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| Obama's White House...It's Like Jimmy Carter (Without The Sweaters)Obama won't turn the thermostat down but he's creating an atmosphere in the White House like Carter's more and more every day. He's ditching Hail to the Chief and downsizing other trappings of the office."He's not a 'Pomp and Circumstance' kind of guy," says press secretary Robert Gibbs of the new president.What Obama, like Carter before, doesn't get is it isn't about him. Yeah, he's some guy from Chicago (by way of Hawaii, Indonesia and wherever) but right now in everything he does he's the living, walking embodiment of the United States of America. He may think he's being cool and hip but eventually Americans will grow weary of seeing the symbols of the United States made small. Think I'm wrong? Well it happened before. From the very start of his presidency, Jimmy Carter attempted to make the office more personable and accessible: he walked along the inaugural parade route, ended the playing of Hail to the Chief, and carried his own luggage. Elected largely on his promise to never lie to the American people, Carter soon seemed out of place in the vastness of the presidency. Events conspired to further impede his progress: rising energy costs, high unemployment, Americans held hostage in Iran, Soviets in Afghanistan. A man of peace who took pride in bringing together age-old antagonists, Carter was finally viewed by his countrymen as lacking presidential stature.And that's from a PBS bio! Like Carter before him, his act will wear thin. Unfortunately, the country will pay a steep price for it's temporary infatuation. More: As several commenters remind me, Obama wasn't always adverse to a little unearned pomp and circumstance. ![]() CommentsPosted by: gigi at February 02, 2009 11:58 AM (luFiS) 2
Like the old saying goes, 'People get the govt they deserve.' And the 52% of my fellow countrymen who voted for this schmuck do deserve the consequences of his tenure. But I don't.
Posted by: pendejo grande at February 02, 2009 11:59 AM (AsiRQ) 3
But dude, he's got sweaty pecs! I'm spanking it right now.
Posted by: Matt Lauer at February 02, 2009 12:00 PM (AZGON) Posted by: Dang at February 02, 2009 12:00 PM (Y5LIx) 5
So it was a conspiracy of events that marked him as a failure. Not his inability to rise to them.
K Posted by: Kestrel♠ at February 02, 2009 12:00 PM (pBWKB) 6
"...and carried his own luggage."
I believe it is now known that Jimmah carrying his own luggage was not true. He carried an empty suitcase on occasion as a photo op. Posted by: Leopold Stotch at February 02, 2009 12:01 PM (iTcPB) 7
"Mr. Obama, your Presidency has been described as having the momentum of a freight train running out of control down a mountain. Why are you so popular?"
Posted by: Matt Lauer at February 02, 2009 12:01 PM (906oR) 8
Obama's understated DNC acceptance event and the Presidential inauguration are testaments to his commitment to not let his ego run wild.
Posted by: Bald Ninja at February 02, 2009 12:02 PM (4pdbX) 9
I am a pig, having put this in another thread already. But it fits here. Oink oink.
------- Obastard told us already, during the campaign, what motivates his slovenly dress. "I want to make government cool again." Having to adhere to things like dress codes with ties and jackets is so uncool, man. It's just rags on a body, right, dude? Chill. Remember, Obastard is the Affirmative Action President. He won because firstly, more and more people are voting who were taught in school and in pop culture that liberals are angels and Konservatives are teh Evil. Secondly, he himself won because we lowered the bar... affirmative action. He's non-white, he's David Ehrenreich's Magic Negro, it's his turn even if he doesn't deserve it. What is his only real accomplishment? Writing two self-indulgent, solipsistic, I'm-finding-myself autobiographies aimed at a like-minded public. So they were bestsellers. Which proves nothing... people ate up James Frey's lies like syrup-drenched truth, and he made fools of them. Other than that, what is Barry's worth? He is a Chicago pol with dirty deals in his background like Rezko, Wright, Pfleger, Grove Parc, the Annenberg Challenge to Waste Over One Hundred Million Dollars, his wife's "job," since unfilled, a sinecure-cum-payoff, and he won all prior elections by challenging his opponents rights to run, or digging up sleaze. The depth of his vileness forces me to run-on sentences. His legislative accomplishments? Nil. His voting record speaks of sheer cowardice (present 130 odd times) except when it comes to killing babies. Then he's a real stand-up guy. If he can kill a baby. No, President Affirmative Action is all about lowering the bar. Or perhaps, after he is finished screwing the rest of us, lowering the boom. Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 12:02 PM (AZGON) 10
The President of the United States shouldn't dress down in any way. To us, he looks like a condescending, pandering clown. What he doesn't realize is, most of us would like to have someone else carry our luggage. Has he not realized what makes casinos tick? People want to dream of having it better than they have it now. To the rest of the world, he just looks un-presidential. The Leader of the Free World mows his own lawn? Have things in the U.S. gotten that bad? Foreigners like to dream, too. Posted by: Michael Rittenhouse at February 02, 2009 12:03 PM (2QFX4) 11
"He's not a 'Pomp and Circumstance' kind of guy," says press secretary Robert Gibbs of the new president. Yet, he had all those Greek columns in Denver... Yet, he invents his own Presidential Seal.... Yet he invents the Office of the President-Elect.
Posted by: bbb at February 02, 2009 12:03 PM (3PqHz) 12
It's always so nice to start of Monday mornings with reasons to be pissed off. The President of the United States used to be one of the most respected jobs in the world. Dress like a fucking leader, respect the traditions of the role, and watch the words that come out of your mouth because everyone is now making note of them. I realize this is the first "real" job this bastard has ever had, but can't he buy a clue or something? It is the fucking decline of western civilization writ large for all of us to see. Posted by: ParanoidInSeattle at February 02, 2009 12:03 PM (AJ4xq) 13
There is nothing American about Obama. Nothing. He knows nothing of America and does not understand where he is. He is failing because of his own ego. Fuck him before he fucks us. Posted by: billypaintbrush at February 02, 2009 12:04 PM (7c6o4) 14
#11
Doubleplus one!!! Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 12:04 PM (AZGON) 15
I saw a snippet of the Lamb being interviewed by Lauer this morning. Obama was in shirtsleeves, no tie, no jacket. Not cool at all.
Posted by: toby928 at February 02, 2009 12:04 PM (PD1tk) 16
Stotch beat me to it. (Carter and luggage)
Posted by: right at February 02, 2009 12:05 PM (EquV1) Posted by: Qwinn at February 02, 2009 12:06 PM (/y1J0) Posted by: Jane at February 02, 2009 12:07 PM (8o7yQ) 19
I believe it is now known that Jimmah carrying his own luggage was not true. He carried an empty suitcase on occasion as a photo op. Am I alone in thinking that pretending to condescend is even worse>? Posted by: Michael Rittenhouse at February 02, 2009 12:08 PM (2QFX4) 20
"He's not a 'Pomp and Circumstance' kind of guy," says press secretary Robert Gibbs of the new president.
This is Oscar material. Herr Gibbs ought to win every acting award out there. Anyone who can utter that garbage with a straight face is Grant, Cooper, Stewart, Wayne and Carrot Top rolled into one. Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 12:09 PM (AZGON) 21
There ARE some differences between Cater being elected and OVomit, as well as the similarities. After months of Watergate and demonizing by the press Nixon was athema to the public. The Commiecrats could have run a broken down dog with the mange and won, which they did. The Republicans, although having been demonized by the press even more than Nixon could have still won if they had had a candidate that the party base could have actually supported. Instead we had a dog with the mange running against a skunk with the mange. Posted by: Vic at February 02, 2009 12:09 PM (f6os6) 22
Let me get this quote right: When small men cast long shadows the sun is going down.
Posted by: Jane at February 02, 2009 12:09 PM (8o7yQ) 23
He's like the new teach who wants to students to use his first name. They quickly learn that students then don't respect them, and they have out of control classrooms. I predict everyone in the upper mid-west will drop their pencils at exactly 2:15 pm.
Posted by: InCali at February 02, 2009 12:10 PM (gUKfo) 24
When I hear that someone who invented their own campaign seal, their own Pseudo-Office, their own Greek Column spectacle at a Nomination speech and throws a $160 Million (1.6e
It's fun to be talked down too. Posted by: Techie at February 02, 2009 12:10 PM (906oR) 25
and it might be a long time before another brotha gets to get in because of BO's action of making the 'house hip & all.
Posted by: i should be doing something else at February 02, 2009 12:10 PM (i1+rx) 26
Too bad he still can't walk the walk. Thermostat set at 80 degrees, $100 imported steak dinners.......His 'changes' are sooooooooo SUBSTANTIVE.
Posted by: GarandFan at February 02, 2009 12:10 PM (237hA) 27
I never gave Barry any presidential stature so he has none to lose with me.
Posted by: TheQuietMan at February 02, 2009 12:10 PM (1Jaio) 28
What Obama, like Carter before, doesn't get is it isn't about him. Yeah, he's some guy from Chicago (by way of Hawaii, Indonesia and wherever) but right now in everything he does he's the living, walking embodiment of the United States of America. He may think he's being cool and hip but eventually Americans will grow weary of seeing the symbols of the United States made small. Think I'm wrong? Well it happened before. Carter also miscalculated. He thought that minimizing the appearance of the office was the right thing to do in the post-Watergate era, and I can't really blame him for that, since it was a perfectly logical decision. He didn't do it because he was a raving narcissist. I mean, Christ, look at him. However, in Obama you do have someone for whom the flag serves the logo, and for the most part his electorate agrees. If he signed an executive order changing the national anthem to "Oba-ama the Beautiful," half of the people who voted for him would nod in agreement of the need for A Change That Brings People Together. He may honk off some of the flag-wavers, but for the most part, that isn't his base, and it isn't who he cares about. If he did, he wouldn't have been such a douchebag re: the flag the few times it came up. If your theory was right, then Bill Clinton would have gotten shit for wearing blue jeans in the Oval Office. But he didn't, least as far as I could tell, and when GWB reversed that trend and ordered jacket-and-tie at all times, it didn't buy him any credit. Posted by: INCITEmarsh at February 02, 2009 12:12 PM (Ygy/Q) 29
That's: He's like the new teacher who wants students to use his first name.
Posted by: InCali at February 02, 2009 12:12 PM (gUKfo) 30
All we need now is a killer rabbit, lust in his heart and a nice hostage crisis....
Posted by: IllTemperedCur at February 02, 2009 12:12 PM (kJisp) 31
GarandFan at February 02, 2009 12:10 PM (237hA)
Posted by: red131 at February 02, 2009 12:13 PM (p9cod) 32
Obama is all about Pomp and Circumstance, for himself. Remember he stepped down into the Presidency. He is lowering the Office of the Presidency and elevating himself, that is going to end well.
Posted by: kefka at February 02, 2009 12:14 PM (rnn8h) 33
Sorry about that... George Bush's favorite lunch was PBJ.
Posted by: red131 at February 02, 2009 12:14 PM (p9cod) 34
That's ( 1.6e8 ). (stupid emoticons)
Posted by: Techie at February 02, 2009 12:14 PM (906oR) Posted by: Evil Midnight Bomber What Bombs at Midnight at February 02, 2009 12:14 PM (gIga4) 36
Anyone who can utter that garbage with a straight face is Grant, Cooper, Stewart, Wayne and Carrot Top rolled into one.
You owe me a new keyboard, you bastard. Posted by: IllTemperedCur at February 02, 2009 12:15 PM (kJisp) 37
"A man of peace who took pride in bringing together age old antagonists playing cockholster for terrorists and dictators, Carter was finally viewed by his countrymen as lacking
presidential stature."
PBS needed a little help there. Posted by: right at February 02, 2009 12:16 PM (EquV1) 38
Hussein and his minions have always mocked and belittled the U.S. He is nothing but a punk and thug. I am glad I retired during the Bush administration, because I would have been embarrassed to call him Commander in Chief. He is a disgrace to our people in uniform, and has always been un-American. Siding with terrorists is a slap in the face to all of us.
Posted by: navyret at February 02, 2009 12:16 PM (Ex9gk) 39
I told my father yesterday-- the only thing that will make Obama's presidency even moderately successful is if he does what Clinton did.
When Bubba got his ass handed to him in the mid-terms, he went pragmatic. He focus-grouped everything, went with the safe option and even bucked his lefty base when neccessary. But I think Barry's too big a narcissist, and to much a true-believer of the grand leftist theory, that he can't give up and change. Clinton, he would sell out his own mother if he needed to. Posted by: Chinese Spammer at February 02, 2009 12:17 PM (MMC8r) 40
I thought George W. Bush cancelled Hail to the Chief as well because of all of the controversy over the 2000 election and trying to have a "new tone" in Washington.
Posted by: adolfo_velasquez at February 02, 2009 12:17 PM (BunBb) Posted by: alexthechick at February 02, 2009 12:18 PM (SHHaV) 42
We can't even fathom the damage this stumblefuck, his Congress, the courts, and the Media are going to do during the next four years.
Posted by: Jimmy at February 02, 2009 12:19 PM (/Ft4q) 43
File under Horse, Beating A Dead:
With little more than a week in office, there is so much stuff, not even policy-related, on this creep that exposes him as a narcissistic, petulant, hypocritical man-child-pig. But outside of the moronsphere, where is this stuff? It's not even hidden. You don't have to have the memory of an elephant to remember Barry's Greek temple to his own damn self, his personalized Prezzydenshul Seal... the thermostat story is right out there, if one simply mentions that Barry himself set the thermostat... but they never do. The wagyu steak, the fortune spent on his coming out party/inauguration... If any Republican had pulled this shit, it would be on every cable show, and I don't mean news. It would be on Oprah, Dr. Phil, on Good Morning America, on and on. The MSM is far more dangerous to liberty and democracy than Barry. Prediction: MSM will make the excuse for Barry that "he has to keep the temperature high to preserve the precious historic decor and paintings." And it will be a lie as well. But they will cover for him. Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 12:21 PM (AZGON) 44
Gibbs-This fuckin guy makes Scott McClellan look like Cicero.
Posted by: A Balrog of Morgoth at February 02, 2009 12:23 PM (wgLRl) 45
"He's not a 'Pomp and Circumstance' kind of guy," says press secretary Robert Gibbs of the new president. Obama is a pompASS kind of guy Posted by: drjohn at February 02, 2009 12:23 PM (sgWs1) 46
It works to some small advantage for the media to ignore emerging stories, though. Like how they're not reporting on the Montana and NH efforts to limit damage that Baracky might be able to do. I think much of the preparations simply must be done quietly, at the State level, where we still have some say in matters.
Posted by: Evil Midnight Bomber What Bombs at Midnight at February 02, 2009 12:24 PM (gIga4) Posted by: General Zod at February 02, 2009 12:27 PM (nwEiU) 48
#12, Speaking of "watching everything that comes out of your mouth", was reading the Riehl World View site and he references Michelle Malkin's site. Apparently Jessica Simpson will not be so happy about his recent comments regarding her weight. So where is NOW now?
Posted by: hmmmm at February 02, 2009 12:27 PM (zplc6) 49
Re: #38 I heartily second the motion on Retiring-Glad when I did. I'm really feeling bad for the guys and gals who we will be "bringing home" only to turn right around and deploy them on liberal feel-good UN-approved bullshit peacekeeping clusterfucks. Oh, did we forget to mention we will be cutting the military budget (10% is just a start, btw)? Sorry about that, but we've got a national mall to reseed and doggy parks to build. Posted by: A Balrog of Morgoth at February 02, 2009 12:28 PM (wgLRl) 50
This thread demands a slushop w The One in the oval office in Richard Simmons video attire. And a bike helmet. Get busy Slu.
Posted by: pendejo grande at February 02, 2009 12:28 PM (AsiRQ) 51
IllTemperedCur:
Apply to the Unicorn Office of Information Technology Assistance. You will be issued a new, government-designed keyboard compliant with all current regulations and culturally-sensitive keyboard layouts, emphasizing the common letters and glyphs of all nations and traditions. Your new keyboard weighs 20 pounds, is made of cornstarch and particle board, and features 12 keys with a 3VDC 1024-pin interface. Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 12:28 PM (AZGON) Posted by: Evil Midnight Bomber What Bombs at Midnight at February 02, 2009 12:29 PM (gIga4) 53
He's not a Pomp and Circumstance guy because he's not a President guy. He still thinks of himself as Bill Ayers' intern.
Posted by: t-bird at February 02, 2009 12:29 PM (FcR7P) 54
Dorothy Rabinowitz of the WSJ foretells doom for Teh One:
http://tinyurl.com/cfy25y That woman always impressed me with the sheer brain power that emanates from her articles. Posted by: Sort-of-Mad Max at February 02, 2009 12:29 PM (YdNzl) 55
He's not "Pomp and Circumstance." More like "Pimp and Circumlocution."
Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 12:31 PM (AZGON) 56
"I predict everyone in the upper mid-west will drop their pencils at exactly 2:15 pm." HILARIOUS.
I think this is only Phase One of his plan to take over the country. First is to "tone down" all of the cracker-honky old-school imagery of the Presidency. We don't need an "uncool" armed-services band playing a military march. We don't need to all dress up in these suits and ties...let's just sit down and get some business done! The economy can't wait for me to forget how a Windsor knot is supposed to go two times before I get Michelle to help me! We need action now! Do we really need this eagle-seal all over everything? Let's just be cool. Then, once Phase One takes is accepted / embraced, we can move on to Phase Two, and begin to replace these old things with new things. The Seal of the President becomes the Obama O. We hire in will.i.am to write a new introductory song whenever the President enters the room. We already got everyone to stop standing whenever he enters the room, so you're really all the closer to the floor to instead just "take a knee." Etc, etc... Depending on how crazy you want to go, you could even extrapolate a Phase Three here. Once the new iconography & traditions are in place, the final act of shrugging off the "old America" entirely is within reach. Look how far we've come from the last guy! Let's do more than just change songs and traditions! Let's change the Constitution! Let's make a new country! Posted by: reason at February 02, 2009 12:31 PM (sPO/s) 57
RE #9
What is his only real accomplishment? Writing two self-indulgent, solipsistic, I'm-finding-myself autobiographies It's worth noting that there are credible allegations that one of both of those books were written by Ayers. Posted by: John Galt at February 02, 2009 12:32 PM (SDkq3) 58
Anyone who thinks someone as arrogant as Obama doesn't love the adulation whether it be "Pomp and Circumstance" or any thing else is an idiot.
Posted by: mare at February 02, 2009 12:35 PM (X1fsj) 59
I meant to add, this is all PR BS.
Posted by: mare at February 02, 2009 12:36 PM (X1fsj) 60
There are two kinds of voters; those who can remember how horrible the Carter years were, and those who are about to find out.
Posted by: Gregory of Yardale at February 02, 2009 12:36 PM (PLvLS) 61
Unrelated - has anyone noticed that our current President can't seem to make a candid, "joking with the press guys" remark without putting someone down in the process? Every time he tries to kick back and make a little joke, it's always at someone elses' expense. Remember back during the campaign when Rove said he was the kind of guy at a cocktail party, standing off in the corner, making cracks about everyone else? I can't remember who the butts of his jokes have been, but there have been no fewer than three of these kinds of comments since Inauguration alone. I'm no psychologist, but that seems like it should be a little red flag about his self-esteem / ego / measure of others' worth, or something. Posted by: reason at February 02, 2009 12:38 PM (sPO/s) 62
#60 - Truer words were never spoken. Except the next 4 years have the potential to be far worse than the Carter years.
Posted by: IC at February 02, 2009 12:38 PM (jZNCU) 63
I am sending Barry some kneepads. He will need them when he visits Chavez on the start of his "Obama blows the World" tour.
Posted by: izoneguy at February 02, 2009 12:39 PM (3k9TU) 64
I bet the next President of the United States wears a Jacket with her Pant-suits or business skirts in the Oval Office.
(Yeah, I went there. Palin 2012) Posted by: Naqamel at February 02, 2009 12:39 PM (UMwMT) 65
If he's not a Pomp and Circumstances kind of guy, then why did he run for the office?
To destroy the 'Pomp and Circumstance', i.e., the power, of the presidency. He wants our country smaller, weaker, more dependent on the goodwill of the world community. He wants US citizens fewer, weaker, less independent in spirit, less enterprising, and more dependent on the good will of the government. He is naive, and a danger to us all (including his base, who are too stupid to realize it). Posted by: NEPA Dissident at February 02, 2009 12:39 PM (Ohodx) 66
I hope he's a pump-ass sort of guy! Wooheee! Posted by: chrissie matthews at February 02, 2009 12:41 PM (rtZbL) 67
Hail to the Chief is too bourgeoisie for him. He wants something the proles can understand, like something from 50 Cent or Ladysmith Black Mombazo.
He wants people to think he's just another prole, even though he's lead a privileged life on the backs of the people with Affirmative Action and welfare handouts. He's never worked a day in his life where he's actually had to do physical labor. Posted by: Smokey Behr at February 02, 2009 12:41 PM (QyeW7) 68
I am sending Barry some kneepads. He will need them when he visits Chavez on the start of his "Obama blows the World" tour. He can't have mine, izoneguy, I need them to get onto CNN. Posted by: kathleen porker at February 02, 2009 12:42 PM (rtZbL) 69
Instead of the usual contingent of trumpets, tubas and drums, a single piano player now provides musical interludes before and after the president's appearance. And the tunes have little connection to the military marching music of John Phillips Souza [sic] that is the usual accompaniment to presidential appearances. These days the pianist's repertoire includes Cole Porter's "Night and Day" and Stings "Desert Rose." What the Christ? Hey, if you're gonna faggot up the Oval Office why not just get Elton John up there and he can play Bennie and the Jets while sucking your cock? Seriously, though, this is all about removing the history and grandeur of the office and elevating the man who resides there. I hate this fucker with a white hot passion. Just another fucking affirmative action loser who thinks he's actually as good as the position he was handed for being dark skinned. Posted by: Warden at February 02, 2009 12:49 PM (KXbGD) 70
GWB reversed that trend and ordered jacket-and-tie at all times, it didn't buy him any credit. GWB could have personally discovered the cure for cancer while in office and the media would be complaining how he put all the researchers, charity organizations, and chemo therapy operators out of business. Posted by: buzzion at February 02, 2009 12:49 PM (Lrsi6) 71
#26, GarandFan, I can't figure out why anyone in their right mind would want to import steaks. We have the best, well, except for maybe the Argentines but the difference does not equal out the air freight costs. Japanese Kobe beef is way overrated, no texture to it.
Posted by: SGT Dan at February 02, 2009 12:50 PM (nranl) 72
"Like Carter before him, his act will wear thin. Unfortunately, the country will pay a steep price for it's temporary infatuation."
See, I unfortunately don't see the wearing thin of anything Obama, even in the distant future. Unlike Obama, Carter didn't have the massive, massive cult-like adoration that has befallen 52% of the voting masses. Therein lies the difference. Their addiction to this idiot is so perverse and disturbing, I don't see how it will wear thin. Obama will get away (by cover of the msm) with anything he does. One caveat, I was but a teenager when Carter was in office, so I wasn't glued to news of his administration, but I still don't recollect anything the likes of what we're witnessing today with the Jug Earred Kenyan. Posted by: Twinks at February 02, 2009 12:53 PM (KGbOi) 73
If your theory was right, then Bill Clinton would have gotten shit for
wearing blue jeans in the Oval Office. But he didn't, least as far as
I could tell, and when GWB reversed that trend and ordered
jacket-and-tie at all times, it didn't buy him any credit.
Not to point to fine of a point on it but let's be honest, constant economic growth, low unemployment and peace (illusionary as it may have been) will buy you a lot of grace. The other parallel with Carter is tough economic times and mounting foreign policy challenges. These are times that call for leadership. The constantly shrinking man routine will not play well as things get worse. And they will. Think about Reagan. Yeah he was beat up by the press for restoring the 'imperial presidency' but people loved seeing a grown up take charge. They responded to adult, and dare I say, manly, leadership in troubling times. Posted by: DrewM. at February 02, 2009 12:55 PM (hlYel) 74
Obama does not know how weird he is. Posted by: ford at February 02, 2009 12:55 PM (Ki7fm) 75
This Jessica Simpson comment is very disturbing. She is a role model for young girls. One of the biggest problems with young girls today is anorexia. Jessica Simpson looks healthy, she doesn't look like an emaciated runway model.
Posted by: hmmmm at February 02, 2009 12:56 PM (zplc6) 76
But he did find the need to shower his wife with $30,000 worth of diamonds after he was elected. What an asshole.
Posted by: sassypants at February 02, 2009 12:56 PM (D6CEG) Posted by: Barry XIV at February 02, 2009 12:56 PM (p9Hzw) 78
He IS a pomp and circumstance kind of guy, Ace, he just wants to replace the old, white type of pomp and circumstance (military bands playing tunes written by dead white males) with new, improved hope and change pomp and circumstance consisting of greek columns, a new seal, and songs written by his buddies to please his supporters.
Posted by: BattleofthePyramids at February 02, 2009 12:57 PM (LjGIk) 79
The MSM is far more dangerous to liberty and democracy than Barry.
Operation Pipewrench! /cheval mort + cat 'o' nine tails Posted by: IllTemperedCur at February 02, 2009 12:58 PM (kJisp) 80
When I become President, I'm going to have the Marine Corp Band follow me around everywhere I go. I want them playing Hail to the Chief every time I enter a room.
Posted by: Jubal Anderson Early at February 02, 2009 12:58 PM (krKUp) 81
"The Fresh prince of D.C."
Posted by: Lemmiwinks at February 02, 2009 12:58 PM (CiVat) 82
Children whine that they want their way. And if you give it to them, repeatedly, they will loathe you and redouble their whining. Apply rational discipline and forbearance with children, and they will actually learn to temper themselves and respect you. Even the pop culture is full of narratives where the grown child resents the parent for being too lax.
But expecting people to apply this lesson the the current collectivization of the nation is too much. The 52% are literally mental children. They have been raised to remain children, by the liberal culture that gave birth to them. Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 12:59 PM (AZGON) 83
you could even extrapolate a Phase Three here Country music would be deemed racist as having roots in the South and therefore made illegal to perform/record/broadcast. As an extra nail in the coffin of those "troglodyte hillbilly peoples" all agriculture would go organic and be overseen by Ben and Jerry. Posted by: ErikW at February 02, 2009 12:59 PM (hKtiw) 84
Twinks makes a really good point, similar to something I've noticed as well. Maybe I, too, am not remembering correctly, but I don't seem to recall a day-by-day catalogue of poltical actions taken by Bush Jr. or Clinton during their first 100 days, as is the case with CNN. Are they really going to try to keep this momentum up for Obama's first 100 days in office? Does the 52% seriously care that much? After the elections, the general "sigh of relif" from liberals posting comments on CNN's site was that they would no longer have to endure another Sarah Palin article. Honestly, I was kinda hoping that the same would be true for me and Barack. So far, that has not yet been the case. Posted by: reason at February 02, 2009 01:01 PM (sPO/s) 85
Not a pomp and circumstance type of guy? That is the funniest think, like, EVER! This jackass built a f***ing greek temple for a SPEECH! Sheesh. Posted by: doug at February 02, 2009 01:01 PM (UpJts) 86
I don't think the "dress code" or lack thereof is necessarily something bad. It may be that in order to attract the best and the brightest he has to eliminate some of the barriers that they might use as an excuse like wearing a jacket and tie everyday. I also read somewhere that he has brought long hours with him too. I posted the link to answer someone's question not as a knock to the guy. I really don't care about stuff like that as long as they fix everything.
Posted by: hmmmm at February 02, 2009 01:02 PM (zplc6) 87
Didn't Carter try to run the whole White House personally, even handling the tennis court bookings? That's not Obama's style, though I'm not sure his way looks any more promising than Carter's...
Posted by: anonymous irishman at February 02, 2009 01:03 PM (RctG8) 88
His snide Jessica Simpson comment was uncalled for. He could have taken that opportunity to say something along the lines of 'it's better to be at a healthy weight than to be runaway skinny' etc. There are so many stupid young women listening to his every word and taking it as the gospel truth. Listening to him indirectly call Jessica Simpson fat, when she is far from it, pisses me off.
Posted by: IC at February 02, 2009 01:05 PM (jZNCU) 89
Not a pomp and circumstance type of guy? That is the funniest think,
like, EVER! This jackass built a f***ing greek temple for a SPEECH!
Sheesh.
Not to mention sparing absolutely no expense during economic hard times for a maximum glitz inauguration. Posted by: Captain Hate at February 02, 2009 01:05 PM (XaEkP) 90
You are right, it's not about him.
My family and I were talking about this yesterday when Sully and the rest of the flight crew came out onto the Superbowl field. Everything I've read and heard about Sully indicates he is not the kind of man that wants to glory in his heroic reputation. BUT it isn't about him, and it seems he realizes that. America wants to be happy because of what he did, and he isn't going to make it about him by quashing our joy. America likes to honor our President with some trappings of the office. It's what we do to show the Office of the Presidency has meaning to us. Posted by: MayBee at February 02, 2009 01:09 PM (6768r) 91
#86
I have to commit the highest form of patriotism and dissent. While clearly a jacket and tie, in and of themselves, have nothing to do with adding budget numbers and writing proposals to spend the nation into penury, anyone who would reject an offer of a White House job in The Most Important Administration Ever just because "I won't wear a tie" wouldn't be offered the job in the first place. Put another way, I'm probably not that brightest and bestest if I reject a job with Messiah on account of a few pieces of cloth. Besides, I thought Barry was all about "image" and how the world perceives us. Make no mistake, Barry Rainbowshanks is not wise but is very cunning. He knows very well that this whole dress code thing has a political and marketing significance. It has nothing to do with physical comfort and ease in the office environment, and everything to do with projecting an image that he's different than the last guy. Period. If he could accomplish the same thing more effectively with dresses, he and his entire staff would be required wear taffeta hoop skirts with Empire bustlines. Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 01:13 PM (AZGON) 92
Jimmy had his wacky Osh Kosh b'gosh bib overall wearing beer swilling brother Billy. William Jefferson and his cokehead brother Roger. Can't think of drug dirt involving Jeb or Niel Bush. Obama has Malik ? Malik Al Bong ?
Yes, it needs some work. Posted by: 13times at February 02, 2009 01:14 PM (yV70V) 93
I don't think the "dress code" or lack thereof is necessarily something
bad. It may be that in order to attract the best and the brightest he
has to eliminate some of the barriers that they might use as an excuse
like wearing a jacket and tie everyday.
If a "dress code" knocks you off your game, then you are not the best nor the brightest. Posted by: InCali at February 02, 2009 01:15 PM (gUKfo) 94
As much as I dislike everything he stands for, I think we're in danger of overreaching here. Going after his policies and actions is what is needed. Going after him 2 weeks into the administration because he doesn't want "Hail" played is weak sauce. I'm not so sure we want to go down that path because at the end is the title of "Spastic Crazy Folk" that the Left is looking to foist on someone else.
Again, I anticipate that there will be few things he does that I'll be happy with but we may want to think about shouting for the next 4 years, "ZOMG! He doesn't wear cuff links on Sundays! Fuckin' Commie!" Posted by: adamthemad at February 02, 2009 01:19 PM (kIjlp) 95
I say, bring on all the Jimmah parallels. As long as the ending is the same.
Jane - thanks for a great quote George Orwell, we're kindred spirits... #56 Let's change the Constitution! Let's make a new country! The Constitution is a living document, remember? All they need to do is keep packing the courts with their judges that ignore it and twist it and they can cross that off their list. #72 Twinks - You may be right; however I'm hoping the cult status could equate to just a steeper and a more sudden fall (compared to Carter). My own opinion is that there were many (foolish) older Obama voters who went into the polls and closed their eyes and said, "WTF, let's roll the dice and see what he can do." Doing that had the added benefit of relieving some white guilt. But now that the deed is done, O's gonna wear thin with this bloc, real quick. And the youngsters that voted for him have an attention span of about 15 seconds, cult or no cult, so that could dissipate quickly as well. Watching him crash and burn to the point that the MSM won't even be able to hide it is going to be rich. Posted by: hannitys_hybrid at February 02, 2009 01:21 PM (SqeY4) Posted by: mikeyslaw at February 02, 2009 01:21 PM (QMGr1) 97
#94
No worries. This is just a small part of the ammo dump we're stockpiling. Mockery is your best entertainment value. Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 01:21 PM (AZGON) Posted by: Javems at February 02, 2009 01:21 PM (hq71Y) 99
I hear what you guys are saying but maybe not everyone wants to work in the administration. Maybe some will opt out because they don't want to get involved. I know this is a foreign notion to you all but that is a possibility.
Posted by: hmmmm at February 02, 2009 01:23 PM (zplc6) 100
OT - Someone threw a shoe at the Chinese PM during his speech in the UK. The Chinese are notoriously thin skinned, this is not going to go down well with the Chinese.
Posted by: IC at February 02, 2009 01:23 PM (jZNCU) 101
"It may be that in order to attract the best and the brightest he has to eliminate some of the barriers that they might use as an excuse like wearing a jacket and tie everyday." I must respectfully, and whole-heartedly disagree. I can think of no higher personal, humbling honor than to be called upon by the President of the United States (yes, even this one), to serve the country. If the first thing that comes to mind when working at the White House is, y'know...wearing a suit and being called Mr. Reason makes me feel like I've become my father, then clearly I am not ready to serve this country. Posted by: reason at February 02, 2009 01:24 PM (sPO/s) 102
"He's not a 'Pomp and Circumstance' kind of guy," says press secretary Robert Gibbs of the new president.
Is he fucking kidding me? Not a Pomp and Circumstance guy? Then why the faux Greek columns, the $160 million inauguration, and his ex nihilo invention of the "Office of the President Elect?" If any president was enamored of the trappings of office, it's Obama. I mean, c'mon, if the guy was any more 'Pomp and Circumstance', he'd be requiring genuflection when he enters a room. And the fucking cockholster media just scribbles this crap down and reports it as news, never questioning, never challenging, never the least bit curious. That's the sad part. Our supposed guardians of the media have rolled on their backs and spread their legs. Posted by: OregonMuse at February 02, 2009 01:24 PM (FO+YO) 103
I thought it a little much that they're playing "Baby Got Back" when Michelle walks in.
Posted by: jaleach at February 02, 2009 01:25 PM (gHrZU) 104
<blockquote>A man of peace who took pride in bringing together age-old antagonists, Carter was finally viewed by his countrymen as lacking presidential stature.</blockquote> Translated: After four very long years of inflation, disrespect, and incompetence, the American people kicked this incompetent pussy to the curb. Posted by: MarkD at February 02, 2009 01:26 PM (MMy4A) 105
Again, I anticipate that there will be few things he does that I'll be happy with but we may want to think about shouting for the next 4 years, "ZOMG! He doesn't wear cuff links on Sundays! Fuckin' Commie!" Posted by: adamthemad at February 02, 2009 01:19 PM (kIjlp) That's not what is being done here though. Having a more casual dresscode at the office is one thing. Elimination of the symbols and procedures that are the traditions of the office are another thing. The presidency is something that should be bigger than the man inhabiting it. Obama doesn't like that. He definitely seems to be of the belief that he has "stepped down" into the role of the president. Where for Bush and others the Presidency has made them bigger, Obama will require the opposite. Making the Presidency bigger by his being there. Posted by: buzzion at February 02, 2009 01:27 PM (Lrsi6) 106
I think I would rather wake up next to Jessica Simpson than that creature Obama wakes up to every morning.
Posted by: Jubal Anderson Early at February 02, 2009 01:28 PM (krKUp) 107
Did he even show up for work today? There's no shit hitting the fans. The closest thing to Hope-n-Change today is "Obama has begun discreet talks with Iran, Syria" up on drudge. Maybe they're divvying up Israel.
Posted by: t-bird at February 02, 2009 01:28 PM (FcR7P) 108
RE: Jessica Simpson, bed, crackers, anytime she wants.
(like it will happen) anyway.. (too lazy to scroll back up and see) a couple of people mentioned the Karl Rove quote about Barry in the corner of the party, insulting everyone. That's so true.. the you tube clips of him faux finger eye wipe/flipping someone off of both Hillery AND Maverick. referring to Sarah Palin as only a Mayor of 'Wasilly' (not Wasilla). There are others.. Oh yeah, just thought of this, his example of bi-partisan outreach of "I won" Posted by: Dave C at February 02, 2009 01:28 PM (sqStN) 109
What's he replacing it with? Something by Barry White?
Posted by: Kasper Hauser at February 02, 2009 01:29 PM (ZPwZl) 110
What a hypocrite! Fancy expensive parties but no traditional pomp and circumstance.
And what a low down jerk to mock Jessica Simpson's weight on national TV! He's just a common gossip. Bush would never stoop that low, even about his political enemies. Posted by: PJ at February 02, 2009 01:31 PM (FG8qn) 111
That woman [Dorothy Rabinowitz of the WSJ] always impressed me with the sheer brain power that emanates from her articles.
You can say that again. I think that our team has by far the best and brainiest analysts and pundits, generally. Michael Barone, VDH, and Dorothy Rabinowitz are all head and shoulders above anybody the left has. Posted by: OregonMuse at February 02, 2009 01:32 PM (FO+YO) 112
I'm not so sure we want to go down that path Then don't, and step aside. I'm sure I want to go down "that path." That path and any other that offers the chance to mock this charlatan boob. His foibles are likely to find expression in his policies--other leaders aren't going to take seriously someone who can't dress like a grownup, for example--so gigging him for them is fair game. Posted by: General Zod at February 02, 2009 01:32 PM (nwEiU) 113
"The Fresh prince of D.C."
What an insult to Will Smith. Who by the way will play O in some faggot feature. Posted by: izoneguy at February 02, 2009 01:32 PM (3k9TU) 114
#99
From where I sit, the more inaction and gridlock on the part of Barry's Badministration, the better. So I hope, in fact, that legions of people don't want to get involved. I do understand that this is based on the view that Lord Unicorn has precisely zero interest in shrinking the size, power and scope of government and government spending. When he turns into the second coming of Milton Friedman, perhaps I'll reconsider. However, you have an interesting point about dress codes as symbolism. If the argument is "good dress is irrelevant to good policy" then the MSM is consistent when they dismiss the disposal of formal dress codes. But... using the same logic, if "race is irrelevant to good policy" then why does the MSM gush over the "historic" nature of Barry Stumblefuck's Presidency? It should be viewed as a mere accident of electoral events, having no real significance upon policy. But somehow they don't see it that way. The MSM knows the Presidency is more than just an office promulgating policy, much more. If Barry really wanted hope and change he would have forgone his $160 million "yay, I'm King" party last month and put the money towards policy goals. He's not a new kind of leader, just the old kind in a new stocking. Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 01:33 PM (AZGON) 115
From a comment several up, I am simply and utterly SHOCKED that the President of the United States would make such a crass, imbecilic comment about an individual's weight (J Simpson). That just boggles my mind. What a fucking asshole. Never in my life....that's all I can say.
O/T...Ace, fyi, the word "Barack" keeps getting underlined as being misspelled. You must acquiesce and add him to the dictionary of correct and proper words, now that he has ascended to his rightful throne. Also, please add mofobastardjackwadmarxistasshole too. We'll be needing it. Posted by: Twinks at February 02, 2009 01:34 PM (KGbOi) 116
What an insult to Will Smith. Who by the way will play O in some faggot feature.
He does have the ears for the job Posted by: toby928 at February 02, 2009 01:34 PM (PD1tk) 117
what does kathleen parker have to say about the substance of the issues-she's knocking limbaugh today and warning obama not to argue with him. no substance, just that.
Posted by: ed at February 02, 2009 01:35 PM (Urhve) 118
"Pimp and Circumlocution." Orwell smacks it - and it's going, going... gone! A home run! He knocks Obama's fatuousness right outta the park! Posted by: sherlock at February 02, 2009 01:36 PM (ZrS0c) 119
" OVomit" -
vic, believe that one knocks "Clueless Leader" from the top of the "name the jagoff in the White House" board. Well done. As a prize, you will be able to pick which of the six newly mandated corralling locations you wish to be herded into. Jane, I had the quote as: "When small men begin to cast big shadows, it means that the sun is about to set" by somebody called Lin Yutang -one of the lesser known members of the Wu Tang Klan, I think. Either way, o'vomit is a very tiny man, shrinking every day. He will soon be his own action figure. "Clinton, he would sell out his own mother if he needed to." Mother, Grandmother- what's the difference? Posted by: buster mcDissenter at February 02, 2009 01:39 PM (ZS5Bn) 120
Michael Barone, VDH, and Dorothy Rabinowitz are all head and shoulders above anybody the left has.
Generally, yes... but I'm not so sure about Barone any longer. This is rather disappointing. Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 01:40 PM (AZGON) 121
now its"don't let modest difference" delay the stimulus. Scaring didn't work, bribing didn't work, threats didn't work, now looks like he's trying to get this passed by cajoling, The only thing Barry has not tried is yet is outright threats himself. His desperation to pass a known turd that won't help anyone but himself and Dems is obvious. How many suckers still think turd will help them? Posted by: Road King at February 02, 2009 01:41 PM (hphNR) 122
"The United States enjoyed an eye-popping period of largely artificial
growth the last two or three years (if not the last five), and one
thing that never seems to sink in is that many of these "losses" are
merely the evaporation of as much mist under the harsh sunlight of
reality. This is a short way of saying that there is no escape from the
pain but to endure the pain for awhile- you never had those assets
anyhow, unless you sold them for cash. They were an illusion. Your only
way to capitalize on them was to unload them on a greater fool before
the sun came up. If you missed the boat, that's too bad but those are
the breaks." http://tinyurl.com/e88bk
"unless you sold them for cash", ugh guess I should have listened when all those CNBC folks were screaming "go to cash, go to cash" Posted by: hmmmm at February 02, 2009 01:41 PM (zplc6) 123
97 & 112
Yes, mockery does have it's value...when it's on point. Dress codes and pomp are near the bottom of list of Important Things. Two questions: Suppose the 'O' decided on a sharper dress code than Bush's, would that have materially changed your opinion of him or his policies? Suppose Bush hadn't been as concerned about either. Same question; would that have change your opinion of him? Posted by: adamthemad at February 02, 2009 01:42 PM (kIjlp) 124
"Certainly, the present administration is under a lot of pressure to
produce "results" and press the magic button under the President's desk
to make everything all-better. This is a self-inflicted wound, since
they got themselves elected by setting expectations high. Very high.
Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way, and until someone points out
that more debt (particularly that issued by decree) is not exactly an
answer, we are all in a lot of trouble." http://tinyurl.com/e88bk
Posted by: hmmmm at February 02, 2009 01:44 PM (zplc6) 125
Yes!! The Barry Rainbowshanks Action Figure. Bereft of tie and jacket, he comes complete with bicycle helmet, cigarette and copy of "Das Kapital." He features HazBro's new Shrink-O-Stature... the longer you stare at him, the smaller he gets!
Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 01:44 PM (AZGON) 126
#112 General Zod I agree. The Dems and Obama are fair game and it's open season. There is no high road anymore. In fact, the high road has fucked us badly in the past. If your opponent has already demonstrated that they fight dirty, you better be ready to throw dirt in their eyes, bite, whatever it takes to win. Shank them in the kidney. Fuck 'em. Posted by: ErikW at February 02, 2009 01:46 PM (hKtiw) 127
You are forgetting that the WH staff, waiters, maids are not wearing their traditional uniform either. They are not wearing tux and gloves anymore. I don't know what they replaced them with. Posted by: ford at February 02, 2009 01:47 PM (Ki7fm) 128
GWB could have personally discovered the cure for cancer while in office and the media would be complaining how he put all the researchers, charity organizations, and chemo therapy operators out of business. Dude, this is the heart of the AMA. They don't want to cure cancer and heart disease. Think of all the money that would be lost. Everything is a conspiracy. Posted by: katya at February 02, 2009 01:48 PM (oRJZj) 129
I, for one, support our new casual overlord's efforts.
And wish to help. Hail to the Chief Rap His na-a-a-ame is Obama! The Big Hamma! The Ho Slamma! Get in His face, You in a jamma! Barak'll hacks ya With a tax Michelle's up next With her badonk-donk Michelle wants yo money, see? Michelle speaks in Klingoneze, Eatin wagyu steak Her friends are on the take Curtainz on her hiney Ya know her smile'z all fake Cause we all hail to da chief Barak's da nu prez All the other ones was thiefs Cause we all hail to da chief Barak's da nu prez And we all fall to our knees Barak's da Prez! Number one in the world, G! Posted by: rinseandspit at February 02, 2009 01:48 PM (ao5cQ) 130
#129 - OMG! I am trying hard not to laugh too loudly in an office full of liberals!
Posted by: IC at February 02, 2009 01:51 PM (jZNCU) 131
"Suppose the 'O' decided on a sharper dress code than Bush's, would that have materially changed your opinion of him or his policies?" How about the man just leaves well-enough alone and does his job? Part-and-parcel, how about the MSM actually reports on Obama's policies instead of filling up the airwaves with all this fluffy crap like "oooh, what's he wearing today?" and "does he prefer the stairmaster or the elliptical," followed by the editorial commentary about "OMG! I asked if I could borrow a pencil and he gave me this one that he's chewed on! *swoon*" My beef is equally with the media making a big deal out of every little nonsense thing the man does, and with the administration itself for actually being "distracted" by it. Posted by: reason at February 02, 2009 01:51 PM (5npD/) 132
I cannot imagine the POTUS being heralded with "Night and Day" upon his or her arrival in a room. Is this some kind of bete noire?
Posted by: ford at February 02, 2009 01:51 PM (Ki7fm) 133
Dress code: small part of the story.
Political theater: big part. It's hard to swallow, simultaneously, the spectacle of any President throwing himself a party for $160 million dollars while proclaiming his new, relaxed, un-pomp un-circumstantial ethos. That's the issue. If Barry had determined that he could better mold his image with suits and ties, he would have. Yet his behavior is to deny himself none of the privileges of office, while he preaches the nation should be prepared for austerity. The clothes themselves are not/i> the issue. I repeat: It has nothing to do with physical comfort and ease in the office environment, and everything to do with projecting an image that he's different than the last guy. Period. If he could accomplish the same thing more effectively with dresses, he and his entire staff would be required wear taffeta hoop skirts with Empire bustlines. And you won't find me hailing the way W. spent money like a drunken liberal. Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 01:51 PM (AZGON) 134
REPORTED ON CNBC, quoting Obama:
"Now is not a time for profits on Wall Street." You may draw your own conclusions. Posted by: Nom de Blog at February 02, 2009 01:52 PM (szcvf) 135
I'm actually a lot more concerned by the stuff in the link to the Belmont Club posted above.
I don't think it is sinister (though it is cynical), but it is interesting that a guy who has never run anything but his mouth has the arrogance to think he knows a better management structure than what has worked in the past. There's some good stuff in the comments also about how notoriously difficult managing a matrix structure is. But mostly, it is hardly surprising to see that he's adding a buttload of staff without any metric to measure increased span of control or efficiency. Posted by: Richard Hatch at February 02, 2009 01:53 PM (4hvz0) 136
Holla! Gimme a call, African. Posted by: Death Row Records at February 02, 2009 01:53 PM (hKtiw) 137
Fucking sockpuppet. 135 was me.
Posted by: XBradTC at February 02, 2009 01:53 PM (4hvz0) 138
This Jessica Simpson comment is very disturbing
A couple of days ago the Fox morning crew made a disparaging comment and showed pictures of Jessica Simpson now and how she looked for the Dukes of Hazzard movie. I did notr know it had to do with a comment from the one but it doesnt surprise me.
I remarked to my wife then that when she made that movie she did an interview in which she said for 6 months prior to filming she worked out hard for 4 hours every day of the week and held her diet to less than 2000 calories a day, and that mostly protien drinks.
No sane human can keep up that kind of regimin for a long time. Sure she looked tough in that movie with that hard body but would you expect your wife or girl friend to work out like that every day?
Hell, you would not have time for a life. Posted by: Vic at February 02, 2009 01:54 PM (f6os6) Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 01:54 PM (AZGON) 140
# 88 I agree with you. Jessica Simpson supported Bush. So in that context, it (once again) makes him looks small.
Posted by: small town girl at February 02, 2009 01:56 PM (s5uki) 141
I can't figure out why anyone in their right mind would want to import steaks. Because it is exclusive and elite. It shows him to be above the masses. It also shows him to be above anyone's expectations and standards. It is another way of thumbing his nose at us and showing that he can do watever he pleases and get away with it. Posted by: katya at February 02, 2009 01:56 PM (oRJZj) 142
"REPORTED ON CNBC, quoting Obama: Conclusion #1 - This is the last time Obama uses note-cards from Joe Biden without reading them first. Posted by: reason at February 02, 2009 01:57 PM (5npD/) 143
I'm watching Gibbs at the press conference just now. Is he wearing a rug or did he just crawl out of his bunk?
Posted by: RB at February 02, 2009 01:59 PM (ewXBY) 144
XBradTC:
Abso-fucking-lutely. While the MSM fluffs up the 52% with prurient stories about Barry's sweaty pecs and loose collars, the goddamn Byzantine Empire is being recreated in the White House. Austerity? We all have to sacrifice? Is that why the White House staff has nearly tripled? And the temerity of this remark: "Now is not a time for profits on Wall Street." No, all you people who have 401(k) accounts or investments in equities, the last thing you want is profits. Well, then what is it a time for, Barry Stumblefuck? Losses? Will that make the Unicorn shit skittles? Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 01:59 PM (AZGON) 145
"held her diet to less than 2000 calories a day, and that mostly protien drinks." I did what I could to help out. Posted by: Tony Romo at February 02, 2009 02:00 PM (5npD/) 146
Suppose the 'O' decided on a sharper dress code than Bush's, would that have materially changed your opinion of him or his policies? No. As far as his dress is concerned--since that's a departure point--I expect my nation's president to dress like a professional. That means a suit, with a necktie. It's the uniform for the position, and if you're not willing to wear the uniform, you should seek other employ. I'm not going to get into Beau Brummell minutiae on this; one either looks respectable in the workplace of choice, or one looks like a goon. He looks like a goon--to us, and to others. I think this won't redound to his benefit (or ours) down the road for the reason I mentioned. Yes. Posted by: General Zod at February 02, 2009 02:00 PM (nwEiU) 147
My beef is equally with the media making a big deal out of every little nonsense thing the man does, and with the administration itself for actually being "distracted" by it.
That's a big part of the problem. He will never be held accountable or questioned on anything by Pravda. They are too busy adoring him to do their damn jobs. He will get a pass or an excuse on every screw up. Posted by: TheQuietMan at February 02, 2009 02:01 PM (1Jaio) 148
"Elimination of the symbols and procedures that are the traditions of the office are another thing."
Right on. It's not so much a matter of him wearing his Armani suits, versus rolled up sleeves and a sweater...although I think he's trying to appeal as a "regular guy" with that approach. It fits in quite nicely with the American Idol/TMZ crowd. It's the dismantling of the traditions of the office itself that reaffirm, imo, his disdain for the office, for the country as a world leader and superior strength. These things are anathema to him. This is just a bit more confirmation. Posted by: Twinks at February 02, 2009 02:01 PM (KGbOi) 149
No pomp and circumstances giving a speech before 200,000 Germans? No pomp and circumstances Mr. Obamessiah? No pomp and circumstances Mr. Soviet Artwork? No pomp and circumstances Mr. Hopenchangey? The office is shrinking by the day. Posted by: eaglewingz08 at February 02, 2009 02:07 PM (qh8b9) 150
There is certainly a time and a place for casual clothing, even for the President. And unlike most politicians, Barry could pull that off. But the working environment inside the White House is not the place for that. If you are working in a grown up place, dress like a grown up.
Posted by: XBradTC at February 02, 2009 02:07 PM (4hvz0) 151
George Orwell @9,
On the money. ------------------ As to the laugher, "He's not a 'Pomp and Circumstance' kind of guy," says press secretary Robert Gibbs of the new president," does everyone not remember his introduction to the waiting world and first declaration of being a "citizen of the world" while trying to do so at the Brandenburg Gate in Germany but having to settle for a lesser venue? I'll go with Pompous and Circumspect, Alex, for 500 Deutsche Mark. The spin and the empty suit are one interminable exercise of epic fail. Posted by: AnonymousDrivel at February 02, 2009 02:08 PM (sI5Ho) 152
The dress code is fair game but I believe we are entering into ODS regard to the Jessica Simpson remark. Obama was simply responding to being shown a cover of the mag which had Simpson on it because she has gotten fat and he just basically repeated the mag headline in what I consider the most innocuous way possible though no response would have been better. He's got plenty to criticize about. Don't take our credibility away by attacking that which shouldn't be attacked. That said, after watching the traditions and formalities of Air Force One and Marine One on NatGeo the other night which made me swell up with pride, I will throw an informal FU to the President for diminishing the traditions and stature of the office. Posted by: polynikes at February 02, 2009 02:13 PM (m2CN7) 153
George Orwell, Have you thought about a Barry Rainbowshanks Transformer instead? You can keep the action figure but with just a few flips and twists you have a fully-assembled, ready-to-use crack pipe.
Posted by: RB at February 02, 2009 02:14 PM (ewXBY) 154
#153
Not now, dude, I'm snorting Chicago cocaine. Posted by: George Orwell at February 02, 2009 02:15 PM (AZGON) 155
If the media thinks it is so cool for our Pres. not to dress up, and that it is acceptable to be comfy in the White House, why do you not see the press corps in shorts, bathing suits, tank tops? Why don't they report the news in a simple top, or a short sleeve shirt?
Posted by: athinker at February 02, 2009 02:18 PM (penCf) 156
Looking professional does matter. Think about how we deal with "regular" people everyday. If you go into a store to buy something or interview someone for a job. Dress does matter. I used to have to wear a uniform everyday and made sure that I looked professional while on duty. Being in the oval office means you are "on duty" and you should look professional.
Posted by: Jubal Anderson Early at February 02, 2009 02:24 PM (krKUp) 157
Obama was simply responding to being shown a cover of the mag which had Simpson on it because she has gotten fat and he just basically repeated the mag headline in what I consider the most innocuous way possible though no response would have been better. The adult response: "Well, I really don't comment much on pop culture figures. How about we get back to talking about issues." By asking Him His opinion of Jessica Simpson, they were basically demoting Him to the position of Entertainment Tonight fashion kibbutzer. That they didn't recognize this trivialization--and that He didn't, either--says volumes about both. Posted by: General Zod at February 02, 2009 02:28 PM (nwEiU) 158
What an insult to Will Smith. Who by the way will play O in some faggot feature. Ya suppose Will has started evangelizing to him yet about Scientology? Posted by: katya at February 02, 2009 02:31 PM (oRJZj) 159
If the media thinks it is so cool for our Pres. not to dress up, and that it is acceptable to be comfy in the White House, why do you not see the press corps in shorts, bathing suits, tank tops? Why don't they report the news in a simple top, or a short sleeve shirt? Oh, please don't give them any more ideas about being disprespectful and unprofessional. Their dress is perhaps the only thing left about them that is grown up and professional. Posted by: katya at February 02, 2009 02:33 PM (oRJZj) 160
why do you not see the press corps in shorts, bathing suits, tank tops? MY EYES! MY EYES ARE BURNING! Now, if Megyn Kelly were in the Press Corps, rowr... BTW, what ever happened to Laurie Dhue? Posted by: ErikW at February 02, 2009 02:33 PM (hKtiw) 161
General Zod at February 02, 2009 02:28 PM (nwEiU Apparently you did not see the interview or read the transcript or if you did we just have a very big difference of opinion. .
Posted by: polynikes at February 02, 2009 02:35 PM (m2CN7) 162
"Ya suppose Will has started evangelizing to him yet about Scientology?" Who needs higher taxes when you can instead charge the citizens $3,000 to have their thetans read? Those e-meters will pay for themselves in no time! Posted by: reason at February 02, 2009 02:37 PM (sPO/s) 163
1
>>Wait until his trip to Canada. He'll need to wear his thermal bullet-proof underwear. ..I, for ONE will LMAO when Canada refuses HIM entry! Posted by: sickinmass at February 02, 2009 02:44 PM (/i4dU) 164
Re: Jessica Simpson. Is this concerning the remark he made during yesterday's Super Bowl interview with Matt Lauer? If that's the case, then he didn't say anything about her weight specifically. He noted that the Us Weekly or whatever magazine put his family on the cover and left him off, electing to make the corner-cover story concern Jessica Simpson's weight. I don't think he cares. Furthermore, I don't think he should.
And yes, I'd hit that until one of us was dead. Posted by: INCITEmarsh at February 02, 2009 02:45 PM (Ygy/Q) 165
Is this what Biden was warning us about?
Posted by: Cromagnum at February 02, 2009 02:46 PM (UxAb/) 166
What we put on in the morning isn't based on what we want, but rather what other's want us to wear. We never see our outfits unless we pass a mirror, but other's see it for at least 8 hours. We dress up because we either need, or want, someone to respect us. BO doesn't see the need to dress up in the White House. That can only mean two things: 1. He already thinks he has our respect or, 2. He doesn't think he needs our respect. Either conclusion scares the hell out of me. Hell, when my family visited DC last summer, I made everyone wear a nice shirt and new jeans. They may have hated every minute, but they learned a lot about respecting America's history and those AWESOME men and women that have given everything for this GREAT LAND. Posted by: athinker at February 02, 2009 02:49 PM (penCf) 167
Commenter #72, there is documentation out there identifying Obama's odd delivery of speeches, the use teleprompters and symbols etc. as part of the kind of hypnotic mass manipulation used by cult leaders, unethical salesman, lawyers, carnival hynotists etc. Obama uses these manipulative techniques (taken together, referred to as Neuro Linguistic Programming) to communicate and actually convince some people, that he has God like knowledge and power and will personally protect them. An NLP website feature experts talking about candidate's use of NLP techniques: 70% of Obama's speeches were NLP techniques, 38% of Hillary's (as if she had been trained but was not good at NLP) and 18% of McCains (as if he was unaware of NLP techniques) I believe there are two main reasons why Obama is taking his jacket off and feigning humility. 1) He wants to imply that the respect and status previously given to the office of the president should be attached to him personally and has nothing to do with the flag or his presidential responsibilty - the laurel leaves should be laid at his feet just for being him - he is Ceasar. 2) He is recieving negative feedback about his narcissistic personality disorder and he feels it's too soon yet to acknowledge his 'real' imperial nature. Posted by: ransomnote at February 02, 2009 02:52 PM (SI17F) 168
Robert Gibbs is, at best, a clueless putz as Press Secretary. When he lets loose with howlers like Obama "not a pomp and circumstance guy", he reminds me of Baghdad Bob reporting that American troops were committing suicide at the gates of the Baghdad airport. Greek columns in Denver, most expensive inaugural evah, comparing self to Lincoln and FDR, the Virumus Possumus seal and all the rest? You tell me that the one true possum (that's backwoods latin for the language on his faux presidential seal) is not a pomp and circumstance guy, and I'll buy your $4 million cat in exchange for two of my $2 million dogs. Posted by: Michael J. Myers at February 02, 2009 02:58 PM (UHTK+) 169
why do you not see the press corps in shorts, bathing suits, tank tops? Seeing Helen Thomas in a thong would be a thrill for liberals, but for most conservatives it would produce projectile vomiting. Posted by: Fish at February 02, 2009 03:03 PM (CG+cG) 170
In order to get things the way he wants them, he has to deconstruct what is there first.
Posted by: ford at February 02, 2009 03:07 PM (Ki7fm) 171
Is this what Biden was warning us about? Not yet. Look for troop movements in North Korea or Air Force One landing at Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA). Posted by: ErikW at February 02, 2009 03:07 PM (hKtiw) 172
I hope when he goes on a ship, he passed on not as UNITED STATES but SKINNY CHICAGO BITCH ARRIVING! Is there brave (read insane) OOD out there? Posted by: navycopjoe at February 02, 2009 03:08 PM (HObOU) 173
When Obama finally suceeds, through faux humility and pop-culture focus, in depleting the respect for the office of the presidency, we will be accused of racism for not granting him respect given other presidents. No flames please, I know we already don't respect him - I mean when it becomes publically acknowledged. In hindsight it seems as if GWBush was putting on a suit and requiring such of others in the White House because he saw himself as our employee and he was showing up business attire to serve us, to represent us well to other nations etc. Obama seems to be saying that he will be flown around the world by security details, make decisions for our country, meet with world leaders etc not because he is president but because he is Obama and therefore he doesn't need trappings. He doesn't see himself as our employee and he doesn't care impression he gives. Posted by: ransomnote at February 02, 2009 03:08 PM (SI17F) 174
Maybe He should get rid of the Secret Service as well.
Posted by: nick at February 02, 2009 03:14 PM (83lQx) 175
Slightly OT, Fox is reporting that Mayor Bloomberg was bitten by the groundhog. They aren't worried, the groundhog has been raised in isolation from other animals and they're sure it's not rabid. They should test the mayor and give the shots to the groundhog. Posted by: MarkD at February 02, 2009 03:22 PM (MMy4A) 176
"He carried an empty suitcase on occasion as a photo op."
Carter carried around Obama?! When? OH.....empty suitcase. Posted by: Nicole at February 02, 2009 03:36 PM (3txVD) 177
"If your opponent has already demonstrated that they fight dirty, you
better be ready to throw dirt in their eyes, bite, whatever it takes to
win."
In other words, like that dude in the Untouchables said - we need to fight the Chicago way. Posted by: buster mcDissenter at February 02, 2009 03:45 PM (ZS5Bn) 178
O'vomit the cockholster might not be a pomp and circumstance kind of guy, but judging by his inaugural and that pile of shit porculus package, he is most definitely a "Bread and Circus" kind of guy.
Posted by: buster mcDissenter at February 02, 2009 03:47 PM (ZS5Bn) 179
"Slightly OT, Fox is reporting that Mayor Bloomberg was bitten by the groundhog. They aren't worried, the groundhog has been raised in isolation from other animals and they're sure it's not rabid.
They should test the mayor and give the shots to the groundhog." Does this mean that now Bloomberg will continue to relive this day, over and over, for an indeterminate period of time until he realizes that true love and compassion for his fellow man is more important than his own egotistical career as a weatherman politician? Posted by: reason at February 02, 2009 04:02 PM (XiVKO) 180
This is Barry's way of telling us, "I answer to no one; not even tradition."
Posted by: bergerbilder at February 02, 2009 04:10 PM (FkfJJ) 181
#179
There are not enough days in the history of ever that could convince a politician that his own career is less important than anything. Posted by: Nom de Blog at February 02, 2009 04:21 PM (szcvf) 182
Yes, mockery does have it's value...when it's on point. Dress codes and pomp are near the bottom of list of Important Things. Tradition is an important thing. Respecting the office of the Presidency is an important thing. By preserving these traditions we remind everyone that no man is GREATER than the office. Great men, perhaps. But all are servants. That's why it matters. Posted by: Warden at February 02, 2009 04:37 PM (QoR4a) 183
About Carter carrying his own luggage...
This no doubt refers to Jimmy carrying his garment bag on and off of Air Force 1. I heard directly from SS agent on Carter's detail who said that the garment bag was always empty and was nothing more than a Prop - kind of like that stupid, shit-eating smile that creep used to flash all of the time. He has to be the least Presidential of all ex-President's. What a self serving creep. Posted by: Mike B at February 02, 2009 05:18 PM (bxzCC) 184
If he wants to be more accessible, he should serve stew instead of wagyu steak and cut off the champagne.
Posted by: Tattoo De Plane at February 02, 2009 05:40 PM (EJmQG) 185
I don't get. The guy is cheeky and pretentious enough to sport his own "seal" for 2 years, ostentatious enough to pretend an Office of the President-Elect.
But he won't play Hail to the Chief? Typical self-centered liberal. The pomp and circumstance of the Presidency are about the country, not one scrawny little guy with jug ears. Posted by: CoolCzech at February 02, 2009 06:42 PM (iafWn) Posted by: Amanda at February 02, 2009 06:48 PM (SXosX) 187
I mean, Hell, man!
The guy encouraged his own Cult of the Personality, complete posters of himself that mimic Nazi and Commie agitprop! But he's really a modest guy? This has nothing to do with modesty: it's all about his ego being to big to be bothered to play the role he was elected to. It's one of those things that probably convinced Iran and North Korea he's a total lightweight. Posted by: CoolCzech at February 02, 2009 06:54 PM (iafWn) 188
@186: deal, Amanda! Amateur threeways are best!
Posted by: CoolCzech at February 02, 2009 06:57 PM (iafWn) Posted by: Amanda at February 02, 2009 07:06 PM (SXosX) 190
Only thing is, all hotel rooms look alike - and when you come down to it (so to speak), so do the amateurs... :-(
Posted by: CoolCzech at February 02, 2009 09:12 PM (iafWn) 191
When I was in the Navy ... I worked for an Admiral during one of my tours. He had to go on travel one day and I was to drive him to the airport.
I picked him up at our offices ... carried his bags to the car ... opened the door for him. Loaded his bags in the back - and got in the driver's seat. When I got in the car - the Admiral was visibly upset. "What's wrong Sir?", I said. "I've told you that I don't want you to open my door for me - or carry my bags for me." I looked at the Admiral and said - "Sir I didn't open that door for you - and I didn't carry those bags for you." I pointed outside the car at some ordinary Sailors passing by and told the Admiral ... "I did those things for those Sailors there - when we get to the airport - you can carry your own damn bags." I can't train Sailors to respect an Admiral unless they SEE that I do. And Admirals MUST command respect. As a Master Chief - I taught this to a One Star Admiral that day - and he learned. Our Chief Executive - has no clue though. Posted by: HondaV65 at February 02, 2009 09:23 PM (9vlDt) 192
I fear you're right, Honda.
What Obama's casual approach towards the Presidency - no jacket in the Oval Office, no "Hail to the Chief," etc., shows more than anything is immaturity, self-absorption, and a lack of understanding that other people NEED a sense that the most important office in the land is one that deserves profound respect and, yes, AWE. Obama is not just a "policy wonk" (though his performance to date makes that go without saying), he's not just an "executive" or even a "leader." He's not just the Head of Government. He's the Head of State of the greatest economic, military, and cultural power the world has ever known. And humanity has needed pomp and circumstance to express the a hallowed office of Head of State since the dawn of time. His ignorance of that fact shown the typical Liberal disdain for the past, and for human tradition. Posted by: CoolCzech at February 02, 2009 09:39 PM (iafWn) Posted by: lace wigs at February 02, 2009 10:02 PM (mQXlB) 194
Well I also worked at the White House in the Military Office during the last six months of Bush 41 and the first 3 years of Clinton - and we saw very much the same thing when the Clinton staff took over.
Suddenly ... "Conservative Business Attire" was relaxed to include shorts for some of the staff. Also - Clinton tried to completely BAN military uniforms on the White House grounds (known as the "Eighteen Acres"). Military uniforms were only worn by us ONE day per week - just to remind us that we were a part of the military. The rest of the week we wore conservative business attire. There was a sort of a rebellion by the military ... the change was not welcomed - and we were eventually allowed to wear uniforms - but no hat. Clinton also changed the name of the grounds from "Eighteen Acres" to ... the fucking ... "Campus". I have no clue how long it was called "Eighteen Acres" by the White House staff - perhaps centuries? Maybe not that long - dunno - but calling it "The Campus" positively sucked - and was in complete disregard for tradition imo. Posted by: HondaV65 at February 02, 2009 10:08 PM (9vlDt) 195
Maybe calling it "the campus" reminded Bill of his days humping stoned coeds in their dorms. Who knows.
Posted by: CoolCzech at February 02, 2009 10:24 PM (iafWn) 196
"He's not a 'Pomp and Circumstance' kind of guy," says press secretary Robert Gibbs of the new president.
That's hysterical, given the Greek columns/extravaganza in Denver. Or the show in Berlin. And the millions down the drain on the inaugural. I though the vero possumus (si, se puede ! in Latin) fake presidential seal was kind of pompy and circumstancy. Gibbs is a vapid, blathering kind of guy, from what I've seen & heard so far. Posted by: tanstaafl at February 02, 2009 10:33 PM (M/8zd) 197
Maybe calling it "the campus" reminded Bill of his days humping stoned coeds in their dorms. Who knows.
I was going to say with his frat-boy attitude calling the White House grounds "the campus" would have fit more with his mentality. Posted by: Deathknyte at February 02, 2009 11:01 PM (quddg) Posted by: ���/> Processing 0.26, elapsed 0.2702 seconds. |
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