country. Sometimes "fears" are legitimate and the working class has legitimate reason to be upset. Stop making Trump or anyone else the scapegoat on this. Weak.
27
Tam: How do you know the people you see at Home Depot are illegals? Whether they are or are not: do you understand the policies President Obama advocates concerning immigration reform, which involve a long-term, multi-step process including payment of fines and back taxes? Do you honestly think it's possible (i.e. something that the federal government has the resources to accomplish) to deport the 10,000,000 undocumented workers in this country?
The problem with Donald Trump and HIS "ilk," to use your term, is that he offers simple-minded "solutions" based on angry scapegoating-- solutions so vague and ill-formed that they don't and can't meaningfully address the challenges you've identified.
The problem with Donald Trump and HIS "ilk," to use your term, is that he offers simple-minded "solutions" based on angry scapegoating-- solutions so vague and ill-formed that they don't and can't meaningfully address the challenges you've identified.
13
Agree entirely.
4
Mr. Obama also argued that some of the scorn directed at him personally stems from the fact that he is the first African-American to hold the White House.
That statement is absolutely foolish. No one cares about what color he is, male, or female either. What is needed is a good president in office that is capable of "at least" doing a satisfactory job. Not this useless nonsense that is going on now. There is the scorn. No one likes me because I am African American. Give me a break.
That statement is absolutely foolish. No one cares about what color he is, male, or female either. What is needed is a good president in office that is capable of "at least" doing a satisfactory job. Not this useless nonsense that is going on now. There is the scorn. No one likes me because I am African American. Give me a break.
22
Seen from outside the American bubble, Obama is a disappointment. It's not my opinion but a fact. He is neither feared nor respected in the world and mostly viewed as a weak and indecisive leader. It may be an unfair view but in politics, perception matters as much as reality or rather, perception IS reality. His refusal to speak out against radical Islam did not earn him any friends in the Muslim world: if you look at the Arab media, it goes on with its bashing of the "crusaders" and conspiracy-mongering regardless of who is in the White House. The anti-American mood in Russia is at the pitch not seen since the Cold War, while Ukraine (justifiably) feels abandoned. The Chinese do what the Chinese do and disregard Obama's blandishments and threats in equal measure. In neither case is Obama's skin color of any significance. We have to step out of our echo chamber and realize that the black-and-white divide in America is as quaint to the rest of the world as Cowboys and Indians. There are far more pressing concerns globally than BLM. And for better or for worse, we live in a global world where a market crash in Shanghai will leave a family in Des Moines homeless. Obama has been a reasonably good manager of the American economy. He has been a weak and uninspiring world leader.
20
"His refusal to speak out against radical Islam ". Did Obama actually REFUSE to speak out against radical Islam? Your innuendo is loaded with meaning. Why would anyone let alone the president of the united states refuse to speak out against radical islam? Only a radical islamist would do that. Obama speaks out against radical terrorism everyday.
7
Minus IMF "pumping" how good would the American economy appear?
4
"It's not my opinion but a fact."
Until you provide some actual data showing how Obama is viewed by people outside America, it's really your opinion, not a fact.
Until you provide some actual data showing how Obama is viewed by people outside America, it's really your opinion, not a fact.
8
If both sides are so paranoid of the other, then both parties should immediately create a NATIONAL law system regarding voter eligibility and the election of the President of the United States. Whether you can vote, how much time you have to decide, and the process of voting differs from city to city. It is ridiculous, archaic, and guaranteed to elect a fascist, biased, underqualified person - something all citizens agree on, even though they never agree who it might be...
1
And why ‘exactly’ shouldn’t Trump exploit Working-class Fears? It is abundantly clear that Mr. Obama has done little during his presidency to protect the American Working and Middle classes.
And aren’t they the ones who have been sacrificed on the altar of NeoConservative Politics (constant wars to protect Israeli Interests rather than American interests) and NeoLiberal (Free Market/Trickle Down) Economics to protect Wall Street and the American Elite?
And aren’t they the ones who have lost and lost big over the past four decades? Haven’t they lost their respectable working and middle class incomes and the quality of life they secured for them in the past?
As a liberal it’s easy for me to say: “Well they deserve it” since they have allowed themselves to be so easily fooled and manipulated by their own Republican Elite.
But I suspect that now that the Republican Base has begun to smell a rat, they will begin to search for that rat much more aggressively and with Mr. Trump as their leader that someone could be just about anyone – including; American Liberals, Democrats, and Progressives.
And aren’t they the ones who have been sacrificed on the altar of NeoConservative Politics (constant wars to protect Israeli Interests rather than American interests) and NeoLiberal (Free Market/Trickle Down) Economics to protect Wall Street and the American Elite?
And aren’t they the ones who have lost and lost big over the past four decades? Haven’t they lost their respectable working and middle class incomes and the quality of life they secured for them in the past?
As a liberal it’s easy for me to say: “Well they deserve it” since they have allowed themselves to be so easily fooled and manipulated by their own Republican Elite.
But I suspect that now that the Republican Base has begun to smell a rat, they will begin to search for that rat much more aggressively and with Mr. Trump as their leader that someone could be just about anyone – including; American Liberals, Democrats, and Progressives.
9
Better that than veterans, Patriots, Constitution loving, rule of law, tea party, Americans. And please don't tell me those groups haven't been targeted.
1
The funny thing Trump is just another in a long line of GOP politicians lying to white workable class voters. If Trump (most likely by stealing the election) becomes President, his supporters will be so disappointed. Trump is not going to build the wall, deport Mexicans etc. Instead, he'll cut taxes for rich people and send the children of his white working class supporters to die in some pointless war in the Middle East. Trump is is Republican and that is what Republicans do.
25
The president has been treated in the same manner as Jackie Robinson was when he first came up from the minor league to the majors. He was spit on and cursed at on a regular basis but continued to turn the other cheek and act with dignity and grace.
40
Comparing Obama to Jackie Robinson is an insult to Jackie Robinson. (And the only thing spit on during Obama's reign has been the laws of this country.)
19
Been watching the history channel for your current events? If the only politically correct news outlet were the NYT or MSNBC that is where I would go.
1
I heard they have some great sales going on at Walmart.
So Obama, the man whose tone-deaf presidency has been the embodiment of the fears of the working-class realized, accuses Trump of exploiting those same fears.
Obama has been the most criminal and lawless president in the history of the free world. He is even as we speak undermining our national sovereignty, neutering honest industry in America, and has done more to divide America than any "hate-group" could have every dreamed of.
Obama has sewn the seeds of racial conflict, hatred, class-envy, and has continually droned on and on about the evil concept of meritocracy.
Instead Obama has worked to punish achievement, undermine economic growth, and to intimidate any critics who speak against Obama's warped world-view.
Trump is simply the only candidate who has recognized the palpable anger, frustration and righteous indignation of people who have seen their hard work rewarded by higher taxes, more ridiculous regulation, and the inevitable exodus of jobs from America as Obama has made the business environment far too expensive and hostile in America for any pragmatic corporation of small business to keep feeding the out-of-control government beast.
Trump is a good businessman, and let us not forget that he is an American success story, in spite of the media's attempts to demonize him. And at the very least, he seems to be listening to the American people, and he is one of us. In spite of the Obama sycophant's plaintive wails of "racism", Obama is NOT one of us.
Obama has been the most criminal and lawless president in the history of the free world. He is even as we speak undermining our national sovereignty, neutering honest industry in America, and has done more to divide America than any "hate-group" could have every dreamed of.
Obama has sewn the seeds of racial conflict, hatred, class-envy, and has continually droned on and on about the evil concept of meritocracy.
Instead Obama has worked to punish achievement, undermine economic growth, and to intimidate any critics who speak against Obama's warped world-view.
Trump is simply the only candidate who has recognized the palpable anger, frustration and righteous indignation of people who have seen their hard work rewarded by higher taxes, more ridiculous regulation, and the inevitable exodus of jobs from America as Obama has made the business environment far too expensive and hostile in America for any pragmatic corporation of small business to keep feeding the out-of-control government beast.
Trump is a good businessman, and let us not forget that he is an American success story, in spite of the media's attempts to demonize him. And at the very least, he seems to be listening to the American people, and he is one of us. In spite of the Obama sycophant's plaintive wails of "racism", Obama is NOT one of us.
27
Of course Obama is one of us. I'm a middle-aged white guy, and I think he's the best leader our society has produced in generations.
He hasn't been a perfect president, but the economy has come back from the disastrous last year of the Bush presidency; he has lied to us to get us to invade Iraq or any other country; and we haven't had a Bush-style 9/11 attack on our soil, or "Mission accomplished" banners and flyovers.
Racial conflict in the US started in the 1700s. Not with Obama.
He hasn't been a perfect president, but the economy has come back from the disastrous last year of the Bush presidency; he has lied to us to get us to invade Iraq or any other country; and we haven't had a Bush-style 9/11 attack on our soil, or "Mission accomplished" banners and flyovers.
Racial conflict in the US started in the 1700s. Not with Obama.
32
Where does this stunningly absurd hyperbole come from:
"Obama has been the most criminal and lawless president in the history of the free world"
I mean it's not like he invaded & occupied the wrong country under falsified pretext, or broke into the Watergate Hotel.
I can't stop reading the incredible comments to this article.
While I didn't support Obama due to his militarism, the incredible state of irrational, unsubstantiated seething hatred spewing forth here absolutely confirms exactly what the President describes.
Just a stunning string of commentary confirming the world's worst apprehensions about Ugly Americans.
"Obama has been the most criminal and lawless president in the history of the free world"
I mean it's not like he invaded & occupied the wrong country under falsified pretext, or broke into the Watergate Hotel.
I can't stop reading the incredible comments to this article.
While I didn't support Obama due to his militarism, the incredible state of irrational, unsubstantiated seething hatred spewing forth here absolutely confirms exactly what the President describes.
Just a stunning string of commentary confirming the world's worst apprehensions about Ugly Americans.
22
Jon,
Take a break from your computer and check the mailbox to see if your 'entitlements' have arrived for the month!
Take a break from your computer and check the mailbox to see if your 'entitlements' have arrived for the month!
4
There is no better argument for requiring some sort of civics test in order to vote than the election of this man to 2 terms by what is the proven largest turnout of uneducated, low info and no info voters in American presidential history.
20
Sure, the same low information voters who are sending their taxes to subsidize your red state.
7
I'm a democrat, Carol Lee, and live in a "red state," to use your facile definition. I voted for Obama. But I must say, your dismissive, stereotyping remark is part of the problem--the reason many in the South have turned away from the Democrats.
So anyway, since you say you are "subsidizing" us (and btw, I have a rather hefty tax bill--we do pay taxes down here, too), why don't you check out the flow of midwestern chemicals from your agribusiness farms that travel down the Mississippi River and into the Gulf of Mexico? Not to mention all the oil companies exploiting the Gulf itself. Sort of reminds me of our foreign policy, yes? We simplify, demonize, and then voila: we have an excuse to go in and get the oil.
So anyway, since you say you are "subsidizing" us (and btw, I have a rather hefty tax bill--we do pay taxes down here, too), why don't you check out the flow of midwestern chemicals from your agribusiness farms that travel down the Mississippi River and into the Gulf of Mexico? Not to mention all the oil companies exploiting the Gulf itself. Sort of reminds me of our foreign policy, yes? We simplify, demonize, and then voila: we have an excuse to go in and get the oil.
4
Jacob, please cite your source for that claim. (And be sure to let us know who those "low info" voters voted for; usually the college-educated skew considerably democratic.)
7
Here are my thoughts on the subject as I expressed them to the president.
"Mr. President,
Your job sir is first, and most importantly, to protect the people of the United States and its territories around the world from foreign attacks that threaten the citizens of the United States and to protect us from insurgence as well.
There is nowhere in any job description for the position of President of the United States that politics is mentioned and it is nothing more than a distraction for someone with the work you have to do so, please, do not waste your time with commentary from the podium of the president on the distraction of the current primary races within the two major political parties within the United States.
First, such behavior is below the dignity of the office and of the person who holds the office and second, it is not really anything that you should be spending your time and utilizing the implied wisdom and power of the office to influence. Please, butt out regardless who you may prefer as a successor to the office, keep it to yourself as the majority of your predecessors before you have done.
With all due respect and may you and your family have a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year,
My Signature
"Mr. President,
Your job sir is first, and most importantly, to protect the people of the United States and its territories around the world from foreign attacks that threaten the citizens of the United States and to protect us from insurgence as well.
There is nowhere in any job description for the position of President of the United States that politics is mentioned and it is nothing more than a distraction for someone with the work you have to do so, please, do not waste your time with commentary from the podium of the president on the distraction of the current primary races within the two major political parties within the United States.
First, such behavior is below the dignity of the office and of the person who holds the office and second, it is not really anything that you should be spending your time and utilizing the implied wisdom and power of the office to influence. Please, butt out regardless who you may prefer as a successor to the office, keep it to yourself as the majority of your predecessors before you have done.
With all due respect and may you and your family have a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year,
My Signature
11
Amazing commentary by Obama: 1) he talks like he's a bystander to the last 7 years during which wages have stagnated due to the no growth economy 2) he misrepresents Trumps voters: they are more college educated than blue collar .. seriously how many true blue collar workers are left in this country? and 3) always be sure to inject the race card "even though "some" voters might have perfectly good reasons to disagree with me". As the line in the movie Troy goes when Agamennons brother is about to kill the pantywaist that stole his wife: "is this what you left me for?" Seems appropriate to ask the American voter the same question as they put Obama in office twice. I think that's exactly the base of the Trump support asking that very same question
29
I have a very high opinion of our current President. He is a man of integrity and common sense.
The economically disenfranchised are awash in fear and loathing. That much is fairly obvious to the casual political observer. That Trump is exploiting it to his advantage strikes me as Politics 101.
While this is a very high standard against which to hold our current President accountable, it seems to me that it is his job to do something about that. Right now! As opposed to pointing out how others are exploiting it.
Here's a revolutionary thought, Mr. President. Why not go out to the tune of Change You Can Believe In? With everyone marching in step to your tune.
Why not break all the political rules and start campaigning yourself? For a New America! One is which good manufacturing jobs are returned to the desperate middle classes, and the .1% are held to account.
Your were an extraordinary campaigner, Mr. President. Do something no other President has ever done! Scare this Congress into passing the Great American Jobs program and lead the way in creating a green energy sector. Now! It would be a legacy few of your predecessors could match.
Why would you do this Mr. President? 1) Because these disenfranchised Americans are screaming out that they need you and real leadership, and 2) Because sir, you can!
Trump has opened the door, Mr. President. Do the unexpected. Walk right through it!
The economically disenfranchised are awash in fear and loathing. That much is fairly obvious to the casual political observer. That Trump is exploiting it to his advantage strikes me as Politics 101.
While this is a very high standard against which to hold our current President accountable, it seems to me that it is his job to do something about that. Right now! As opposed to pointing out how others are exploiting it.
Here's a revolutionary thought, Mr. President. Why not go out to the tune of Change You Can Believe In? With everyone marching in step to your tune.
Why not break all the political rules and start campaigning yourself? For a New America! One is which good manufacturing jobs are returned to the desperate middle classes, and the .1% are held to account.
Your were an extraordinary campaigner, Mr. President. Do something no other President has ever done! Scare this Congress into passing the Great American Jobs program and lead the way in creating a green energy sector. Now! It would be a legacy few of your predecessors could match.
Why would you do this Mr. President? 1) Because these disenfranchised Americans are screaming out that they need you and real leadership, and 2) Because sir, you can!
Trump has opened the door, Mr. President. Do the unexpected. Walk right through it!
10
Working class fears are justified by current reality. the middle class is shrinking. People are taking low wage jobs that don't pay their bills. A huge wave of immigration, both legal and illegal, is changing the cities. Whites are experiencing reverse discrimination.
22
So Trump is exploiting economic and racial fears of the bitter clingers? Note all of the problems the president cites as though he's had nothing to do with it, as though it all just happened and he wasn't even on the scene. Well, "economic stresses that people have been going through because of the financial crisis, because of technology..." What about technology is causing fear? "Globalization, the fact that wages and incomes have been flatlining for some time..."
Yeah, like the last seven years, maybe? You combine those things and it means that there is going to be potential anger, frustration, fear. Some of it justified, but just misdirected," meaning: It isn't on me. None of that's on me. "I think somebody like Mr. Trump is taking advantage of that. That's what he's exploiting during the course of his campaign." So Trump's out there exploiting economic and racial fears? No, he's validating them. Everybody already has the fears. He's not exploiting anything. This is a trick of the left. They go out and they create an absolute mess. They make everybody miserable.
Yeah, like the last seven years, maybe? You combine those things and it means that there is going to be potential anger, frustration, fear. Some of it justified, but just misdirected," meaning: It isn't on me. None of that's on me. "I think somebody like Mr. Trump is taking advantage of that. That's what he's exploiting during the course of his campaign." So Trump's out there exploiting economic and racial fears? No, he's validating them. Everybody already has the fears. He's not exploiting anything. This is a trick of the left. They go out and they create an absolute mess. They make everybody miserable.
19
"Yeah, like the last seven years, maybe?"
When President Obama came into office, we were losing more than 700,000 jobs a month, thanks to the policies of George W. Bush and the Republican Party. The US was in the worse recession since the Great Depression. The President's policies were put in place and job losses declined dramatically. In January through April 2009, the country lost 3,033,000 jobs, or 758,000 jobs per month. The economy was in free fall. After the President's policies were implemented, with very little Republican help, the job losses fell quickly and by March 2010, 189,00 jobs were created. This was despite the huge number of government jobs that were lost because of Republican policies.
The middle class has been losing ground going back to the 1980's. Republican policies like "trickle down economics" began with Reagan, who drastically cut taxes on the wealthy, spent huge amounts of borrowed money on defense spending, and raised payroll taxes, all of which are paid by working people, to offset some of the deficits. If the wealthy had more money, they would invest and the benefits would trickle down to the working people. This was coupled with an attack on unions and worker protections. Worker productivity has increased significantly, because of technology and because working people work longer hours for less money, but working people have not reaped the gains of increased productivity. They have all gone to the top income earners.
When President Obama came into office, we were losing more than 700,000 jobs a month, thanks to the policies of George W. Bush and the Republican Party. The US was in the worse recession since the Great Depression. The President's policies were put in place and job losses declined dramatically. In January through April 2009, the country lost 3,033,000 jobs, or 758,000 jobs per month. The economy was in free fall. After the President's policies were implemented, with very little Republican help, the job losses fell quickly and by March 2010, 189,00 jobs were created. This was despite the huge number of government jobs that were lost because of Republican policies.
The middle class has been losing ground going back to the 1980's. Republican policies like "trickle down economics" began with Reagan, who drastically cut taxes on the wealthy, spent huge amounts of borrowed money on defense spending, and raised payroll taxes, all of which are paid by working people, to offset some of the deficits. If the wealthy had more money, they would invest and the benefits would trickle down to the working people. This was coupled with an attack on unions and worker protections. Worker productivity has increased significantly, because of technology and because working people work longer hours for less money, but working people have not reaped the gains of increased productivity. They have all gone to the top income earners.
10
jas,
So the R party was responsible for rigging the house bubble and subsequent financial collapse?
Gee - I just learned something new today!!
So the R party was responsible for rigging the house bubble and subsequent financial collapse?
Gee - I just learned something new today!!
3
RDC, the president then, the same Bush who took a surplus and left us with the greatest economic disaster since the Great Depression, often spoke of the "ownership society"; what did you think he meant? It was on his watch that the fraudulent mortgage bonds were made, his watch when the economy crashed. His federal reserve chief took responsibility for it, saying he'd been wrong that the banks would "regulate themselves". And even now the republicans are pushing to get rid of regulations and do it all again; they made out great. The bailout and crash were under Bush. If you're just learning this now, at least better late than never. Do some reading.
8
Obama would love it to be about race. But there is more a mountain-load of bad calls, feckless indecision, false claims and general ineffectiveness for him to be criticized on.
It have never been about race. You don't get to start playing the race card just because you are failing. At one point I gave this guy credit for avoiding this kind of thoughtless pandering. I guess he feels that now, it is not too low a stoop.
It have never been about race. You don't get to start playing the race card just because you are failing. At one point I gave this guy credit for avoiding this kind of thoughtless pandering. I guess he feels that now, it is not too low a stoop.
20
If the last year of Obama's presidency ends up seeing an election pitting Donald Trump against Bernie Sanders, that will be quite an achievement, which points to just how disillusioned voters on both sides became with the status quo. For a president who wanted to be transformative that wouldn't be such a bad outcome. Looking back, the 2000 presidential election by comparison was so bland, with the incumbent VP and son of a former US Senator running against the son of the preceding president and grandson of a former US Senator.
This time around we could have Brooklyn vs. Queens, a contest pitting a Jewish democratic socialist against the most perfect distillation of social media/reality TV manufactured celebrity. I'm not frightened; on the contrary I'm positively looking forward to this.
This time around we could have Brooklyn vs. Queens, a contest pitting a Jewish democratic socialist against the most perfect distillation of social media/reality TV manufactured celebrity. I'm not frightened; on the contrary I'm positively looking forward to this.
9
There are plenty of us who are NOT "blue collar" and recognize the Obama administration has done nothing to fight ISIS. We learn of people who hate us NOT being vetted, and welcomed in. There are stolen Syrian passports and a female terrorist that should have never been allowed to come to America. Mr. Obama has been giving press conferences with NOTHING new in terms of efforts or procedures to fight ISIS. To him, it's business as usual after our enemy demonstrates our security is breached. Yes, of course this is all Mr. Trump's fault! Our president needs to resign-- he is a cowardly disgrace to America!
28
400,000+ gun deaths since 9/11/01.
40 or so deaths from Muslim terrorist attacks on US soil since 9/11/01.
Let's get a grip, people.
40 or so deaths from Muslim terrorist attacks on US soil since 9/11/01.
Let's get a grip, people.
22
It's an interesting question: what would it take for, say, 90% of Americans to even accept that fact you presented above about gun deaths vs. terrorist attacks?
Take the beam from your own eye first, right?
Take the beam from your own eye first, right?
3
I don't think the families of those who were shot down by terrorists would appreciate having their tragedy belittled.
6
Politics is the art of avoiding blame. This is why lawyers make good politicians - they are trained to ignore the truth and go always for win.
16
If Obama claims that the anger is justified, but misdirected...what is he doing about it? Nothing. He has been working an increasing the divisiveness. His programs have placed an increased burden on working class men and women, while he continues to allow the banks to rip us all off. Trump says he's going to do something about the decline of the middle class. He is a business man and understands economics. Of all the candidates, he has the best chance of helping American regain it's economic footing.
The scorn for Obama isn't based on his race. It's merely because he is a horrible president.
The scorn for Obama isn't based on his race. It's merely because he is a horrible president.
33
Building a wall and deporting all Muslims and Syrians isn't going to help us regain our economic footing. (Unless we can produce barbed wire domestically.)
16
And could you be more specific about President Obama putting burdens on working people? Have your taxes been raised lately? Is he stopping by your place of work daily and cutting short your work breaks? How about providing you with your own personal parking place? And, news flash, we all have to deal with banks.
6
This country elected a person of color twice. I am insulted by this continuing inference that any disagreement with this president is rooted in discrimination. It is beneath the dignity of the office. He sees everything through the prism of race to the detriment of any objectivity, integrity or honor. We are always lectured that the office demands respect. I believe that respect, even for the Office of the President, is a two way street.
43
Ever since the shaking out of the parties during the civil rights movement, Republicans have always played on the numerous fears of the working class. No group seems to be as scared of more things than the working class. It why my father, a union organizer when he was alive, voted straight Republican. He was afraid of losing that little step he thought he had up on the lower class.
13
Here is a link to 50 of the top accomplishments of the Obama administration:
http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/magazine/march_april_2012/features/obam...
Here is another link to the accomplishments of President Obama:
http://3chicspolitico.com/president-obamas-accomplishments/
http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/magazine/march_april_2012/features/obam...
Here is another link to the accomplishments of President Obama:
http://3chicspolitico.com/president-obamas-accomplishments/
6
The thing about Trump is that, unlike Ron and Rand Paul, he isn't saddled with the image of being some odd devotee to Ayn Rand and the Austrian School. When he bluntly states his intention to basically outsource the solving of the Syria conflict to Russia, both mainstream Republicans and Democrats have no coherent response. They are both devoted, via different methods, to any kind of regime change in Muslim-majority Middle Eastern countries that appears to favor Israel. Barack Obama, for all the talk of his antipathy towards Netanyahu, is unfortunately a part of this group and has been since he uttered the 3 most regrettable words of his time as president: "Assad must go."
This devotion to a foreign policy that promises more trillions of dollars down the toilet is the key to understanding the anxieties of non-elite Americans.
This devotion to a foreign policy that promises more trillions of dollars down the toilet is the key to understanding the anxieties of non-elite Americans.
10
"When he bluntly states his intention to basically outsource the solving of the Syria conflict to Russia, both mainstream Republicans and Democrats have no coherent response."
That's because like most of what Trump suggests, is nonsense, although Russia may be part of a solution
That's because like most of what Trump suggests, is nonsense, although Russia may be part of a solution
5
The biggest fear of the Democrats is a re-ordering of the parties with the blue collar voters (Reagan Democrats) once again deciding that the transformation of the country by a swing to the left is not in their interests.
It is the Democrats who push identity politics, attempting to divide the country into interest groups such as blacks, gays, leftists, Latinos, Muslims, etc.
Whether it is because the white blue collar voter "...get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations", the frustrations are real and the Democrats could easily see a wave against them in 2016.
It is the Democrats who push identity politics, attempting to divide the country into interest groups such as blacks, gays, leftists, Latinos, Muslims, etc.
Whether it is because the white blue collar voter "...get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations", the frustrations are real and the Democrats could easily see a wave against them in 2016.
26
I don't hear the Democratic candidates insisting we deport all Muslims; that Mexicans are rapists; or that anyone from Syria should be barred from the country. It's all GOP talk radio, and it's all right wing paranoia.
How is what the GOP engaged in not identity politics?
Obama didn't even talk about race during the 2008 campaign until the "birther" idiocy forced him to the stage.
How is what the GOP engaged in not identity politics?
Obama didn't even talk about race during the 2008 campaign until the "birther" idiocy forced him to the stage.
17
Who said that about deporting Muslims? I'm sorry, I should Google it. But I don't think any of the candidates said it. Rush? Coulter?
4
Who does Obama think crated the "ungoverned space" in Syria and Iraq that ISIS has filled?
Since Obama recognizes US popular sentiments (fear, resentment, etc) why can't he recognize that the US invasion and occupation - exacerbated by Obama;s drone policy and kill list - is driving the motivations of terrorists?
Since Obama recognizes US popular sentiments (fear, resentment, etc) why can't he recognize that the US invasion and occupation - exacerbated by Obama;s drone policy and kill list - is driving the motivations of terrorists?
14
Hmm - maybe George W. Busht. The guy who invaded Iraq for false reasons and then signed an agreement to withdraw our troops when the country was still in the midst of the chaos he created.
2
When Obama was first elected (much to my dismay) I thought at least here is someone that can help bring America together. Here is someone that can at least start the process of ending poverty, which would help most of our country's problems. Instead that was not the direction he decided to take.
After Obama was in office for a while even the minority's I worked with were becoming critical after at first they were enthusiastic. The division is greater, the anger is greater, the worry about what new regulation he will impose is causing even more distrust, the massive debt is out of control, insurance premiums and deductibles have sky rocketed out of control for Americans that had insurance before but are not eligible for subsidies now me included. There is so many more tangible and intangible problems it just becomes a hole that is too deep see a way to the top as he still has more time to dig it even deeper before he leaves.
After Obama was in office for a while even the minority's I worked with were becoming critical after at first they were enthusiastic. The division is greater, the anger is greater, the worry about what new regulation he will impose is causing even more distrust, the massive debt is out of control, insurance premiums and deductibles have sky rocketed out of control for Americans that had insurance before but are not eligible for subsidies now me included. There is so many more tangible and intangible problems it just becomes a hole that is too deep see a way to the top as he still has more time to dig it even deeper before he leaves.
21
The division was always there. Obama's election just brought a lot of prejudices to the surface.
No one had a problem with black checkout clerk at Walmart. But Obama is problematic to a lot of people: he's extremely well-educated, a gifted speaker, very Christian, came from poverty, has no scandals. and is a good father with two beautiful daughters and an ideal wife. The economy has come back to effectively zero unemployment, and we've had no more 9/11's since he took office.
The real problem is that the people who hated him before he was elected are always going to hate him, and they're out of reasons.
No one had a problem with black checkout clerk at Walmart. But Obama is problematic to a lot of people: he's extremely well-educated, a gifted speaker, very Christian, came from poverty, has no scandals. and is a good father with two beautiful daughters and an ideal wife. The economy has come back to effectively zero unemployment, and we've had no more 9/11's since he took office.
The real problem is that the people who hated him before he was elected are always going to hate him, and they're out of reasons.
17
The white working class may not be fond of the POTUS. But I think the larger problem is that the Democratic party abandoned the white working class, starting with George McGovern and accelerating thereafter. The coalition that FDR formed in the 1930s and which Truman, the Kennedys and Johnson maintained was abandoned in the 1970s for the identify politics, of keeping gays, minorities and women inside their tent. However, that left many others out and the Republicans smartly scooped them up. I like Obama personally and I applaud his efforts to scale back the militarism but his presidency has not been a great success. The Democrats should have been fighting Wall Street these past 40 years to keep the USA industrialized so that the working class could at least survive. What did they expect was going to happen when they preached the globalist mantra (Clintons) with their investment banker friends, the working class was destroyed as a result, and now they have to deal with the seething anger afoot in the country? Nobody expected the GOP to fight for these people and they have been shameless in their exploitation of them on social issues but nobody expected that the Democrats would abandon the very people who built the party either.
25
This is the funniest statement yet "The Democrats should have been fighting Wall Street these past 40 years to keep the USA industrialized so that the working class could at least survive."
Don't you realize that the Democrats are Wall Street? It's a stereotype to think they are all Republicans.
The Clintons are literally married to Wall Street. Hillary's son-in-law is a hedge fund manager and Chelsea came out of college to take on a job at a hedge fund likely to make millions without much effort as it was all a political favor.
Wake up!
Don't you realize that the Democrats are Wall Street? It's a stereotype to think they are all Republicans.
The Clintons are literally married to Wall Street. Hillary's son-in-law is a hedge fund manager and Chelsea came out of college to take on a job at a hedge fund likely to make millions without much effort as it was all a political favor.
Wake up!
12
As I read it, Abbott seems to understand perfectly well. I believe the analysis laid out in the entire post is spot on.
4
Unfortunately, we still have one year to go with him in the White House. Americans have had enough of him and we need someone who will lead from a position of strength and resolve to bring this country back to the level of prominence it once enjoyed.
26
No thanks, I'm not ready to go back to the Fiscal Crisis of 2007.
5
If by that you mean "threaten to go to war with every Muslim country that disses us and bomb the heck out of them" -- no, we don't. Obama has been doing his best to repair what G.W. Bush broke with war, torture, mercenaries and deception. Do you think there's a magic wand or incantation that can easily "un-break" a pulverized teacup -- or worse, a shattered reputation?
5
Yes -let's get it back to those wonderful years we enjoyed in 2007 and 2008. Losing hundreds of soldiers a month in Iraq and hundreds of thousands of jobs a month here was so much fun.
3
I'm a Democrat who voted for Obama. Unfortunately (and here Obama missed the boat), the President is an intellectual who never had to grind away, living from paycheck to paycheck as the White working class has been doing for the last 20 years, at least. Even as a student he didn't juggle long hours at part-time work during the school year and in the Summer doing grunt work. Hilary hasn't got a clue either - a woman of privilege who started early as she moved from toney suburb to the Ivy League. So, it's no wonder the Democrats have lost the White working class. This is the constituency that FDR treated well and upon which the Democatic party was based for many years. It pains me, as it must the working-class, to see Obama hob-nobing with the glitterati on a regular basis.
27
Hillary did do grunt work one summer:
"She gutted fish at a processing plant in Alaska one summer during her law school years. It was her job to scoop out entrails,..." ""She was supposed to scoop out the entrails, but she began to get worried about the state of the fish."
Fish processing — and specifically sliming salmon — is not a glamorous business under the best circumstances. According to the book "Ten Difficult Women: Their Impact and Legacy," which also covers the young Clinton's brief stint in the fish business, "sliming required workers to wear knee-high boots and stand in bloody water while removing salmon guts with a spoon."
Though she was new to fish gutting, Clinton felt the salmon didn't look so good. "They were purple and black and yucky looking," she recalled in the
Times. She had a lot of questions about the condition of the fish — too many, in the eyes of the the plant's owner, who warned her to stop asking questions. She didn't, and was fired within a week. (The cannery was soon shut down.)"
http://www.businessinsider.com/hillary-clintons-summer-job-2015-7
"She gutted fish at a processing plant in Alaska one summer during her law school years. It was her job to scoop out entrails,..." ""She was supposed to scoop out the entrails, but she began to get worried about the state of the fish."
Fish processing — and specifically sliming salmon — is not a glamorous business under the best circumstances. According to the book "Ten Difficult Women: Their Impact and Legacy," which also covers the young Clinton's brief stint in the fish business, "sliming required workers to wear knee-high boots and stand in bloody water while removing salmon guts with a spoon."
Though she was new to fish gutting, Clinton felt the salmon didn't look so good. "They were purple and black and yucky looking," she recalled in the
Times. She had a lot of questions about the condition of the fish — too many, in the eyes of the the plant's owner, who warned her to stop asking questions. She didn't, and was fired within a week. (The cannery was soon shut down.)"
http://www.businessinsider.com/hillary-clintons-summer-job-2015-7
6
Yet FDR and Teddy Roosevelt were both born into extraordinary wealth and privilege, and both became presidents who fought for "the little guy" against established bastions of wealth and power. Plenty of people struggle without developing empathy; others develop empathy without struggling. Character, not wallet.
1
I have to take issue with Obama blaming the media for contributing to the public fear and anxiety about public safety and terrorism. The federal government is largely to blame for this public fear and anxiety of terrorism. After 9/11, it was the George W. Bush administration that fanned the fear and anxiety by combining different federal agencies to create DHS and spending huge sum of money on security measures, most of which is unnecessary. It is not farfetched to say that the federal government has been using the terrorism scare to control public opinion and erode civil rights and liberty. In hindsight, and the federal officials including elected officials are paid and entrusted with carrying out the best policies, it would have been much better for the country and American citizens for the Congress not to create DHS but to rely on existing agencies to deal with terrorism. Do not blame the media. It was Congress and the federal government that elevated the threat of terrorism. Life is changed forever.
6
Changed forever?
Elections cancelled? Malls closed? Massive losses? Police state? Restaurants closed? Food and gas shortages? Government take-over of the media? Did stocks crash? Campuses and schools cancelled? Fighting in the streets?
America goes on being America. Our freedoms largely unaffected, Christmas on schedule, toy stores buzzing, hamburgers and fries still flipped and served by low paid employees, kids home from college, Star Wars opening to crazy long lines, not a sine nfl game delayed or affected.
It is chicken little non-sense to say we are forever changed after San bernardino or the planned parenthood shooting or Paris or even after 9/11. America got up and went to work and school on 9/12 if we remember. We go on being American, a pluralistic nation that keeps being diverse and inspired by its history to encourage such pluralism and diversity.
Marriage equality and obama's double wins changed us more profoundly (for the better) than 9/11 or San bernardino could ever have changed us for the worse.
Elections cancelled? Malls closed? Massive losses? Police state? Restaurants closed? Food and gas shortages? Government take-over of the media? Did stocks crash? Campuses and schools cancelled? Fighting in the streets?
America goes on being America. Our freedoms largely unaffected, Christmas on schedule, toy stores buzzing, hamburgers and fries still flipped and served by low paid employees, kids home from college, Star Wars opening to crazy long lines, not a sine nfl game delayed or affected.
It is chicken little non-sense to say we are forever changed after San bernardino or the planned parenthood shooting or Paris or even after 9/11. America got up and went to work and school on 9/12 if we remember. We go on being American, a pluralistic nation that keeps being diverse and inspired by its history to encourage such pluralism and diversity.
Marriage equality and obama's double wins changed us more profoundly (for the better) than 9/11 or San bernardino could ever have changed us for the worse.
13
Don't blame the media? Who else can take a known lie, for example, the Bilderberg Group doesn't exist, and through lack of coverage (black lists) or outright and continued denial keep the people blind to the truth?
Using my example, David Rockefeller admitted that were it not for MSM over 40 years, he would not have been able to accomplish his goal of setting up the core of the "New World Order?
I am continually amazed in analyzing the very different "world view" of Democrats and Republicans, and give full credit to "media" for maintaining those differences.
Using my example, David Rockefeller admitted that were it not for MSM over 40 years, he would not have been able to accomplish his goal of setting up the core of the "New World Order?
I am continually amazed in analyzing the very different "world view" of Democrats and Republicans, and give full credit to "media" for maintaining those differences.
The Democratic Party has been deliberately trying to marginalize and politically isolate white males for decades. Obama has said many times he's trying to fundamentally change the makeup of the country, and it seems that the democrats have seized on flooding the US with third world immigrants as their primary strategy for trying to permanently get control of political power in this country.
32
Wow. That is some vitriolic Kool-Aid you are drinking my friend. Never fear. You guys still have the House , the Senate and run most local state governments. Gerrymandering; the gift that keeps on giving.
21
BINGO. It's vengeance of the ugliest kind. And with no response, it seems. Well, maybe Trump IS that response.
8
Umm, no. They marginalized themselves by voting for a party that appealed to their emotions while stealing their wallets. The .01% are delighted when the middle class and poor are so busy fighting each other for crumbs that they don't see the zillionaires driving away with the bread truck.
I have no use for a Communist revolution, but we need a credible *threat* of one to frighten the plutocrats into restoring the nation's former level of economic and political equality. How long can wealth at the very top continue to increase by hollowing out the levels below? When does the entire structure finally collapse into nothing but dust and rubble?
I have no use for a Communist revolution, but we need a credible *threat* of one to frighten the plutocrats into restoring the nation's former level of economic and political equality. How long can wealth at the very top continue to increase by hollowing out the levels below? When does the entire structure finally collapse into nothing but dust and rubble?
2
I am calling out the POTUS...my dislike of him is solely on his policies, his total disregard for the Constitution, is pro-Iranian nuke status, his apologizing for America everywhere he goes, his inability to compromise with Congress on anything...it is his way or he will veto or go outside the powers of Congress and just use his executive pen. He has put 1,000's of EPA regulations on industry in this country, decimating good jobs in the U.S., promulgated more H-1B visas of workers coming into this country at lower wages replacing American workers and the list goes on and on. He has been the single worst president this country has every known for the welfare of this republic. I could care less if he was purple skinned, it is his policies and anti-American/Constitutional views that many are revolting against...the sooner he is gone the better.
35
You're calling him out? Really? In a rant in a comment thread? Pretty bold, all right.
2
Pro Iranian? I hear that a lot. I can't think of anything pro-Iranian about him. He's been very tough on Iran. What he has done is allow Iran back into the international conversation because he practices real-politick and understands we need the Shiites to help us against the radical Sunnis in the Middle East. When Churchill worked with Stalin to fight the Nazis, did that make Churchill pro-Stalin? Same thing applies.
2
It has been my experience that the nature of every Presidential politician, including Obama, has been to exploit the fears of people. It's just plain hypocritical of Obama to make such a statement about Trump or any other politician for that matter.
18
Trump wants to deport all Muslims; has said that Mexican rapists are swarming across our border, and that ISIS is poised to take over the United States.
Obama is telling us to calm down. And, statistically, he's right. We've never been safer.
How exactly is Obama exploiting our fears?
Obama is telling us to calm down. And, statistically, he's right. We've never been safer.
How exactly is Obama exploiting our fears?
10
Fear from ever diminishing wages has a lot to do with the overall fear from terrorism, health, family cohesion, etc.
All that is needed is fairness, and how we regulate our capitalistic system is key.
Americans are delusional about fear and that's just how the corporate world wants it.
All that is needed is fairness, and how we regulate our capitalistic system is key.
Americans are delusional about fear and that's just how the corporate world wants it.
10
Trump 2016! And no, I am not "working class." It will be so nice to have Obama out of the White House - everyone, even recovered liberals like me, have gotten sick of his insults to everyday Americans and tired of his race-baiting. Have fun on your $3.5M Hawaii vacation, Obummer.
35
Trump may be exploiting the fears of the working class, but he created those fears.
By the way, what does Obama know about what the working class thinks? He doesn't exactly work.
By the way, what does Obama know about what the working class thinks? He doesn't exactly work.
18
What has he done to address the concerns of working class folks in the US? We know he things they cling to their guns,bibles and now Trump but what else?
11
That was the truest comment ever publicly made by a national politician. And it seems more true every year. I salute him for having the guts to say it. And it's a sad commentary about our country.
1
He is always the adult in the room. Thank you Mr President, may you and your family have a restful and enjoyable holiday season.
25
For the rest of the country we would love to call it Marry Christmas again. And you are wondering why he is losing touch with the common people.
1
Why "marry" christmas? Happy is good enough. I am proud to be a non Christian who still celebrates the birth of Christ.
2
I'm a Christian, and I have zero problem with other people's ways of wishing each other a happy holiday. Faith doesn't come and isn't spread by ordering people to say what you want--quite the contrary, actually. (By the way, it's "merry", not "marry", just so you put in on your cards right...)
4
When all else is failing go to page 1 of the democrat play book and run the Race Card. Mr President, go no further than the end of your nose to see who the true racist is in this country. You single handedly have set race relations back 100 years. The day this country will rejoice is when a conservative is elected to president and inaugurated on Jan 20, 2017. Don't let the front door of the White House hit your on the rear on your way out. You are a total disappointment and loser.
37
A person elected President of the United States of America, on two separate occasions, without resorting to legal chicanery, is a loser to you? Precisely what defines a winner in your eyes?
24
Well, I have no idea what you're talking about, Bob, but your unlikely scenario might solve the immigration issue. If a radical conservative is elected, many Americans will make every effort to emigrate to saner countries. But you may still need your wall -- to keep the citizens in.
2
Mr. Obama seems to share the view of many--perhaps most--of the liberal-left activists in today's Democratic party, who don't see ISIS and what it represents as a major threat to the US. Could that, as much as anything, account for his seeming inability to effectively address the concerns of so many in the country at-large?
26
The biggest threat to Americans is other Americans with hand guns and assault rifles, but for some bizarre and unexplained reason this threat seems to be an unknown quantity to the majority of those in danger.
23
@PeteH -- Thank you for illustrating so well exactly what Obama has achieved during his seven years in office:
He has created an atmosphere in which alien criminals and enemies who want to kill us are to be welcomed into our country with open arms, but our long-time neighbors are perceived as the greatest threat to our personal safety.
Coddling our enemies and rewarding criminals while turning law-abiding people against each other...
That's quite an accomplishment on the president's part, I must say!
He has created an atmosphere in which alien criminals and enemies who want to kill us are to be welcomed into our country with open arms, but our long-time neighbors are perceived as the greatest threat to our personal safety.
Coddling our enemies and rewarding criminals while turning law-abiding people against each other...
That's quite an accomplishment on the president's part, I must say!
15
negative Pete - outside of a handful of zip codes US crime rates are fairly in line with the rest of the civilised world.
After Obama leaves office he will head to Barbados and party with Eric Holder, Big Banksters, House of Saud and buddy Al Sharpton. Try not to think about what happens. 100 Million will be donated to the Obama Foundation. Just an educated guess.
28
Thank you for bringing up Al Sharpton. I wrote a letter to our President, complaining about his palling around with Sharpton, but never received a response. Those of us who are old enough to remember will recall that Sharpton falsely accused a white man, Stephen Pagones, of raping Tawana Brawley and was found guilty of defamation by a jury. Sharpton refused to pay up. Eventually his friends paid it for him. Sharpton is extremely racially divisive and the fact that our President allows him to repeatedly be a guest at the White House is a disgrace.
10
I believe the GOP has worked hard to make college must less affordable, much less culturally 'attractive' and keep student loans nondischargeable - in order to discourage their much-needed ignorant, superstitious base from attending college. The GOP needs their base ill-informed, bigoted, resentful and superstitious or the base would not keep supporting the backward GOP 'cultural' issues it uses to stay in power and protect the financial interests of the 1% - something the GOP knows their base would never support if they knew better.
The point is to make sure the base never 'knows better.' "Uninformed" and "low-information" is the goal. Never mind how it hinders the lives of their less educated supporters - what do they care about those people? The GOP elite is peopled with men with law degrees, business degrees and jobs in professions like public relations, media and advertising - jobs you can't get without being well educated and having connections. They look down their noses at their base - the rabble - but they need them and work to keep them shoeless, angry and frustrated.
This is a very cynical way to keep your party in power....
The point is to make sure the base never 'knows better.' "Uninformed" and "low-information" is the goal. Never mind how it hinders the lives of their less educated supporters - what do they care about those people? The GOP elite is peopled with men with law degrees, business degrees and jobs in professions like public relations, media and advertising - jobs you can't get without being well educated and having connections. They look down their noses at their base - the rabble - but they need them and work to keep them shoeless, angry and frustrated.
This is a very cynical way to keep your party in power....
16
Yes, because Democrats who run New York and other big cities are doing such a wonderful job educating the "low information" and uninformed voters in those cities.
13
I think you have your political parties confused - you must be talking about the Democrat Party and its African-American base. Look what 40 years of Democrat rule has heaped upon Ferguson and Baltimore.
14
Are you serious? It's progressives who make college more expensive with their subsidies. It's progressives who dumb down education. It's progressives who have caused more unemployment with their ridiculous notions of keynesian economics. Maybe you should fact check Hillary's talking points before regurgitating them expressing your own ignorance.
12
Barack Obama has had seven years to put his stamp on the United States and the World. The flatlined wages, the uprising of ISIS, Russian and Iran and domestic terrorist incidences have occurred during his presidency and directly or indirectly as the result of his policies and actions. If Obama (and supporters) are unwilling or able to dispassionately peel "back the onion" of criticism to see if there is a nugget of truth then they are the ones who are biased. I suspect that most Americans do not see ISIS as contained and gun control and climate change as the way to fix the problem. The fact that democratic party is having trouble attracting blue collar , college students and even minorities voters in this election cycle should say something about Obama's performance. Also, the fact that Trump's popularity remains strong (and grows) with each statement should say something about the mindset of the American people.
22
Ahhh... President Obama took office during the worst recession for decades. You folks sure have short memories.
19
...and Obama kept it there, don't forget that little nugget of truth.
5
Why are you saying that, Mary? There's no perceivable nugget of truth there that the numbers suggest. Where are you getting your information?
3
Well, appears Obama is aware of the problems. Then, how could he not be as he has helped them along. He clings to his Affirmative Action thinking. Are there ethnic differences, of course but at some point you have to grow up, embrace the best of what they have of offer.
With Scientific endeavors diverse ways of thinking are critical to solving problems. Divide & Conquer, outside of war, has never been successful. Obama would do well to think about this. Perhaps he has, and chose war!
If you feel examples are needed you are definitely part of the problem. You can begin with the context of this article.
With Scientific endeavors diverse ways of thinking are critical to solving problems. Divide & Conquer, outside of war, has never been successful. Obama would do well to think about this. Perhaps he has, and chose war!
If you feel examples are needed you are definitely part of the problem. You can begin with the context of this article.
12
Fortunately Obama's 8-year "I hate America" tour is coming to an end. We need individuals like President Obama to get elected every few decades. It reminds us of why we should never let liberals run anything. Jimmy Carter guaranteed a Republican white house for 12 years, here's hoping Obama will exceed that mark. Then, and only then, can he claim he actually accomplished something.
20
Hi Mary, I would really question your assertion that we shouldn't have liberals running anything. You mention Jimmy Carter, but it seems you skipped over Clinton years? Also, how do you feel about the years of George W. Bush? Listen, I don't think Obama is perfect and disagree with him on many things (race politics, his handling of Syria, etc.), but you have to look at the situation realistically. For what he was handed at the beginning of his term (the Great Recession, a war based on false pretenses that destabilized an entire region, and a tea party insurguency), he is doing not that bad. We have a long way to go till we have the prosperity, education levels, and quality of life measures that the rest of developed world has, but they didn't get their through conservative policies; think Northern & Central Europe, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, etc. I used to identify as conservative, just as you probably do, but thoroughly learning about what the other 196 countries do right and wrong educated me to make my own non partisan opinions.
8
Alex, I didn't skip over Clinton, as I do not regard Clinton as one of the worst, in fact, I would take Clinton back in a heartbeat compared to what we have now. Bill Clinton was able to work with a republican controlled congress, Obama has been unwilling to do so. Ronald Reagan was able to work with a democratic congress, because he chose to make the effort. the end result was things got accomplished during the Reagan and Clinton presidencies. As for GWB, I liked him during his first term; however, I recognize the wheels came off in his second term. We should never have gone into Iraq. I am also an Independent, have been for 30 years andI have no doubt that the democrats have lost the independent vote in this country, one only needs to look at the mid-terms to realize this, and 2016 will be no different. America is tired of the establishment politicians, on both sides, and that is how a Donald Trump can rise to the top. Not hard for someone to do when the other politicians (republican and democrat) are lying on their backs to get their tummies rubbed by the special interest groups they represent.
5
I do not recall a moment when the Republicans in Congress did anything other than seek to ruin the Obama presidency. The cooperation you cite in the Reagan and Clinton years never had to overcome a despicable (and treasonous, in my view) promise by the opposition to defeat every presidential initiative, mindlessly, without offering alternatives. So much of the inane rhetoric posted here by Mr. Obama's enemies is based on having nothing to stand on except having lost two presidential elections. The vacancy of Mary's post is just one evidence of what the right offers: nothing.
3
The President speaks the truth... and of course we know what happens when you speak the truth in this country.
Electing the nation's first non-white President, in my opinion, was one
of the brightest shining moment in American history. How this intelligent and thoughtful man, who is also a great husband and father, has been treated by a certain segment of our society for winning an election and trying to serve his country, is one of the biggest repudiation of our country's commitment to freedom, justice, and equality.
History won't look kindly upon us in regards to our response to historic change.
Electing the nation's first non-white President, in my opinion, was one
of the brightest shining moment in American history. How this intelligent and thoughtful man, who is also a great husband and father, has been treated by a certain segment of our society for winning an election and trying to serve his country, is one of the biggest repudiation of our country's commitment to freedom, justice, and equality.
History won't look kindly upon us in regards to our response to historic change.
29
See, and there is your problem. You think the color of his skin matters more than the content of his character.
13
It's his policies, not his skin color....particularly with a slightly different, yet significant continuation of the Bush foreign policy. (Regime change of the PNAC agenda)
2
Your headline says Trump is expoiting "fears" but President Obama's comments refer to items like flatlining wages, that are creating frustrations and anxieties. Even the President admits that some of the middle class anxiety is justified, he just feels it is "misdirected." It is truly distressing that after seven years of running the country, President Obama has never moved from the notions of "not my fault" (Blame Bush) and "they only oppose me because I'm black." If he had actually faced reality, he might have done a better job for the country.
22
There is no question that racism has played a part in subtly, and not so subtly in mobilizing political opposition to the presidents policies right from the beginning. Mr Trump has been one of the main proponent's of the "birther "movement, essentially attempting to delegitimize his presidency. Throughout this, president Obama has shown remarkable personal and political restraint in not calling attention to this obvious tactic. He has wisely attempted to keep race out of his political decision-making as much as possible to avoid further national racial polarization. As he heads into the last year of his presidency, he is definitely loosening up a little on saying what he feels generally with less regard to the political ramifications. He has been much more vocal about gun opposition these last months than he would have been early in his presidency. I'm not surprised that he has finally chosen to admit what was obvious to many observers for several years about the racial animus to his presidency.
20
I believe HRC was even before Trump with the "birther" accusations. But then, "politics" right?
I am astounded at the negative comments here, many with large numbers of reader picks. It is so tempting for these ill-informed individuals to blame everything on the President when so very little is in the ability of the President to control, CEO salary to working class salaries, the pollution and destruction of the environment by the coal industry, poverty in the South among disenfranchised whites, etc. Somehow the ills of our country are the fault in the minds of the negative commenters here of the President. Nothing could be further from the truth.
21
I voted for Obama 2x, and have been incredibly disappointed in this administration's inability to truly tap into and understand what Americans are feeling in present time. These 'in-hindsight, I maybe should have' moments have happened too often.
It's easy to say what's happening is the fault of never-ending fear mongering by cable news and an economy that left the working and middle class behind. It's much harder to get out there with the people and feel what they feel, create new initiatives together to address the sinkhole representing the gap between rich and poor.
Why is it the minute someone is elected into office, is the minute they become tone deaf to the American mood and pulse? Is it because they live behind barricades in our White House that becomes their house? Is it because they insulate themselves with people who only believe and think how they think?
Say what you will about either of them, but Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump are the only two who have gone straight to the heart of how Americans truly feel right now - from the hopeful to the ugly.
It's easy to say what's happening is the fault of never-ending fear mongering by cable news and an economy that left the working and middle class behind. It's much harder to get out there with the people and feel what they feel, create new initiatives together to address the sinkhole representing the gap between rich and poor.
Why is it the minute someone is elected into office, is the minute they become tone deaf to the American mood and pulse? Is it because they live behind barricades in our White House that becomes their house? Is it because they insulate themselves with people who only believe and think how they think?
Say what you will about either of them, but Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump are the only two who have gone straight to the heart of how Americans truly feel right now - from the hopeful to the ugly.
17
I am no fan of Obama, and I disagree with his take on Trump, but I agree with much of what he says in this interview. Now, if only he had taken this tone 7 years ago.
My only plea with him in the remaining months of his Presidency is this: stand up to the 2-headed monster that actually runs Washington, the neocons/liberal interventionists, before they manage to start WWIII. This upcoming election is going to boil down to the Establishment (neocons/liberal interventionists) vs. Anti-establishment. Given the current "a plague on both your houses" mood of the electorate, they are figuring out who the real enemy is. Be on the right side of history. Please!!!
My only plea with him in the remaining months of his Presidency is this: stand up to the 2-headed monster that actually runs Washington, the neocons/liberal interventionists, before they manage to start WWIII. This upcoming election is going to boil down to the Establishment (neocons/liberal interventionists) vs. Anti-establishment. Given the current "a plague on both your houses" mood of the electorate, they are figuring out who the real enemy is. Be on the right side of history. Please!!!
5
I'm with you there, but often state it more often as a world governance vs national identity crisis. Be that as it may, it seems there is little time left to at least slow-down the momentum.
Fear, suspicion and hate seem to be the themes of the Republican Party platform this election cycle. The rest of the world is watching in horror and disbelief. Several of the Republican candidates seek to portray the American people as victims and the true victims--the refugees who are running for their lives--as perpetrators. The two delusional shooters in California who happen to be Muslims are somehow more of an existential threat to this country than the mostly white men who regularly commit mass murder and have managed to kill thousands of Americans since 9/11. This upside down reality is eating at the soul of this once great nation.
As for Mr. Obama's comments about race; he hit the nail on the head. He is discussing the very population that was the target of Richard Nixon's cynical Southern Strategy. Globalization and outsourcing have only swelled their ranks. Sadly, both the Democrats and the Republicans have failed them in the last 35 years.
As for Mr. Obama's comments about race; he hit the nail on the head. He is discussing the very population that was the target of Richard Nixon's cynical Southern Strategy. Globalization and outsourcing have only swelled their ranks. Sadly, both the Democrats and the Republicans have failed them in the last 35 years.
16
Can you admit "racists" come in many colors, or is it just one?
1
The GOP, with Reagan, started the assault on the working class. Since then, BOTH parties have piled on. Laws that decimate unions; prevent private bankruptcy; enable H1B labor to replace qualified American workers; trade deals that decimate domestic jobs; banking laws that let a few institutions undermine housing markets, putting millions out of their homes; health care reforms that are welcome, but half-baked because they keep private insurance companies at the reins re: premium increases and deductibles.
Yes, Mr. President, Donald Trump is exploiting fear among the working class - a fear that has been brought about by BOTH parties over the last three decades - that, along with the help of the domestic and international Plutocrats that control our two parties.
Yes, Mr. President, Donald Trump is exploiting fear among the working class - a fear that has been brought about by BOTH parties over the last three decades - that, along with the help of the domestic and international Plutocrats that control our two parties.
17
Mr. Obama, when secretly recorded, painted with a very broad brush accusing millions of people of having antipathy for "those not like them." I contend that these regular folks just have more empathy for their fellow citizens and their families. It is a shame when the United States has a President that truly believes his nation is totally flawed and needs to be fundamentally transformed. The die is cast and this failed presidency portends only more discord in our future and thousands of more dead people around the globe.
19
I would not agree that regular folks in this country have more empathy for their fellow citizens and their families. Just look at the people at Trump rallies. They'd probably shoot out your tires before they'd help you change it.
3
President Obama is a politician first, last and foremost and his statements were an attempt to influence the election and solidify his legacy. I disagree with those that say Trump or anyone else is a racist because they disagree with Obama. Racism is saying I voted for or against Obama because he's black. Trump dislikes Obama's policies and that doesn't make him a racist. Trump is very smart and has developed a style that draws attention to himself. I much prefer the Trump we see behind the scenes. I'd say he makes arrogant, buffoonish statements in public but is much more thoughtful in private. He's not my candidate but this country should stop mischaracterizing him and wake up to the fact that he has a real chance of being the Republican candidate for President in 2016. He's obviously effective at getting things done and is not politically correct.
13
Don't you see? The mantra from the left has always been if you disagree with them you are: uneducated; misinformed; an idiot; a racist get the picture?
You happen to disagree with anyone else you are just someone with a difference of opinion. It's their way of deflecting the issue at hand.
You happen to disagree with anyone else you are just someone with a difference of opinion. It's their way of deflecting the issue at hand.
9
Reading the comments to this article I feel as if I'm living in a parallel universe, a bizarro world. Ordinarily the comment section shows intelligence and reality, but today when POTUS calls out Mr. Trump, I note a surge in venom and irrationality, specifically that President Obama is divisive, malicious and incompetent. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Literally from day one, the Greed Over People Party planned and executed the one term president strategy. Any obstruction servicing that goal was acceptable and welcome. Is it any wonder the country find itself polarized? While I haven't agreed with his every action, I believe the President has had the best interests of the country at heart.
Literally from day one, the Greed Over People Party planned and executed the one term president strategy. Any obstruction servicing that goal was acceptable and welcome. Is it any wonder the country find itself polarized? While I haven't agreed with his every action, I believe the President has had the best interests of the country at heart.
27
Any opposing party is to give the current president one term. Works the other way to you know. And the venom you read? It's people who are fed up with the way the current system works. Obama and Hillary have been quite chummy with Wall Street all the while stating how they are/were going to reign them in. I won't hold my breath waiting for that to happen. Eric Holder was useless. And Hillary will be a carbon copy of Obama. Count on it.
9
That's why I'm supporting Sanders. The GOP went beyond the pale in obstructing anything Obama tried, to the detriment of the American people. They will gladly bring down the democracy for ideological purity. It would have warmed the cockles of my heart to see the banksters perp-walk - which would have gone a long way to reining in the excesses of Wall Street.
3
One might look at the "government shutdown" to see another side of the issues you bring up. The President went into "negotiations" saying "my way or the highway", and yet today it's the general conception that Tea-Party Republicans shutdown the government.
His approach, plus MSM manipulation of the actual discussion had quite a bit to do with solidifying the "do nothing" Congress meme.
His approach, plus MSM manipulation of the actual discussion had quite a bit to do with solidifying the "do nothing" Congress meme.
A couple of points:
1) Yes Trump is playing on the fears of the Working Class but the Democrats have also played on their fears.
2) Successive presidents, since the end of Fordism have embraced neoliberal policies (Yes, this includes Obama). Neoliberalism has not exactly been friendly to the working class (See Wendy Brown, Harvey). In fact, the likes of globalization, internal and external migration have decimated jobs and wages in many American industries.
(Let's not forget that government views migrants primarily in economic, not human terms. This idea that "migration is healthy" is for the purpose of valourising capital.)
3) Trump is a hydra, if he falls others will rise. The issues facing many working class families are hardly improving and thus the potential for such candidates will remain.
4) It's entirely possible that the checks and balances system is causing unnecessary harm to more extensive policy reforms to help the working class (see Fukuyama).
1) Yes Trump is playing on the fears of the Working Class but the Democrats have also played on their fears.
2) Successive presidents, since the end of Fordism have embraced neoliberal policies (Yes, this includes Obama). Neoliberalism has not exactly been friendly to the working class (See Wendy Brown, Harvey). In fact, the likes of globalization, internal and external migration have decimated jobs and wages in many American industries.
(Let's not forget that government views migrants primarily in economic, not human terms. This idea that "migration is healthy" is for the purpose of valourising capital.)
3) Trump is a hydra, if he falls others will rise. The issues facing many working class families are hardly improving and thus the potential for such candidates will remain.
4) It's entirely possible that the checks and balances system is causing unnecessary harm to more extensive policy reforms to help the working class (see Fukuyama).
2
It‘s funny how Trump supporters point to Trump telling-it-like-it-is as their reason for supporting him.
But when Obama tells it like it is about Trump, working-class voters and bigotry, he‘s divisive and wants to destroy the country.
Obama‘s comments on Trump are dead-on accurate.
But when Obama tells it like it is about Trump, working-class voters and bigotry, he‘s divisive and wants to destroy the country.
Obama‘s comments on Trump are dead-on accurate.
28
Please try and tell me what place a sitting President has to "call out", by name, someone running for that position from the other side of the aisle? Please!
Reading some of the angry, hate filled comments here and observing how grossly popular the narcissistic, inflammatory, pathological Trump is, I am truly frightened and concerned how stupid and naively, self destructive so many Americans are. The GOP and it's obstructive policies are the root cause for so many of our countries problems and they don't even realize it. Instead they buy the propaganda false truth nonsense spewed their way by the Republicans and it's primary news outlet FOX. You can not, simply can not, blame Obama for all the problems our country is facing. And frankly we are in better shape because of him, despite a hateful, obstructionist congress. Incredibly stupid and angry so many people are ... it makes me deeply concerned for our country and very thankful for our Presidents calm, rational leadership. This is what the Republicans have been angling for, for years, a herd of dumb, misguided cattle, lining up to the trough where they'll feed them their slop, and foolishly they'll remain loyal, stupid and beaten. Oh, and the ranch owners, they're bowed to and deeply rewarded.
26
WoW...what concerns me even more is how easy it is for him to say and do the very same thing he accuses others for, yet be given a pass if it's done with highly controlled facial and manual expressions. He is a great monitor reader. I'll give you that.
The President is castigating Trump for exploiting resentments and anxieties to boost his campaign? All true, but that's almost pathologically shameless coming from someone who's elevated the exploitation of class and racial divisions for political purposes to an art form.
14
I voted for President Obama twice but I am really fed up with him pushing the disastrous trade deal TPP that absolutely destroys what middle-class jobs are left. As far as immigration goes...it's out of control. Politicians have continuously said our Social Security is going to go bankrupt but have no problem giving SSI funds to immigrants and refugees. How many American companies are making american IT workers to train and replace them with H1-B Visa immigrants ? I am fed up with up with both parties, they don't protect and work for american working families. No, it's not about President Obama's race, it's about selling out your country to the global corporations who don't care one iota about America or its people who have fought for our freedoms and gave their lives. This is not what they fought for ... to hand over our country for greed.
18
Excellent observations. I agree whole-heartedly!
There is a big difference between appealing to the public's genuine interests and exploiting its fears through demagoguery. FDR was not a demagogue. Obama is not. Trump is.
14
What's it going to take for Obama supporters to understand he's not Americas brown just like the Bush family is not Americas friend just like Cheney Rumsfeld The Clintons are all working for the same people being Democrat or Republican is for us chumps to believe in they work for the bankers. Which are mostly white people but there are black people also an Asian and Mexican Satan is a equal opportunity employer
2
Now conservatives are just an overly emotional bunch.... Conservatives simply care too much.
1
As an independent, and non-white too, I think President Obama's conclusion that this is driven because he is not White is very simplistic and not entirely true. I do feel we need to do more to protect the homeland from terrorists. I also think the President should be focusing more on the economy. The less said about Trump the better.
10
We have been very fortunate to have had Barak Obama in the White House these last seven years. He was not my first choice in the run-up to 2008, I have not always agreed with him. But he has been our best president since Dwight Eisenhower (with whom I didn't always agree, either).
I find it amusing and a bit pathetic that his detractors accuse him of being partisan when the GOP leadership declared before his first inauguration that their mission was to make him a one-term president. I find it amusing and a bit pathetic that his detractors accuse him of being ineffectual when the GOP and the 0.01% have done everything possible (including inviting a foreign leader to address the Congress to criticize his intelligent diplomacy) to blunt his every effort.
I find it un-amusing and pathetic that his detractors call him divisive when he has made every effort to be President for all Americans in the face of spiteful, unreasoning, recalcitrant opposition. It seems sort of like accusing a woman of being uncooperative when she resists a rapist.
No, I think we've been very fortunate and I hope he continues to contribute as he has after he leaves the White House.
I find it amusing and a bit pathetic that his detractors accuse him of being partisan when the GOP leadership declared before his first inauguration that their mission was to make him a one-term president. I find it amusing and a bit pathetic that his detractors accuse him of being ineffectual when the GOP and the 0.01% have done everything possible (including inviting a foreign leader to address the Congress to criticize his intelligent diplomacy) to blunt his every effort.
I find it un-amusing and pathetic that his detractors call him divisive when he has made every effort to be President for all Americans in the face of spiteful, unreasoning, recalcitrant opposition. It seems sort of like accusing a woman of being uncooperative when she resists a rapist.
No, I think we've been very fortunate and I hope he continues to contribute as he has after he leaves the White House.
38
I am one who believe fully that our two-party system has devolved to the point where both represent globalist interests above Americans.
That said, you offered a perfect analogy in saying, "it's like accusing a women of being uncooperative when she resists a rapist". The difference between you and I is that I see this analogy fitting the "party of obstruction" being the woman, and globalist legislation being the rapist.
That said, you offered a perfect analogy in saying, "it's like accusing a women of being uncooperative when she resists a rapist". The difference between you and I is that I see this analogy fitting the "party of obstruction" being the woman, and globalist legislation being the rapist.
President Obama entered office dismissing white working class voters as bigoted has-beens with irrational fears.
He intends to leave office preaching the same tired sermon.
I think it was some time in 2011 that the Times itself reported the Democratic Party had given up on this demographic of Americans. Given that, weren't Obama's remarks mere standard political calculation, passed along with partisan enthusiasm by two powerful media outlets?
He intends to leave office preaching the same tired sermon.
I think it was some time in 2011 that the Times itself reported the Democratic Party had given up on this demographic of Americans. Given that, weren't Obama's remarks mere standard political calculation, passed along with partisan enthusiasm by two powerful media outlets?
21
Maybe, but working class whites are doing a great job all on their own of displaying their bigotry and stoking irrational fears.
II can see it with my own eyes, and didn't need President Obama to confirm what is so obviously truth.
II can see it with my own eyes, and didn't need President Obama to confirm what is so obviously truth.
7
Are the fears over police shootings, gun violence (amid declining numbers) and campus rape utterly rational? Have these not been exploited by politicians? The obviously have.
Is the party of Al Sharpton, and the president who seeks his counsel, innocent of bigotry? Obviously not.
Is the party of Al Sharpton, and the president who seeks his counsel, innocent of bigotry? Obviously not.
Stuff y'all can look up, but won't:
1. The DJIA has doubled since 2018.
2. The national unemployment rate is now down to 5.1%. Mitt Romney had promised to get it down to 6%. By next year sometime.
3. The national workforce suffers from exactly the same problems--dropouts from the market, part-time work, stagnant wages--as Texas.
4. Congress and its staffers are legally required to use the Obamacare exchanges. Other Federal employees are not--they already have health insurance--but their plans and costs are subject to the same laws as everybody else's. Oh, and premiums were rising at double-digits rates before the PPACA. Oh, and the exchanges are all required to offer cheap catastrophic plans.
5. The Federal deficit keeps dropping.
6. The PTTT strengthens environmental regulations and worker protections. The Iran deal genuinely stops their bomb program, which mushroomed (get it?) shortly after Bush took office.
7. Net immigration is zero. The Border Patrol's bigger than ever. There have been more deportations under Obama than Bush. Few illegals sneak in; mostly, they just overstay a visa.
8. The guy's a Christian, okay?
Like I said, you can look it up. As you can all the HONEST things to complain about. Of which there are certainly some.
I can respect Lindsey Graham. What I don't respect is loud, ignorant, willful stupidity.
1. The DJIA has doubled since 2018.
2. The national unemployment rate is now down to 5.1%. Mitt Romney had promised to get it down to 6%. By next year sometime.
3. The national workforce suffers from exactly the same problems--dropouts from the market, part-time work, stagnant wages--as Texas.
4. Congress and its staffers are legally required to use the Obamacare exchanges. Other Federal employees are not--they already have health insurance--but their plans and costs are subject to the same laws as everybody else's. Oh, and premiums were rising at double-digits rates before the PPACA. Oh, and the exchanges are all required to offer cheap catastrophic plans.
5. The Federal deficit keeps dropping.
6. The PTTT strengthens environmental regulations and worker protections. The Iran deal genuinely stops their bomb program, which mushroomed (get it?) shortly after Bush took office.
7. Net immigration is zero. The Border Patrol's bigger than ever. There have been more deportations under Obama than Bush. Few illegals sneak in; mostly, they just overstay a visa.
8. The guy's a Christian, okay?
Like I said, you can look it up. As you can all the HONEST things to complain about. Of which there are certainly some.
I can respect Lindsey Graham. What I don't respect is loud, ignorant, willful stupidity.
34
"The Federal deficit keeps dropping."
I picked this one of the list of hooey b/c it is the easiest to debunk in less than 1500 characters.
"The Federal deficit keeps dropping" is one of the most deceptive by design claims the Democrats make.
The Federal DEFICIT, indeed has dropped. After running up record high deficits Obama even if Obama runs an obscenely high deficit by definition the "deficit" would drop. But the Federal DEBT has nearly doubled.
The wordsmith Democrats want Low Information Voters to believe the "deficit" and the "debt" { $18+ TRILLION} are one and the same thing. They are not.
Do not be a sucker for what this deceiver tries to sell you.
I picked this one of the list of hooey b/c it is the easiest to debunk in less than 1500 characters.
"The Federal deficit keeps dropping" is one of the most deceptive by design claims the Democrats make.
The Federal DEFICIT, indeed has dropped. After running up record high deficits Obama even if Obama runs an obscenely high deficit by definition the "deficit" would drop. But the Federal DEBT has nearly doubled.
The wordsmith Democrats want Low Information Voters to believe the "deficit" and the "debt" { $18+ TRILLION} are one and the same thing. They are not.
Do not be a sucker for what this deceiver tries to sell you.
4
Christian Presidents' White Houses are always crawling with Muslim Brotherhood, and all Christian Presidents keep persecuted Christians out of the country while shipping in unvetted potentially violent radical Muslims en masse. Christian Presidents also use their pulpit to race-bait and mock conservatives.
2
Point #2 does not take into account those who have stopped looking or filing for unemployment.
4
Terrific analysis by an ever-thoughtful President.
25
Whoa...are you kidding me. A politician exploiting the fears of the people. Now that is really news that I never would have expected.
Please get real. This is a politicians main job description. the fact is though that I am not scared of ISIS. What I am scared of is our elites (Democrats and Republicans) having no control of immigration, having no foreign policy strategy, a focus on identity politics rather than inclusiveness, and taking multiculturalism to the extreme to the point of near cultural suicide.
Please get real. This is a politicians main job description. the fact is though that I am not scared of ISIS. What I am scared of is our elites (Democrats and Republicans) having no control of immigration, having no foreign policy strategy, a focus on identity politics rather than inclusiveness, and taking multiculturalism to the extreme to the point of near cultural suicide.
10
By saying Trump is "exploiting" the legitimate anger, disappointment and frustration of America's working class by focusing on their concerns, it seems the president is suggesting that these Americans -- who have, to be honest, been very poorly served for decades not only by Republicans but also by Democratic Congresses and administrations, including his own -- do not deserve representation.
It was President Obama. not Donald Trump, who campaigned on a promise of hope and change. And while his administration has delivered on the promise of change, its blind indifference to exponentially widening income and wealth disparities, as well as the differences in opportiunities that arise from such disparities, have tragically destroyed many Americans' hopes.
Trump speaks a language that Obama seems to have forgotten.
It was President Obama. not Donald Trump, who campaigned on a promise of hope and change. And while his administration has delivered on the promise of change, its blind indifference to exponentially widening income and wealth disparities, as well as the differences in opportiunities that arise from such disparities, have tragically destroyed many Americans' hopes.
Trump speaks a language that Obama seems to have forgotten.
18
We live in a society that only accepts viewpoints that resemble our own. The news media inflames this situation by focusing on the sensational.
5
Here's a question pollsters haven't asked yet because they have no imagination. What percent of Trump's supporters voted for Obama at least once? I'd bet the number is surprisingly high.
26
Mr. Obama was gifted with a glibness that has served him well in gaining office and wealth but unfortunately he was not also gifted with an empathy for his fellow man who may not have received the same oratorical gifts that came Mr. Obama's way. Mr. Obama became the friend of the Wall Street operators and the tool of the war making industrial complex. He allowed the country to be surged into the Afghanistan morass. He allowed the country to be turned into a tax haven for the wealthy inheritors and speculators. He helped turn Libya and Syria into havens for ISIS. He did nothing to help the citizens of Bahrain to shake off the despotic government of that country. And now his only excuse for his lack of leadership and his kowtowing to wealth and the corporate establishment seems to be to blame racial factors rather than his own lack of leadership strength.
16
Well yes, he's essentially a center-right Republican, which is what Democrats have become.
But the foreign affairs mess you mention are nothing a neo-conservative GOP production. That can't be blamed on Obama.
But the foreign affairs mess you mention are nothing a neo-conservative GOP production. That can't be blamed on Obama.
8
Regarding foreign policy, there's enough blame to go around. Personally, not until at least one party stops their call for regime change & other things opening the doors to WW3, I will support either.
The fact that both parties call for ousting al-Assad while laying in bed with Saudi Arabia is enough to show there is no soundness on either side of the aisle.
The fact that both parties call for ousting al-Assad while laying in bed with Saudi Arabia is enough to show there is no soundness on either side of the aisle.
1
So the economy is not as great as you claimed it was in your press conference the other day-- all those jobs you've created, Mr. President? Obviously all these blue collar men didn't get the message. And don't we recall comments you made back in 2008 about some citizens, their guns and their religion? Hmm.
23
It is sad that it has taken 7 years for people to realize that Barack Obama's agenda has had the sole purpose of destroying America. We have become so complacent. What a shame it is to see people still support him. Our children and grandchildren are facing a daunting future because of the policies of this man. Donald Trump looks good to many many people right now from both parties. Why? Because both parties have let the American people down.
22
Doubled the Bush debt AND
1. IRS targets Obama’s enemies: The IRS targeted conservative and pro-Israel groups prior to the 2012 election. Questions are being raised about why this occurred, who ordered it, whether there was any White House involvement and whether there was an initial effort to hide who knew about the targeting and when.
1. IRS targets Obama’s enemies: The IRS targeted conservative and pro-Israel groups prior to the 2012 election. Questions are being raised about why this occurred, who ordered it, whether there was any White House involvement and whether there was an initial effort to hide who knew about the targeting and when.
Doubled the Bush Debt AND
4. Rosengate: The Justice Department suggested that Fox News reporter James Rosen is a criminal for reporting about classified information and subsequently monitored his phones and emails.
Holder: America’s blockhead neighborhood watchman, and 82nd Attorney General of the United States is the only sitting cabinet member to be held in contempt of Congress. In fact, there probably isn’t a scandal on this list that he wasn’t a part of in some fashion. Read more at http://dailysurge.com/2014/07/obamas-scandals-lies-blunders-z/
4. Rosengate: The Justice Department suggested that Fox News reporter James Rosen is a criminal for reporting about classified information and subsequently monitored his phones and emails.
Holder: America’s blockhead neighborhood watchman, and 82nd Attorney General of the United States is the only sitting cabinet member to be held in contempt of Congress. In fact, there probably isn’t a scandal on this list that he wasn’t a part of in some fashion. Read more at http://dailysurge.com/2014/07/obamas-scandals-lies-blunders-z/
Sestak, we’ll take care of you: Former White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel used Bill Clinton as an intermediary to probe whether former Rep. Joe Sestak (D-Pa.) would accept a prominent, unpaid White House advisory position in exchange for dropping out of the 2010 primary against former Sen. Arlen Specter (D-Pa.).
Obama, Clinton, Bush, Rubio all work for the elite. They what to turn middle class Americans into a low cost disposable battery like the Matrix. After age 40-50, throw you into the scrap heap. They love ignorant immigrants who never complain and don't care if they steal all the money with corporate controlled deficit budgets. We are just another banana republic, next they will take away your guns. They will continue to blame you, using their controlled media. Propaganda against anyone who disagrees with their money printing profit machine and fire you if you disagree at work. It's not a conspiracy theory, it's real.
18
.
President George W Bush was a far better President and human being than Obama will ever be.
It will take decades to repair the damage democrats have done to this country.
Democrats need to be kept from any positions of power if America will ever return to prosperity and greatness.
.
President George W Bush was a far better President and human being than Obama will ever be.
It will take decades to repair the damage democrats have done to this country.
Democrats need to be kept from any positions of power if America will ever return to prosperity and greatness.
.
10
George W. Bush, who left us with two lost wars, a crashed economy and our reputation in tatters was a better president than Obama? George W. Bush, the first U.S. president to give us torture as policy? George W. Bush who needlessly caused the maiming and death of hundreds of thousands with a war he lied us into?
19
The Iraq war was won when bush handed it over to Obama.
2
The president should not waste his breath on Donald Trump. It just gives Trump more free media attention. In addition, coming out against him just solidifies Trump's supporters. I think that the best thing that could happen to the Democrats in this election would be the Republican nomination of Trump.
20
Mr. Obama is exactly right.
The New York Times brought up the following statistics:
"Something startling is happening to middle-aged white Americans. Unlike every other age group, unlike every other racial and ethnic group, unlike their counterparts in other rich countries, death rates in this group have been rising, not falling.”
We are seeing the ever increasing early deaths of high school educated white people.
Two Princeton economists, Angus Deaton, and Anne Case analyzed health and mortality data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and from other sources, they concluded that rising annual death rates among this group are being driven not by the big killers like heart disease and diabetes but by an epidemic of suicides and afflictions stemming from substance abuse: alcoholic liver disease and overdoses of heroin and prescription opioids.”
The least educated also had the most financial distress, the inflation-adjusted income for households headed by a high school graduate fell by 19 percent.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/03/health/death-rates-rising-for-middle-a...
Wage stagnation is here. A man with a high school education will no longer be able to find a good paying job in manufacturing which allowed him to buy a home, have two cars and a boat, and have a pension.
5 million jobs are available but need digital education and higher skills to fill.
Trump is blaming change--real change of skills to attack Obama.
The New York Times brought up the following statistics:
"Something startling is happening to middle-aged white Americans. Unlike every other age group, unlike every other racial and ethnic group, unlike their counterparts in other rich countries, death rates in this group have been rising, not falling.”
We are seeing the ever increasing early deaths of high school educated white people.
Two Princeton economists, Angus Deaton, and Anne Case analyzed health and mortality data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and from other sources, they concluded that rising annual death rates among this group are being driven not by the big killers like heart disease and diabetes but by an epidemic of suicides and afflictions stemming from substance abuse: alcoholic liver disease and overdoses of heroin and prescription opioids.”
The least educated also had the most financial distress, the inflation-adjusted income for households headed by a high school graduate fell by 19 percent.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/03/health/death-rates-rising-for-middle-a...
Wage stagnation is here. A man with a high school education will no longer be able to find a good paying job in manufacturing which allowed him to buy a home, have two cars and a boat, and have a pension.
5 million jobs are available but need digital education and higher skills to fill.
Trump is blaming change--real change of skills to attack Obama.
4
Trump supporters are always described as not having a college degree or somehow not too intelligent . We never hear the democrat base described that way.
10
Not having a college degree does NOT equate with “somehow not too intelligent.”
However ever study shows that NOT having education beyond high school whether that be tech education to learn coding or welding, or college education shows up as making over a million dollars LESS in one’s lifetime.
Research DOES show that Trump’s most fervent backers fall into the range of high school or less education. These are the folks caught in a tech savvy world and are frustrated. So instead of a leader such as Obama encouraging free community college education to help these folks find better paying jobs, Trump uses their anger to hate everyone, to blame everyone for the global economy leaving them behind. So much easier to blame immigrants, Mexicans, Muslims, women for their lot in life. I know these high school educated white folks...they are my patients. And if I can talk with them one to one, they understand why they are angry and with help of social workers we ARE getting them that much needed education to get better jobs. This is hard work.
So much easier for a demagogue like Trump to push their buttons. Do you REALLY think that Trump even likes “his” people? He uses them to brand himself a hero when he is nothing but a narcissist begging for attention. Trump stated that all Mexicans were rapists and criminals, now has gone on to say “what wonderful workers they are” and he has thousands and thousands of Mexican workers who love him.
Trump uses people then discards them.
However ever study shows that NOT having education beyond high school whether that be tech education to learn coding or welding, or college education shows up as making over a million dollars LESS in one’s lifetime.
Research DOES show that Trump’s most fervent backers fall into the range of high school or less education. These are the folks caught in a tech savvy world and are frustrated. So instead of a leader such as Obama encouraging free community college education to help these folks find better paying jobs, Trump uses their anger to hate everyone, to blame everyone for the global economy leaving them behind. So much easier to blame immigrants, Mexicans, Muslims, women for their lot in life. I know these high school educated white folks...they are my patients. And if I can talk with them one to one, they understand why they are angry and with help of social workers we ARE getting them that much needed education to get better jobs. This is hard work.
So much easier for a demagogue like Trump to push their buttons. Do you REALLY think that Trump even likes “his” people? He uses them to brand himself a hero when he is nothing but a narcissist begging for attention. Trump stated that all Mexicans were rapists and criminals, now has gone on to say “what wonderful workers they are” and he has thousands and thousands of Mexican workers who love him.
Trump uses people then discards them.
9
Working-Class fears? Oh that working-class clearly lacking in any capacity to cogently reflect upon the complex issues pertaining to their existence.
Obama should come straight out with it 'Persons I (Obama) determine as lacking in intellectual capacity to agree with me should not be allowed to vote.'
Obama should come straight out with it 'Persons I (Obama) determine as lacking in intellectual capacity to agree with me should not be allowed to vote.'
8
Ask working class people: "How do you get your news?" Chances are Fox News, Rush Limbaugh, conservative talk radio et al. "By reading a newspaper or via the Internet?" "Nah." "Ever use the public library?" " Nah."
8
'Working class' are the ones who have to take the full brunt of the political elites policies which if you care to look at the data is accentuating the wealth divide in the US and my experience is the working-class insight born of the life in large part imposed upon them gives them a pretty good idea what is political spin or not.
By the way it has been found the higher the intelligent level the more enamored you are with your own reflection and develop a great capacity to keep it that way despite the real picture becoming rather tattered.
By the way it has been found the higher the intelligent level the more enamored you are with your own reflection and develop a great capacity to keep it that way despite the real picture becoming rather tattered.
1
It's hard being the adult in the room. President Obama's measured comments are exactly what our country needs right now instead of the hate and fear mongering spewed by Trump and his cohorts.
29
Yes indeed. We're tired of being told what to think, what not to say, what we need to apologize for...and then being handed the bill for it all. Eight ruinous years brought us to this point. It is Obama who has begat Trump.
13
It's too bad Mr. President that you are so wrong in so many ways. As a kid we had a saying when one was pointing a finger and placing blame, "He who smelt it dealt it".
9
"Working-class people" are betraying themselves by their politically immature and counterproductive views, let's call it like it is ladies and gentlemen. Those that should be supporting an agenda that seeks to empower them are, due to SELFISH DESIRES, seeking solace precisely from those that are least likely to provide it. The "have-nots" really believe that the best way to become a "have" is to support the reactionary GOP platform which seeks to enrich the rich at the expense of those that are flocking to them. This is nothing new. Often, those with the least are the most selfish, not because they don't have the means to be generous but because they feel angry and deprived and therefore become unwilling to accept the concept of "sharing". They flock to Wal-Mart and drool at that 60" TV that they can't afford and think "less taxes, more junk for my trunk." Who cares about healthcare for those that need it? They want that TV and (erroneously) think the GOP and Trump will provide it for them. If "ignorance is bliss" then these people live in Nirvana but unfortunately the rest of us have to put up with them and their reactionary ideas.
18
You seem to be caught in the past...(or are totally compartmentalized) Hate to break it to you, but there are quite a few super wealthy Democrats too. Not to mention, highly disingenuous "professionals" who like to spout intellectual garbage while doing nothing to give the downtrodden a handup in life.
In my experience, though just as hypocritical, rich right wingers far out give lefties with benevolent causes. Talk about Nirvana...
In my experience, though just as hypocritical, rich right wingers far out give lefties with benevolent causes. Talk about Nirvana...
Not that barack obama has ever exploited anything in his neverending presidency: race, gender, sexual orientation, old v young, rich v poor, "us" (democrats) v "them" (the Republican fellow Americans, the "real enemies" ... of the world!). Barack obama is just a blameless faultless honest broker for "the American people" who's constantly attacked and wronged because ... well because, all you good honest "us" people know why, woe be me".
7
Obama is a human being. Like the rest of us, not flawless. Still he has done pretty well. He kept trying to work in a bipartisan way for too long but he stayed cooled throughout. Even though the Repubs were endlessly obstructive he managed to pass some important domestic legislation. I'm tired of the endless hostile criticism from persons who seem to have no understanding of the complexity of the middle east.
Obama is the elected head of our country and represents our country and frankly the repubs and most of their candidates have been traitorous. It's ugly.
Obama is the elected head of our country and represents our country and frankly the repubs and most of their candidates have been traitorous. It's ugly.
20
The thing is, he doesn't represent the country, he goes around the wold apologizing for it, bowing to kings, and destroying any credibility the US had in the world. He drew a red-line for Syria and then did nothing as the Syrian government used chemical weapons, he sided with the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt, and he alienated our greatest ally in the Middle East, Israel. The only thing Obama represents is his own self-interest. He, like Hillary, could care less about the country, and his wife is even worse.
7
MaryHart, its clear you are not an American who has respect for the commander in chief of our country. We elect you to represent our country! you can go around the world for us, fixing things. Do you have any idea how much verbal abuse my family faced when we traveled abroad during George Bush years? People would downright blame Americans for electing their President George W Bush, they called America an imperial country, back in those days. Mr Obama and Mrs Clinton have gone around the world actually restoring our name.
9
Sorry, Mr Obama, but it is you who have used the race card at your discretion during your 7 years in our White House. It is you who have done nothing for the middle class, which was one of your big promises when you first ran for office. It is you who entered into the office as an inept emtpy-suit and you shall certainly leave in the same fashion.
17
We've tried invading and occupying the Middle East. We've tried invading and not occupying the Middle East. We've tried drone strikes in the Middle East. Nothing works in the Middle East, but that doesn't stop the citizenry from blaming the president - whoever he is at the time fingers are being pointed. Maybe the problem is the Middle East.
9
Obviously, the PNAC mentality has increased the lack of goodwill in the ME. One has to be blind or have other, higher priorities to continue the insanity as the Clinton/Obama policies have done. The current situation in Syria is evidence to this charge.
But, isn't that the very definition of insanity? (Doing the same thing while expecting a different outcome) So we can (speaking of Trump & Obama) continue the blame game or actually do something to make a difference both here and abroad....and I just happen to think Trump will do just that, if elected
But, isn't that the very definition of insanity? (Doing the same thing while expecting a different outcome) So we can (speaking of Trump & Obama) continue the blame game or actually do something to make a difference both here and abroad....and I just happen to think Trump will do just that, if elected
1
Well Mr. Obama is quite knowledgeable about exploiting peoples fears and pitting demographic groups against each other. In fact one might say he is the master at it. Hillary is scrambling all over the place trying to hold Mr. Obama's coalition of the "exploited groups" together.
I would also state that while Pres. Obama is correct that ISIS is not a direct existential threat to the US, they are an indirect threat in their ability to engender fear amongst the populace and thus generating support for ideas that are counter to the liberalism that was the founding principle of this country. They are also a threat to the western culture's openness welcoming posture to visitors and travelers. They may not be able to overthrow our government, but they sure can change our culture of freedom.
I would also state that while Pres. Obama is correct that ISIS is not a direct existential threat to the US, they are an indirect threat in their ability to engender fear amongst the populace and thus generating support for ideas that are counter to the liberalism that was the founding principle of this country. They are also a threat to the western culture's openness welcoming posture to visitors and travelers. They may not be able to overthrow our government, but they sure can change our culture of freedom.
11
Blue collar workers, without college credentials, are not the only ones suffering from the effects of low wages. Let's be frank, their fears are justified. So are the fears of retirees struggling with low interest rates. So are the fears of middle class people whose wages are stagnant and who have been running up high fee credit card in order to pay "their share" of high insurance deductibles and rising property taxes on their homes and cars. These fears - and facts - have nothing to do with the fact that our president s biracial.
Frankly I find it unseemly of the president to blame the very legitimate fears of working class people on racism. Some of it is, no doubt, racism but it is his job as our leader to rise abovethis and take responsibility for the very real hardships that far too many people are shouldering in this era of prolonged economic hardship.
I also find to unseemly to demean high school graduates with the label "uneducated" as so many seem to do these days because they have not attended college, or only studied for a year or two but did not complete a degree. The suggestion is that they are ignorant, due to their lack of college credentials, and so we can ignore their criticism. Ignorance and lack of credentials are two very different things. Let's not forget that we sometimes suffer under the rule of fools with PhDs. Many blue collar workers are quite well read thanks to our system where libraries remain free even when though college is far too expensive.
Frankly I find it unseemly of the president to blame the very legitimate fears of working class people on racism. Some of it is, no doubt, racism but it is his job as our leader to rise abovethis and take responsibility for the very real hardships that far too many people are shouldering in this era of prolonged economic hardship.
I also find to unseemly to demean high school graduates with the label "uneducated" as so many seem to do these days because they have not attended college, or only studied for a year or two but did not complete a degree. The suggestion is that they are ignorant, due to their lack of college credentials, and so we can ignore their criticism. Ignorance and lack of credentials are two very different things. Let's not forget that we sometimes suffer under the rule of fools with PhDs. Many blue collar workers are quite well read thanks to our system where libraries remain free even when though college is far too expensive.
9
Actually, the suggestion is that people who scream and yell threats and epithets, who don't know jack about reality and who (far worse!) won't go look it up, who repeat the madness of very, very well-paid shrieking ideologues--well, the suggestion is that they're ignorant.
What would you call it?
What would you call it?
7
Well then I suppose a fair question would be is it 90 (something) million out of work, or 5% unemployment?
I have heard that this and that percentage have given up looking for work, how and where do they get these numbers?
Perhaps Trump is hitting the crux of the matter, or maybe not.
I have heard that this and that percentage have given up looking for work, how and where do they get these numbers?
Perhaps Trump is hitting the crux of the matter, or maybe not.
5
Now this is really the pot calling the kettle black. Mr Obama claims Mr Trump is exploiting working class' families feeling about the economy for political gain. Sounds a lot like the "Hope and Change" mantra he spewed in 2007 & 2008 to get elected.
AND, please for the love of all, get this right Mr President...people don't like you because you've been pretty gosh darn awful as a president. It doesn't matter if you're black, white, or a purple martian that lives in someone's behind; you've just been a bad leader.
Dust yourself off, pull your head out, and try, just try, to do something constructive with your remaining time in office. Do SOMETHING to show the citizens of this country that their elected leader cares for more than race-baiting, fear-mongering, special-interest groups.
AND, please for the love of all, get this right Mr President...people don't like you because you've been pretty gosh darn awful as a president. It doesn't matter if you're black, white, or a purple martian that lives in someone's behind; you've just been a bad leader.
Dust yourself off, pull your head out, and try, just try, to do something constructive with your remaining time in office. Do SOMETHING to show the citizens of this country that their elected leader cares for more than race-baiting, fear-mongering, special-interest groups.
10
I'm sure the man regrets invading Iraq in an incompetent way without the least thought for budgetting, letting New Orleans go down the drain, handing the wealthiest billions in tax breaks, and crashing the world's economy into a big ol' wall.
9
Here we go again. Obama had this office for 7 years ...
Our SS benefits are gone for the age coming up to retire,
but we hand out the benefits to illegal aliens...
because you know illegal immigrants haven't paid into the system so of course they should get our benefits.
Our SS benefits are gone for the age coming up to retire,
but we hand out the benefits to illegal aliens...
because you know illegal immigrants haven't paid into the system so of course they should get our benefits.
5
Two points.
1. Everyone talking about how the probability of ISIS attacks are very low should also acknowledge that the chance you are in a mass shooting, killed by the neighborhood watch while stealing candy, or killed by police selling cigarette singles is ridiculously low as well.
2. Why shouldn't blue collar whites hate Obama? He said they were bitter about life and cling to their guns and religion. Imagine if a similar statement was said about blacks?
1. Everyone talking about how the probability of ISIS attacks are very low should also acknowledge that the chance you are in a mass shooting, killed by the neighborhood watch while stealing candy, or killed by police selling cigarette singles is ridiculously low as well.
2. Why shouldn't blue collar whites hate Obama? He said they were bitter about life and cling to their guns and religion. Imagine if a similar statement was said about blacks?
13
More of the blame game from the president. The economy and world affairs are in horrendous shape. The poor and blue collar America are suffering. Obamacare is teetering. Terrorism is on the rise, and there is no plan. In short, government dysfunction, scandals and failures.
Meanwhile, the president has squeezed in something like 250 rounds of golf since taking office. Now its off to Hawaii for 2 weeks in the sun on our nickel! Is the Trump movement really that hard to understand?
Meanwhile, the president has squeezed in something like 250 rounds of golf since taking office. Now its off to Hawaii for 2 weeks in the sun on our nickel! Is the Trump movement really that hard to understand?
13
There can be no doubt that simple racism explains a lot of Obama hatred on the far right. However, the Democrats have abandoned rural and working class Americans with their support for illegal immigration, and abandoned young whites and Asians of all classes with affirmative action. And they insist on throwing away the votes of 100 million gun owners by blaming them for inner city murders and terrorism. There are not enough voting blacks, Hispanics and urban progressives to save the Democrats from their abandonment of most voters.
11
I up voted your comment though I think the racism charge isn't nearly what you've stated. Seems to me that media and many others, by refusing to admit racism goes both ways, and showcasing incidents of white to black racism has painted a false narrative.
Whites are every bit in their right to point this out without being charged as racists. This, IMO, has really added to the charge of "systemic" racism in America.
Whites are every bit in their right to point this out without being charged as racists. This, IMO, has really added to the charge of "systemic" racism in America.
1
Well, this is laughable. This president has made his living by exploiting working class fears, playing groups against each other, amping up the volume of race politics to the point where its the worst of my lifetime. He's quick to pronounce on any controversy without letting the facts come out first, while he's extremely hesitant to non-existent when it comes to serious current events where all the facts are known. For this president to criticize anyone for exploiting the fears and biases of any group is absurd.
19
The media really needs to stop buying into this idea that we have to learn the race and religion of the perpetrator of an act of violence before we decide to be afraid or not. Every act of senseless violence should be condemned and punished but we should have equal justice under the law. Trump is exploiting the feelings of fear and hatred against anyone viewed as ‘other’ but he’s definitely not alone. I’m glad that the President is speaking out against this. Those of us who agree with him also need to speak out more. This has always been an aspect of our country but we have to work to make sure that this influence continues to shrink. Don’t let the gains of the last few decades in fighting bigotry be lost.
4
1. Illegal aliens don't have "equal protection under the law". And, 2. There already is withholding of the race and religion if the perps are black or Islamic. This is so clear that many now know by such withholding that those are in fact the offenders. Please explain this to me?
The president believes he hasn't "explained" things well enough? This is a president who has floated so many narratives, it's hard to keep track of them all. A few more are not going to help.
As for Americans' fears and concerns, the president's response to them is patronizing.
As for Americans' fears and concerns, the president's response to them is patronizing.
14
President Obama is one of the most decent men to ever hold the office of the Presidency. His intelligence, thoughtfulness and executive abilities while under great pressure are marvels to behold. Heading in to his final year in office, he is finally addressing topics he had previously avoided. I have not heard his NPR interview, but he doesn't seem to be playing the race card here, and carefully circumscribes how come he feels some Republican, blue-collar men judge him so harshly.
Let me say that much of what underlies a good deal of the negative feelings about him in the Republican party are racist and paranoid beliefs, with a xenophobic element that is unmistakable. That some believe a man could be elected President, and for 7 years hide from political journalists that he is a Muslim who may have been born in Kenya, is simply absurd, and a bit nutty. Donald Trump has shown that he flirts on the edges of such beliefs, but has been wise enough to stop further talk of such matters in recent interviews.
The edges of both major U.S. political parties have paranoid elements within them. What is scary in this election is how much traction these views informed by such beliefs have gained. I can only hope that the length and depth of American political campaigns serve as some sort of national catharsis for the sick beliefs we harbor underneath our supposed rationality. I hope our next President is not elected on the backs of such beliefs.
14
I believe that Mr. Obama's most salient comment is, “I do think that there have been times on college campuses where I get concerned that the unwillingness to hear other points of view can be as unhealthy on the left as on the right.”
To me, this is the crux of what is wrong with our political debate today. We no longer take a deep breath, pause and consider any opinion other than the one we are currently married to. Many of us are as closed minded and myopic as the adversaries we condemn.
To me, this is the crux of what is wrong with our political debate today. We no longer take a deep breath, pause and consider any opinion other than the one we are currently married to. Many of us are as closed minded and myopic as the adversaries we condemn.
14
I will totally agree with your thinking just as soon as I get over that fact that the "Left" seems to always be shocked that there are other opinions....(grin)
Mr. Obama is right. The working class is scared of people like him who keep shipping factories and millions of jobs to other countries.
The problem is that the American workers can no longer be the consumer market for all those other countries. Minimum wage workers can only support a minimal economy.
What is wrong with using the US consumer market to support American factories and American workers and letting the Asian factories and workers be supported by the Asian consumer market?
The problem is that the American workers can no longer be the consumer market for all those other countries. Minimum wage workers can only support a minimal economy.
What is wrong with using the US consumer market to support American factories and American workers and letting the Asian factories and workers be supported by the Asian consumer market?
7
One word: Globalism
A generation or two ago, one could walk the halls of the U.S. Congress and talk to representatives, senators and staff, regardless of political party, and almost universally find someone who had a father, a mother, a brother, or a sister who toiled in a blue-collar occupation. They understood the struggles and the needs that blue-collar workers possessed, and those concerns were almost always considered, if not outright addressed, during policy deliberations. Today, sadly, that is no longer the case.
Congress, their staffs, and members of the media, show a lack of understanding of how blue-collar workers must struggle to survive on a day-to-day basis in America today. Someone who works in the skilled construction trades or some other blue-collar profession is oftentimes viewed by politicians and the media as a sad case. And what makes this almost comical (if it did not have such serious implications) is the fact that the vast majority of America's blue-collar workers support the politicians and political party that are killing their trade unions, eliminating their training , cancelling health insurance, pensions and keep their wages low. And yet they cringe and scream at President Obama.
As a nation, we are on a path that seemingly forgets that our society, and our economy, is critically dependent on the strength of those who build and maintain our infrastructure, and who go to work every day and build things with their hands.
Congress, their staffs, and members of the media, show a lack of understanding of how blue-collar workers must struggle to survive on a day-to-day basis in America today. Someone who works in the skilled construction trades or some other blue-collar profession is oftentimes viewed by politicians and the media as a sad case. And what makes this almost comical (if it did not have such serious implications) is the fact that the vast majority of America's blue-collar workers support the politicians and political party that are killing their trade unions, eliminating their training , cancelling health insurance, pensions and keep their wages low. And yet they cringe and scream at President Obama.
As a nation, we are on a path that seemingly forgets that our society, and our economy, is critically dependent on the strength of those who build and maintain our infrastructure, and who go to work every day and build things with their hands.
18
This is so true. Whenever I travel to India, I see that everyone, from politicians to the rich to the educated middle class, talk about helping the blue collar workers. They don't despise them or their culture. In the US, the sheer hatred and dislike of the educated and specially the political classes towards those that are not well off or work with their hands is so blatant.
1
Spot on...
1
The actual interview was, based on the transcribed sections, intelligent, articulate & thoughtful.
The question I have is whether these Trumpsters are really 'blue collar' or actual working class, Archie-Bunker style or otherwise.
If so it wouldn't be the first time the 'Blue Collar' got it completely wrong & backed a president & policies anathema to their own best interests.
To quote a commenter to the original NPR pieces: "Blue collar workers also supported fighting in Vietnam"
To which I'd add they also supported Jim Crow (among the southern white working class), the Iraq War, Dubbya, Palin (remember 'Joe Sixpack?), Trickledown/Supply-Side Reaganomics, and any number of positions that they unanimously mobbed to on the wrong side of history.
As much as I'd like to imagine some redeeming value to Americas white working class, they voted to invade Iraq, elected G.W. Botch, and generally espouse every possible racist, hawkish, uneducated backward position they can find.
America's white 'working class', which I live among is not generally an enlightened culture, and while I despise the bankster billionaire ethic & the corporatist polluter/greed ethic, America's blue-collar, white, obese Wallmart-working class is not the culture that could represent the best of what North America produced.
Maybe their disappearance isn't such a bad thing, at least they'll need to evolve or go back to family subsistence farming not this backward white working class.
The question I have is whether these Trumpsters are really 'blue collar' or actual working class, Archie-Bunker style or otherwise.
If so it wouldn't be the first time the 'Blue Collar' got it completely wrong & backed a president & policies anathema to their own best interests.
To quote a commenter to the original NPR pieces: "Blue collar workers also supported fighting in Vietnam"
To which I'd add they also supported Jim Crow (among the southern white working class), the Iraq War, Dubbya, Palin (remember 'Joe Sixpack?), Trickledown/Supply-Side Reaganomics, and any number of positions that they unanimously mobbed to on the wrong side of history.
As much as I'd like to imagine some redeeming value to Americas white working class, they voted to invade Iraq, elected G.W. Botch, and generally espouse every possible racist, hawkish, uneducated backward position they can find.
America's white 'working class', which I live among is not generally an enlightened culture, and while I despise the bankster billionaire ethic & the corporatist polluter/greed ethic, America's blue-collar, white, obese Wallmart-working class is not the culture that could represent the best of what North America produced.
Maybe their disappearance isn't such a bad thing, at least they'll need to evolve or go back to family subsistence farming not this backward white working class.
9
And there you have it....class distinction/warfare at it's finest.
Why is there an opening to the left of President Obama for Trump to exploit? Where is the famous relationship between Democrats and unions? Why are there no more unions to protect our blue collar middle class? Why did the Dems under Clinton sell us all down river by ending Glass Steagall? Why is Obama supporting the TPP, the latest shiv in the ribs of the American worker? Why does trade agreement after trade agreement cause that giant sucking sound of lost jobs? And what are the Dems going to do about it?
13
And the Republicans -- what are they going to do about it? They will continue to fight universal health care, raising the minimum wage, they will fail to support public schools, fail to rebuild our bridges and highways, fail to rein in the military-industrial complex, fail to support the most minimal gun control efforts.
3
.
The only thing democrats campaign on is hate and fear. They have no true plans to help Americans, so the stoke fear and hatred on all levels.
I was a democrat for 15 years but will never vote for another democrat since they have moved so far left they are out of touch with main-stream America.
.
The only thing democrats campaign on is hate and fear. They have no true plans to help Americans, so the stoke fear and hatred on all levels.
I was a democrat for 15 years but will never vote for another democrat since they have moved so far left they are out of touch with main-stream America.
.
17
And you think Donald Trump
caresabout you and your problems?
Where is the evidence of that?
caresabout you and your problems?
Where is the evidence of that?
4
So here we have a sitting president (if that's what you want to call him), attacking a candidate in an up coming election. Not only is this distasteful but unprecedented and nonresidential. Obama could learn a thing or tow from GW Bush. GW Bush never attacked Obama when Obama was running for office.
16
So weary of interpreting disagreement with policies as racism. I would have celebrated Obama's election as the first black president if I had found grounds upon which to support the direction he was taking in fundamentally changing America. Trumps comments about barring Muslims offends me as well, which means I'm anti-Trump or anti white because, God knows, I like Ben Carson far more than the Donald. Why not blame the person who has done more to divide Muslims and Christians or those of no faith? Despite constant references to Bush's call not to denigrate good Muslims, Bush said it in a way that did not vilify Christians, agnostics or atheists. His words comforted by speaking to all Americans, united in the pain, fear and anxiety of 9/11. No one felt threatened or demonized when Bush made the statement. Time and again, Obama has felt impelled to speak pejoratively about Christianity and other segments of America as if one group of Americans had to be put down in order to build up another. I don't believe good Muslims believe in that any more than good Christians or good non-believers of any faith do. I don't like Obama for too many reasons to enumerate--insufferable arrogance among them--and not one of them is the color of his skin.
19
A simple question: what PRECISELY did the President ever say that denigrates Christianity, which by the way happens to be his own faith?
7
Seems people who don't believe in a God seldom start wars.
3
One night while having dinner with republican friends I casually mentioned that I thought Obama is a great president. Almost immediately, the response I got back was, 'we hate Obama'. No mention of his policies, just the word , hate. Any idea where this hate is coming from ?
7
Obama was born in Kenya?
Yes, the way he has destroyed America, the way he has constantly lied to the American people and the press gave him a pass, his arrogance, his lack of leadership when it is needed so often today, his ineptness in the face of ISIS, etc... not enough time to keep going but unlike him and his typical comments, none of this has to do with the color of his skin.
8
Dear Progressive: "We hate Obama" is just shorthand for "We hate Obama's policies."
Hope that Helps
Hope that Helps
9
Its always helpful for readers in these interview summaries realize its not often the INTERVIEWEE, in this case the President, is volunteering the comments.
Typically, interviewers are looking for new, sensational responses to sensational QUESTIONS. In this case, it's probasbly not OBAMA playing the race card... its the guy doing the INTERVIEW playing it.... and fishing for something newsworthy.
Obama's not known for being a COMPLAINER... but he is honest enough to RESPOND to questions with his beliefs... WHEN ASKED FOR THEM.
Then the media turns the HEADLINE on its end, making it seem like the INTERVIEWEE is complaining.... when he's only just answering a sensational question!
Typically, interviewers are looking for new, sensational responses to sensational QUESTIONS. In this case, it's probasbly not OBAMA playing the race card... its the guy doing the INTERVIEW playing it.... and fishing for something newsworthy.
Obama's not known for being a COMPLAINER... but he is honest enough to RESPOND to questions with his beliefs... WHEN ASKED FOR THEM.
Then the media turns the HEADLINE on its end, making it seem like the INTERVIEWEE is complaining.... when he's only just answering a sensational question!
1
A politician exploiting voters? It's this kind of insight which has lead this president to his current 40%ish approval ratings.
8
48%. +10% more than Bush at this time of his presidency.
3
Dave got it right CG, sorry. And don't you think it's about time to let the whole Bush thing go? It's been 7 years, are you still fighting the 2000 election as well?
3
No maryhart, history will not forget George bush jr for what he did to the world.
2
The US citizen working class has fallen into the massive chasm between what is said and what is done by both the D & R establishment power holders. For virtually all intents and purposes, the federal government functions like an oligarchy thinly veiled as a democratic republic. That new spending bill that the President is about to sign is a huge slap into face to US blue collar citizens.
10
Congratulations, Obama, you just elevated Trump to presidential status by entering into this pointless feud. You've also demoted Hillary to junior status: the big boys will sort this one out, won't they?
Buddy, some of those Trump supporters hate you because you're half-black, but the majority dislike you because you keep importing the cheaper labor that takes their jobs, just like your predecessors going back fifty years. These people are not going to be re-trained as IT technicians, or brain surgeons, or political operatives. Their lives are over: telling them you understand their bitterness is cold comfort.
Buddy, some of those Trump supporters hate you because you're half-black, but the majority dislike you because you keep importing the cheaper labor that takes their jobs, just like your predecessors going back fifty years. These people are not going to be re-trained as IT technicians, or brain surgeons, or political operatives. Their lives are over: telling them you understand their bitterness is cold comfort.
16
So, Obama, who tries to use every tragedy in which children die to call for the adoption of his gun control agenda - not one point of which would have done anything to change the tragic events - isn't fear mongering?
Obama, who refuses to call terrorism by its name, in order to argue for the adoption of his gun control agenda, even though not one policy that he is advocating would have made a single bit of difference regarding the terrorist act?
Obama, who would rather punish 1,000 law-abiding people for the acts of one criminal, than pursue policies that would actually make a difference in punishing criminals who have actually committed crimes?
That Obama? The one who wants to make people in this country afraid of their neighbors, who have done nothing and likely never will? He isn't fear mongering?
Seriously?
Obama, who refuses to call terrorism by its name, in order to argue for the adoption of his gun control agenda, even though not one policy that he is advocating would have made a single bit of difference regarding the terrorist act?
Obama, who would rather punish 1,000 law-abiding people for the acts of one criminal, than pursue policies that would actually make a difference in punishing criminals who have actually committed crimes?
That Obama? The one who wants to make people in this country afraid of their neighbors, who have done nothing and likely never will? He isn't fear mongering?
Seriously?
16
Since 9/11, more than 400,000 Americans have been killed by firearms, while during the same period 50 Americans have been killed by Islamic terrorists. If you think the death of 400,000 Americans is so trivial that it doesn't require your attention, what does that say about fear of Islamic terrorists? Seriously?
10
Wow... Way to miss the point!
Fear mongering is what politicians do. Obama can't blame Trump for using the exact same tactic that Obama has employed every single chance he's gotten. It's called hypocrisy.
You may believe Obama was a hypocrite for noble purposes, trying to achieve noble ends. But, that doesn't make him any less a hypocrite, or Trump any less wrong for doing exactly the same thing...
...It just proves that they're both politicians, whether either of them or anybody else wants to admit or not.
Fear mongering is what politicians do. Obama can't blame Trump for using the exact same tactic that Obama has employed every single chance he's gotten. It's called hypocrisy.
You may believe Obama was a hypocrite for noble purposes, trying to achieve noble ends. But, that doesn't make him any less a hypocrite, or Trump any less wrong for doing exactly the same thing...
...It just proves that they're both politicians, whether either of them or anybody else wants to admit or not.
3
LOL, hardly. If you want to make an accurate comparison, then include the number of Americans killed by the Taliban, Al Qaeda, and other Islamic faith-based groups across Asia, Africa, and Europe. The value is closer to 7,000.
But to your point of 400,000 killed, what percentage of those were black-on-black homicides committed in "gun-free" zones in Chicago and most other large cities, and what does that say about your implied gun control meme? Seriously?
But to your point of 400,000 killed, what percentage of those were black-on-black homicides committed in "gun-free" zones in Chicago and most other large cities, and what does that say about your implied gun control meme? Seriously?
3
I am not sorry I voted for President Obama twice despite the fact that I have disagreed with him on several issues. For the most part, he has tried to do what he said he would do.
I understand Obama's haste in getting the ACA passed, but I think it was a mistake to push it through without some consensus from the Republicans. It seems the best laws are made when both parties have input. I realize that the Republicans had no interest is cooperating with the Democrats in creating a healthcare. So I blame them for the problems in the ACA as well.
I am a bit confused by people's consternation with Obama's foreign policy stance. I think it was a mistake to back rebels against Assad in Syria. But his actions are certainly not unprecedented. American presidents have been backing either rebels or dictators most of my life.
I am sorry that I must agree that part of the animosity towards Mr. Obama is motivated by racism. But like he says in the article:
'"That’s not to suggest that everybody who objects to my policies may not have perfectly good reasons for it,” the president added.'
All in all, I like this president. I like that he is not reactive, but calm. It is hard to fathom why people keep insisting he change his demeanor so that they can feel safe. That he is calm does make me feel safe....
I understand Obama's haste in getting the ACA passed, but I think it was a mistake to push it through without some consensus from the Republicans. It seems the best laws are made when both parties have input. I realize that the Republicans had no interest is cooperating with the Democrats in creating a healthcare. So I blame them for the problems in the ACA as well.
I am a bit confused by people's consternation with Obama's foreign policy stance. I think it was a mistake to back rebels against Assad in Syria. But his actions are certainly not unprecedented. American presidents have been backing either rebels or dictators most of my life.
I am sorry that I must agree that part of the animosity towards Mr. Obama is motivated by racism. But like he says in the article:
'"That’s not to suggest that everybody who objects to my policies may not have perfectly good reasons for it,” the president added.'
All in all, I like this president. I like that he is not reactive, but calm. It is hard to fathom why people keep insisting he change his demeanor so that they can feel safe. That he is calm does make me feel safe....
7
Before hopping on Air Force One for a two week vacation in Hawaii, Obama got one last dig in to the American working class/lower middle class, which he dislikes and disdains.
17
Somehow, you left out the stopover in San Bernardino to talk with the families and friends of 14 dead people, as well as local government and cops.
i wonder why that might be.
i wonder why that might be.
7
Would he rather have WALKED to Hawaii?
4
Just think about it.
Barack Obama is trying to blame HIS failure as President on someone who hasn't even won a primary yet.
Next week: Obama 100% sure his ISIS strategy failed because Bobby Jindal made him look bad in front of people from India.
Barack Obama is trying to blame HIS failure as President on someone who hasn't even won a primary yet.
Next week: Obama 100% sure his ISIS strategy failed because Bobby Jindal made him look bad in front of people from India.
17
People in India are very happy with mr Obama, thank you so much. They don't like Jindal on the other hand.
2
What opponent hasn't he labeled a Racist?
He has played this game from small time Chicago all the way to the Whitehouse.
I think it's a sad statement of where politicians on both sides have taken America that Trump stands out as a honest man of integrity, but I do like the fact both parties have reverential fear of him.
He has played this game from small time Chicago all the way to the Whitehouse.
I think it's a sad statement of where politicians on both sides have taken America that Trump stands out as a honest man of integrity, but I do like the fact both parties have reverential fear of him.
17
...as he and his fellow progressives systematically dismantle the middle class. Projection, thy name is Barry.
13
I voted for President Obama and have the highest regard for him.
However, I am truly perplexed by his refusal to empathize with the present fearfulness of many, many American citizens, regardless of their party affiliation.
This tone-deaf dismissal and blame casting does not make me feel more secure or confident that I am safe.
I know intellectually the odds about Isis.
But you cannot deny that with multi-victim gun episodes reported daily that perhaps a cumulative fear factor is now ever present, a state of cultural PTSD.
Instead of offering intellectual smack-downs to the opposition, he needs to take care of the state of the union in the minds of the people who support him.
It's not all in our heads; it's a very frightening world.
The Brits know that you have to say "Keep Calm & Carry On" and continually express that healing mantra from the top down.
Why doesn't President Obama?
However, I am truly perplexed by his refusal to empathize with the present fearfulness of many, many American citizens, regardless of their party affiliation.
This tone-deaf dismissal and blame casting does not make me feel more secure or confident that I am safe.
I know intellectually the odds about Isis.
But you cannot deny that with multi-victim gun episodes reported daily that perhaps a cumulative fear factor is now ever present, a state of cultural PTSD.
Instead of offering intellectual smack-downs to the opposition, he needs to take care of the state of the union in the minds of the people who support him.
It's not all in our heads; it's a very frightening world.
The Brits know that you have to say "Keep Calm & Carry On" and continually express that healing mantra from the top down.
Why doesn't President Obama?
9
This is a little off-topic, but I would like to send a shout-out to NPR's Steve Inskeep. Few in his field are his equal.
4
The working classes should be afraid. Their situation is deteriorating.
Now Trump can really lay into Mr. Obama if he wants to. Let's see who the working classes side with: the man who calls them racist for wanting a border, or the other one, who isn't calling them racists.
Now Trump can really lay into Mr. Obama if he wants to. Let's see who the working classes side with: the man who calls them racist for wanting a border, or the other one, who isn't calling them racists.
16
This is a President that millions of white males have help elect. His betrayal is far deeper than racial divide, or the fact that his premature Noble Peace Prize is tarnished and faded like the man behind the Dorian Gray Portrait. The fact of the matter is; we are more divided now than ever before but not for the reasons this great orator suggests. His reference as being a black man; the reason the white Republicans are creating in turmoil is quite disturbing because according to him the white side of him does not exist. This is indicative of many aspects to this president, living in an alternate reality.
The problems we face are so far beyond any admission of this President. Problems of neglect in areas of safety and economic devastation, juxtaposed to Mr. Trump's support...the disparaging "High School" graduates win in this case.
The problems we face are so far beyond any admission of this President. Problems of neglect in areas of safety and economic devastation, juxtaposed to Mr. Trump's support...the disparaging "High School" graduates win in this case.
13
Obama will go down as one of the greatest minds the oval office has ever seen.
He is practicality in a world of vitriol.
He is reason is a world of fecklessness.
He is humanity in a world of callousness.
He is as good as you can get and still get elected.
He is "The Man" in the best possible sense.
And we won't see another like him for a long time...
He is practicality in a world of vitriol.
He is reason is a world of fecklessness.
He is humanity in a world of callousness.
He is as good as you can get and still get elected.
He is "The Man" in the best possible sense.
And we won't see another like him for a long time...
19
Your last line is America's only political prayer.
3
I like everything you said in your last sentence and fully disagree with the previous 6!
2
"And we won't see another like him for a long time..."
Let's hope that's true, we can't afford another one like him!
Let's hope that's true, we can't afford another one like him!
9
How dare Trump exploit the middleclass angst? Does he not know that it is the prerogative of Democratic politicians to do so?
Trump, you are fired.
Trump, you are fired.
15
Trump blames white workers' woes on Mexicans. This is demagoguery and a lie. The wealth and income formerly enjoyed by the white middle class has gone not to Mexicans but to rich whites. It is not demagoguery to point this out. It is the truth.
5
Doug may not have anyone he likes but he sure knows he's supposed to hate the only people who might offer him a job. Hate-the-employers is no way to go through such an angry life.
5
Your argument is equivalent to saying those blue-collar jobs shipped overseas didn't matter. It is not the truth; it is ludicrous. That middle class income has gone to the upper middle class because of the race-to-the-bottom economics of neo-liberalism, of which Democrats have been all too enthusiastic to embrace.
First they came for the textile jobs, and I said nothing.,
Then they came for the manufacturing jobs, and I said nothing,
Then they gave all the software jobs, and I said nothing,
...
First they came for the textile jobs, and I said nothing.,
Then they came for the manufacturing jobs, and I said nothing,
Then they gave all the software jobs, and I said nothing,
...
6
You argument is with Bill Clinton and the chair-warmers in D.C. of BOTH parties who think that they own us. They all took one look at shipping our jobs overseas and started nodding their heads.
Just like having no borders works for both parties in D.C. So what if the workers despair?
Just like having no borders works for both parties in D.C. So what if the workers despair?
In two hours 100 commenters have recommended the NYT Pick from AmericanBelle54 in Providence, RI, which includes the following assertion about the economy: "Instead, he [Obama] and his administration have gone out of their way to pass legislation, mostly executive orders, to stop any economic growth whatsoever in this country."
Total Nonfarm Employment in the U.S. as published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
January 1993 (Clinton's 1st Inauguration) 109,805,000
January 2001 (G.W. Bush's 1st Inauguration) 132,696,000
January 2009 (Obama's 1st Inauguration) 133,977,000
November 2015 (most recent data) 142,900,000
Part of the epic mess Obama inherited as he took office was an economy in free fall that had gained just 1,281,000 jobs in 8 years of the G.W. Bush presidency. In less than seven years the net gain during the Obama Administration stands at 8.9 million jobs.
There is a lot to be unhappy about the economy, but material economic and jobs growth has resumed under Obama.
Total Nonfarm Employment in the U.S. as published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
January 1993 (Clinton's 1st Inauguration) 109,805,000
January 2001 (G.W. Bush's 1st Inauguration) 132,696,000
January 2009 (Obama's 1st Inauguration) 133,977,000
November 2015 (most recent data) 142,900,000
Part of the epic mess Obama inherited as he took office was an economy in free fall that had gained just 1,281,000 jobs in 8 years of the G.W. Bush presidency. In less than seven years the net gain during the Obama Administration stands at 8.9 million jobs.
There is a lot to be unhappy about the economy, but material economic and jobs growth has resumed under Obama.
13
Here's the employment data you CAN believe: 94 million people unemployed or underemployed.
The average american family has lost thousands of dollars of income under this inexperienced dreamer with a grudge against the U.S.
The average american family has lost thousands of dollars of income under this inexperienced dreamer with a grudge against the U.S.
10
Facts mean nothing to the adherents of the Big Lie.
7
One may believe whatever one likes, including that crackpot 92 million "number." After all, I had an imagnar friend when I was lttle.
Or, one may try facts.
http://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/empsit.pdf
Or, one may try facts.
http://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/empsit.pdf
2
How surprising: the leader of the birther movement is now the leader in the Republican primary. I never could have predicted this.
7
Tsk. This President has no clue as to the real reason for Trump's popularity. Obama is a sad excuse for a leader.. He cannot satisfactorily explain why the economy is anemic and why terrorism is flourishing. His efforts to address these problems have failed because he cannot lead. He is weak, boring, uninspiring, and has lost any credibility on the world stage. The fact that he is black has nothing to do with it. That is a sorry excuse for his unwillingness to accept responsibility.
15
Yes Obama-won , exploit the power of the dark side. Each time The President mentions Trump or Cruz, that probably helps to solidify their support making the Trump or Cruz nomination train wreak more likely.
It's not just Trump that is exploiting working class fears, it's all of Fox News and the right-wing media. The level of vitriol and anger is so high that I suspect it is at the root of the mysteriously rising high suicide rate among working class whites. They have been bombarded for the last seven years with negative and unrelenting rhetoric resulting in such comments as today's. (For example, "I've never been so disgusted with a sitting 'president' in my life. Obama behaves more like a petulant child than a leader. Thank GOD we have only one year of his failed 'presidency' remaining. It will take decades to repair the damage Obama and the democrats have done to this once great country.") Never mind that it was Republicans who blocked every law that might have helped the working class these last seven years.
I feel sorry for the hateful Trump constituency. They have not been able to experience even a shred of gratitude for the election of the first black man to the Presidency, a welcome and remarkable turning point in our history. They have not been allowed by right-wing media to celebrate any of his successes, which are many. They have bombarded Republicans with contempt for the President, their neighbors, and even their family members who share Democratic values, who are all good, responsible and patriotic people, too. Rupert Murdoch and right-wing radio -- not just Trump -- have created this hateful, joyless right-wing world where nothing good happens.
I feel sorry for the hateful Trump constituency. They have not been able to experience even a shred of gratitude for the election of the first black man to the Presidency, a welcome and remarkable turning point in our history. They have not been allowed by right-wing media to celebrate any of his successes, which are many. They have bombarded Republicans with contempt for the President, their neighbors, and even their family members who share Democratic values, who are all good, responsible and patriotic people, too. Rupert Murdoch and right-wing radio -- not just Trump -- have created this hateful, joyless right-wing world where nothing good happens.
6
Obama caused the working-class fears. It's not because of his race, but because of his economic, social, and national security policies and his failure to serve as the Chief executive of this great nation. Over the last seven years, Americans' wages are down. Few people have economic or job stability. Poverty has skyrocketed. Healthcare costs have increased since Obamacare. Our immigration system is broken and his solutions would only poor fire on the problems and the countless domestic issues they cause. Obama's added more to the national debt than the 43 presidents before him, combined. His divisive nature has fueled partisan gridlock in Washington, racial animosity across the nation (instead of healing), and perpetuated myths of systemic sexism in companies across America. His lack of leadership overseas has compounded the crisis in the Middle East. He makes deals with Iran and saves his attacks for Republicans who oppose him. Are you better off than you were seven years ago?
13
Yes, I am better off. I am better off because the economy did not tank. And it very well could have for a generation or two. I am better off because we are not torturing people. I am better off because we are not bringing people home in body bags . I am better off because we are not spending trillions on two wars when we don't have the money. I am better off because the Obama administration has addressed climate change and nuclear issues with Iran. Is that enough?
6
Jimmy Carter, was white as snow, (still is), and from the South, and got much the same criticism as Obama gets now. The economy, and the Middle East. It's all about him, as President, being a lightning rod for all the ills of the country. That's the job description for POTUS. If he wants praise for a job well done, he's picked the wrong employer.
The facts are, that older, working, white guys, got their butts kicked by the recession and have never recovered, AND, Obama never talks about it. He doesn't talk about it, because he doesn't care. Donald Trump, may not care, but at least he talks about it.
The facts are, that older, working, white guys, got their butts kicked by the recession and have never recovered, AND, Obama never talks about it. He doesn't talk about it, because he doesn't care. Donald Trump, may not care, but at least he talks about it.
14
For crying out loud, THIS INTERVIEW talks about it!
4
Once again the race card.
When Obama faced criticism of his Syria red line debacle, which we now learn from former Defense Sec Hagel was Obama's doing, the race card was played.
When Obama faced criticism over Obamacare, the website rollout debacle, the criticism wasn't because he lied, or that nothing he promised happened--it was because of skin color.
The Iran nuclear deal? Bergdahl swap? IRS scandal?
Isn't it interesting at every point when Obama faces the slight chance of being held accountable for things he did wrong (BY HIMSELF) and he can't blame Congress, he blames race?
Maybe I am confused. As a Black lawyer in Washington DC, who never had a question on a high school, college or law school exam regarding my skin color, as a man who chose to live my life on my abilities and not make excuses, I don't understand Obama because he just doesn't rise to a level of decency capable of it.
When Obama faced criticism of his Syria red line debacle, which we now learn from former Defense Sec Hagel was Obama's doing, the race card was played.
When Obama faced criticism over Obamacare, the website rollout debacle, the criticism wasn't because he lied, or that nothing he promised happened--it was because of skin color.
The Iran nuclear deal? Bergdahl swap? IRS scandal?
Isn't it interesting at every point when Obama faces the slight chance of being held accountable for things he did wrong (BY HIMSELF) and he can't blame Congress, he blames race?
Maybe I am confused. As a Black lawyer in Washington DC, who never had a question on a high school, college or law school exam regarding my skin color, as a man who chose to live my life on my abilities and not make excuses, I don't understand Obama because he just doesn't rise to a level of decency capable of it.
31
It's amazing that somebody who insists on being "a black lawyer," in every single blessed post has the gall to scream about "playing the race card."
4
Just wondering, Mr. DCBarrister, are you Clarence Thomas? I've never heard Mr. Obama play, as you so impolitely put it, "the race card." As a "white" American, over the years of Mr. Obama's presidency, I've come the conclusion that his republican "friends" in Congress don't want help him pass necessary legislation because they don't want to this "upitty African-American community organizer President" to be successful. Just look at their mindless attempts to repel the ACA. I think you need to re-think your position on this issue, DCBarrister. Oh, and I'm a Philadelphia lawyer, you know, one who's skilled in the fine details of the law.
6
Dear DCbarrister, let me preface this by saying that I usually take note of your posts. I gather three things. You, like me, are black and you are a barrister and you seriously dislike the president. I get it. You are not a fan of the man that's for sure. what the president said is that a lot of what trump is playing on is the fears of the white working class, yes they have seen their fortunes shrink since the 60s and 70s, a lot of it because of the globalization put in place by previous administrations of both stripes. Most of them see economic opportunity as a zero sum game, the of the pie the "others" get, the less there is for them. It is natural to blame the brown and black people for their misfortune.
You say you made it in life as a result of your abilities alone, fine. Although I believe that there are many people before you whose struggles as black men paved they way for your success, I will not argue with you on that point. Congratulations. What I find difficult to swallow is that you disagree that some of the animus directed at the president is related to his race and simply who he is. Given the history of this country I don't think any reasonable person can argue that . If you can then I congratulate you and Clarence Thomas for being the only two black men in America who think racism in a vestige of the past. Either way best of luck brother. The struggle does continue. signed a black physician who made it by standing on the shoulders of my forefathers
You say you made it in life as a result of your abilities alone, fine. Although I believe that there are many people before you whose struggles as black men paved they way for your success, I will not argue with you on that point. Congratulations. What I find difficult to swallow is that you disagree that some of the animus directed at the president is related to his race and simply who he is. Given the history of this country I don't think any reasonable person can argue that . If you can then I congratulate you and Clarence Thomas for being the only two black men in America who think racism in a vestige of the past. Either way best of luck brother. The struggle does continue. signed a black physician who made it by standing on the shoulders of my forefathers
2
True, but this blue collar comment and its awkward juxtaposition with the racial one will be fodder for a shrewd opportunist like Donald Trump and help solidify a populist message on his way to the nomination.
Obama is simultaneously commiserating with and criticizing an already strained demographic, Mr. Trump will paint him, and conversely Clinton, as Ivy League educated elitists, both arrogant and out of touch. This will only make his poll numbers go up I'm afraid. Something had to be said but the interview called for a more measured response from our President.
Obama is simultaneously commiserating with and criticizing an already strained demographic, Mr. Trump will paint him, and conversely Clinton, as Ivy League educated elitists, both arrogant and out of touch. This will only make his poll numbers go up I'm afraid. Something had to be said but the interview called for a more measured response from our President.
5
Probably not, as The Don is a Wharton grad, an Ivy school, and he never lets us forget it.
2
This is simply more of what this president has been about since he came into office. Make excuses, and blame everyone else for his failures. He's failed to help the poor and the blue collar middle class. The economy is struggling. The world is a mess and we're not supposed to be worried? Meamwhile, he's played something like 300 rounds of golf since taking office. Guess it's off to Hawaai for 2 weeks for a well deserved vacation!
15
Right. And Bush never played golf or took a vacation. If you're going to insult the President, at least be rational about it.
I believe that all of this talk of "fear" is a bunch of hooey. If this was really about fear, why wouldn't we be afraid of the fact that there are almost 3000 gun deaths in our country every month, instead of a total of 45 deaths from Muslim extremists in the 15+ years SINCE 9/11/01? The rise of Trump is about racism and misogyny, pure and simple. It has tapped into white resentment of the loss of their unquestioned dominance, entitlement and hegemony in this country. It is about the gradual fall of white power and the gradual fall of patriarchy as women and sexual minorities begin to assume places of power. If you listen to Trump carefully and look at his base, this is what stands out. In short, his message is "Make America Hate Again." It is regressive and appeals to peoples' ignorance and desire for racial superiority.
21
Nobody - white, black, Hispanic, women or men - in the middle class is assuming places of power. If you think Trump is only tapping into white male resentment instead of the entire realm of middle class resentment, you're missing the big picture.
7
You know those 3000 gun deaths were mostly black and Hispanic gangs shooting it out mad max style in gun free urban zones like: LA, Chicago & NT right? Most are sadly black on black crimes. But I suspect you don't care about them.
8
What makes you imagine I don't care about the people of color that are killed by gun violence? Nothing could be further from the truth. Gun violence cannot be contained by states or cities passing gun laws. This is a continent, and there are not border checks. It is a simple matter to bring guns from state to state from city to city. Sadly, the fact that you are so quick to say that many gun deaths are people of color inflicting it on one anther makes me think that somehow you believe that therefore we don't need gun control. Your comment is a complete non sequitur.
If President Obama was a better president, then Donald Trump would not be having the success he's having.
18
Do they all lose touch with regular people as the years go on and they only meet with wealthy people who pull the strings in this country?
2
In all fairness to a balanced news story.... shouldn't the writer have include one of Obama's latest quotes... Other papers picked it up.
"I didn't realize how nervous people were about terrorism because I don't watch enough television"
http://money.cnn.com/2015/12/18/media/president-obama-off-record-meeting...
"I didn't realize how nervous people were about terrorism because I don't watch enough television"
http://money.cnn.com/2015/12/18/media/president-obama-off-record-meeting...
9
Obama's tired refrain that if you don't like him, it's probably because of his race (he is half-white after all). Reminds me of Aesop's fable, "The Boy Who Cried Wolf." (I'm probably going to be considered racist by some for somehow linking Obama's name with the word "boy.) The moral is that nobody believes a liar even when they are telling the truth.
12
I just read that a few commentaries feel that the president has lost the white working class to Trump and his slimy ilk, The "white working class", do people believe blacks or any other color doesn't work? or you think Mr. Obama is targeting the "whites" because he's oh...black? what failures? you mean the failure of getting health insurance without conditions to millions of white working class folks? or the failure of getting the Detroit auto biz back in the game? or the failure of supporting a higher minimum wage? or the failure of having peoples home values come back along with their retirement accounts? oh wait, those weren't failures, oh wait, they benefitted the white working class...along with everybody else, gee my mistake.
1
Trans Pacific Partnership
7
CNN reported that one goal of TPP is to neutralize China's power in global trading and make American companies more competitive.[citation needed] In May 2013, China showed an interest in joining TPP and may see it as an opportunity for its slowing economy.[61]
According to the New York Times, "the clearest winners of the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement would be American agriculture, along with technology and pharmaceutical companies, insurers and many large manufacturers" who could expand exports to the other nations that have signed the treaty
According to the New York Times, "the clearest winners of the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement would be American agriculture, along with technology and pharmaceutical companies, insurers and many large manufacturers" who could expand exports to the other nations that have signed the treaty
Everybody makes them. You are forgiven.
Ahhh yes... The old 'Bitter clingers' argument. Obama was as wrong then as he is now. As the old saying goes; you sow the wind you reap the whirlwind.
Mr. Obama has spent his entire presidency claiming he has powers that are not outlined in the constitution. He has mocked and derided his opponents and claimed himself capable of making the seas recede and cure our race relation problems...
Is it any surprise someone has embraced and extended his fantasy view of the presidency? Trump's message has found fertile ground because Obama, democrats, and a complicit media have spent the last several years preparing that ground.
Mr. Obama has spent his entire presidency claiming he has powers that are not outlined in the constitution. He has mocked and derided his opponents and claimed himself capable of making the seas recede and cure our race relation problems...
Is it any surprise someone has embraced and extended his fantasy view of the presidency? Trump's message has found fertile ground because Obama, democrats, and a complicit media have spent the last several years preparing that ground.
14
At least he didn't claim that kidnapping, holding people without representation or trial, and torture were allowed by the Constitution, which is more than the previous occupant of the office can say.
1
Obama invented the "we can't wait" clause of the constitution, which allows him to violate it if he doesn't get his way.
5
True, rather he extrajudicially assassinates people (including American citizens) by drone bombs and claims he's within the bounds of the constitution. Torture or killing, they're both illegal here and Obama is no more right than Bush was.
3
Both Republican and Democratic politicians have abandoned working class people over the past several decades. Bad free trade deals, deregulation of the banks, and other damaging policies have been bipartisan. It's no wonder that many in the working class find The Donald's demagoguery attractive.
15
That's it. That's all you have to know.
5
There is no question that, particularly in his first term, there was a whiff of racism in Obama's treatment by Republicans who seemed to want the first black president to fail, no matter the cost middle class America, for not only did Obama have to deal with the racists, he also inherited the worst financial meltdown since the Great Depression and has largely brought us out of it intact. I remember at the depths of the Great Recession the Republicans wouldn't even approve badly needed infrastructure projects when the middle class badly needed the jobs. Obama actually has accomplished a lot, and In spite of his flawed policy on Syria, which we should remember reflected the very widespread desire of the American people after Iraq to stay out of wars, I think history will treat him kindly.
1
Do you remember the trillion he spent on the shovel ready projects in 2009 ? Me either
4
Like so many Americans, after Paris and San Bernardino, I've followed events with more attention than usual. I've also listened to the republican clowns and their disgusting posturing. I've listened when they talk about how scared and afraid Americans are over these apparently Daesh inspired attacks. Well, I'm an American citizen, and I am not afraid. I've come to the realization that the "American public" the republican clowns are saying are "afraid," are only the ones who've bought into the republican fear mongering. In Philadelphia, where I live, I've not seen people curtail their holiday shopping and enjoyment. My wife and I were in Manhattan after the Paris attacks, and we didn't see any one who was too scared or afraid to go out and walk the streets of a place that has been a target of terrorists. And what of the terrorists themselves. If you listen to Trump et al., and God, I hope you don't, "the Muslims are responsible for the all the terror attacks in America." I'm sure someone out there will correct me if I'm wrong, but other than 9/11 and San Bernardino, what other acts of terrorism have been committed by Muslims in American? All the terrorist acts in this country, from Oklahoma City to Colorado Springs, have been committed by Americans who profess to be Christians. Come on people, let's get real. We are our are own worst enemy. As President Franklin D. Roosevelt said, "We have nothing to fear but fear itself." That was as true after Pearl Harbor as it is today.
5
The Boston Marathon bombing affected me personally. The Tsarnaevs were Muslim immigrants. I am not a big fan of all this kumbayah tolerance of intolerant immigrants, but really, Europe has a much worse problem with Muslim immigration than we do, and I'd like to keep it that way, thank you.
4
Blue state, news flash. Muslims are humans too, they also have salty tears and red blood in their veins, they also have joy and sorrow, like everybody else they wish for happiness to all.
2
Davis: "Mr. Obama has struggled to appeal to white voters who do not have a college education...Republicans perform particularly well among that group,"
This is the group, "white voters who do not have a college education," that is most in need of representation by a labor union. But guess who opposes labor unions and the rights of workers to bargain collectively for wages and benefits? The Republicans and those they appoint to the Supreme Court. Talk about voters voting against their own best interest!
This is the group, "white voters who do not have a college education," that is most in need of representation by a labor union. But guess who opposes labor unions and the rights of workers to bargain collectively for wages and benefits? The Republicans and those they appoint to the Supreme Court. Talk about voters voting against their own best interest!
8
It is a national disgrace that our President should have to defend himself from ad hominem attacks designed to pander to racists. It is one thing to discuss the practicality of a no fly zone in Syria or of of organizing Sunni Muslim forces against ISIS with Mr. Assad still in power. It is quite another to imply that the President is part of a Muslim conspiracy to undermine our country. Mr. Trump is short of policy and long on personal attack. Jeb Bush said, "Someone has to take him on." I couldn't agree more, but that "someone" should be all of us.
7
Read his comments regarding the Islamic faith. When read together it is shocking the way he panders to the worlds least tolerant ideology
1
"Feel free to disagree with somebody, but just don't try to shut them up", said the man who sicced the IRS on the Tea Party members.
16
Anybody apposed to the exportation of our jobs and flooding the domestic labor market offshore labor is labeled a racist by those who seek financial gain by cheaper labor. These people really don't care about racism they just use the race card for personal financial gain only
11
At the end of the day, this really all comes down to one thing: Race. America elected a Black president in a free and fair election. Twice. And much of the Republican Party simply refuses to accept this. That's why they accuse him of rigging elections, setting up Islamic caliphates, being a communist/socialist agent, sympathizing with terrorists, etc. The world is moving forward and Republicans and their supporters are being left behind.
There are plenty of legitimate criticisms to be made against the Obama administration (his coziness with the Big Banks, his inability to close down Guantanamo Bay, his capitulation to Republican demands time and time again), but if you don't believe that most of the Obama-bashing from the Right is racially-motivated by now -- especially after the dawn of Birtherism -- you're either lying or you've got your head buried so deep in the sand that it's in China by now.
There are plenty of legitimate criticisms to be made against the Obama administration (his coziness with the Big Banks, his inability to close down Guantanamo Bay, his capitulation to Republican demands time and time again), but if you don't believe that most of the Obama-bashing from the Right is racially-motivated by now -- especially after the dawn of Birtherism -- you're either lying or you've got your head buried so deep in the sand that it's in China by now.
11
It's policy based, not race based.
4
To accuse such a large percentage of the population of racism is incredibly ignorant, especially considering Obama's approval rating has hovered near 40% for quite some time. Is it racist to disapprove of Obama's handling of important topics like terrorism, foreign affairs, law enforcement, drones, and the military? Maybe it's easier for you to attribute the widespread disapproval to racism than it is to admit that Obama hasn't been all you had hoped he would be.
4
It's going to take a big honest loud mouth like Trump to fix the Politically Correct phonies in both parties. We don't live in the age of the industrial revolution, we don't need millions of "immigrants", jobs are disappearing due to free trade - off-shored or automated while wages and benefits decline. The US spending all goes to support extreme profits for the elite and corporations. This injustice must end.
11
And we let extremists in without looking at their facebook pages.
2
For 7 years I have been listening to Obama trumping up fears about how the 1% class are exploiting the 99% class. For anyone who understands economics and power, it is Obama who has been exploiting the 99% class while scape goating the 1% class. What part of the economy has been sucking up huge amounts of extra-resources, greatly increasing their pay and benefits? The Federal Government!
Does Obamacare apply to Federal Employees? No, because they are the new Upper Middle Class! Oh, more paid leave? No problem. Oh, large pay raises? No problem. Oh, more paid vacation time? No problem. Oh, larger pensions, with less years of service? No problem. Like every con man in the world, Obama deflects his real intent by railing about other people. Yep, it is called Obama the RailRoader!
Does Obamacare apply to Federal Employees? No, because they are the new Upper Middle Class! Oh, more paid leave? No problem. Oh, large pay raises? No problem. Oh, more paid vacation time? No problem. Oh, larger pensions, with less years of service? No problem. Like every con man in the world, Obama deflects his real intent by railing about other people. Yep, it is called Obama the RailRoader!
13
As shocking as many of these reader comments are, I still believe we were much further apart as a nation in the late 1960s. But good luck to whoever becomes President in 2017.
3
I'm not shocked in the least. We have two major parties which alternatively fleece the people they represent. Whether it be funding the military industrial complex, or social giveaways. And on top of that, they have two sides of MSM spinning every issue (mostly very slightly) to make the divide deeper and wider between their constituents. The result is what we all see in varying degrees; a divided & conquered citizenry. This is the political reality of today.
That said, is it any wonder we can't reign in Congress or any current administration? Only when we realize all this didn't happen by chance will we have a chance to get back to positive and productive communication and action. Until then, unfortunately, we'll never get past entrenched, manipulated views and/or name-calling.
So, not surprising, just really really discouraging.
That said, is it any wonder we can't reign in Congress or any current administration? Only when we realize all this didn't happen by chance will we have a chance to get back to positive and productive communication and action. Until then, unfortunately, we'll never get past entrenched, manipulated views and/or name-calling.
So, not surprising, just really really discouraging.
I have carefully read all the negative comments and concluded that nothing said within those comments had any factual basis to them. No facts at all. So thank you Mr. President for the grace and the wisdom. The truth is so evident here that you have had to stand up for us in the worst conditions possible. Thank you too for bringing forth the truth. I respect and admire you and so hope your daughters will be able to someday live it. I believe my grandchildren will be served greatly by what you have given us.
7
People of several ethnicities are Islamic. Islamic, Muslim, is not a race. The working class should fear big government. Big government sets the table for the rich and drops the crumbs for the poor. The middle class standard of living goes down as government grows.
5
Jesus, who hires these people to inundate comment sections? Excuse me for wearing a tinfoil hat, but a forestry service for weeds and Democrats are devisive despite the most popular Republican contender? Or is America really as bad and ignorant as this, and somehow a bunch of uneducated and mostly older people have the ability to type such nonsense with no grammatical mistakes??
5
Nice job Mr. President. Way to deflect the problems you created onto an individual that has never held public office. You Mr. President are the problem, not Donald Trump, and your use of the race card is desperate and pathetic. People do not hate you because you are black, they despise you because you are the worst president in American history. No other president in history has done more to destroy the middle-class in this country, which is saying a lot when you consider Jimmy Carter was also president.
14
Anyone who calls Barack Obana the worst President in history is a tired old cliche. They said it the day he took office, and their mind has been totally fixed against him. They have no knowledge of history and no perspective, and apparently think that Dick Cheney (who really ran the country) was better, or that Sarah Palin would have been better. There's no changing their minds, but at least they're not the majority.
6
You have Hillary Clinton saying that Isis is using Trump in their recruiting videos, now you have Barack Obama saying Trump is exploiting the fears of the working class. The problem is many people will believe the accusations coming from our so called leaders about Trump with no proof at all. Hillary Clinton could come out and say tomorrow that Trump is the leader of Isis and many Americans would believe her. So as usual the Democrats blame everything on the GOP and in particular Donald Trump when they have to take a level of culpability as well.
4
The end result of Obama's time in office is failure. Worse race relations, Lower wages and benefits, fewer good paying jobs, more illegals and Visa workers, Failed Arab Spring, fixated on Assad and Putin while ignoring ISIS. New Cold War and 10 trillion more in debt, for the benefit of Wall Street, Corporations and elite. Broken, uncontrolled, and unaccountable government. He was the same as Bush, he worked for the Elite New World Order.
10
Exactly. My only real question is how long will it take before enough people realize what's happened to make a difference?
1
A master of Identity politics complaining about someone else playing Identity politics.
11
Heck, isn't the idea of a no fly zone to protect rebel groups opposed to Assad who are being bombed by Assad's forces and by Russian planes?
For the President to say that we don't need a no fly zone for the reason that it would fail to damage the Islamic State because ISIS doesn't have an air force, is incredibly and deliberately misleading.
My guess is that the President chose this moment to attack Mr. Trump because the Democrats want to keep Mr. Trump in the headlines.
For the President to say that we don't need a no fly zone for the reason that it would fail to damage the Islamic State because ISIS doesn't have an air force, is incredibly and deliberately misleading.
My guess is that the President chose this moment to attack Mr. Trump because the Democrats want to keep Mr. Trump in the headlines.
2
Obama should address the legitimacy of these "blue collar fears", like Bernie Sanders, instead of cursing the demagogues around him.
4
Obama once again mis reads the message from the American people about both Trump and his failure to address terrorism and illegal immigration. Trump is not only supported by the middle class male, he's blowing away the entire field of 10-15 candidates on the Republican side. His support is very broad based and will carry on well in the general election. Obama's failure to recognize Americans are not afraid of ISIS conquering the U.S., that's ridiculous. We just want 100% protection against being subjected to attacks. While he continues to open our borders and allow a flood of unvetted potential terrorists in. Race has nothing to do with his failures. If you are not getting ahead in America today, it's not because of your race, it's because of your actions and behavior.
9
Obama seems to be the one always bringing up race. I don't think he's ever found true peace within and so projects all the time. He's shown himself to be worse than incompetent. He's shown himself to be a shill for the globalists. If he really cared about this country we'd see many different approaches. And we wouldn't be facing fears about Isil.
4
Plenty is wrong with Obama but his race is not the problem. His actions regarding the economy, immigration and foreign policy belie his explanations. Obama is simply incompetent and in over his head. In short, a failure.
12
Here's an open question to Trump supporters. Exactly what specific programs has he offered to working-class men that address their problems?
7
Here's a question to Democrats (I am one):
What have Democrats fought for over the last two generations for working-class men?
When you examine you paltry list, padded so you at least have something to say, you might have a better idea of why something like Trump and an extremist, bigoted GOP can happen.
It wasn't the GOP all by itself building this country on the verge of becoming a septic tank.
What have Democrats fought for over the last two generations for working-class men?
When you examine you paltry list, padded so you at least have something to say, you might have a better idea of why something like Trump and an extremist, bigoted GOP can happen.
It wasn't the GOP all by itself building this country on the verge of becoming a septic tank.
8
Take jobs back from China and Mexicans. That appeals to working class Americans.
3
Frankly, I'm not looking at "specific programs" at this point. And the reason is that I don't believe big government has the answer for America's problems.
As much as I admire President Obama, I believe these remarks would have been better left unsaid. Sometimes thoughts percolate so consistently in one's mind that you can't help giving voice to them, but in this case those thoughts should have been left unspoken. I live in Alabama and daily witness the validity of what the President said but again...saying them serves no good.
1
Trump is the candidate of the hypnotized.
Groping for answers which are often too complex to fathom, they follow a pied piper who gives simple comments on complex topics. Like any good salesman he knows KISS - Keep it simple stupid.
He does simple real well!
Here is the 100% guarantee - if somehow he were to become president in one of the greatest mistakes in history (and in calculating that remote possibility one has to factor in all the bizarre, off-putting things he'll say in the coming months) I guarantee the nation will choke on his pitiful, ineffective leadership, his crass divisiveness and his inability to come up with one cogent thought which stands up to analysis by experts.
His simple will meet complex reality.
But why wait for that tragic outcome?
Believe the idiocy, the third grade generalities and nastiness you see right now!
Time to wake up.
Groping for answers which are often too complex to fathom, they follow a pied piper who gives simple comments on complex topics. Like any good salesman he knows KISS - Keep it simple stupid.
He does simple real well!
Here is the 100% guarantee - if somehow he were to become president in one of the greatest mistakes in history (and in calculating that remote possibility one has to factor in all the bizarre, off-putting things he'll say in the coming months) I guarantee the nation will choke on his pitiful, ineffective leadership, his crass divisiveness and his inability to come up with one cogent thought which stands up to analysis by experts.
His simple will meet complex reality.
But why wait for that tragic outcome?
Believe the idiocy, the third grade generalities and nastiness you see right now!
Time to wake up.
8
I guess the working class don't cling to their god and guns, then?
4
Obama calls people out and denigrates them by name, whether it's a Supreme Court justice, a Senator, a Congressman, etc., and yet when someone puts him down, he's so thin-skinned he can't take it in return.
We're at 7 years of his presidency ... if you don't count the things that the Obama admin has fudged the numbers on, he has only made the country worse in all that time. Wages are down. More blacks are in poverty. A greater percentage of the workforce has quit looking for work than has happened since the Carter administration. Democratically-controlled cities are cratering. We're accepting hordes of economic migrants from failed Leftist countries to our south. He has ruined this country. Black or white he's ruined it.
We're at 7 years of his presidency ... if you don't count the things that the Obama admin has fudged the numbers on, he has only made the country worse in all that time. Wages are down. More blacks are in poverty. A greater percentage of the workforce has quit looking for work than has happened since the Carter administration. Democratically-controlled cities are cratering. We're accepting hordes of economic migrants from failed Leftist countries to our south. He has ruined this country. Black or white he's ruined it.
5
Quote :"Mr. Obama also argued that some of the scorn directed at him personally stems from the fact that he is the first African-American to hold the White House."
I have no problem with Black presidents just those black or white that espouse liberal and islamic causes ....Dr Ben Carson is at the top of my list on the republican side
I have no problem with Black presidents just those black or white that espouse liberal and islamic causes ....Dr Ben Carson is at the top of my list on the republican side
4
Does anyone else suspect that the post-ware era of 'jobs, jobs, jobs' is just over?
There's clearly such a grotesque amount of money to be made in this country, but if that's your goal, perhaps this idea of getting to go to work in a business someone else built & runs, and getting to come home at night & leave it all behind, living a comfortable family life in the suburbs on a single salary, retiring with benefits & a pension, etc was the aberration, not the rule?
Seems to me the free market, which Trumpsters idolize, and the working class are completely at odds with each other. Labor is available cheaper, under far more abusive conditions.
Excommunicating all immigrants, or barriers to trade from abusive low-wage, production is never going to happen in a 'working class' that spends all its money at Walmart on cheap overseas products & has Mexicans do all it's dirty work.
If the 'working class' wants to sustain American production, then they would need to buy American. You can support your local farmers, local artisans making beautiful things from sustainable materials for a fair, reasonable price, etc, but that's a boutique indulgence.
If workers wanted to support Made in America, they can buy Levis made domestically instead of those made in sweat shops, they just cost twice as much.
Maybe all workers need to be entrepreneurs, contract out their labor to the highest bidder, not depend on the myth of a sustainable job in postwar American factory production.
There's clearly such a grotesque amount of money to be made in this country, but if that's your goal, perhaps this idea of getting to go to work in a business someone else built & runs, and getting to come home at night & leave it all behind, living a comfortable family life in the suburbs on a single salary, retiring with benefits & a pension, etc was the aberration, not the rule?
Seems to me the free market, which Trumpsters idolize, and the working class are completely at odds with each other. Labor is available cheaper, under far more abusive conditions.
Excommunicating all immigrants, or barriers to trade from abusive low-wage, production is never going to happen in a 'working class' that spends all its money at Walmart on cheap overseas products & has Mexicans do all it's dirty work.
If the 'working class' wants to sustain American production, then they would need to buy American. You can support your local farmers, local artisans making beautiful things from sustainable materials for a fair, reasonable price, etc, but that's a boutique indulgence.
If workers wanted to support Made in America, they can buy Levis made domestically instead of those made in sweat shops, they just cost twice as much.
Maybe all workers need to be entrepreneurs, contract out their labor to the highest bidder, not depend on the myth of a sustainable job in postwar American factory production.
1
Trump is still ticked off at Obama about the White House Press dinner a couple of years ago when Obama made fun of Trump with some funny lines. I bet Trump decided then that he would belittle Obama at every opportunity. I don't think Trump's ego allows for such treatment to go unanswered in some way.
4
Does anyone else suspect that the postwar era of 'jobs, jobs, jobs' is just over?
There's clearly such a grotesque amount of money to be made in this country, but if that's your goal, perhaps this idea of getting to go to work in a business someone else built & runs, and getting to come home at night & leave it all behind, living a comfortable family life in the suburbs on a single salary, retiring with benefits & a pension, etc was the aberration, not the rule?
Seems to me the free market, which Trumpsters idolize, and the working class are completely at odds with each other. Labor is available cheaper, under far more abusive conditions.
Excommunicating all immigrants, or barriers to trade from abusive low-wage, production is never going to happen in a 'working class' that spends all its money at Walmart on cheap overseas products & has Mexicans do all it's dirty work.
If the 'working class' wants to sustain American production, then they would need to buy American. You can support your local farmers, local artisans making beautiful things from sustainable materials for a fair, reasonable price, etc, but that's a boutique indulgence.
If workers wanted to support Made in America, they can buy Levis made domestically instead of those made in sweat shops, they just cost twice as much.
Maybe all workers need to be entrepreneurs, contract out their labor to the highest bidder, not depend on the myth of a sustainable job in postwar American factory production.
There's clearly such a grotesque amount of money to be made in this country, but if that's your goal, perhaps this idea of getting to go to work in a business someone else built & runs, and getting to come home at night & leave it all behind, living a comfortable family life in the suburbs on a single salary, retiring with benefits & a pension, etc was the aberration, not the rule?
Seems to me the free market, which Trumpsters idolize, and the working class are completely at odds with each other. Labor is available cheaper, under far more abusive conditions.
Excommunicating all immigrants, or barriers to trade from abusive low-wage, production is never going to happen in a 'working class' that spends all its money at Walmart on cheap overseas products & has Mexicans do all it's dirty work.
If the 'working class' wants to sustain American production, then they would need to buy American. You can support your local farmers, local artisans making beautiful things from sustainable materials for a fair, reasonable price, etc, but that's a boutique indulgence.
If workers wanted to support Made in America, they can buy Levis made domestically instead of those made in sweat shops, they just cost twice as much.
Maybe all workers need to be entrepreneurs, contract out their labor to the highest bidder, not depend on the myth of a sustainable job in postwar American factory production.
2
To be sure, there are probably some people who oppose Obama for his racism. But more oppose his ultra-far leftist academic ignorant, yet arrogant positions and actions. He is leading an attempt by the formerly USSR-funded 1960s radical groups to "integrate" this country with rest of world, by tearing us down, rather than building them up. This is because leftists are, for the most part, incapable of handling anything more complicated than their own members. Too stupid to lead, yet too arrogant and conceited to be allowed to lead.
5
"...ultra-far leftist academic ignorant, yet arrogant positions and actions"
Got any examples of that?
Got any examples of that?
4
Sorry, folks, but if you'd like to be seen as an intelligent person who thinks for themselves and tries to make their arguments based on facts--well, you're gonna need to spell most of the words right, put together competent sentences, stop howling out the same old lines from Rush, and say at least a thing or two that's true.
Back when I was a kid, I swear working people had a little more pride in themselves than this.
Back when I was a kid, I swear working people had a little more pride in themselves than this.
7
Thank you, NYT, for accepting enough ignorant, racist comments from embittered know-nothings to prove Mr. Obama's point — and that put forth today by Paul Krugman.
12
Mr. Whatever You Were Elected to Be, you are on vacation. Leave us alone so we can celebrate the holidays. That is why we pay for you to be away this time of year.
5
Winston Churchill once said "The world is run by tired men".
No one is more well rested than Barack Obama.
No one is more well rested than Barack Obama.
5
Since Obama was elected, the stated Republican priority has been to "Make his presidency fail". They block him at every turn, even if he proposes an idea they came up with, even if it means shutting down the government, or dragging the economy back to Bush's meltdown. Obama is stating the obvious on all points: from Larmar shouting 'You lie! at a sitting president, to Republicans lathering up fear over 1 home-made terrorist attack while claiming we have nothing to fear from the rampant daily mass shootings (400,000 dead) that they and the NRA enable, global warming, poor health care, or any of the other real dangers we face.
6
The fact that Obama performed very well to the expectation of most people in this country. His abilities were outstanding to see things, presenting it to the public and fixing problems. It possibly made him the best President so far. Watch what the republican have to say... watch the mouths and expressions of their leading candidates Trump and Cruz. They lean on racism and distorts facts for the common good. They know they cannot win. Hillary had booked the seat long ago when she lost to Obama last time.
8
Tell me please, how is our country better off now than it was when he took office in his first term? Take your time, it's going to be a very LONG year.
5
To me, President Obama has been the great Divider-in-Chief. He has missed no opportunity to pit one demographic group against another and he has done so to his political advantage.
I am beyond weary with this President. Perhaps I am just another knuckle-dragging, right-wing, bitter-clinger, but I also am someone who, 8 years ago, contributed to President Obama's campaign for the Presidency.
I was inspired by the Yes We Can speech after the New Hampshire primary of 2008. But there is, for me, no inspiration left in this Alinskyite community agitator, and the tragedy of the lost opportunity to unite America is immense.
America now is more divided along racial and class lines than at any time in my life. After being accused of racism for the slightest departure from Dear Obama Leader's approved groupthink, after learning of the quintessential feature of the Obama era...the micro aggression...Obama has lost the good will of many tens of millions of the Americans he has attacked.
Now, Donald Trump has come on the public scene and suggested that the President is incompetent, and, true to his character, President Obama levels an accusation of racism.
I am old enough to remember an American press that questioned the assertions of those in power, both Democrats and Republicans. This is no longer the case, especially with the Ministry of Truth New York Times.
Any loss of support by the working class hero that President Obama has suffered has been entirely his own fault.
I am beyond weary with this President. Perhaps I am just another knuckle-dragging, right-wing, bitter-clinger, but I also am someone who, 8 years ago, contributed to President Obama's campaign for the Presidency.
I was inspired by the Yes We Can speech after the New Hampshire primary of 2008. But there is, for me, no inspiration left in this Alinskyite community agitator, and the tragedy of the lost opportunity to unite America is immense.
America now is more divided along racial and class lines than at any time in my life. After being accused of racism for the slightest departure from Dear Obama Leader's approved groupthink, after learning of the quintessential feature of the Obama era...the micro aggression...Obama has lost the good will of many tens of millions of the Americans he has attacked.
Now, Donald Trump has come on the public scene and suggested that the President is incompetent, and, true to his character, President Obama levels an accusation of racism.
I am old enough to remember an American press that questioned the assertions of those in power, both Democrats and Republicans. This is no longer the case, especially with the Ministry of Truth New York Times.
Any loss of support by the working class hero that President Obama has suffered has been entirely his own fault.
5
I've been saying for years now that the reason our President gets so much hate (from Congress, too - "you lie!") is because he is black. People can spout off about his policies as much as they like, but if a white President were doing the same things, he would be lauded, plain and simple.
What a country we have become.
What a country we have become.
4
Funny.... When liberals exploit fears with promises to make things better, that's politics. When a conservative do it it's framed as "wrong". While I don't support Trump's campaign, he seems to be beating the liberals at their own game. He isn't even spending money doing it!
2
Obama's programs are just tacking some of the symptoms of what is ailing the working class, but not taking on the cause...mass displacement of good jobs to non-free countries. Countries that are able to have lower cost workers because they are not afforded the same rights and standards that we enjoy here. Trump addresses some of the angst, but I don't see the solution. Are we going to tell Nike they are bringing manufacturing to the USA by pain of death? No... The left's solution is just tax the rich and receive some free services to ease the pain. The right just ignore the problem or blame it on too many regulations or taxes. The angst continues...
Our current President, Mr. Obama, knows of what he speaks when he describes exploiting economic fears of American workers. President Obama has justified increased federal government intrusion in our lives by daily extolling the American worker on their individual inability to in anyway better their lives with out the President taking down the top 1%. Our President has pitted the dependent against the productive, women against men, urban against rural, race against race, victims against police, the IRS against those with political views different than his own, and VA employees against our wounded warriors (see the union resistance to legislation to take back bonuses paid to VA managers who falsified waiting list data).
Our President has done all of this with the bully pulpit and executive orders while dismissing our Constitutional framework of separation of powers.
Anyone hyperventilating about Donald Trump should look first at our current government, its lawlessness and its politics of class warfare and division, and demand better leadership from the man now in the Whitehouse
One current example, the ACLU is suing the federal government over the Terrorist Watch/no fly lists. Our President is actively seeking to expand the reach of these Un-American lists while our media dutifully amplifies the President's "shock, shock" that an opponent is channeling the fear and frustration of nearly a third of our nation.
Our President has done all of this with the bully pulpit and executive orders while dismissing our Constitutional framework of separation of powers.
Anyone hyperventilating about Donald Trump should look first at our current government, its lawlessness and its politics of class warfare and division, and demand better leadership from the man now in the Whitehouse
One current example, the ACLU is suing the federal government over the Terrorist Watch/no fly lists. Our President is actively seeking to expand the reach of these Un-American lists while our media dutifully amplifies the President's "shock, shock" that an opponent is channeling the fear and frustration of nearly a third of our nation.
1
There are several things involved here that can explain our current state of affairs and reaction against our President. As President he has taken the high ground. If he over reacts to security issues, he is wrong. If he under reacts, he is wrong. I don't think we could be any more safe if our freedoms where exchanged for strict security measures, and for sure the murder of innocent people by home grown nut jobs would continue. As America's first black president, the bar for respect has been lowered. It really doesn't matter what he says or does, the Right will be against it and will use it for all it's worth for political gain.
2
President Obama: "...(B)lie-collar men have had a lot of trouble in this new economy, where they are no longer getting the same bargain that they got when they were going to a factory and able to support their families on a single paycheck."
The blue-collar workers having problems are primarily those that are not represented by a labor union. If more workers were covered by a collective bargaining agreement and could collectively bargain with employers, the problem would be significantly diminished.
However, Republicans and the politicians in robes currently sitting on the Supreme Court will make sure that fewer and fewer workers in the future will be empowered to bargain collectively. The problem will persist as long as labor unions are disabled by the GOP and the Supreme Court.
The blue-collar workers having problems are primarily those that are not represented by a labor union. If more workers were covered by a collective bargaining agreement and could collectively bargain with employers, the problem would be significantly diminished.
However, Republicans and the politicians in robes currently sitting on the Supreme Court will make sure that fewer and fewer workers in the future will be empowered to bargain collectively. The problem will persist as long as labor unions are disabled by the GOP and the Supreme Court.
5
Maybe if Obama had done something for working class people during his presidency they wouldn't be looking elsewhere for help.
12
The unemployment rate was 10% when he took office. It is now 5%. My portfolio lost 40% of its value during the Great Bush Recession. It has not only recovered but has grown. The economy has been growing. Unfortunately, most of the growth in national income has gone to the top 1%. This was not inevitable. It is the result of Republican policies. Stop voting for them. Stop supporting Republicans who give billionaire hedge fund managers tax rates lower than yours. And stop blaming Obama for it.
4
What exactly did Obama do, Doug? Make a list. Don't hold back.
Obama sat back and allowed the GOP to return the economy to a state of nature without even a hint of fighting them. And because there was no fight, the GOP controls the conversation over who is at fault, it controls the framing of economic issues, it controls the rhetoric, and it defines the boundaries of any solutions offered. That's what Obama has allowed.
Stop giving credit where credit is not due, Doug.
Obama sat back and allowed the GOP to return the economy to a state of nature without even a hint of fighting them. And because there was no fight, the GOP controls the conversation over who is at fault, it controls the framing of economic issues, it controls the rhetoric, and it defines the boundaries of any solutions offered. That's what Obama has allowed.
Stop giving credit where credit is not due, Doug.
Desperate people do desperate things.
Trump gets in there is going to be a whole lot of investigations and indictments of criminal activity from this administration congress and their cronies.
Trump gets in there is going to be a whole lot of investigations and indictments of criminal activity from this administration congress and their cronies.
2
A sensible man, a sensible President.
9
Too bad he decided to tuck tail and run at the first hint of opposition from Republicans. That wasn't sensible. It's why we're here.
1
That's ridiculous. This wasn't just rhetorical opposition. The Republicans had the House and they paralyzed the government.
1
No, of course it wasn't just rhetorical opposition. But the GOP scorched earch obstruction was met, not with defiance and taking the support of liberal solutions with an appeal to the public, but with feckless obeisance to it. The GOP knew then that there was going to be no political price for their obstruction. And when don't stand up to a bully, the bully keeps doing what bullies do. And that's why we are where we are.
Demographic changes and economic stresses, including “flatlining” wages and incomes, have meant that “particularly blue-collar men have had a lot of trouble in this new economy, where they are no longer getting the same bargain that they got when they were going to a factory and able to support their families on a single paycheck,” Mr. Obama said
And who is responsible for these stresses Mr. Leader of the Nation? Which Party just had a huge gloat-fest over getting everything they wanted in the budget?
Don't complain when an opposition Candidate points out inconvenient facts. it only makes you small and petty.
And who is responsible for these stresses Mr. Leader of the Nation? Which Party just had a huge gloat-fest over getting everything they wanted in the budget?
Don't complain when an opposition Candidate points out inconvenient facts. it only makes you small and petty.
6
If Obama were an honorable man, he'd stay out of the fight. He has nothing to gain by attacking Trump; moreover, every time Trump's attacked his numbers go up. But, that "honorable man" ship sailed in the second week of February, 2008.
5
Obama's failures have fueled the rise of Donald Trump.
Not racism in America, not greedy rich people, not ISIS, not unwarranted fears - Barack Obama's arrogance, divisiveness, and inability to deal with crisis has led to the rise of Donald Trump.
Not racism in America, not greedy rich people, not ISIS, not unwarranted fears - Barack Obama's arrogance, divisiveness, and inability to deal with crisis has led to the rise of Donald Trump.
8
The first act of divisiveness was the Republican conspiracy after the 2008 to make Obama a one-term president, along with all the obstruction which it entailed.
Then came Trump the birther. This was a campaign that was clearly racist and Obama did nothing to promote it other than being black.
Racists clearly don't realize it, but the so-called divisiveness Obama caused came about simply because he dared to be president while black.
Then came Trump the birther. This was a campaign that was clearly racist and Obama did nothing to promote it other than being black.
Racists clearly don't realize it, but the so-called divisiveness Obama caused came about simply because he dared to be president while black.
4
With the left hiding their candidates to weekend debates that nobody watches , just shows how bad the lefts candidates are. Trump is on my TV and internet devices 24/7. To me he is already President. Trump makes me feel like I can be proud again. My pride has been hiding in a closet the last few years and I would love to come out of the closet. Time for America to be great again. Trump 2016 baby............
5
Yeah, that Putin's one heck of a democrat.
2
Trump is an agent of the great 'othering'.
Me = good
Them = bad
Sells like hotcakes.
Me = good
Them = bad
Sells like hotcakes.
2
How is that any different than what Barry does?
4
I am so grateful that Americans have a thoughtful and intelligent President. I will miss him when he leaves next year. He has done so much for the working class to buffer them from all the wall street abuse; loss of jobs, homes. He has had our backs & I thank him for that.
4
Like any president, Mr. Obama has made mistakes.
But following the lies and incompetence of George W. Bush--the president who bashed open the hornet's nest of the Middle East and got thousands of Americans and millions of others killed--Mr. Obama's objective is still clearly the same one he had in 2008: Get out.
But following the lies and incompetence of George W. Bush--the president who bashed open the hornet's nest of the Middle East and got thousands of Americans and millions of others killed--Mr. Obama's objective is still clearly the same one he had in 2008: Get out.
4
Is this president - he, the beneficiary of the "war on women" nonsense - really trying to call someone else out for fear mongering? Trump may be a cad and a buffoon who shouldn't be president, but Obama really needs to look in the mirror before questioning the motives of his opponents.
7
Maybe Stephen could give a list of Obama statements that he considers beyond-the-pale race-baiting. Surely that list is long, right Stephen?
2
Was born during the Roosevelt administration. Have seen a few Presidents come and go. And, unfortunately, I strongly suspect it's going to be a long time before we see another President with the intelligence, humor, and character of President Obama. A long time.
16
The flagrant lies, creeping falsehoods and half truths espoused by Fox and Rush are on glorious parade in some of these responses. I will attempt to give that "truthiness" a trim though I will probably run out of space.
Just because Obama (and the rest of the free word) negotiated a nuclear arms treaty with Iran does not make Obama "pro Iranian". As Barrack said; "you don't negotiate with your friends."
Obama has no reluctance to bomb ISIS "oil components". He is doing so as we speak.
Saying our "enemies are on the run" is a figure of speech meant to encourage the troops and comfort the citizenry. If Obama lied when he said it then Bush, Cheney and Rumsfeld did nothing but lie the entire time they were in office. Oh wait.
I take issue with Obama's loss of credibility being all his own fault when the opposition (including and especially Trump) have repeatedly lied about him being a Muslim, being born in Kenya, not being a US citizen etc.
Give me a break with Benghazi. 13 hearings have turned up absolutely nothing! Under W's watch the towers came down and over 3,000 Americans died. Under Obama's watch we finally did what GW should have done but could not; capture and kill Bin Laden!
Ben Carson has conclusively proven he knows nothing about foreign policy. That said if you believe American is like Nazi Germany, that we live in a "Gestapo age" where Americans have been deprived of free speech and that Obamacare is "worse than slavery" you should probably vote for him.
Just because Obama (and the rest of the free word) negotiated a nuclear arms treaty with Iran does not make Obama "pro Iranian". As Barrack said; "you don't negotiate with your friends."
Obama has no reluctance to bomb ISIS "oil components". He is doing so as we speak.
Saying our "enemies are on the run" is a figure of speech meant to encourage the troops and comfort the citizenry. If Obama lied when he said it then Bush, Cheney and Rumsfeld did nothing but lie the entire time they were in office. Oh wait.
I take issue with Obama's loss of credibility being all his own fault when the opposition (including and especially Trump) have repeatedly lied about him being a Muslim, being born in Kenya, not being a US citizen etc.
Give me a break with Benghazi. 13 hearings have turned up absolutely nothing! Under W's watch the towers came down and over 3,000 Americans died. Under Obama's watch we finally did what GW should have done but could not; capture and kill Bin Laden!
Ben Carson has conclusively proven he knows nothing about foreign policy. That said if you believe American is like Nazi Germany, that we live in a "Gestapo age" where Americans have been deprived of free speech and that Obamacare is "worse than slavery" you should probably vote for him.
8
Wasn't it a democrat who said "its the economy stupid"? When the press last week report that for the first time the middle class compose less than 50% of American households, with elevated unemployment and increased job insecurity courtesy of globalism, the offshoring of value added industries accelerated by new free trade agreements and big businesses hunt for ever cheaper labor, isn't it any wonder working class men are worried. If President Obama is so far out of touch with real and justified concerns then the Democrats better get ready for a real trouncing by the return of the Reagan Democrats. Its not too late, but self indulgent speeches like this will not help.
10
Interesting that Donald Trump is seen as exploiting working class men. His father, Fred Trump, provided what was viewed by his tenants as fairly nice, decent housing for working class/lower middle class folks in Brooklyn. I grew up in an apartment in a building owned by the elder Mr. Trump. He was seen as a decent landlord. Too bad his son turned out to be a something of a monster.
3
Finally telling it like it is!
3
We need to start acting like grown ups in this country because the way our politicians and people hurl insults at each other we just make ourselves like a bunch of kids in a grown up world. Start acting more united America isnt this the United States of America not the Divided States of America.
2
The president has no doubt achieved a great deal in the face of massive opposition, but that doesn't mean that all of these achievements will be beneficial. Only time will tell. It is old news that this president has disappointed the Democratic base with the whole "hope and change" thing.
However, what history is likely to underscore is the disappointment many have felt on the issue of race relations. No other president in history was in better position to improve race relations in this country than Obama and all he did was squander the opportunity.
For this Democrat, that is perhaps the biggest disappointment of all.
However, what history is likely to underscore is the disappointment many have felt on the issue of race relations. No other president in history was in better position to improve race relations in this country than Obama and all he did was squander the opportunity.
For this Democrat, that is perhaps the biggest disappointment of all.
7
President Obama, I do not support you because you are uninspiring, feckless, annoying, dangerous, and unlikable.
Not one of these adjectives are exclusive to your race.
Yet, continually insisting your "blackness" is a contributing explanation for Americas scorn towards you makes you uninspiring, feckless, annoying, dangerous, and unlikable.
Not one of these adjectives are exclusive to your race.
Yet, continually insisting your "blackness" is a contributing explanation for Americas scorn towards you makes you uninspiring, feckless, annoying, dangerous, and unlikable.
7
The utter lack of substance in very nearly every single dismissive comment about Obama here only solidifies the point he is making. "Destroying our country," "divisive," "worst president in history," incompetent" - on and on, comment after comment, just rants and vacuous screeds. Those few comments that attempt to explain their beliefs - "Obama did nothing after Syria used chemical weapons", "why didn't Obama do something about immigration," "Banned all fracking and offshore drilling" sadly show that the slow decline of our media is starting to have serious consequences. Syria is now free of chemical weapons because Obama threatened to strike Syria unless they agreed to their destruction. Immigration reform needs to come from the congress - which shut it down in part when leading proponent Marco Rubio turned against his own legislation. Last I checked fracking and offshore development are proceeding apace, with the exception of a few very sensitive areas.
5
mr. obama is pro compromise -so the middle east doesn't explode. he has done a remarkable job as president, yes, there are parts that didn't happen as we all would like but this is real life, not a movie, in a democracy things happen slowly, if he was king then another story. as far as bombing anything - per the repugs notions - he has kept us out of a boots on the ground no-win middle east conflict. if you think that "carpet bombing" (totally absurd) or some other grand expression of might is the way, then sign up or have your kids or grand kids - both sexes - sign up and go to war...no, i thought not.
2
You are so naïve regarding Obama's "deal" with Iran, which basically green lights them for a path to producing nuclear weapons. This from evil, radical Islamists who have vowed "death to America", who have funded state-sponsored terrorism around the middle east, who want to impose Sharia law around the world. Wake up and smell the reality of the evil that you want to compromise with. You don't compromise with evil that wants to destroy you. You need to live in Realville.
1
“In some ways, I may represent change that worries them.”
As a father of five, I'm not worried - I'm scared to death.
As a father of five, I'm not worried - I'm scared to death.
3
I guess Obama doesn't realize that by making this statement about Trump is just going to drive more people to Trump.
6
Agree with the first 3 comments.
I, too, am awed by the President's equanimity.
Because the shills on this comment board clearly
illustrate just what he is up against.
I, too, am awed by the President's equanimity.
Because the shills on this comment board clearly
illustrate just what he is up against.
11
I appreciate that the president has the intellectual capacity to provide a measured response to external situations (and I sympathize with his position), but his cool disconnected nature is professorial in nature, and many, many people are craving someone who shows outward leadership in resolve and in listening. This is not about being "fascist", as some critics on the left have labeled it; it's about appealing to an instinct around what most people - esp those who are worried about world circumstances - expect leadership to be. This, I suspect, is what is driving the rise of Trump: it's not about the issues, it's about flocking to the candidate that appears to offer the biggest ear and strongest bicep in their defense. You can see his disconnectedness in this interview: Obama offers that ISIS does not threaten the "existence" of the US as an ongoing concern, but I don't think that's what most voters are worried about; they are worried about random people on American soil being influence by ISIS's message and killing random other people. That Obama doesn't directly address that concern is why Trump is gaining ground. Yes, Obama has acknowledged that many people are in fact scared; but Obama's oratory - though highly skilled - seems to suggest he is disconnected from people's fears. Perhaps the president can turn on some of the oratory to assuage the fears of those who would fall into Trump's arms and stem the flow. If replaying the same message doesn't work, try another one?
6
I'm not sure how seriously I take a warning against xenophobia from a president that wailed during one of his SOTU addresses, dishonestly, that Citizens United v. FEC opened the floodgates for "foreign interests" to spend "without limit" in our elections, and whose party favorites frequently complain about taking off shored jobs away from Americans.
The left doesn't seem to be aware that they're not above giving their particular flavor of bluster a certain nationalist spice that is often interpreted as jingoism in other places and are utterly surprised when they're not nearly as loved, nor as savvy, as they think.
The left doesn't seem to be aware that they're not above giving their particular flavor of bluster a certain nationalist spice that is often interpreted as jingoism in other places and are utterly surprised when they're not nearly as loved, nor as savvy, as they think.
3
I don't like Trump and I don't like Obama either. But Trump says what is many instances is on peoples minds and that includes people of color. The current administration and the inept idiots in Congress (both parties included) have done nothing to support or expand the middle class in this country. They have taken care of the rich and tried to redistribute the wealth of the middle class to the poor. They have done nothing to stem the flow of good paying jobs overseas. They have done nothing to create better paying middle class jobs so that poor people can lift themselves up into the middle class. The $15 an hour job isn't middle class! It doesn't put people onto the tax rolls! It just allows the underclass to live better I guess, but to increase the ability of lower-class workers to move into the middle class isn't happening on $15.
We are more divisive then ever. Pandering to movements that are almost anarchist like in philosophy has only created polarization. Bush made many mistakes, that was almost 8 years ago now. This is on Obama's watch now.
Donald Trump certainly talks about what is on my mind when he talks about jobs, the middle class, control of our borders and national security. And none of the politicians running seem to get it. They are all out of touch with main stream America. Because their solutions are by far more politically correct then the American people can bear right now.
Its about securing the country and the middle class.
We are more divisive then ever. Pandering to movements that are almost anarchist like in philosophy has only created polarization. Bush made many mistakes, that was almost 8 years ago now. This is on Obama's watch now.
Donald Trump certainly talks about what is on my mind when he talks about jobs, the middle class, control of our borders and national security. And none of the politicians running seem to get it. They are all out of touch with main stream America. Because their solutions are by far more politically correct then the American people can bear right now.
Its about securing the country and the middle class.
9
Trump says he's going to bring jobs back from China? And you believe him?
4
It is well known that this president has disappointed his Democratic base with the whole "hope and change" thing. But even more disappointing is his record on race relations. No president in U.S. history was in a better position to improve race relations than Obama, but history will show that he squandered the opportunity. For this Democrat, that is perhaps one of the greatest disappointments of his presidency.
4
Well, if the 'Working Class' has fears and they are real, why wouldn't he exploit them? If the situation was reversed, would not Obama?
2
Certainly, it may be true that some of the scorn directed at Mr. Obama has roots in race, but it is not altogether clear that such acknowledgement from the president serves any useful purpose. The purveyors of scorn though, might lavish their elevation, which came about because the president recognized them.
1
The sane and the steady are still the best bet for ruling governments. And thank God Obama is here because Trump would have everyone in a neurosis.......
2
No Mr. Obama is not being criticized because he is black. He was voted into office twice for the first time in history. That is just a victim mentality. He is being criticized for destroying race relations, for showing favoritism, for embarrassing America, for behaving and acting like a private citizen instead of a President by going on TV talk shows, by his wife doing pushups on the Ellen show. For firing top, qualified military commanders, doe doing nothing against ISIL You name it, he has done it or not done it. He was and still one of the most unqualified President's in the history of this country.
6
It must be nice to have no accountability for anything that you do. Claiming people are unhappy about his decisions because of the pigment in his skin is laughable. He always wants to portray himself as a victim. It is weak and pathetic.
6
Once again, thoughtful, thought-provoking commentary from our POTUS. I for one will be sad to see him leave, as I don't think we have a better successor on either side of the isle.
Judging from the majority of comments here, this country doesn't deserve an intelligent, transformative leader like this one has been. One of his many "invisible" accomplishments was to repair the image of USA abroad. No small feat, after decades of militarism. From the Iran deal to the Paris accord, to taking a new approach to the quagmires in the Middle East, the results of this transformation will be long-lasting regardless of who succeeds him.
One of the few legitimate criticisms both sides have for Obama is he doesn't speak to the public in the ways it understands. That's true. What's also true is the majority of the US public expects to be frightened / coddled by sound bytes. When an ISIS leader makes a tape extolling the Caliphate's ability to strike in the American heartland, his audience recognizes this statement as good propaganda, regardless of reality on the ground. When Obama says ISIS has been largely contained right before the Paris attacks, the rabid right accuses him of "lying" and everyone condemns his lack of prescience. An unjust knee jerk reaction, with zero analysis...
It is in many ways the responsibility of media to educate the public, and the American media repeatedly has overlooked this duty in exchange for cheap thrills.
Judging from the majority of comments here, this country doesn't deserve an intelligent, transformative leader like this one has been. One of his many "invisible" accomplishments was to repair the image of USA abroad. No small feat, after decades of militarism. From the Iran deal to the Paris accord, to taking a new approach to the quagmires in the Middle East, the results of this transformation will be long-lasting regardless of who succeeds him.
One of the few legitimate criticisms both sides have for Obama is he doesn't speak to the public in the ways it understands. That's true. What's also true is the majority of the US public expects to be frightened / coddled by sound bytes. When an ISIS leader makes a tape extolling the Caliphate's ability to strike in the American heartland, his audience recognizes this statement as good propaganda, regardless of reality on the ground. When Obama says ISIS has been largely contained right before the Paris attacks, the rabid right accuses him of "lying" and everyone condemns his lack of prescience. An unjust knee jerk reaction, with zero analysis...
It is in many ways the responsibility of media to educate the public, and the American media repeatedly has overlooked this duty in exchange for cheap thrills.
4
If take Hillary tomorrow. (And I dislike Hillary immensely.)
2
As usual, President Obama is the adult in the room, while the GOP candiates do nothing but divide the country in red vs. blue, liberal v conservative, pro life vs pro choice, etc terms...Everything with conservatives is an "us versus them"..
And by the way, I think Obama was right way back in 2008 when he said, paraphrasing, that some voters do cling to their guns and religion....They certainly do....And despite their fears, Obama has not taken any ones guns and bibles away...
President Obama is a smart, thoughtful man who thinks things thru...I was proud to have donated & voted for him twice..I only wish he could run for a 3rd term....
And by the way, I think Obama was right way back in 2008 when he said, paraphrasing, that some voters do cling to their guns and religion....They certainly do....And despite their fears, Obama has not taken any ones guns and bibles away...
President Obama is a smart, thoughtful man who thinks things thru...I was proud to have donated & voted for him twice..I only wish he could run for a 3rd term....
6
If our first African-American President's foreign policy wasn't such an abysmal failure he wouldn't have to use the race card to defend himself. It is his failure to lead in international affairs, not the country's innate bigotry, that causes scorn.
7
Let's talk about abysmal failures in foreign policy
For comparison. start with the stunning success of Shock and Awe
And end with the Russian invasion of Georgia
And don't leave out the 13 attacks on various embassies and consulates around the world, in between.
For comparison. start with the stunning success of Shock and Awe
And end with the Russian invasion of Georgia
And don't leave out the 13 attacks on various embassies and consulates around the world, in between.
2
The president is correct. The right wing has gone into overdrive trying to frighten the American people for their own political gain - while at the same time remaining in denial about their own complicity in the proliferation of assault weapons in America. Obama has remained the adult in the room, which we need now more than ever. All of the chicken hawk war mongers on the right would never volunteer to fight - but have no problem sending your kids out to die.
1
I always thought it would be good for the nation to have an African-American president, too bad it turned out to be Barack Obama. Unlike the blind partisans, I'm not going to give him a pass just because of his race; he has done a really lousy job.
9
Barack Obama is a "class act", as my mother would have said. I have been proud that he is the leader of my country for the past 7 years. He is intelligent, kind, thoughtful and has a command of the English language. You may find that last quality unimportant; i do not. It shows pride of heritage. I would like to thank him for making it possible not to have to apologize frequently to the rest of the world for electing some boob as head of this country.
7
Typical Obama. Moral relativism. Blame everyone else on the right. Minimize the threat. Deny reality. Go for another round of golf. Avoid watching TV to get informed. Say nothing in a pompous tone, and impress everyone. Play the race card...always. Be the victim. Sir, we are the victim.
5
Obama wants to mask his failures with race bating. When Dems get called out on ineptness they want to incite racial tension. The president is making our country third world by: poor job creation, no spending restraints, low paying jobs, terrorism vulnerability, diversity by color/income. We are so past calling people out on color. Celebrity hunger vs leadership is your downfall, get over it!
8
The President also said “I do think that there have been times on college campuses where I get concerned that the unwillingness to hear other points of view can be as unhealthy on the left as on the right.”
But of course this isn't the title of the story. "Let's talk about Trump instead of an unwillingness to hear other points of view."
But of course this isn't the title of the story. "Let's talk about Trump instead of an unwillingness to hear other points of view."
7
Trump was the original birther with the birth certificate nonsense. If you don't think this was racist, you are in deep denial.
2
Trump is addressing concerns of lower class whites who have been shafted by the economic policies of BOTH parties.
But Trump's proposals will not improve their economic status.
If you could magically remove all illegal immigrants their lives would not improve.
Economic policies to improve their status would mean inflation and a decrease in corporate profits and a decrease in the wealth of the leaders of BOTH parties including Obama and Mrs. Clinton.
The US has close to a 19T debt. Will that debt be paid by some sort of austerity that would include decreasing SS benefits via a chained cpi or raising the retirement age.
Or will we inflate it away by allowing larger rates of inflation.
Who benefits and who gets hurt for each choice.
What is Mrs. Clinton's position on financial reform or preserving Social Security and Medicare benefits at current levels.
But Trump's proposals will not improve their economic status.
If you could magically remove all illegal immigrants their lives would not improve.
Economic policies to improve their status would mean inflation and a decrease in corporate profits and a decrease in the wealth of the leaders of BOTH parties including Obama and Mrs. Clinton.
The US has close to a 19T debt. Will that debt be paid by some sort of austerity that would include decreasing SS benefits via a chained cpi or raising the retirement age.
Or will we inflate it away by allowing larger rates of inflation.
Who benefits and who gets hurt for each choice.
What is Mrs. Clinton's position on financial reform or preserving Social Security and Medicare benefits at current levels.
Not both parties. The party of Reaganomics - trickle down. Republicans are not populists and their policies have directly weakened the middle class. They would have you believe that in the global economy, what they have wrought in the US is simply inevitable. It's not. Germany proves the point. There has been a massive transfer of wealth and income in the US to the rich from everyone else as a direct result of Republican policies.
1
I am not defending the GOP's economic policies.
But the Democrats have not addressed the economic problems of poor whites.
Why is the Federal Reserve now starting to raise interest rates to slow the economy with the real unemployment and underemployment rate so high. Have to restrain wage demands to keep corporate profits high.
Will either party support changing the corporate tax rate to reward with lower tax rates companies that manufacture in the US [and therefore hire in the US] and penalize with higher rates companies that manufacture abroad [and therefore hire abroad].
There is a choice. The rich who control both parties can support policies that will reduce their wealth and address the concerns and economic conditions of poor whites or we can create opportunities for demagogues like Donald Trump.
But the Democrats have not addressed the economic problems of poor whites.
Why is the Federal Reserve now starting to raise interest rates to slow the economy with the real unemployment and underemployment rate so high. Have to restrain wage demands to keep corporate profits high.
Will either party support changing the corporate tax rate to reward with lower tax rates companies that manufacture in the US [and therefore hire in the US] and penalize with higher rates companies that manufacture abroad [and therefore hire abroad].
There is a choice. The rich who control both parties can support policies that will reduce their wealth and address the concerns and economic conditions of poor whites or we can create opportunities for demagogues like Donald Trump.
1
The placeholder president speaks. Can't wait for Trump to go, er, Trump all over him.
4
No one does fear mongering as almost an art form quite like the GOP. Iraq's smoking gun was going to be a mushroom cloud. Ebola was going to destroy us from within, remember? And the day after the election that story, as it pertained to America, vanished. The election was over, why not turn to another boogeyman? ISIL is terrible and dangerous, and we need to defeat them. But let's not kid ourselves: without a long-term plan, defeat will once again be snatched from the jaws of victory.
4
Unnecessary and quite telling for a term-limited politician to engage a would-be successor from the other party during an election in which he should play no part. This behavior makes the president seem petty and dangerously distracted from his responsibilities.
6
President Obama is the best President in my life time. He saved this country from economic disaster in 2008, pulled us out of two wars, and he is keeping us out of another unnecessary war in the Middle East. His actions resulted in the death of Bin Laden. He has resolved many social issues i.e. gay marriage. He has improved our energy producing capacity. We are the number one nation in oil and natural gas production. Gas prices are also at historic lows. Hate on if you must on President Obama but a serious person knows the reason for that hate is based on race and not on all of the significant accomplishments of this tough and steady Commander and Chief.
14
Are you joking? Obama ran for President opposed to gay marriage. Obama has opposed all efforts to improve energy producing capacity, except for solar and wind, which have not yet borne any fruit. Obama increased the number of American troops in Afghanistan, and the Taliban is returning to Afghanistan, stronger than ever. ISIL was created on Obama's watch and Syria has imploded on Obama's watch. More Syrian refugees than ever on Obama's watch. Don't forget the American citizens killed by Obama's drones.
8
Reading through the many comments here, I see some that reflect my own thoughts about President O. He has not been all that I hoped for, and I've disagreed with him on more than one issue. However, when I consider the competition, I am truly grateful to have had an intelligent, deliberative, reasonable hand on the tiller. Things are not perfect - I experience this up close and personal every day. Considering the utter contempt, disrespect and defiance show to him by the republican leadership, and its base, it's amazing he's accomplished anything.
I do not, and cannot for the life of me, understand the blind hatred so many here exhibit toward the man. The things they fault him for, the utter distortions and fabrications with no factual basis or connection to reality, leaves me just shaking my head. It's like some mass hysteria has infected a large portion of the populace. The common thread relative to such nasty comments is that they parrot the voices of hate radio and Fox. The actual talkers have taken extremes to a level so low, I will not even paraphrase here.
But I will say that I appreciate Obama the man, and pray that he survives the experience with the only possible physical detriment being his increasingly gray hair, and that I'm ashamed of my fellow Americans, especially those who identify as Christians, who would wish him otherwise.
I do not, and cannot for the life of me, understand the blind hatred so many here exhibit toward the man. The things they fault him for, the utter distortions and fabrications with no factual basis or connection to reality, leaves me just shaking my head. It's like some mass hysteria has infected a large portion of the populace. The common thread relative to such nasty comments is that they parrot the voices of hate radio and Fox. The actual talkers have taken extremes to a level so low, I will not even paraphrase here.
But I will say that I appreciate Obama the man, and pray that he survives the experience with the only possible physical detriment being his increasingly gray hair, and that I'm ashamed of my fellow Americans, especially those who identify as Christians, who would wish him otherwise.
11
So who created the resentment and anxieties of working class people?
It's politicians like Obama who have done nothing for them. Many of these people have families and need to support kids. They can't feed them false bravado from a man who is not living in the real world.
It's politicians like Obama who have done nothing for them. Many of these people have families and need to support kids. They can't feed them false bravado from a man who is not living in the real world.
9
Blame the congress for blocking any attempts he made to fix those things
3
Obama wanted to help the working class? These are the people that Obama said hang on to their guns and religion.
Obama despises these people and cannot relate to the common guy who just wants a job. Not welfare or some big government program just a decent job. They don't want to sell their vote they just want to work.
That's probably the issue. They can't be bought.
Obama despises these people and cannot relate to the common guy who just wants a job. Not welfare or some big government program just a decent job. They don't want to sell their vote they just want to work.
That's probably the issue. They can't be bought.
Obama is exploiting the fear of white privilege to darken up the country by facilitating illegal migration, thoughtlessly and precipitously taking the side of African-Americans in Gatesgate, Trayvon, Brown, Garner before any evidence or legal adjudication, etc.
2
Many African American voters have felt sold out and betrayed by Obama, who did nothing but disappoint them with his deliberately colorless leadership. And Obama has helped save the international banking system as he did in 2008 with a trillion-dollar intervention done with the revenues of the United States, paid in by the little people who pay the taxes. He has few friends in consequence of this and innumerable other failures of leadership.
6
Obama's arrogance has no bounds. After vowing to have the most transparent administration in history, we were given governance by executive fiat. Despite overwhelming evidence his Mid East policies are not working, he persists on with the same failing strategy. He calls the Paris climate agreement a "great victory" even though there are no enforcement provisions - an agreement that NASA scientist, James Hansen, calls "bull ____" . Now, he pulls the race card to discredit some of those opposing his far left agenda. Priceless!
10
And why are working class and middle class humans in the US disaffected, angry or anxious? Could it be that the Democratic president is really a corporatist who has pushed and fought harder for the job and sovereignty destroying TPP than he ever fought for them? Could it be that we send billions to the Saudis while our roads and bridges collapse. Could it be that his speeches are better than his policies. trump would have nothing to exploit if Obama hadn't been such a corporatist his entire presidency. The revolving door has been moving like a jet engine since he arrived. No accountability for torture, no accountability for bankers who crashed the economy; whistle blowers in jail or exile; big Pharma rolling in money. Im sorry Mr. president but you should look in the mirror. Working class and middle dclass fears and anxieties are real even if you are too unconnected to know it or haven't watched"enough cable TV". Bash Trump all you want but we have real problems in this country and all the President does is suggest that we are all crazy and that TPP is great and ISIS is the JV team and on and on and on.
6
A Democrat complaining that a Republican is exploiting working class fears? Wow, talk about the pot calling the kettle a name. Occupy Wall Street, all of the talk about income inequality, efforts to raise the minimum wage, all are Democratic Party efforts to rattle the working class. And how is Trump exploiting working class fears when studies show that working class incomes have been flat for over 30 years, while the cost of living constantly rises? Maybe the problem is that President Obama has not done much to make working class lives better.
And as for President Obama not connecting with white voters who don't have a college education, maybe it is because President Obama is the smartest man in the room and he lets everybody know it. President Obama looks down on the uneducated white people and has no respect for their views, and it just oozes out of the President. The President's constant snarkiness and disrespecting of middle Americans is so visible to everyone who cares that it should be no surprise that middle America responds in kind. The President's attitude towards working class whites is the mirror image of their attitude towards him, and we can debate all we want about the chicken and the egg. The racists can say it just reflects the racism of those who disagree with President Obama, but that only goes so far and explains a relatively small fraction of the antipathy towards the President, even among those who voted for him, and hope and change.
And as for President Obama not connecting with white voters who don't have a college education, maybe it is because President Obama is the smartest man in the room and he lets everybody know it. President Obama looks down on the uneducated white people and has no respect for their views, and it just oozes out of the President. The President's constant snarkiness and disrespecting of middle Americans is so visible to everyone who cares that it should be no surprise that middle America responds in kind. The President's attitude towards working class whites is the mirror image of their attitude towards him, and we can debate all we want about the chicken and the egg. The racists can say it just reflects the racism of those who disagree with President Obama, but that only goes so far and explains a relatively small fraction of the antipathy towards the President, even among those who voted for him, and hope and change.
8
There is a force that has no party line in creating fear, the so called Elite use it, to take away rights, this is history repeating itself over and over again. It is how you control the masses, Bush and Obama know how to us it, both are masters of using it, especially since Islam is not widely known in the western world, power is in the unknown......Fear of it, is what the powers that be, know how to navigate it.
Trump, on the other-hand is his own media, a man that understands this Elite game being played and is very successfully throwing it back, to those that have created it......that is what so many admire about the Donald, he can dish-out more then what the Powers that be, want to intimidate us with, enough already, you want a fight ? then let's challenge this so called religion, and the people back him up on it.....as the media get's their panties all tied in knots.
Many here at the Times rely to much on government intervention on so many issues, forgetting why the core of American thought has taken us to be the great nation we "WERE", now it seems the vast majority of the nations we have intervene in lately, are saying, NO USA go home, you have meddled TOO much in our affairs, and many here at home have realized the same thing.
Trump, on the other-hand is his own media, a man that understands this Elite game being played and is very successfully throwing it back, to those that have created it......that is what so many admire about the Donald, he can dish-out more then what the Powers that be, want to intimidate us with, enough already, you want a fight ? then let's challenge this so called religion, and the people back him up on it.....as the media get's their panties all tied in knots.
Many here at the Times rely to much on government intervention on so many issues, forgetting why the core of American thought has taken us to be the great nation we "WERE", now it seems the vast majority of the nations we have intervene in lately, are saying, NO USA go home, you have meddled TOO much in our affairs, and many here at home have realized the same thing.
"Obama Accuses Trump of Exploiting Working-Class Fears"
As a lifelong Democrat, I'm sorry to add: exploiting working class fears is the same tactic Bernie Sanders employs.
As a lifelong Democrat, I'm sorry to add: exploiting working class fears is the same tactic Bernie Sanders employs.
8
The President has ID'd the problem. People are frustrated.
Trump is the ONLY candidate who points out that the problem is in and with China stealing our jobs. Obama thinks it's great to be friends with China and doesn't understand the bitterness that's sweeping our country in regards to the hammer blows China is landing on our working class.
He can sit there and think it's because he's black or whatever... but that's not it.
Trump is the ONLY candidate who points out that the problem is in and with China stealing our jobs. Obama thinks it's great to be friends with China and doesn't understand the bitterness that's sweeping our country in regards to the hammer blows China is landing on our working class.
He can sit there and think it's because he's black or whatever... but that's not it.
5
China is not stealing our jobs. American corporations are sending those jobs to China. And getting tax breaks from Republicans for doing so.
2
Mr. Obama needs to identify ISIS as the "Islamic State Pretenders" (ISP) that they are. President Obama needs some rhetoric that appeals to the uneducated. Clearly the ISP (the "Islamic State" aka ISIS or ISIL) are getting traction with some disaffected Muslims. The reactionary (knee jerk) right wingers (Republicans) are demonizing the USA in the Muslim world, at home and abroad. By this tactic, Republicans are assisting the ISP cause to get the uneducated vote. All Islamic nations exist today and are not what the ISP spouts. To enlist the hearts and minds of democratic Muslims, world wide, against "Islamic State Pretenders", democratic nations must show the tolerance that makes Muslims proud to be equal citizens and free to practice their religions in any nation.here, Muslims are in a multi-ethnic society, and can lead the world in demonstrating permanently giving and getting tolerance. ISP has engendered the fear that any Muslim group is also an ISP group. In the educated world, this must stop.
4
An African American is a person who has a parent from Africa and American. Say what you will but the President is keeping us out of a war we cannot win. On another note 30 years ago trade jobs where locked up by white males. Now you cannot get a young person black or white to work them.
2
Obama wouldn't know anything about techniques of this kind...
s
s
8
Politicians cannot be censored by another politician in an attempt to influence voters. The president is supporting Hillary by badmouthing Trump. The whole controversy is comical.
7
Has anyone ever heard of a sitting President bad mouthing future Presidents?
Did Bush bad mouth Obama..
This is a serious question. And the answer is no.
Did Bush bad mouth Obama..
This is a serious question. And the answer is no.
5
Apple CEO Tim Cook's appears on 60 Minutes saying "You can fit all the US Tool and Die Makers in this room," and tears into US Tax Policy for its arcane structure and it's avaricious nature. But this President would rather blame opposition to his policies on racism? This is just one more nail in the coffin of Obama's moribund legacy.
11
60 minutes on Apple last night was eye opening...
( and I doubt Apple will give them another interview).
Paying no taxes here.
All the manufacturing jobs overseas
( Per Apple.. we don't have manufacturing workers with the skill needed )
Their new all glass facility is being built with all glass windows imported from Germany. What we don't have glass windows in the USA for them to buy...
But, thank you Apple and Obama for making us less safe:
"The Obama administration has backed down in its bitter dispute with Silicon Valley over the encryption of data on iPhones and other digital devices...
Mr. Comey had expressed alarm a year ago after Apple introduced an operating system that encrypted virtually everything contained in an iPhone. What frustrated him was that Apple had designed the system to ensure that the company never held on to the keys, putting them entirely in the hands of users through the codes or fingerprints they use to get into their phones...
Mr. Comey compared that system to the creation of a door no law officers could enter, or a car trunk they could not unlock. His concern about what the F.B.I. calls the “going dark” problem received support from the director of the National Security Agency and other intelligence officials."
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/10/11/us/politics/obama-wont-seek-access-to-...
( and I doubt Apple will give them another interview).
Paying no taxes here.
All the manufacturing jobs overseas
( Per Apple.. we don't have manufacturing workers with the skill needed )
Their new all glass facility is being built with all glass windows imported from Germany. What we don't have glass windows in the USA for them to buy...
But, thank you Apple and Obama for making us less safe:
"The Obama administration has backed down in its bitter dispute with Silicon Valley over the encryption of data on iPhones and other digital devices...
Mr. Comey had expressed alarm a year ago after Apple introduced an operating system that encrypted virtually everything contained in an iPhone. What frustrated him was that Apple had designed the system to ensure that the company never held on to the keys, putting them entirely in the hands of users through the codes or fingerprints they use to get into their phones...
Mr. Comey compared that system to the creation of a door no law officers could enter, or a car trunk they could not unlock. His concern about what the F.B.I. calls the “going dark” problem received support from the director of the National Security Agency and other intelligence officials."
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/10/11/us/politics/obama-wont-seek-access-to-...
Funny. Obama is the source of various working class fears. He's increased working peoples' cost of living with his two signature programs. And he has made the country less secure. Just ask the people whose relatives died in San Bernadino the other week. They were peolple 'working.'
Moreover, his statement is nothing other than a dressed up 'clinging to their guns & Bibles' remark.
Moreover, his statement is nothing other than a dressed up 'clinging to their guns & Bibles' remark.
13
Mr President- I understand that it may make you feel better, to believe that we dislike you as POTUS because of your race- It is simply easier than realizing that we dislike you because you are a horrible leader. Contrary to what you believe, this country has been made measurably worse due to your time as POTUS. You have personally made the country more divisive and you live by excises. Like many people who sort of accidentally fall in to a position well above their ability you have failed and you continue to fail us as a leader.
This article contains the basic foundation of why you have failed as President and as a leader- You refuse to accept any responsibility for your mistakes and then you compound your weakness by taking credit for those under you that have done something positive.
Sir, it isn't because you are black that we dislike you, we dislike you because you are the the stereotypical bad boss. It is just that simple, you were elected to be president and you have done nothing but whine and complain and shirk responsibility at every junction. You have failed as a leader in every measurable way- If you were in the private sector you'd be fired or you'd be one of those that succeeds only due to you stepping on the backs of others. When historians are able to look back at your Presidency and they are able to discuss you truthfully- You will be rated as one of the worst President in the history of this nation.
This article contains the basic foundation of why you have failed as President and as a leader- You refuse to accept any responsibility for your mistakes and then you compound your weakness by taking credit for those under you that have done something positive.
Sir, it isn't because you are black that we dislike you, we dislike you because you are the the stereotypical bad boss. It is just that simple, you were elected to be president and you have done nothing but whine and complain and shirk responsibility at every junction. You have failed as a leader in every measurable way- If you were in the private sector you'd be fired or you'd be one of those that succeeds only due to you stepping on the backs of others. When historians are able to look back at your Presidency and they are able to discuss you truthfully- You will be rated as one of the worst President in the history of this nation.
23
Amen. He has successfully "transformed America' into a nation in chaos and moral and economic decline. His reward? Another round of golf and Clintonesque speaking fees when he abdicates the throne.
1
You do not like the President, but the majority of Americans that decisively elected him and re-elected him do like President Obama.
In fact, he was the first US President since Eisenhower to top 51% of the vote twice!
So in your judgment he hasn't done anything?
How about steering the country away from an economic collapse?
When he took office the economy was losing 800,000 jobs a month, the banking system on the verge of collapse, the auto industry was on the verge of collapse, real estate markets had collapsed.
U3 unemployment that peaked at 10.1% is now 5%. U6 unemployment that peaked at 18% in 2009 is now 10%, back to historical norms.
How about cutting the massive deficit he was handed?
He cut the $1 trillion dollar structural annual deficit he was handed to $400 billion, lowering it from 10% of GDP to 2% of GDP, the fastest turnaround in the Federal annual budget deficit since World War II.
How about capturing the culprit who bombed the World Trade Center and had attacked US interests around the globe for decades - Osama bin Laden?
I could go on, but I doubt facts are driving your hatred of the President.
In fact, he was the first US President since Eisenhower to top 51% of the vote twice!
So in your judgment he hasn't done anything?
How about steering the country away from an economic collapse?
When he took office the economy was losing 800,000 jobs a month, the banking system on the verge of collapse, the auto industry was on the verge of collapse, real estate markets had collapsed.
U3 unemployment that peaked at 10.1% is now 5%. U6 unemployment that peaked at 18% in 2009 is now 10%, back to historical norms.
How about cutting the massive deficit he was handed?
He cut the $1 trillion dollar structural annual deficit he was handed to $400 billion, lowering it from 10% of GDP to 2% of GDP, the fastest turnaround in the Federal annual budget deficit since World War II.
How about capturing the culprit who bombed the World Trade Center and had attacked US interests around the globe for decades - Osama bin Laden?
I could go on, but I doubt facts are driving your hatred of the President.
4
Facts are something Obama plays fast and loose with. For instance, there are 94 million people who have stopped looking for work. That is not 5% unemployment. There are 47 million people on welfare. That is not economic recovery. We do not hate the POTUS. He is just incompetent.
1
I can't believe that this is the headline the NYT distilled out of this interview. Please go watch the half hour interview for yourself:
http://www.npr.org/2015/12/21/460281546/watch-obama-says-trump-exploitin...
http://www.npr.org/2015/12/21/460281546/watch-obama-says-trump-exploitin...
8
Excellent point, A from CT!
The actual interview was, based on the transcribed sections, intelligent, articulate & thoughtful.
The question I have is whether these Trumpsters are really 'blue collar' or actual working class, Archie-Bunker style or otherwise.
If so it wouldn't be the first time the 'Blue Collar' got it completely wrong & backed a president & policies anathema to their own best interests.
To quote a commenter to the original NPR pieces: "Blue collar workers also supported fighting in Vietnam"
To which I'd add they also supported Jim Crow (among the southern white working class), the Iraq War, Dubbya, Palin (remember 'Joe Sixpack?), Trickledown Reaganomics, Supply-Side, and any number of positions that they unanimously mobbed at on the wrong side of history.
As much as I'd like to imagine some redeeming value to Americas white working class, they voted to invade Iraq, elected G.W. Botch, and generally espouse every possible racist, hawkish, uneducated backward position they can find.
America's white 'working class' is not generally an enlightened culture, and while I despise the bankster billionaire ethic & the corporatist polluter/greed ethic, America's blue-collar, white, obese Wallmart-working class is not the culture that could represent the best of what North America produced.
Maybe their disappearance isn't such a bad thing, at least they'll need to evolve or go back to family subsistence farming not this backward white working class.
The actual interview was, based on the transcribed sections, intelligent, articulate & thoughtful.
The question I have is whether these Trumpsters are really 'blue collar' or actual working class, Archie-Bunker style or otherwise.
If so it wouldn't be the first time the 'Blue Collar' got it completely wrong & backed a president & policies anathema to their own best interests.
To quote a commenter to the original NPR pieces: "Blue collar workers also supported fighting in Vietnam"
To which I'd add they also supported Jim Crow (among the southern white working class), the Iraq War, Dubbya, Palin (remember 'Joe Sixpack?), Trickledown Reaganomics, Supply-Side, and any number of positions that they unanimously mobbed at on the wrong side of history.
As much as I'd like to imagine some redeeming value to Americas white working class, they voted to invade Iraq, elected G.W. Botch, and generally espouse every possible racist, hawkish, uneducated backward position they can find.
America's white 'working class' is not generally an enlightened culture, and while I despise the bankster billionaire ethic & the corporatist polluter/greed ethic, America's blue-collar, white, obese Wallmart-working class is not the culture that could represent the best of what North America produced.
Maybe their disappearance isn't such a bad thing, at least they'll need to evolve or go back to family subsistence farming not this backward white working class.
1
I was recently visiting a New York town in the Hudson Valley which is mostly working class. There was a sign on someone's front lawn that said "Obama: If you like your doctor, you can keep your doctor: A lie!" Yes, this administration hasn't been that interested in people like the owner of that sign.
9
As usual, the president speaks the truth, in an even-tempered manner without any of the invective typical of his critics.
8
I have yet to hear a single utterance from any potential presidential candidate condemning Obama's performance due to his being a black man. Can you cite a specific instance where such an incident has occurred? Please refrain from citing "reputable" or anonymous sources, or the Russian media.
1
How can Obama assert Trump is tapping into anger, frustration and fear over economic stresses, flatlined wages or greater difficulty in supporting a family on a single paycheck? The Obama economy has created the lowest work force participation rate in 37 years and put more women and blacks out of work than any other president in U.S. history!
If he doubts that the anger being tapped is that of the American people, he'll find out (just like he finds out about every crisis and tragedy) in the media on November 9, 2016.
If he doubts that the anger being tapped is that of the American people, he'll find out (just like he finds out about every crisis and tragedy) in the media on November 9, 2016.
14
Mr. Obama is so far down the rabbit hole with ideologue, politicizing and polarizing everything in his path, he's turned things upside down and discombobulated; bringing up race is a farce at this stage..please stop it as it's a very, muy weak argument for credibility.
9
"Obama says Trump exploits working class frustrations" - no kidding! Perhaps the more salient statement is whom created those frustrations! But then again that might detract from Obama's legacy.
9
I am growing oh so weary of this President and his accessories in the media (the Editorial Board of the NYT, ABC, NBC, CBS, NPR, etc.) who play the race card when various constituent groups don’t approve of the President’s (and his Cabinet’s) handling of certain situations. Mr. Obama is no longer able to blame President Bush since after 7 years in office Mr. Obama now owns it. When things go wrong (the economy, Obama-Care, the Iran deal, ISIS, Putin, etc.) he needs to blame someone else; so the new straw man is blue collar workers? Really Mr. Obama? Actually the problem is you sir and your policies, the election cannot come soon enough.
By the way, Hillary may sell well internally to the Democratic faithful however I have yet to speak with any of my independent friends and university colleagues who have any intention of supporting that liar.
By the way, Hillary may sell well internally to the Democratic faithful however I have yet to speak with any of my independent friends and university colleagues who have any intention of supporting that liar.
13
"Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering."
Yoda's words have never had more meaning...
Yoda's words have never had more meaning...
5
Little of Trump's pitch would resonate with anyone if President Obama had delivered quality performance during the past six years.
If Jackie Robinson had joined the Dodgers, hit .191, made 91 fielding errors, ambled slowly on the basepaths, and couldn't hit a major league fastball or curve, his popularity would have mirrored that of our first black President today -- and for the same reason: dismally poor performance.
As head of the executive branch, Mr. Obama has presided over a string of failures. As national security and foreign policy chief, he has dithered, squandered strategic and military advantage, and drifted from disaster to disaster. As a national and political leader, the President has failed to describe either a future vision or the map toward it.
If Jackie Robinson had joined the Dodgers, hit .191, made 91 fielding errors, ambled slowly on the basepaths, and couldn't hit a major league fastball or curve, his popularity would have mirrored that of our first black President today -- and for the same reason: dismally poor performance.
As head of the executive branch, Mr. Obama has presided over a string of failures. As national security and foreign policy chief, he has dithered, squandered strategic and military advantage, and drifted from disaster to disaster. As a national and political leader, the President has failed to describe either a future vision or the map toward it.
9
Health care. Leading on a multi-nation Iran pact. Leading on an historic, 200-country climate change pact. Cuba. Intelligently refusing to start more endless wars.
Obama is a long-view President. He has done more to shape a better future for our country than anyone I can personally remember, which dates to Kennedy. Johnson's unselfish civil rights efforts also changed the nation. And FDR was beloved for good reasons by many more than Democrats.
The Right is so angry because he has succeeded; they'd be delighted if he had failed and our country was not in the position it is today.
I read a lot of name-calling in the comments from the right. As others have pointed out, we've heard those, ad nauseum. I'm not sure I read a single positive suggestion to make our nation better.
Imagine where our nation could be if the Republicans had not been in lock-step refusal to find common ground.
Obama is a long-view President. He has done more to shape a better future for our country than anyone I can personally remember, which dates to Kennedy. Johnson's unselfish civil rights efforts also changed the nation. And FDR was beloved for good reasons by many more than Democrats.
The Right is so angry because he has succeeded; they'd be delighted if he had failed and our country was not in the position it is today.
I read a lot of name-calling in the comments from the right. As others have pointed out, we've heard those, ad nauseum. I'm not sure I read a single positive suggestion to make our nation better.
Imagine where our nation could be if the Republicans had not been in lock-step refusal to find common ground.
10
Mr. President: Other politicians exploit your failures and you blame them?
That is not very realistic.
That is not very realistic.
11
when you cannot defend your own record then the last line is the race card. after seven years he has had to play it a lot! any person who believes that we are safer and the economy is better and america is on the right track has gone down the rabbit hole with alice!
10
Large swaths of America immediately reject anything this president says, and probably do not understand complex issues, and reasoned thought.The Republican elite know this very well, and continue to spew out their one-liners, and outright lies. This is the downfall of this country.
9
I have lived through every President since Truman, and it is really a hoot to read comments saying that President Obama is the worst ever. Last weekend some commenters were defending the actions of the Japanese Army in the Pacific in WWII. The span of history, people. We have had almost eight years of improvement since the Bush economic meltdown. What would have happened if Obama had not taken action to do something about that mess? The main safety issue in the U.S. is if some disgruntled American decides to shoot up the mall. I think that there must be a Saul Alinsky seminar going on at Fox news today and the attendees were told to come here. All this talk about Trump speaking from the heart, or understanding the plain folks is ridiculous. The guy lives in a penthouse, has been through several bankruptcies, and changes spouses like he changes a tie. He is looking out into the crowd, saying what people want to hear, and throwing everybody out of the hall that disagrees with him. I understand the fact that the American worker has taken it on the chin, but people need to grow up, think clearly, and work for change.
10
That economic recovery has all been based on printed money and debt. For the trillions that our kids and grandchildren will have to pay off, we sure got a poor return on that money with this type of recovery. All that money down a rat-hole of special interests (just look at the last budget both corrupt sides pushed through) and our President took a victory dance on.
Obama has created the mess.
Worthless to publish this with comments allowed.
Did anyone doubt we'd get the usual, mostly fact-free shouting match between the two views of the president?
Here's a fact.
The president's laid out an agenda for addressing the worst economic crisis of our time. The people elected him.
Met with the MOST EVER filibusters in Senate history (Republican) in order to scuttle any attempt to implement policy that could address the crisis. In fact, after many of the filibusters, there would be some almost unanimous votes to support the issues. On simple housekeeping matters. The tactic was just delay for spite.
The people chose a president.
His opponents spat in his face and the people's face.
First rule - know your spitter and you'll know whom to blame.
Did anyone doubt we'd get the usual, mostly fact-free shouting match between the two views of the president?
Here's a fact.
The president's laid out an agenda for addressing the worst economic crisis of our time. The people elected him.
Met with the MOST EVER filibusters in Senate history (Republican) in order to scuttle any attempt to implement policy that could address the crisis. In fact, after many of the filibusters, there would be some almost unanimous votes to support the issues. On simple housekeeping matters. The tactic was just delay for spite.
The people chose a president.
His opponents spat in his face and the people's face.
First rule - know your spitter and you'll know whom to blame.
15
There has been no doubt, since the advent of the seething Tea- Birthers that the ONLY issue for the Limbaugh-steeped Beckians was straight-up fear of a black planet.
The irony of their whole hateful reaction is that Obama has been, as promised, about as brutal a hawk as anyone of their militaristic swaggerers who flooded the neocon's back-door draft with as much ferver as any Isil recruitment strategy.
The question remains whether these misguided militarists will power yet another cycle of American warmongering in Muslim lands, another generation of traumatic brain injuries & amputees, more bombed hospitals, weddings & 'wackamole' (as Obama likes to call it), another $Trillion or two in wasted military-industrial war-profiteering at public expense, followed by inevitable violent terrorist blowback forever, OR if Americans will come together & elect a Commander in Chief who is committed to a saner foreign military policy.
Ironically such a national course-correction appears to mean electing the first president of Jewish decent.
The irony of their whole hateful reaction is that Obama has been, as promised, about as brutal a hawk as anyone of their militaristic swaggerers who flooded the neocon's back-door draft with as much ferver as any Isil recruitment strategy.
The question remains whether these misguided militarists will power yet another cycle of American warmongering in Muslim lands, another generation of traumatic brain injuries & amputees, more bombed hospitals, weddings & 'wackamole' (as Obama likes to call it), another $Trillion or two in wasted military-industrial war-profiteering at public expense, followed by inevitable violent terrorist blowback forever, OR if Americans will come together & elect a Commander in Chief who is committed to a saner foreign military policy.
Ironically such a national course-correction appears to mean electing the first president of Jewish decent.
4
yes we don't want American warmongering in Muslim lands, It's not like the terrorist come from over there, The people that ran the planes into New York came from Sweden don't you know.
Hillary says we must destroy ISIS. She says the wealthy will be required to pay their fair share to fund for all her new programs for the middle class. Who is she exploiting?
1
I don't blame Obama for these inanities.
I blame his insular, parochial, blinkered, and stunted fans who reduce the world to cliched "us vs. them" battles in order to give them the simplicity they need to understand things.
In their world, it's the "us" of the eco-and-race-conscious, peace loving, urban, knowledge worker against the "them" of unreformed racists who want to destroy the planet for lucre, who are white, blue collar, often-rural knuckle draggers.
But in reality, your average plumber or electrician probably makes the same if not far more than some half witted analyst working for the FedGov, or in a staff position at a University, or stringing it as a part time jouno for a blog. And it's your average conservative who turns out to vote in local elections, and has knowledge of the constitution, and who knows a bit more about civics and markets. And you're as likely to find white intown conservatives as you are to find downmarket Bernie fans, it's just that the former know well enough to keep quiet about politics in public, because we're usually in leadership positions and voicing how we vote isn't good for business.
So when Obama makes these comments, about 'bitter clingers,' all he's really doing is speaking to the NPR set, the people who think reading the NYT makes them smart. But really, these are just the people who can't afford the WSJ, and who don't get outside their bubble much.
I blame his insular, parochial, blinkered, and stunted fans who reduce the world to cliched "us vs. them" battles in order to give them the simplicity they need to understand things.
In their world, it's the "us" of the eco-and-race-conscious, peace loving, urban, knowledge worker against the "them" of unreformed racists who want to destroy the planet for lucre, who are white, blue collar, often-rural knuckle draggers.
But in reality, your average plumber or electrician probably makes the same if not far more than some half witted analyst working for the FedGov, or in a staff position at a University, or stringing it as a part time jouno for a blog. And it's your average conservative who turns out to vote in local elections, and has knowledge of the constitution, and who knows a bit more about civics and markets. And you're as likely to find white intown conservatives as you are to find downmarket Bernie fans, it's just that the former know well enough to keep quiet about politics in public, because we're usually in leadership positions and voicing how we vote isn't good for business.
So when Obama makes these comments, about 'bitter clingers,' all he's really doing is speaking to the NPR set, the people who think reading the NYT makes them smart. But really, these are just the people who can't afford the WSJ, and who don't get outside their bubble much.
2
Obama is a perfect example that shows racists come in all skin colors.
6
Hope Springs in Michigan wrote: "Statistically, the odds of ISIS taking over our country are ridiculously low, yet the news media would have us believe we are all in immediate danger RIGHT NOW."
Very true. If human beings were rational, there should be saturation coverage about the dangers of colon cancer. The odds of being killed by colon cancer are many thousands of times greater, compared to the possibility of being killed by ISIS or a sympathizer. And we can do something to virtually eliminate the risk of colon cancer, whereas it is virtually impossible to reach into the mind of some crazy person who becomes an ISIS sympathizer and gets hold of a gun.
We can certainly magnify the ISIS risk, by electing the likes of Trump or Cruz who boast about keeping Muslims out of the United States, or "seeing if we can get sand to glow". If you are a fearful person, a far better use of your time is to get to a doctor and have a colonoscopy, rather than endure the daily virtual colonoscopy administered by the GOP and its friends in the media.
Very true. If human beings were rational, there should be saturation coverage about the dangers of colon cancer. The odds of being killed by colon cancer are many thousands of times greater, compared to the possibility of being killed by ISIS or a sympathizer. And we can do something to virtually eliminate the risk of colon cancer, whereas it is virtually impossible to reach into the mind of some crazy person who becomes an ISIS sympathizer and gets hold of a gun.
We can certainly magnify the ISIS risk, by electing the likes of Trump or Cruz who boast about keeping Muslims out of the United States, or "seeing if we can get sand to glow". If you are a fearful person, a far better use of your time is to get to a doctor and have a colonoscopy, rather than endure the daily virtual colonoscopy administered by the GOP and its friends in the media.
2
That is the same patronizing attitude we heard with the "clutching their guns and bibles" comment before Obama became president. It doesn't serve him well to dismiss or otherwise belittle people that he represents. I get a little tired of the idea that only college educated technocrats know what's best. I voted for Obama twice, but I don't like that trait of his.
2
Obama is an expert at throwing out the racism card, when Sgt James Crowley was called to investigate a disturbance at a home he found a man trying to break into a door and asked to see the man's id. Professor Henry Gates immediately assumed the policeman was racist for not accepting the explanation that it was his own house and Obama agreed. Obama also inflamed flames in the Treyvon Martin case, Ferguson and others.
3
Race relations have gotten so much worse since Obama took office, and he has the nerve to criticize someone else? granted Trump is a major tool, but c'mon. The pot and kettle adage is so obvious here, as to make one wonder what world the president actually lives in???
2
There may have been a time when the US population in general possessed a level of propriety and common decency which required a minimum standard of behavior, but that time is long past. Now it is only that which is illegal which is off limits. For candidates for public office, businessmen, lobbyists, politicians, the rule now is anything goes.
1
This is newsworthy because Obama's finally said what so many have been thinking. There's a racist and race-baiting tinge to Trump and birthers, who do not necessarily speak for all Repubs. That seems to me just common sense and unsurprising given our history. Now I know Obama has slowly moved to at least rhetorically seeing income inequality as the fundamental issue of our time (climate change too), but couldn't we say he's been the president, who else do we blame for declining real wage? I read somewhere real wage has been declining since 1994, that's the Clinton years and the Summers Treasury and the beginning of programmatic bank deregulation, a lot of whom are still in Obama's Treasury. A lot of people who are now voting Trump voted Obama (maybe) in 2008 in states like Indiana. Now obviously Bush was worse at the economy than both Clinton and Obama but you're always going to get this Against All mentality when people feel hopeless. The fact it's got such hateful bigotry attached to it is unfortunate but hardly surprising. People tried to send their kid to school and bunged 60 grand in the red, lost their house, kid couldn't get a job and moved back in with them, mom's been helping out with the bills when they can't make it all under the guise of an administration that promised "Change."
1
Once again our Divider in Chief lashes out, doing all he can to encourage more fear and chaos among his base as he stumps for his partner in crime, Hillary.
4
So Obama is admitting wages have been flatlining? That the "new economy", i.e., recession, is hard on working class Americans? And while I am not a Trump supporter Obama's effort to pull the race card on Trump is pathetic and predictable. Trump is over-the-top on many things but he has not done anything that indicates he is "exploiting" race fears. To hea the President use such tactics and language is both revolting and insulting. I happen tl know several working class blacks who support Trump. They are, like many whites, frustrated and angry with both parties.
6
President Obama continues to be a breath of fresh air of sanity, intelligence and competence in these foul air times polluted by willful ignorance, bigotry, hypocrisy and mendacity, exemplified by the GOP clown car and fueled by the 24/7 campaign of lies and distortions from Fox and conservative radio.
6
obama is such a punk. He's totally disconnected from the rest of the nation, just like the vast majority of those living in the DC/NoVa area.
8
During the debates on Saturday night, Hillary warned her base to be 'afraid' of the prospect of losing the gains in 'abortion rights' for women, and of the prospect of conservative justices appointed to the Supreme court if a non-liberal is elected in 2016.
That's what all politicians do: exploit the fear and anger of public they want to be masters of by pretending to serve them.
#Hypocrite
That's what all politicians do: exploit the fear and anger of public they want to be masters of by pretending to serve them.
#Hypocrite
11
OK, let's all jog our collective memories a bit.... 7 years ago, the country was two flushes away from the bottom of the crapper. THEN the President was handed the keys to the car....and told to fix it while going 70 on the interstate.
I will absolutely miss his calm and reasoned demeanor, buy maybe I'm the only one who remembers his predecessor.
Personally, I think the fact that the President and First Lady were able to raise two daughters who seem by all accounts to be normal young teens, while in the public eye and dealing with the seriousness of issues on a daily basis that most folks can't even contemplate, is quite remarkable and noteworthy.
I will absolutely miss his calm and reasoned demeanor, buy maybe I'm the only one who remembers his predecessor.
Personally, I think the fact that the President and First Lady were able to raise two daughters who seem by all accounts to be normal young teens, while in the public eye and dealing with the seriousness of issues on a daily basis that most folks can't even contemplate, is quite remarkable and noteworthy.
15
Just curious when does Obama wear his big boys pants in your world, you do know after 7 years of the smartness president you would think things would be way better, not way worse...
"President Obama said in a radio interview airing on Monday that Donald J. Trump,... is exploiting the resentment and anxieties of working-class men to boost his campaign." So in other words, he's doing what Democrats always do.
6
After reading so many submissions decrying the loss of good blue collar jobs and railing about immigration, I want to ask how many of these readers refuse to shop at stores like Walmart or ensure that their lawn service or favorite diner hires only legal immigrants and pays them better than minimum wage.
The fact is that as a nation, we're addicted to cheap products which are manufactured overseas in lower wage countries. I'd venture to say that most of the people complaining about this would rather have four shirts made in Bangladesh than one shirt made by a unionized US worker.
The fact is that as a nation, we're addicted to cheap products which are manufactured overseas in lower wage countries. I'd venture to say that most of the people complaining about this would rather have four shirts made in Bangladesh than one shirt made by a unionized US worker.
7
I never shop at WalMart, would pay for Made in America, and don't hire illegal immigrants. That being said if illegal immigration continues as it has in California that argument will be specious since they ARE the ones doing the work of construction, landscaping, child care, housekeeping and there is little choice. If you ask for "white" people you would be called a racist.
Such a luxury for a President to be able to unquestioningly assign bigotry to those who disagree with him and when the people's legitimate concerns arise as a result of his policies, accuse those who are willing to address those concerns as being exploitative. Such a small, unbending mind he has.
9
I am truly and sadly amazed at all the Obama bashing in this forum. Most of the hateful comments are just that, hateful and have no basis in the reality of his presidency.
One example, among many, is calling him a socialist. From the very beginning he went out of his way to accommodate the Republicans, even loading his cabinet with right wing corporate-friendly people. In truth, Obama represents what used to be center/right.
The extreme right wing rhetoric of the last 35 years has shifted the debate so far to the right that now a president who is really more of an old style Republican than a Democrat is accused of something he definitely is not.
For these hateful commenters, up is down and black is white. This is how fascism takes hold. I am very worried.
One example, among many, is calling him a socialist. From the very beginning he went out of his way to accommodate the Republicans, even loading his cabinet with right wing corporate-friendly people. In truth, Obama represents what used to be center/right.
The extreme right wing rhetoric of the last 35 years has shifted the debate so far to the right that now a president who is really more of an old style Republican than a Democrat is accused of something he definitely is not.
For these hateful commenters, up is down and black is white. This is how fascism takes hold. I am very worried.
10
Its quite convenient of you to dismiss the criticisms as 'hateful.' This approach attempts to squelch necessary debate on the president's performance while in office. When substantive argument is discarded in favor of invective, deflection and emotionalism no problems are solved.
I'm tired of our president down playing legitimate fears. He has weakend and devided this country so bad that ISIS would be a fool not to take advantage of it.
Obama and Hillary have left us ripe for the picking, and all they can do is point the finger as usual.
Obama and Hillary have left us ripe for the picking, and all they can do is point the finger as usual.
5
Barack Obama could find the fountain of youth and invite every American to visit it, but before anyone got a chance his detractors would immediately schedule it for demolition -- simply because Obama found it.
6
Pray tell Mr. President, where did the "...resentment and anxieties of working-class men" (AND women) come from?!!! What caused that?
5
It came from Reaganomics - trickle down economics and deregulation of big business. There was a brief reprieve under Clinton but Bush's destruction of the economy was the nail in the coffin. Corporations and the rich have destroyed the American dream for these people. They're just not smart enough to realize that it has been primarily Republican policies that have enabled it.
2
Oops! Did you forget about the repeal of Glass Steagall under Clinton?!!! Just askin'
I am proud to call Barack Obama my President.
8
I agree with the President, his PR has let down the American people. Giving them the impression that the US is not doing enough and letting the Republicans frame this issue as a existential threat. The President must work on establishing better communication with the media and the American people.
I support the President in his approach to handling the no win situation in the Middle East. He is serious about not more wasting American blood and money , we should be applauding his policies.
I support the President in his approach to handling the no win situation in the Middle East. He is serious about not more wasting American blood and money , we should be applauding his policies.
2
The amount of attention that the media and Democrats lavish on Trump only fuels the fire. Conservatives will look at this and see it as proof that Obama and the Democrats fear Trump. The best attack against Trump is to ignore him. Every word and gesture he makes is intended to get a reaction out of others, and nothing would infuriate him more than to be ignored.
The President shouldn't be involving himself in the campaign, anyway. He has more important things to do and should leave the process alone; it feels like he is trying to exert some kind of control.
The President shouldn't be involving himself in the campaign, anyway. He has more important things to do and should leave the process alone; it feels like he is trying to exert some kind of control.
Fears are not unreasonable, in the wake of San Bernardino, stagnating wages and so forth. On these issues, people want a "strongman" because they see the current administration as ineffectual.
Either way, playing the race card is simply more condescending brow-beating from who people see as someone disconnected and people are getting sick of it, if Trump's popularity is any indication.
Either way, playing the race card is simply more condescending brow-beating from who people see as someone disconnected and people are getting sick of it, if Trump's popularity is any indication.
5
It is about time Trump and all the rest of us realized that this man is infallible, flawless, perfect to a fault, and more miracle-making than Jesus.
Leave him alone, people.
Leave him alone, people.
7
It's easy for the administration to play the race card, they've done it before, more than once. In reading what the president said in this interview, it almost appears that he agrees with Trump on the sate of the union. Further in the article I read this:
"In the wide-ranging interview, conducted the day before he left Washington on Friday for a two-week holiday vacation with his family in Hawaii,'
That pretty much sums it up for me!
"In the wide-ranging interview, conducted the day before he left Washington on Friday for a two-week holiday vacation with his family in Hawaii,'
That pretty much sums it up for me!
7
I am astonished and disheartened to read all the negative and hateful comments posted here today about our siting President. On one hand, I find it quite interesting and perhaps a bit puzzling that so many Obama-haters are reading the NYT; on the other, I suppose it's just a great opportunity for all the angry folks out there to feel empowered and vent their bile.
I stand by President Obama and believe history will treat him well, and admire the tough skin he's grown to still get up every morning with the desire to do work that actually will make all our lives better.
I stand by President Obama and believe history will treat him well, and admire the tough skin he's grown to still get up every morning with the desire to do work that actually will make all our lives better.
4
You right it takes a strong skinned person to withstand all of this criticism and still get up in the morning to play a good rpund of golf.
Of course Trump is doing this. Why wouldn't he? Obama sounds like he's working on his post-Presidency book(s) already.
3
I have tried to like our President, however, it is never easy to. I would have thought at this point in his presidency that he would have tried to ease himself into the status of elder statesman instead of injecting himself into the next presidential cycle.
And give me a break, stop with the racially divisive talk already, leave that up to others. Let's unite instead of encouraging stress and explotitation of differences, of race, of economics. Lets be Americans.
And give me a break, stop with the racially divisive talk already, leave that up to others. Let's unite instead of encouraging stress and explotitation of differences, of race, of economics. Lets be Americans.
11
It is really disheartening to see that so many acts of violence are categorized by the race or religion of the perpetrator instead of by the type or severity of the act. A mass murderer or serial killer is deem less serious than a non-fatal stabbing if the killer is a white male and the person doing the stabbing is a racial minority or a Muslim.
Also, political ideas and even scientific theories or works of art are increasing being judged by the source instead of the outcome. This is a very dangerous path that the country is heading down. The worse parts of the nation’s past are being revived instead of the best parts. Racial and religious bigotry needs to be called out and resisted on every front for the nation to really live up to its ideals.
Also, political ideas and even scientific theories or works of art are increasing being judged by the source instead of the outcome. This is a very dangerous path that the country is heading down. The worse parts of the nation’s past are being revived instead of the best parts. Racial and religious bigotry needs to be called out and resisted on every front for the nation to really live up to its ideals.
1
It's going to take a big honest Jerk like Trump to fix the Politically Correct phony Jerks in both parties. We don't live in the age of the industrial revolution, we don't need millions of "immigrants", jobs are disappearing due to free trade - off-shored or automated while wages and benefits decline. The US spending all goes to support extreme profits for the elite and corporations.
6
Instead of taking concrete steps to help what Obama calls his people, American blacks - such as creating a Marshal Plan for inner cities to significantly raise educational levels, provide jobs to improve our decaying infrastructure, improving the quality of life with better housing, trees, parks, community centers, etc - the President continues to play the race card, that part of the opposition to him is his black race.
Underneath the bluster, Trump is reaching people at a depth to which Obama does not even come close, cutting through political correctnesses. Even though unfit for the presidency, it is refreshing to hear long unspoken truths. And here's hoping for more to come, from Democrats and Republicans alike.
Underneath the bluster, Trump is reaching people at a depth to which Obama does not even come close, cutting through political correctnesses. Even though unfit for the presidency, it is refreshing to hear long unspoken truths. And here's hoping for more to come, from Democrats and Republicans alike.
9
I want a President who will work with ALL races not just his own. Just treat us with some kind of respect.
President Obama continues to amaze me with his calm, rational equanimity. He is the adult in the room. And his brilliant understanding of the many important issues facing our nation.
He will be remembered in history as one of our best Presidents. Compare the commitments he made during his presidential campaign to his impressive record of achievements in office. Rescue the drowning economy he faced coming into office? Check. Make health care available to millions of Americans who couldn't get it before? Check. Extricate us from boneheaded wars started by Bush? Check. Nominate highly qualified candidates to the Supreme Court? Check. Put our economy on course to create millions of new jobs, significantly lowering the unemployment rate? Check. Restore the United States to respected leadership among other nations around the world? Check. Start turning our world away from its disastrous reliance on fossil fuels toward new sources of energy that won't destroy our planet? Check.
Yes, some things he hasn't managed to do. Close Guantanamo. Enact gun control legislation. Get us a public option for health insurance. Restore healthy working relationships among Democrats and Republicans.
I worry that his administration hasn't really reined in Wall Street.
After years of trying to compromise with Republicans, I think he finally realized it takes two to tango. So he went ahead racking up achievements without them. Maybe that's part of what makes them so mad.
He will be remembered in history as one of our best Presidents. Compare the commitments he made during his presidential campaign to his impressive record of achievements in office. Rescue the drowning economy he faced coming into office? Check. Make health care available to millions of Americans who couldn't get it before? Check. Extricate us from boneheaded wars started by Bush? Check. Nominate highly qualified candidates to the Supreme Court? Check. Put our economy on course to create millions of new jobs, significantly lowering the unemployment rate? Check. Restore the United States to respected leadership among other nations around the world? Check. Start turning our world away from its disastrous reliance on fossil fuels toward new sources of energy that won't destroy our planet? Check.
Yes, some things he hasn't managed to do. Close Guantanamo. Enact gun control legislation. Get us a public option for health insurance. Restore healthy working relationships among Democrats and Republicans.
I worry that his administration hasn't really reined in Wall Street.
After years of trying to compromise with Republicans, I think he finally realized it takes two to tango. So he went ahead racking up achievements without them. Maybe that's part of what makes them so mad.
9
"Obama Accuses Trump of Exploiting Working-Class Fears"
Maybe Barack Obama could bolster his argument by giving the nation that long list of policies he's fought for that aims to address those working class fears.
What would that list include?
- Taking care of Wall Street (and forgetting those Wall Street ran over)?
- TPP? Investor protection over sovereign interests? H1B visas for high tech corporate? Higher drug prices across the world?
- Allowing the GOP to make deficits and debt what the economy was about in 2011?
- Offering to cut SS? Medicare?
- the ACA? (Seriously?)
What would it include? What has Obama fought for that addresses working class fears?
(Hint: Nothing.)
If Donald Trump or Ted Cruz or any of the other right wing putrefaction become president in 2017, there's a reason for it: Democrats stand for nothing. Democrats fight for nothing. Democrats believe in nothing.
And that's the truth.
Maybe Barack Obama could bolster his argument by giving the nation that long list of policies he's fought for that aims to address those working class fears.
What would that list include?
- Taking care of Wall Street (and forgetting those Wall Street ran over)?
- TPP? Investor protection over sovereign interests? H1B visas for high tech corporate? Higher drug prices across the world?
- Allowing the GOP to make deficits and debt what the economy was about in 2011?
- Offering to cut SS? Medicare?
- the ACA? (Seriously?)
What would it include? What has Obama fought for that addresses working class fears?
(Hint: Nothing.)
If Donald Trump or Ted Cruz or any of the other right wing putrefaction become president in 2017, there's a reason for it: Democrats stand for nothing. Democrats fight for nothing. Democrats believe in nothing.
And that's the truth.
4
"The president is right: the opposition to him in some ways is connected to his blackness, "
The only connection is the certainty that a white candidate with his thin record would not have been elected. The good will of the American voters of both parties is being denied and that has consequences.
The only connection is the certainty that a white candidate with his thin record would not have been elected. The good will of the American voters of both parties is being denied and that has consequences.
5
Well, it's not looking too good for your theory of electability judging by the Republican candidates. A white guy with zero experience in elective office leads the pack and another who is, yes, a freshman senator just like Obama running a close second.
What's the difference between "exploiting working class fears", and addressing them? I'm not a Trump supporter, but if he's addressing what many people are - and have been for decades - upset about, why hasn't Obama or any other Dem besides Sanders (who is Independent) addressed them? The truth is that Obama and the Dems blew many opportunities to help working people in favor of helping the "job creators". But they have failed to ensure that in return for all this help, the "job creators" actually created American jobs. Hillary holds the same philosophy. Trump is all swagger and bluster without a clue. Sanders is the only one who will TRULY do something for working people. Stop whining Mr. President. You had your chances, and ignored them.
4
Elected twice doesn't seem racist to me. Stop trying to look hip and listen to others beside your staff. Stop trying to boost your legacy and do some things that might be distasteful to you but good for the people
10
It's tough being the adult in a room full of children.
6
the sad thing is that Obama actually believes that people oppose him because of his race
9
It was under Bush's watch that 9/11 occurred. This was while he was vacationing in the summer of 2001 and ignoring the signs that the attack was imminent. It then took Bush 8 years to bring our country to the brink of financial collapse and the destruction of our middle class.
That is why we elected Obama. He was handed a lame country. It has taken him 7 years to bring back the economy and unemployment back to acceptable levels. In addition, Obama Care has provided health insurance to millions of americans that could not afford it.
Meanwhile, the Republican's failure in the 2012 election and the fact that this president is black has incensed and radicalized them even further.
So out comes the racism, anger, bigotry and religious fanaticism that the clown car of Trumps and Cruzes propagate.
The president is completely correct in his assessments.
That is why we elected Obama. He was handed a lame country. It has taken him 7 years to bring back the economy and unemployment back to acceptable levels. In addition, Obama Care has provided health insurance to millions of americans that could not afford it.
Meanwhile, the Republican's failure in the 2012 election and the fact that this president is black has incensed and radicalized them even further.
So out comes the racism, anger, bigotry and religious fanaticism that the clown car of Trumps and Cruzes propagate.
The president is completely correct in his assessments.
7
the 9/11 terrorists were allowing into the country by clinton, they did flight training under clinton, the planned the attack under clinton. yes, if bush it was coming he is a mass murderer; i don't believe that. my point is the sophomoric logic that says time begins and ends with each inauguration.
Americans are living in fear because they now know what most of us knew 7 years ago. Obama is petulant, incompetent, anti-colonialist, anti-American, Marxist, has Islamic sympathies and suffers from an incurable personality disorder. If you don't agree, then ask the people of San Bernardino and France if the JV Team is 'contained' and how they like what no other country in the world tolerates......open borders.
5
When you redistribute the wealth, as we do in the "New Economy", you cause anxiety in those from whom the wealth is taken. If Trump taps into that, good for him. I'm do not agree that those in the "working class" (Weren't classes introduced by Marx?) are being exploited, may be "represented" is a more accurate word.
3
Mr. Obama is only partially correct in his somewhat self-serving assessment. Indeed, Trump is exploiting the fears of the working class. Trump is also exploiting anger of the middle and lower classes at the "class struggle" policies championed by Mr. Obama. they are most impacted by his refusal to deal forthrightly with the illegal aliens issue (while even refusing to call them such), with the race quota policies (which he prefers to call "affirmative actions") and his ongoing cuddling of Islam despite its obvious assault on the western culture. These policies. along with the progressive "Games of Words" make him seem detached, ideological, and disingenuous. Trump, as any good shark, smelled the blood in the water from far away, and is now creating a real feeding frenzy. His argument about being slighted for being black is tired and dishonest. Because it's precisely the reason he was elected: on the back of the good will and well developed guilt complex of the white voters.
5
Obama did announce in 2012 that he no longer needed the white working class, and would therefore not be campaigning for their votes. So Trump has a point.
5
"Demographic changes and economic stresses, including “flatlining” wages and incomes, have meant that “particularly blue-collar men have had a lot of trouble in this new economy, where they are no longer getting the same bargain that they got when they were going to a factory and able to support their families on a single paycheck,” Mr. Obama said
So Obama admits he hasn't done a good job with the economy.
So Obama admits he hasn't done a good job with the economy.
4
FYI, Mr. Obama, we don't care about your skin color or background. We care about your bad polices that have made things worse, not better. You have been an unmitigated disaster.
7
Absolutely the worst president in American history. It takes a special level of idiocy to not see through this idiot and his intent destruction of American culture, values, and greatness. Trump 2016!
6
All the Repub candidates are exploiting fear and (racism). Sad day for the party. Where are the moderates...am so sick of hearing these candidates and their ugly hateful speech. Ted Cruz is scary and Marco Rubio only a step away....
2
You're kidding right? It seems YOU haven't listened to Hillary, Bernie, Harry, Nancy, Chuck, Michelle, CNN, MSNBC, ABC, CBS, NBC.....
I sincerely would be interested in reading comments that describe exactly how Obama has 'run this country into the ground.' I read these critical comments and really do not understand what the people writing them are holding the President accountable for.
3
Let's look at the reasons why Obama has failed the middle class - he supports free trade to off-shore more jobs, more Visas and illegals to take away jobs here, he bailed out the Banksters with trillions - nobody goes to jail, he makes race relations worse, he Lobbies for gun control any time the media covers a shooting, he downplays the failed Arab Spring, failed ISIS strategy, failed CIA plots in the Ukraine, and failed relations with Russia - now doing the job in Syria. He loves Saudia Arabia money and thinks Sharia law OK. He spends most of his time on the Golf course. He is just a puppet for the New World disorder and was mentored by the Clinton liar's Club.
6
Using the USAF would not damage ISIS because they don't have an air force? What genius adviser told him that gem? Apparently one who is unaware of Desert Storm -- or basic combat tactics for that matter.
4
Of course, that is NOT what he said. The president was responding to the clamor to create a "no-fly" zone in Syria.
What good is a no-fly zone? Who ya gonna keep from flying?
You may have noticed (or maybe not) that the current administration has made widespread and effective use of air power.
What good is a no-fly zone? Who ya gonna keep from flying?
You may have noticed (or maybe not) that the current administration has made widespread and effective use of air power.
1
The president is spot-on about the angry white males and disappearance of good paying jobs. I saw and lived through the shift of American factory jobs offshore. The country and system I believed in is dead. Wall Street greed killed the American dream.
3
The candidates presented on both sides leave much to be desired. Sanders may be the least offensive but we need someone that can work within the current system. That fact quickly eliminates Trump and Clinton.
Obama promised he would cross lines to get things done and cooperation never materialized. He was not blameless.
We need a deal maker that understands how to work with the opposition and get things done. Is that too much to ask?
Obama promised he would cross lines to get things done and cooperation never materialized. He was not blameless.
We need a deal maker that understands how to work with the opposition and get things done. Is that too much to ask?
1
Honestly, Obama is too intelligent for America. He would have been more effective as a PM in Europe somewhere. In a country that slobbers for reality TV drama in the selection of their representative government, the cerebral and sober analysis of Obama's administration falls on deaf ears.
25
He's intelligent, but misguided. His ideology inhibits him from undertaking concrete, practical steps to help Americans.
I take it you've never attended a soccer game in Europe.
1
Wrong. Obama should never be in a position with responsibility for actual results. He needs to be in a position limited to dealing with hypotheticals and abstract concepts. This way, he can demonstrate his brilliance without ever having responsibility for whatever it is he's espousing.
It is remarkable how many of the commenters here seem to live in an alternative universe. They usually can't identify specific policies of the President's that they disagree with, but when they do, they don't specify what they would have done differently.
President Obama inherited a huge economic mess as well as the disaster of the Iraq war from the previous Administration. He did about as well as could be expected under the circumstances, in the face of unprecedented scorched earth tactics from the GOP. Even when the President adopted GOP policy ideas, like the structure of the ACA (individual mandate) or cap and trade for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the Republicans opposed him. Same for infrastructure spending, which was always an area of bipartisan agreement--but of course funding infrastructure spending would have helped the economy under the President they loathed, so the GOP opposed that, too.
President Obama is what used be called a moderate Republican, but there aren't any of those anymore. His leadership style is calm and thoughtful, which is exactly what we need in complicated times.
If you are concerned about our economic direction, ask yourself which party is feeding on your fears and resentments to gain power, and which party is genuinely trying to help the middle class. The answer is clear to anyone who's paying attention. Think for yourself, and don't allow yourself to be manipulated by the conservative entertainment complex.
President Obama inherited a huge economic mess as well as the disaster of the Iraq war from the previous Administration. He did about as well as could be expected under the circumstances, in the face of unprecedented scorched earth tactics from the GOP. Even when the President adopted GOP policy ideas, like the structure of the ACA (individual mandate) or cap and trade for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the Republicans opposed him. Same for infrastructure spending, which was always an area of bipartisan agreement--but of course funding infrastructure spending would have helped the economy under the President they loathed, so the GOP opposed that, too.
President Obama is what used be called a moderate Republican, but there aren't any of those anymore. His leadership style is calm and thoughtful, which is exactly what we need in complicated times.
If you are concerned about our economic direction, ask yourself which party is feeding on your fears and resentments to gain power, and which party is genuinely trying to help the middle class. The answer is clear to anyone who's paying attention. Think for yourself, and don't allow yourself to be manipulated by the conservative entertainment complex.
8
You are right, someone is in an alternate universe.
Obama inherited the economy he helped create. He lost the war we had already won, and he turned an 18 month recession into a decade long malaise.
There is NO WAY Obama would be called a 'moderate republican'. Central planning of the economy never has been part of republican philosophy. Obama hates the free market and looks to short circuit it at every turn. At best you could call Obama a democratic socialist. Although when push comes to shove he's not a huge fan of the 'democratic' part (he has a pen and a phone after all).
If you are concerned about our economy ask yourself which party is comfortable with $80,000,000,000,000 in unfunded liabilities, and has at the core of every one of there policies a plan to increase that debt.
Obama inherited the economy he helped create. He lost the war we had already won, and he turned an 18 month recession into a decade long malaise.
There is NO WAY Obama would be called a 'moderate republican'. Central planning of the economy never has been part of republican philosophy. Obama hates the free market and looks to short circuit it at every turn. At best you could call Obama a democratic socialist. Although when push comes to shove he's not a huge fan of the 'democratic' part (he has a pen and a phone after all).
If you are concerned about our economy ask yourself which party is comfortable with $80,000,000,000,000 in unfunded liabilities, and has at the core of every one of there policies a plan to increase that debt.
Don't you remember who was President when the biggest crash since the Great Depression happened? Hint: It wasn't President Obama.
There was no "winning" the Iraq war. It was the most consequential (and probably most expensive) strategic blunder in US military history, since it played right into Osama Bin Laden's hands. Our presence in that country needlessly killed thousands of Americans, killed hundreds of thousands of Iraqis, created a recruiting bonanza for Al Queda and allowed the creation of ISIS. It also destroyed a secular Arab regime that was hostile to Al Queda and was a counterbalance to Iran in the region. Brilliant!
There is no evidence that President Obama is interested in "central planning" or increasing the debt as ends in and of themselves. He's interested in making people's lives better and solving problems.
If the Republicans had funded infrastructure programs like they should have, instead of constraining the size of the stimulus and focusing on tax cuts, we would have emerged from the recession sooner, and we would have started fixing our roads and bridges, which sorely need it.
I heartily recommend rejoining the reality based community. We need people who care about fiscal responsibility to speak up for smart and cost effective solutions to problems. What we don't need is for people to deny basic facts in evidence. That's a recipe for stagnation and decline.
There was no "winning" the Iraq war. It was the most consequential (and probably most expensive) strategic blunder in US military history, since it played right into Osama Bin Laden's hands. Our presence in that country needlessly killed thousands of Americans, killed hundreds of thousands of Iraqis, created a recruiting bonanza for Al Queda and allowed the creation of ISIS. It also destroyed a secular Arab regime that was hostile to Al Queda and was a counterbalance to Iran in the region. Brilliant!
There is no evidence that President Obama is interested in "central planning" or increasing the debt as ends in and of themselves. He's interested in making people's lives better and solving problems.
If the Republicans had funded infrastructure programs like they should have, instead of constraining the size of the stimulus and focusing on tax cuts, we would have emerged from the recession sooner, and we would have started fixing our roads and bridges, which sorely need it.
I heartily recommend rejoining the reality based community. We need people who care about fiscal responsibility to speak up for smart and cost effective solutions to problems. What we don't need is for people to deny basic facts in evidence. That's a recipe for stagnation and decline.
2
Maybe because President Obama has a few months left in office that he has started to finally speak out but since Day One he has been disrespected by the Republicans. Obama somehow was able to turn the other cheek despite the disrespect. When he was making an early speech before Congress and a national TV audience someone from the House shouted out that he was a ‘liar’, something that person most likely would not have said during the disastrous George W. Bush reign.
When Bush went into Iraq, the nation came together, to show a united front to the world. But with Obama in the White House, the Republicans speak like they are from a different country or different time. Disrespecting the President on foreign affair matters weakens our country. Moreover, most of the world sees in plain view the low-level treatment thrown against the President. Jeb Bush said Trump was a chaos candidate; that can be said of many in the Republican Party. When they don’t get their way or when they don’t like the person in the White House, they break their toys or want to tear the house down.
Republicans, like Trump, do not have the insight or discipline to know that people will not forget the disrespect shown to Obama and to the office of the presidency. Most likely large groups that make up the silent majority will make their voices heard at the polls.
When Bush went into Iraq, the nation came together, to show a united front to the world. But with Obama in the White House, the Republicans speak like they are from a different country or different time. Disrespecting the President on foreign affair matters weakens our country. Moreover, most of the world sees in plain view the low-level treatment thrown against the President. Jeb Bush said Trump was a chaos candidate; that can be said of many in the Republican Party. When they don’t get their way or when they don’t like the person in the White House, they break their toys or want to tear the house down.
Republicans, like Trump, do not have the insight or discipline to know that people will not forget the disrespect shown to Obama and to the office of the presidency. Most likely large groups that make up the silent majority will make their voices heard at the polls.
12
Obama has cared less about others views obamacare is still disliked by over 60 percent of Americans does he care? We don't want illegal immigration by 70 percent does he care?
I'm not sure what world you live in.
He's spent 9 trillion dollars! In your opinion I guess he should have spent 18 trillion.
Fools.
I'm not sure what world you live in.
He's spent 9 trillion dollars! In your opinion I guess he should have spent 18 trillion.
Fools.
2
Maybe if Obama didn't disrespect so many Americans, they wouldn't reciprocate. For starters, every time he disrespects republicans, he disrespects their voters -- almost half the country. That's a lot of people to disrespect when you are the president.
Obama's current low poll ratings are in part fueled by pandering elected politicians and a few highly biased "news" channels that make profit by fueling class and other division in their viewing audiences. Noise gets more viewers, gets more money for the channels when they charge for the commercials they show.
When the unemployment rate was 9%, the price of gasoline rose to $4.50 a gallon, the stock market was in free fall, health care system leaving many out, Bin Laden still not located, the Republicans were the greatest whiners against Obama and what he inherited. Now, with unemployment at 5%+, gasoline close to $2.50 a gallon, stock market doubled, Bin Laden located, and millions now able to access health care, where are the whiners. They move on to the next issue they try to exploit, for the ones that pay them to whine.
Any objective reading of the facts would result in a different response than the noise created by a few, mostly from the Republican Party.
When the unemployment rate was 9%, the price of gasoline rose to $4.50 a gallon, the stock market was in free fall, health care system leaving many out, Bin Laden still not located, the Republicans were the greatest whiners against Obama and what he inherited. Now, with unemployment at 5%+, gasoline close to $2.50 a gallon, stock market doubled, Bin Laden located, and millions now able to access health care, where are the whiners. They move on to the next issue they try to exploit, for the ones that pay them to whine.
Any objective reading of the facts would result in a different response than the noise created by a few, mostly from the Republican Party.
1
Read David Morris' article in the Huffington Post regarding Obamas two greatest failures and it will be clear that Obama and his party, not Trump, has been responsible for those working class fears and suffering. But somehow, some way, it is heralded when Democrats cow tow to Wall Street, big banks, insurance companies, and big pharma.
3
My issues with Obama have NOTHING to do with his race. I would oppose the WASPist of Presidents just as much if they had the same pathetic record. it seems that Obama is the racist here. he and his ilk want to immediately reduce every challenge to him to race and as a result, has set back race relations 50 years. Yes, there are so idiots and yahoos out there that oppose Obama simply because of his skin color, but the many, many people I know who oppose him could care less how much pigment he has in his skin.
6
How many more times is this president going to play the race card? As for maintaining his cool, that's easy because it's never his fault. He's the unintended consequence of the affirmative action hire. Underquailified but the right color.
7
The President's comments were indeed pointed, but in keeping with his professional demeanor, they were delivered in a moderate and restrained way. Here's another version: "Since the days of Richard Nixon, the GOP has relied on a '"southern strategy' " This was based on an appeal to the underlying racism of some white voters, especially middle class men. They are now the base of the GOP - it can't win without them. Donald Trump, himself a racist, is the natural and inevitable result of that strategy. Although the color of my skin has made his appeal easier, he certainly reflects the modern GOP."
6
The "Working" class seem to be the vast majority of what the democrat party leaders call the stupid voters. They are so easy to fool.
1
The fact that our president released 150 billion dollars to the No. 1 terrorist state (Iran) -- a country that is determined to acquire nuclear weapons for use against the USA and the rest of the West -- is more than enough reason for all classes, races, religions and nationalities of US citizens to be more than a little concerned about what he's up to. Since when does the USA make it so easy for our sworn enemies to harm us and our allies? Interestingly, the news media has had little to say about this utterly mind-boggling event (i.e., the Obama nuclear deal with Iran that Trump so rightly ridicules) other than to now speak of white, blue collar men who have taken exception to certain actions by the president. One would have to be moronic not to take exception to the president's Iran deal alone (regardless of one's color, class or any other trait) -- never mind dozens of other of this president's executive decisions that have left Americans of every stripe -- and much the rest of the world -- dismayed, if not demoralized.
5
I think President Obama should remember he's not in academia or entertainment,he's supposed to be running the show,stop with the Twitter dreck and White House concerts and do your job,he emits annoyance when questioned,he lost me long ago and I've been a union guy most of my life.
6
when you are a failure, you blame race so what else is new with this race hustler in the white house.
But when he played on people's fear that was fine and dandy.
But when he played on people's fear that was fine and dandy.
8
President Obama, like Hamlet, can truly say, "I have within that which passeth show." There is no "seems" within Mr. Obama; all inside him truly "is." But in these days where almost all is gray, with very little either-or, that definitive quality of "is" can be a handicap. This is especially true when it comes to articulating American strategy against ISIL, for the heart of that strategy depends on "seems." In the amazing 65 nation coalition against ISIS that President Obama has constructed and motivated, there exists deep mutual animosity and suspicion among numerous coalition members, such as Iran and Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the Kurds, Sunni and Shiite, Israel and Iran, Iraq and the Kurds, Russia and the EU. With such extensive antagonisms existing among so many coalition members, any straightforward articulation of strategy is likely to bring mutual hostilities to the surface and weaken the cohesion of the coalition. Since Mr. Obama is not good at "seems," he simply does not articulate his strategy, which is as brilliant as any that Clausewitz or Sun Tzu ever described. Simply stated, the strategy is this: Construct, motivate and drive a very broad anti-ISIL coalition of 65 nations in which Muslims will lead ground operations and the others will provide support, in such ways that the 1.5 Billion non-ISIL Muslims will not be provoked into a massive jihad against "infidels" invading and occupying Muslim lands. The strategic goal is to keep America and its allies safe.
1
As an academic, I think Obama's observations are spot-on. As one who lives in a place dominated by blue-collar, white men, I can tell he's never going to attract that segment of the population because of these very observations. You can't classify and objectify a whole segment of the population, reducing their hopes, fears, biases, and plights to discontent. He made the same mistake with the "clinging to their guns and religion" comment earlier in his career. Perhaps a genuine human reaction to the dislike that goes something like, "People are entitled to their opinion. If a segment of the population doesn't like me, then maybe they need to get with the program." Or, "Sure their discontent bothers and offends me. But you can get on board the train or be left behind . . ." Or, in the words of a white Southern Bible-belt man, "I feel your pain . . ." Something, anything, that indicates engagement instead of removal. Obama is a smart man, and I voted for him, but he has to use his intellect to engage his detractors, not distance himself from them. He is right, in many instances, about skin color being a problem for many in this segment of the population, but he's got to move beyond that if he represents the whole country. Merely identifying the problem as an explanation for his unpopularity won't make it go away or help his numbers.
11
So I mention the Werther Effect in the NYT comments and I get called a conservative and regressive. Obama mentions the Werther Effect and he's rational and measured.
When I can anger a conservative one day and a liberal the next - that's a good day.
When I can anger a conservative one day and a liberal the next - that's a good day.
2
It's clear bias when these articles always forget the word 'temporary' whenever they refer to Trump's comments about Muslim immigration, just like they forget the words 'illegal' or even 'undocumented' when they talk about immigration.
8
I'm confused, Is everything Trumps Fault or is everything Bushs fault or is everything Republicans fault?
5
Not everything.
But most of the big stuff.
But most of the big stuff.
1
Trump is only responsible for conning a lot of ignorant, angry, and fearful Republican. Bush is responsible for the chaos in the Middle East. And Republicans in Congress are responsible for blocking progress on the economy and virtually everything else Obama has tried to accomplish. Does that alleviate your confusion?
1
As has almost always been true of his public statements, Mr. Obama offers wise and thoughtful comments. It is horribly sad that so many Americans are more interested in sarcastic and pompous rhetoric.
13
The real Obama comes out when he is off teleprompter.
He has a rambling brain, no focus.
Obama is controlled by people behind the curtain.
He has a rambling brain, no focus.
Obama is controlled by people behind the curtain.
Wise and thoughtful comments?
Or did he just generalize and demonize a whole class of people:
“particularly blue-collar men"
Particular blue collar men "have had a lot of trouble in this new economy"
He just realized that or he watched it on the news?
Is anyone disturbed that he just seems to be reporting the news instead of acting on it ... uh... he is the President of the United States.
Does he not have even 1% obligation to help those folks secure a better future... or is this Bush's fault too or am I a racist for even bringing up the sad state of our economy. Take your pick.
Or did he just generalize and demonize a whole class of people:
“particularly blue-collar men"
Particular blue collar men "have had a lot of trouble in this new economy"
He just realized that or he watched it on the news?
Is anyone disturbed that he just seems to be reporting the news instead of acting on it ... uh... he is the President of the United States.
Does he not have even 1% obligation to help those folks secure a better future... or is this Bush's fault too or am I a racist for even bringing up the sad state of our economy. Take your pick.
So much for the jokes! There is NOTHING wise or thoughtful about Obama!
So what exactly has Obama done to help the plight of working class Americans thrown on the altar of globalization? Like the rest of the elite, he has forgotten about them because he cannot make money off their woes.
6
The only fear the working class that pays taxes, does not receive any welfare or Earned Income Tax Credits, has is of the Obama Regime and the Democrat and Republican party which continue to do everything they can to destroy us and relegate us to the lower classes and turn us into welfare recipients thinking that we will vote for them. What they don't know is that even if we lose our jobs we will resort to the gray and black market economy and make our living that way.
2
Obama hasn't used the race card as a reason for his failed presidency for quite a long time. Next he will go back to blaming Bush.
The resentment and anxieties of working class men are caused by Obama's economic policies however he is too aloof to understand or admit this.
The resentment and anxieties of working class men are caused by Obama's economic policies however he is too aloof to understand or admit this.
5
"Mr. Obama also argued that some of the scorn directed at him personally stems from the fact that he is the first African-American to hold the White House.:
Ahhhh, blame his failures on his race. Poor picked on Obama. The scorn directed at him is due to his failed ideas, misplaced priorities, lack of leadership skills, etc - none of which is associated with his race.
Ahhhh, blame his failures on his race. Poor picked on Obama. The scorn directed at him is due to his failed ideas, misplaced priorities, lack of leadership skills, etc - none of which is associated with his race.
6
Obama exploited people's desire for 'hope' and 'change' and look where that led us.
10
As a dissenter of this president and his policies, sometimes I do hate him, I’ll admit. Pres. Obama is an exasperating figure.
But my primary feelings about this president are not hatred but a profound felling of disappointment.
Disappointment in him as president, and often times disappointment in him as a man.
Barack Obama is indeed a good man; great family and all. And his defenders are correct that his administration has been largely scandal free.
The disappointment comes from things like his blaming racism for his problems as president. For his blaming the media for fear of terrorism. For explaining away his foreign policy blunders on bad messaging, as if things are really going okay. And disappointment at his grating self-absorption (“In some ways, I may represent change that worries them.”). It is just always has to be about him in a way that flatters himself and denigrates others.
Barack Obama had a great opportunity when elected as president, but at too many turns he has simply disappointed. This interview showcases that sad fact.
But my primary feelings about this president are not hatred but a profound felling of disappointment.
Disappointment in him as president, and often times disappointment in him as a man.
Barack Obama is indeed a good man; great family and all. And his defenders are correct that his administration has been largely scandal free.
The disappointment comes from things like his blaming racism for his problems as president. For his blaming the media for fear of terrorism. For explaining away his foreign policy blunders on bad messaging, as if things are really going okay. And disappointment at his grating self-absorption (“In some ways, I may represent change that worries them.”). It is just always has to be about him in a way that flatters himself and denigrates others.
Barack Obama had a great opportunity when elected as president, but at too many turns he has simply disappointed. This interview showcases that sad fact.
1
Mr. Obama would still be unforgivably black, but if he had put a few, just few financial CEO's in jail early on, his standing among everyone, including the GOP rabble would have been enhanced considerably. His reluctance to do so will remain as one of his most enduring legacies.
6
"I think somebody like Mr. Trump is taking advantage of that" ...Look who's talking.
4
What hogwash! His popularity was sky-high when he was first elected. It dropped not because of his race, but because of his actions (and lack thereof). What a historic opportunity for America - but he blew it. Thirty three percent of people out of the workforce, middle class wages hit 50 year low (they collapsed for the lower class), out of touch (only knows what's going on if he reads in in the newspaper or hears it on TV, flying their dog on a separate plane), lying (about Benghazi to get re-elected, "if you like your doctor...", etc), foreign policy (Iran deal? Really?, lack of spine), alienation of our allies, dividing the country by income, race, national origin . . . the list goes on and on.
Imagine where we'd be if he lived up to what so many hoped he was when they elected him. No - the problem is not the race, it's the person.
Imagine where we'd be if he lived up to what so many hoped he was when they elected him. No - the problem is not the race, it's the person.
8
The Breitbart advance guard has come with force this morning.
In other news - the sort that never penetrates Breitbart defense mechanisms - market indexes will finish the year over double what they were when Obama took the reins of a country at the edge of oblivion. Unemployment was halted and reversed, though we'd likely be looking at stellar numbers had congressional mules been less political. America has at long last made its first steps toward universal healthcare, perhaps 60 years or so after the rest of the affluent world figured it out. And no new wars were started nor financed on the national credit card. Hard to imagine the leader of the free world not resorting immediately at the slightest provocation to state sponsored violence and its messy aftermath. Can't America bury past mistakes and carpet bomb anyone and anything that threatens God-given "American interests?" Never mind the quagmires! Breitbarters want shock'n'awe! And dadgum it if that uppity African didn't just shepherd a universal agreement on climate change ... He's threatening to come for your beloved guns; now he's moving in on all that lovely coal. What's that Muslim Kenyan trying to do? Keep Americans safe from fellow Americans? Keep the sky blue?
See Breitbarters, this happens when you hand over the presidency to articulate and - dang it - educated people with a fully adult sense of diplomacy.
Now tell us again how the TrumpCruz cabal isn't rushing y'all down the same path to oblivion as Dubya.
In other news - the sort that never penetrates Breitbart defense mechanisms - market indexes will finish the year over double what they were when Obama took the reins of a country at the edge of oblivion. Unemployment was halted and reversed, though we'd likely be looking at stellar numbers had congressional mules been less political. America has at long last made its first steps toward universal healthcare, perhaps 60 years or so after the rest of the affluent world figured it out. And no new wars were started nor financed on the national credit card. Hard to imagine the leader of the free world not resorting immediately at the slightest provocation to state sponsored violence and its messy aftermath. Can't America bury past mistakes and carpet bomb anyone and anything that threatens God-given "American interests?" Never mind the quagmires! Breitbarters want shock'n'awe! And dadgum it if that uppity African didn't just shepherd a universal agreement on climate change ... He's threatening to come for your beloved guns; now he's moving in on all that lovely coal. What's that Muslim Kenyan trying to do? Keep Americans safe from fellow Americans? Keep the sky blue?
See Breitbarters, this happens when you hand over the presidency to articulate and - dang it - educated people with a fully adult sense of diplomacy.
Now tell us again how the TrumpCruz cabal isn't rushing y'all down the same path to oblivion as Dubya.
15
Funny how a poor, little rich boy with a loud mouth-who after all, inherited his wealth- and who possesses an almost insufferable self entitled attitude, thinks that he can speak for the unemployed or unemployable blue collar worker. But hey, that's our wonderful Democracy at work; where ANYONE can aspire to be President (even the mixed race son of a single blue collar mother). GBA-God Bless America!
3
If I remember correctly, in his "Audacity of Hope" Obama linked the rise of extremes in conservative ideology to the working class anxieties. He definitely tied working class folks' "clinging to their guns" as a symptom of working class frustrations.
Problem is, Obama is in power for seven years. Out of these seven years, he had about a year of full control over Congress to do whatever he pleased; he said he "got it" after he was "shellacked" in midterms of 2010. Yet I can't name a single piece of legislation by Obama that would do anything about his concerns; since his re-election in 2012, Obama's pivot was towards minorities and "underprivileged" and not towards working class.
Perhaps Obama should have simply practiced what he preached.
Problem is, Obama is in power for seven years. Out of these seven years, he had about a year of full control over Congress to do whatever he pleased; he said he "got it" after he was "shellacked" in midterms of 2010. Yet I can't name a single piece of legislation by Obama that would do anything about his concerns; since his re-election in 2012, Obama's pivot was towards minorities and "underprivileged" and not towards working class.
Perhaps Obama should have simply practiced what he preached.
2
"they are no longer getting the same bargain that they got when they were going to a factory and able to support their families on a single paycheck,” Mr. Obama said in the interview with National Public Radio."
So as president how do you explain where all the factory jobs are these days? Why aren't we getting those bargains?
So as president how do you explain where all the factory jobs are these days? Why aren't we getting those bargains?
3
It HAS to be race. It certainly can't be anything else because Obama is arguably the most inclusive, beneficent, competent and artful holder of the office in living memory. He is an adult in a city full of petulant children. He has striven against great odds to overcome the debacle of the Bush years, which plunged us, unprepared, into a series of god-awful wars and an economy which benefited only the super-rich, to whom Bush is a hero for preserving and increasing their wealth to the detriment of just about everybody else.
The country would do well to have him serve a third term, but he probably does not have the stamina to outlast the subtle racism that dogs him.
The country would do well to have him serve a third term, but he probably does not have the stamina to outlast the subtle racism that dogs him.
10