A motorcade carrying President Obama leaves Blue Heron Farm in Chilmark, Massachusetts. The President attended a social event at the home of Harvard professor Charles Ogletree in Oak Bluffs.
Senior White House Advisor Valerie Jarrett rides in the SUV with President Obama as they depart the Blue Heron Farm
I didn’t care for that part of his remark either. I’m really weary of people telling Obama what he “needs to do” also, where he can vacation, what he “needs to do” about every decision, every aspect of his life. It’s amazing that Obama has managed to have this little bit of success in his life 🙂 without all their “expert” opinions. He’s done just fine for himself, everyone. Take a seat.
I know what you mean. He’s 50 years old! I think he knows what to do and where do they get their gall? The only people in my opinion that would have the credentials to give advice would be a former President who had the exact same job although even that is iffy as the situation is totally different right now than in the past.
WELL, thank you Spike Lee for standing up for PBO. I’m thrilled that PBO got to spend the afternoon with supporters. I hope all of them will help us fight for his reelection.
What does Spike Lee do to help the President with his message? President Obama shouldn’t need to take off the “kid gloves” if he had supporters doing the trench fighting for him. He’s the President of the United States, he can’t play in the partisan muck. When the US President sneezes the world gets a cold.
There will be a time for campaigning, but he still has a pretty important day job still.
Instead of paying to attend a fancy dinner and then thinking he is all high and mighty, maybe Mr. Lee should roll up his sleeves and use his media reach to help get the message out as hard as he’d like it.
Yeah, not a positive spin on this at all on CNN, just heard it. It appears that Spike is lecturing the President on what he should do. Excuse me. What am I missing here? Personally, I think he needs to shut up, but that’s me. Don Lemon interviewed some chick who spoke against the President and his work with the Black community and she talked about the unemployment rate, yadda, yadda, yadda. I am so sick of these people. She said that Maxine Waters is a high ranking Democrat in the CBC and should have access to the President and she doesn’t. She said, what does that tell you? Man.
Yah, I’m not thanking Spike. He’s proven to be part of the problem, not part of the solution. Need your help, not your criticism at this point, which squelches enthusiasm, provokes unnecessary anger and depresses voter turnout. Not what we need. I can’t figure out how some people can’t figure out that this strategy doesn’t work and is very damaging. It resulted in the losses in 2010. It could be even more catastrophic in 2012.
And they give the media fodder which takes this kind of news and runs away with it—–Obama’s losing his support! And the more that kind of thing gets reported, the more apt it is to become reality. It’s just really stupid! Stupid decisions, stupid behavior. Not helpful in the least. ARGGGGHHHHH!
The only good thing that may come out of this is that some independents who bought into the Obama only helping “the food stamp people (you know the “”blacks”) may take a different view.
Otherwise these AA mouth flappers are not helpful.
That’s exactly how I see some independents. They may figure that “not helping the AA community” is a good thing and will support him. Reverse psychology assistance. AND YES… Spike et al need to just shut up. Most of them talking right now are trying to help in a kind of self-serving way. Everyone wants to be important and know the best approach for PBO, but none of them ARE PBO. I agree with Steve Harvey. He said that PBO is “not the President of the hood, he’s the PRESIDENT of the UNITED STATES!” Enough said.
… President Obama shouldn’t need to take off the “kid gloves” if he had supporters doing the trench fighting for him. He’s the President of the United States, he can’t play in the partisan muck. …maybe Mr. Lee should roll up his sleeves and use his media reach to help get the message out as hard as he’d like it…
Hahaha. Spike Lee is funny. I haven’t heard the term “Bukoo” in a looooooooooooooooooooooong time. 😆 I’m glad Professor Ogletree threw a social gathering for PBO and that PBO still has mucho support from high profile people, who can donate huge amounts; which will be sorely needed in fighting the opposition.
This was meant in reply to anonymous. Spike should shut his goofy little mouth. PBO is not Shaft. He is Barack….that’s how he rolls. Anyone not into his method, go vote for someone else.
yanno….one of the things that the President does really well…is LIsten to other people….
i agree…that the President …cannot be the Angry Black Man…in the White House…that he has to be like teflon and let the insults…the attempts to besmirch his character….to denigrate him…..just slide off him….
but….there are black folks who want the President to fight back….to not just absorb the punches…when i talk to these folks…i do not tell them to shut up….i listen and try to explain….why he has to stay above the fray….that he is not afraid….it is his couage….his strength…and his ability to keep his eyes on the prize…..that makes him so unique….that allows him to keep on keepin on
i think that for most black people….we see each attack on the President as an attack on us….for each blow….for each hurt…for each whatever…..and some black folks want the President to refute the the attacks not only for himself but for Black Folks in general…..
Every President takes punches no matter how hard or how often they throw a punch. But to be a great one like this one we have right now means to be able to take it as well as dish it out. Likewise you have to choose your moments smartly. If not you get worn out and beat down before the first term is over.
This man ain’t going to let that happen. In fact as we are seeing the Republicans are ones trying to hold on for dear life until someone rings the bell. They’re dreading the next five and a half years because he’s only going to get stronger while his punches land more often and with a lot more force.
(h/t to SmartyPants)
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
“On Wednesday morning, as his tinted black bus pulled into Randy Hultgren’s congressional district, President Obama told residents that Republicans like Hultgren must be willing to raise taxes to reduce the deficit.
A few hours and 90 miles away, Hultgren’s own constituents had picked up the message, repeatedly hectoring the freshman congressman at a town hall meeting to raise taxes on the wealthy and corporations.
“We have clear information that . . . tax cuts, especially to the super rich, has not increased any more jobs,” one man told him. “I want to know under what conditions you would be willing to consider increasing taxes, especially on those who can afford it? ”
“I just have one question for you tonight,” said another. “Did you sign Grover Norquist’s pledge to never raise taxes?” — referring to the promise that has been signed by most congressional Republicans, including Hultgren.
“Don’t you have the confidence in your own ability in Congress to make up your own mind? You need Grover Norquist to tell you?” the man continued.
It is a scene that has been repeated at town hall meetings across the country this August as Democrats make a concerted effort to use this month’s congressional recess to change a national narrative on taxes. ”
In my lifetime I never thought I would see the day a Democratic President would roll into a Republican district and energize people enough to contact their Rep and demand that he support a tax increase. Republican voters!! From my ringside seat, that’s a standing eight count.
Spike Lee we appreciate your support – but we need to trust this President’s instincts. There is a reason that he is President. Enough of the “he needs to…” already!
Yeah, there’s just something about Spike Lee that leaves a tainted taste In my mouth 😦 He seem to always, and I do mean always, say the wrong thing, make me feel like, what are you saying. I thin ke’s a wanna be, and wanna always be the big guys, or big people, he turns me off really. 😦 😦 😦
He has too much negative criticism of Tyler Perry. I don’t see all of Tyler’s work, but one can say that atleast he is employing AA actors, when they otherwise wouldn’t get much chance to showcase their talent.
I am so elated to see him with a little smile on riding with his Senior Advisor and dear friend. I am very calm when I see the two of them together. Valarie also has a lovely home there. He is is great company. These people need to learn how to read great books. President Barack Obama is one of the best ones you can read at this time in history. Can’t wait to read the ones that he will write after 2016. Now that will cause some large tongues to wag. What a sight that will be.
So tired of all these folks who want the President to turn into Mike Tyson. These same folks never say a damn word about all the racist junk hurled at the President. Why don’t they take off the kid gloves and attack the republicans? Because they’re all a bunch of cowards.
I am really proud of you, proud of Obama! You always tell it like it is. I voted for President Obama because of the way he approaches governing and because I trust his ability and instinct to do the right things. I am tired of media pundits, and all these self important people, who are not responsible for governing this diverse country, always telling the President what to do. As a strong supporter, I have no problem with letting the President and his team know the issues I am interested in. But I have absolutely no right, nor am I qualified, to tell him what to do, or what demeanor he should take, in performing his duties. The President is not my kid! He is the man I voted for because I was convinced that he would perform the duties of President better than all the people he run against; I especially knew, and still know to this day, that President Obama knows more about governing than I do. Enough is Enough! The President is not a child that must be told what to do; even by people who support him.
Boy, you can say that again! I also voted for PBO for the kind of behaviors of civility and respect he is showing to all even his opponents in governing. I think most people only understand in your face toughness and PBO’s diplomacy and mannerisms IS THE CHANGE we can believe in! It is a change of how he conducts himself while negotiating compromises. Yes! It does not necessarily get him all that he wants but being the tough guy would only have everyone upset with no one being willing to be civil. I think PBO’s pleas to the public to come down on their legislators is probably the most pragmatic solution. We need to help in this.
They do not listen proud of obama. He has stated loud and clear that when he feels that someone is trying to “play” him he will show them. Now I take the President at his word. He gave the orders for OBL, right, what the heck do they people listen to or read or for that matter, which President are they watching? Shame on them.
I find it astounding that people, such as Mr. Lee, who actually have access to the media has said absolutely NOTHING about the Republicans obstructing job bills and holding this nation hostage. Mr. Lee, instead of lecturing the President, should use HIS high visibility and name recognition to garner a seat at the table on some of these cable political shows. Or is Mr. Lee part of that lazy bunch who only wants to direct and supervise but never get down in the trenches.
Don Lemon and CNN = FOX Lite. They are interested in ratings, which means stirring the pot. They want to make 2012 a horse race so expect to see everybody and anybody who has something negative to say about the President on these shows. Turn them off, IMO.
Sabreen60, you and I see him the same way. I say, Spike needs to put more action into calling out the haters. He is after all, a movie producer. It shouldn’t be hard for him to come up with something to be a help, instead of a hindrance in offering up sound-bites, however innocently (I doubt, but’s that’s me). PBO and we do not need a heavier burden than there is right now, and I just feel people should think about the consequences of their words, before they open their mouths.
I think Spike Lee is a true supporter of President Obama. I take it that there are some supporters who want President Obama to get into full campaign mode sooner rather than later because they hate the Tea Party and the rest of the GOP who talk crap against the President all of the time. That crap about Maxine Waters not having a line to the White House when she voted for Hillary Clinton is a joke. That has Tavis Smiley and Cornel West whining about not being invited to the White House written all over it.
They may want him to be in campaign mode, but he is in president mode right now, with one year and some months left to this present term. If they want campaign, they’d do well to begin their own with so much high visibility. Spike needs to shut up, period, or put his big mouth into action and wreak a little havoc onto those who are obstructing. I tell you, too many of PBO’s supporters are whiners, and if I were him, I’d feel a certain way about these kind of friends. Like, who the hell needs enemies?
OT, I am watching Extreme Home Makeover, from 2010, and FLOTUS is not the only WH personality featured (up-coming). This episode has Hilda Solis, Steven Chu, and Arne Duncan. I hadn’t seen it before.
Spike just sent a tweet to CNN accusing them of “spinning” his comment negatively. What planet does this fool live on? He said something negative. The msm ran with it. If you don’t want that to happen, don’t give them the opportunity.
I think Spike Lee made a mistake. So long as he recognizes it, lets not rush to excommunicate him. I think Spike Lee is a genuine supporter of the president who was very careless in the way he worded his comment. I really don’t see him sharing the sentiments of people, like Tavis Smiley and Cornel West, who are out pouting because the president did not make them the center of attention.
I tweeted to Spike and told him that the narrative this week is that Obama is losing AA support and his tweet added to it no matter what else he wrote. I believe Spike is a true supporter. Look how excited he got over having seen Obama AND took a pic. In fact, Spike Lee has been or is working with the Dept. of Ed – Arne Duncan to recruit more male teachers. I personally think Obama doesn’t need to hear anymore advice right now. He’s on vacation. Just give the man a fist bump, tell him we have his back and keep it moving.
Spike Lee could have given him “advice” privately without tweeting what he said. The media is now scouring for any “evidence” of disapproval among Black supporters and will use whatever word, line, sentence or sneeze to prove their point. So Lee should have exercised better judgment in that regard.
Oh yes, I totally agree. Charles blow was worse though. He really is pretending to be shocked shocked that the media would pick up his words and use them against Obama.
These folk either aren’t real supporters, or they aren’t very bright. Further, they are feeding off the power of personal association with the POTUS, like they never had before, and it adds to their creds. Sad !
In this world of tweeting something before you even pause to think of how it would sound or be taken by others causes many misunderstandings. Instant tweets may not be the best route to go. Take a breath and think about it before doing it.
Spike is not in the Obamas’ inner circle for this very reason…and he only got to speak to him for a few seconds. Also, to my knowledge Spike was not among the 200 guests personally selected by the President to be at his birthday BBQ at the WH. I’m glad that Spike supports him but he should know the President’s style by now. He’ll be on Piers Morgan show next week I bet. The President will save his mojo for the general election when there is a clear Republican nominee. And I agree that Spike should not be a coward himself….why isn’t he being more forceful with the Teapublicans? Is Spike scared? He should use his energy for that.
Spike hasn’t done a good movie in a minute so I’d go to plenty of fundraisings for the President;hang out with him but keep all of his “advice” for his damn self! 🙄
My take on Spike’s word is for PO to tell folks to F**** off. That is what I got from that tweet. Sometimes I say it for the man. PO has the patience of Job. We are lucky to have him because I couldn’t do it. I just couldn’t.
And that’s why he’s the President in such a time as this. It could only take that kind of patience when you’ve got daggers coming left and right. Going off would be such a blunder. The whole world is looking……and in the spirit of the woman who raised him, he is staying true to himself. God bless him to remain that way. And God smite all who would do him harm. Cowboys are for westerns, thugs are for gangsta movies, boxers are Rocky films. Thinkers are like Gandhi!
I get that EDP4BHO. I get it. That is why I said, we are lucky to have him.
However, it doesn’t stop us/Spike from feeling righteous anger on the President’s behalf. That is where I sense Spike’s words came from. So I get his comment. Whether it was helpful or not is a side point, but I get why he said it and understand the context.
I am with you in that we feel the anger and sometimes feel quite powerless to do anything about it. As for Spike, this is not the first time I’ve known of him speaking in that manner about PBO’s temperament. Frankly, he was kinder this time. Last year, he made a scathing remark about he not “manning up”. So we understand PBO, but at the same time, we can’t accept someone broadcasting to the world that PBO has no nuts, so to speak.
Perfectly stated..Amen! So many people want a ringside seat to a slug feast. Barack Obama is going to beat them with his brain cells and his cunning. They won’t know what hit them!
I totally agree with you, nospin, that I couldn’t be as disciplined as President Obama when I am being maliciously attacked from all sides! But upon reflection, I realize that that is why he is the President and I am not. As comedian Steve Harvey said President Obama was not elected “president of the hood!” Nor was he elected President of “purity” progressives! He was elected President of the United States. His challenge is to govern one of the most diverse countries (ethnically, Ideologically and religiously) in the world.
I am ok with Spike Lee expressing himself, because I believe his intention is good, unlike those in the MSM that just attempted to exploit his comments. Let’s face it the MSM are blood sucking opportunists. President Obama is probably happy to listen….but is so self-possessed that he doesn’t let others define who he is. I really admire that about him, and I for one refuse to equate how he conducts himself as weak.
America has begun to understand the inherent problems with the Republicans, guided by the leadership of President Obama and they are not liking what they are waking up to. President Obama simply pulled the curtain on their act and is letting Americans see with their own eyes and judge for themselves. President Obama is not an enabler, he is an empowerer, he is allowing us to draw appropriate conclusions and encouraging us to act. I think he is politically brilliant.
I also get tired of the constant drum beat,and the constant directions being launched at him, instructing him what to do. President Obama has a considerably higher emotional IQ than most of us, he knows what to brush off and what to respond to. This is one of the things that drive his detractors nuts, they can not disrupt his ‘flow’. President Obama is helping us be better observers, analyzers and better responders. We have a long way to go…but I believe he is attempting to repair our politics, and if we give him the space and time, I believe he will.
Thank you Sue. That is my take on it. I also agree that only a fool would equate PO as weak. That is just silly.
Because PO has removed the curtains and exposed the Repubs, media and even some Dems. . . , Spike was probably thinking *&%#$@@ them. lol I get that and my sense is so did PO.
Aside from all that, given what is going on in Libya. . . this too shall pass.
Most Americans don’t function at the level he does intellectually or emotionally. Americans are projecting onto him, including in this case Spike Lee. I still think his intentions were good.
The MSM should remind us to be very responsible in the way we express ourselves, say what you need to say, but say it with care. Lee should have made clear initially, that he was not being negative, or better, he could have kept his advice to President Obama private. I will always maintain that opinions expressed reflect more about the person offering them than they do the subject of the opinion.
I am so emotionally attached to our First family as I think everyone here is, the challenge for me is to not set my hair on fire, or have a crying jag everytime the President is treated unfairly, but try to draw on my own convictions about who he is, why I value him and trust him, and how I can better manage my responses to what so often is intended for percisely that effect, to upset and disarm us. I know I am not alone when I say it’s tough not to react.
From the wisdom of the commenters here….”let’s keep our eyes on the prize” (I think I am the Micheal Eric Dyson of Toddersville…blah,blah,blah…sorry for my LONG way of talking!)
I’m not mad at Spike Lee at all. He was excited and thrilled to have met the President and used a carelessly worded phrase that was then jumped on and taken out of context. If this was any other President it would never have drawn any attention. I do think it’s ironic that this is the kerfuffel that’s going on when the President is being briefed by his military advisers on the situation in Libya. It reminds me of the Donald Trump fiasco. The President was working on a mission to strike down the #1 enemy of the United States while a loudmouth man with a bad hairdo was nipping at his ankles and accusing him of being an imposter. And the media gave it serious coverage.
Spike Lee fell into the trap of forgetting that the media are ready at all times to jump on anything that can be twisted and used to cause a fake outrage. I hope Spike Lee gets on the TV and gives them some hell. He could do it effectively and prove he has the President’s back.
The President must be shaking his head in disbelief sometimes at the things that consume our attention. He’s being told not just by Spike Lee but by a sizable chunk of his own supporters and also the media to get tough. It’s the media that have spun this theme until they have hypnotized the people into believing it. Ironic. He is tough. He’s just not arrogant. And he usually gets what he wants against the odds. He’s persistent. Ask OBL. Ask Ghadaffi. But the President is fair and unlike the two people I just mentioned he’s not a dictator and he respects democracy.
Thanks Walking _on_Sunshine…we agree. I look forward to the day when they cease to treat him like a marionette, attempting to pull on his strings, attempting to jerk him around. They aren’t successful because President Obama pulls his own strings. But they are successful at jerking the rest of us around.
He absolutely respects Democracy and he is trying to both repair and perserve it at the same time. I am not going to overlook, no matter the issue, the conditions he is having to work in. Two things: lets get him reelected, and get him a Congress that believes in the responsibilities of government to govern. Time for some serious house cleaning….and then lets get comfortable with the principle of compromise and serious debate, not gamesmanship and food fights.
Exactly Sue. It would be great if there were more than just “one adult in the room”. Imagine what we could accomplish if the entire government were made up of adults. But the people have to demand that from their representatives.
WHAT I LOVED MOST ABOUT THE PRESIDENTS 2008 CAMPAIGN WAS THAT HE BROUGHT ALL ETHNIC GROUPS TOGETHER…EVERYBODY…THIS WAS THE BEAUTY OF IT..TO CHANGE OUR COUNTRY AND THE WORLD TOGETHER…NOW EVRYONE IS RIPPING AT THE VERY BEING OF WHO HE IS.
HE MADE EVERYONE FEEL APART OF THE AMERICAN STORY ,JUST LIKE HIM!!!!
THE BLACKS ARE YELLING NOT MOVING FAST ENOUGH FOR THE,GAY FOLKS,THE LATINO GROUPS SCREAMING ABOUT IMMIGRATION AS THOUGH HE COULD MOVE LEGISLATION BY HIMSELF. ..I MEAN EVERYONE!!!!
LETS COME TOGETHER PEOPLE…AT THE END OF THE DAY….WE RISE AND FALL TOGETHER AS ONE NATION!!!!
NO MATTER WHAT THIS PRESIDENT DOES,IT IS NOT ENOUGH….I KNOW THIS IS A GOOD MAN…MAYBE TOO GOOD FOR ROTTEN ASS AMERICA!!!!
I also think people allowed to be in President Obama’s space don’t have to tell us everything.. Spike and all just need to keep their mouths shut and just say simply, I spoke to the President for 20 seconds…
This is why I don’t like twitter because every fucking body wants to be a journalist/reporter.. You don’t have to “run and go tell that”
I agree. I believe that Spike got over-excited that he got to speak to the President and was using Twitter to show off, not realizing that his tweets would be exploited.
and that is it in a nutshell hopefruit2 and for that I can’t be mad at him. We all do things sometimes where in hindsight, we would have handled it differently. I don’t think Spike had any malicious intent.
Annie, she is staying out of the spotlight and getting the private quality time she and the girls deserve…
She is not paid in her role as First Lady and we ought to respect her right to some private time in her role as mother, daughter, sister, and most importantly, wife to the man who carries the world’s numerous problems on his shoulders…
She must be allowed to have time to create a healthy and loving space for her husband to unwind and reboot without being subject to the daggers that are constantly drawn at her alongside her husband…
Chi, I could feel your love and compassion for Michelle and our First Family, I share your sentiments. Women both create and keep our nurturing spaces. That is the energy of women.
Love Spike. But damn, they shoulda never given some folks Twitter. I’m tired as hell of all these stream-of-consciousness tweets. Can people just live their lives without tweeting every damn move they make and every damn thought that pops into their head??? Why did he need to jump on Twitter to let people know he had just been with PBO?
Damn it anyway Spike–the President doesn’t need your advice. I am getting a little concerned about the First Lady. Haven’t seen her for awhile–I wouldn’t blame her at all if she needs a break from all the ugly out there. Hope she is just resting and reflecting.
Not concerned. She went on a date with the President last night and they kept it private. I guess she wants to have her down time because she will be on the campaign trail. She will be in NH early September doing some campaigning.
This!….. PLUS the girls are out of school. Family time while she can have it. Bonding with family and friends. She traveled with the girls to visit with her brother right before the trip to the Vineyard. I would imagine Mr. Souza has a few photos for us soon.
I’m getting just a tad irritated with these funky comments…
The First Lady position unlike the President’s, is not a paid gig and Mrs Obama has a right to privacy and quality family time on her terms and as she pleases…
2 bloody weeks out of the spotlight and it’s already eliciting gossip, innuendo and hand-wringing…
My goodness, the woman should be able to stay out of the spotlight for 3 months without being queried…
The thing with the media is that they wait for every morsel of negative news to spin about the president. I remind the ones in my e-mail list everyday. I send a note every single day on any given topic that they take and stretch to the limits.
Spike Lee statement never would have seen the day of light had ne not used the phrase he used trying to tell PBO what to do.
This. Unfortunately, Spike has a history of whining and criticizing. This tweet is a perfect example of how he can’t say something positive and then move on. I don’t Tweet…yet…but I hope he’s getting a major earful on the negative tone he ALWAYS takes.
No offense but if Spike Lee had to negotiate with Boehner, Cantor or McConnell they would roll him ten out of ten times. What does take off the kid gloves mean? Republicans wanted to gut Medicaid, Social Security and ever other safety net. After the final debt ceiling passed ALL of those programs got exempted. Pretty good for someone wearing kid gloves.
The thing that burns me up about these progressives is they never pay attention to what actually happens. They don’t want results just more theater. Take off the gloves and do what? Call Boehner every name in the book? Yeah that will work.
So many of them are frightfully naive when it comes to politics. If all any President had to do was give a stem-winder of a speech then James Buchanan would have single handedly ended slavery and prevented the Civil War.
I saw Spike, his wife Tanya, and two other people at the inauguration. The Lees looked highly pissed while the other two looked just happy to be there. This was actually after the main event and the lot of them were somehow stuck way back, trapped in the garden that’s next to the Arts and Industries Building. With the rest of us lesser lights trying to return home/to hotel accommodations. My mother knew someone who grew up with Spike. He was a little guy and nerd who seems to be living his life now acting like he’s one of the cool kids. Familiar, or what?
The Obama Diary 
Thank you spike lee.
There he go joining the “he needs to” crowd telling PBO how to do “his” job :shake”.
I didn’t care for that part of his remark either. I’m really weary of people telling Obama what he “needs to do” also, where he can vacation, what he “needs to do” about every decision, every aspect of his life. It’s amazing that Obama has managed to have this little bit of success in his life 🙂 without all their “expert” opinions. He’s done just fine for himself, everyone. Take a seat.
I know what you mean. He’s 50 years old! I think he knows what to do and where do they get their gall? The only people in my opinion that would have the credentials to give advice would be a former President who had the exact same job although even that is iffy as the situation is totally different right now than in the past.
i think that folks are tired of the President being attacked..they want him to call out the jackals…..
WELL, thank you Spike Lee for standing up for PBO. I’m thrilled that PBO got to spend the afternoon with supporters. I hope all of them will help us fight for his reelection.
FYI – News coming out LIVE from Libya:
http://english.aljazeera.net/watch_now/
What does Spike Lee do to help the President with his message? President Obama shouldn’t need to take off the “kid gloves” if he had supporters doing the trench fighting for him. He’s the President of the United States, he can’t play in the partisan muck. When the US President sneezes the world gets a cold.
There will be a time for campaigning, but he still has a pretty important day job still.
Instead of paying to attend a fancy dinner and then thinking he is all high and mighty, maybe Mr. Lee should roll up his sleeves and use his media reach to help get the message out as hard as he’d like it.
Yeah, not a positive spin on this at all on CNN, just heard it. It appears that Spike is lecturing the President on what he should do. Excuse me. What am I missing here? Personally, I think he needs to shut up, but that’s me. Don Lemon interviewed some chick who spoke against the President and his work with the Black community and she talked about the unemployment rate, yadda, yadda, yadda. I am so sick of these people. She said that Maxine Waters is a high ranking Democrat in the CBC and should have access to the President and she doesn’t. She said, what does that tell you? Man.
Don read the above tweet from Spike too. I don’t get it.
Yah, I’m not thanking Spike. He’s proven to be part of the problem, not part of the solution. Need your help, not your criticism at this point, which squelches enthusiasm, provokes unnecessary anger and depresses voter turnout. Not what we need. I can’t figure out how some people can’t figure out that this strategy doesn’t work and is very damaging. It resulted in the losses in 2010. It could be even more catastrophic in 2012.
And they give the media fodder which takes this kind of news and runs away with it—–Obama’s losing his support! And the more that kind of thing gets reported, the more apt it is to become reality. It’s just really stupid! Stupid decisions, stupid behavior. Not helpful in the least. ARGGGGHHHHH!
You got it dotster. It’s going to be a long election season. I wish these stupid people would just shut up.
The only good thing that may come out of this is that some independents who bought into the Obama only helping “the food stamp people (you know the “”blacks”) may take a different view.
Otherwise these AA mouth flappers are not helpful.
That’s exactly how I see some independents. They may figure that “not helping the AA community” is a good thing and will support him. Reverse psychology assistance. AND YES… Spike et al need to just shut up. Most of them talking right now are trying to help in a kind of self-serving way. Everyone wants to be important and know the best approach for PBO, but none of them ARE PBO. I agree with Steve Harvey. He said that PBO is “not the President of the hood, he’s the PRESIDENT of the UNITED STATES!” Enough said.
hahaha…why attack Spike Lee,,,,,
if he were to do a movie about the President…that would truly be interesting…
a movie like Malcolm X….
Colin Powell has been the background .we .have not heard much from him….i wonder what he thinks of his Republican party and of the President
Maybe simply entitled….
Bacack Obama….
i would like to see that….
must be tired…
Barack Obama…
sheeshj
… President Obama shouldn’t need to take off the “kid gloves” if he had supporters doing the trench fighting for him. He’s the President of the United States, he can’t play in the partisan muck. …maybe Mr. Lee should roll up his sleeves and use his media reach to help get the message out as hard as he’d like it…
Absolutely spot on Anonymous…
please supporters…LET OBAMA BE OBAMA!!!!!
Hahaha. Spike Lee is funny. I haven’t heard the term “Bukoo” in a looooooooooooooooooooooong time. 😆 I’m glad Professor Ogletree threw a social gathering for PBO and that PBO still has mucho support from high profile people, who can donate huge amounts; which will be sorely needed in fighting the opposition.
Say that again, only louder….! Amen anonymous !!
This was meant in reply to anonymous. Spike should shut his goofy little mouth. PBO is not Shaft. He is Barack….that’s how he rolls. Anyone not into his method, go vote for someone else.
yanno….one of the things that the President does really well…is LIsten to other people….
i agree…that the President …cannot be the Angry Black Man…in the White House…that he has to be like teflon and let the insults…the attempts to besmirch his character….to denigrate him…..just slide off him….
but….there are black folks who want the President to fight back….to not just absorb the punches…when i talk to these folks…i do not tell them to shut up….i listen and try to explain….why he has to stay above the fray….that he is not afraid….it is his couage….his strength…and his ability to keep his eyes on the prize…..that makes him so unique….that allows him to keep on keepin on
i think that for most black people….we see each attack on the President as an attack on us….for each blow….for each hurt…for each whatever…..and some black folks want the President to refute the the attacks not only for himself but for Black Folks in general…..
Every President takes punches no matter how hard or how often they throw a punch. But to be a great one like this one we have right now means to be able to take it as well as dish it out. Likewise you have to choose your moments smartly. If not you get worn out and beat down before the first term is over.
This man ain’t going to let that happen. In fact as we are seeing the Republicans are ones trying to hold on for dear life until someone rings the bell. They’re dreading the next five and a half years because he’s only going to get stronger while his punches land more often and with a lot more force.
Is it working? http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/democrats-road-tour-strikes-back-at-gops-stand-against-raising-taxes/2011/08/18/gIQAkzJcOJ_story.html?hpid=z1
(h/t to SmartyPants)
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
“On Wednesday morning, as his tinted black bus pulled into Randy Hultgren’s congressional district, President Obama told residents that Republicans like Hultgren must be willing to raise taxes to reduce the deficit.
A few hours and 90 miles away, Hultgren’s own constituents had picked up the message, repeatedly hectoring the freshman congressman at a town hall meeting to raise taxes on the wealthy and corporations.
“We have clear information that . . . tax cuts, especially to the super rich, has not increased any more jobs,” one man told him. “I want to know under what conditions you would be willing to consider increasing taxes, especially on those who can afford it? ”
“I just have one question for you tonight,” said another. “Did you sign Grover Norquist’s pledge to never raise taxes?” — referring to the promise that has been signed by most congressional Republicans, including Hultgren.
“Don’t you have the confidence in your own ability in Congress to make up your own mind? You need Grover Norquist to tell you?” the man continued.
It is a scene that has been repeated at town hall meetings across the country this August as Democrats make a concerted effort to use this month’s congressional recess to change a national narrative on taxes. ”
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
In my lifetime I never thought I would see the day a Democratic President would roll into a Republican district and energize people enough to contact their Rep and demand that he support a tax increase. Republican voters!! From my ringside seat, that’s a standing eight count.
Spike Lee we appreciate your support – but we need to trust this President’s instincts. There is a reason that he is President. Enough of the “he needs to…” already!
Can somebody tweet his silly behind? Talking to PBO one minute, bragging about it, then cutting him in the back. Can’t stand that little twerp.
he is not a twerp….
Yeah, there’s just something about Spike Lee that leaves a tainted taste In my mouth 😦 He seem to always, and I do mean always, say the wrong thing, make me feel like, what are you saying. I thin ke’s a wanna be, and wanna always be the big guys, or big people, he turns me off really. 😦 😦 😦
He has too much negative criticism of Tyler Perry. I don’t see all of Tyler’s work, but one can say that atleast he is employing AA actors, when they otherwise wouldn’t get much chance to showcase their talent.
A pic of the President at Oak Buffs from Spike Lee’s Twitter. Our President looks hmmm.
http://yfrog.com/kfjdngswj
Nice 🙂
yummy.
😛
I am so elated to see him with a little smile on riding with his Senior Advisor and dear friend. I am very calm when I see the two of them together. Valarie also has a lovely home there. He is is great company. These people need to learn how to read great books. President Barack Obama is one of the best ones you can read at this time in history. Can’t wait to read the ones that he will write after 2016. Now that will cause some large tongues to wag. What a sight that will be.
So tired of all these folks who want the President to turn into Mike Tyson. These same folks never say a damn word about all the racist junk hurled at the President. Why don’t they take off the kid gloves and attack the republicans? Because they’re all a bunch of cowards.
I am really proud of you, proud of Obama! You always tell it like it is. I voted for President Obama because of the way he approaches governing and because I trust his ability and instinct to do the right things. I am tired of media pundits, and all these self important people, who are not responsible for governing this diverse country, always telling the President what to do. As a strong supporter, I have no problem with letting the President and his team know the issues I am interested in. But I have absolutely no right, nor am I qualified, to tell him what to do, or what demeanor he should take, in performing his duties. The President is not my kid! He is the man I voted for because I was convinced that he would perform the duties of President better than all the people he run against; I especially knew, and still know to this day, that President Obama knows more about governing than I do. Enough is Enough! The President is not a child that must be told what to do; even by people who support him.
Boy, you can say that again! I also voted for PBO for the kind of behaviors of civility and respect he is showing to all even his opponents in governing. I think most people only understand in your face toughness and PBO’s diplomacy and mannerisms IS THE CHANGE we can believe in! It is a change of how he conducts himself while negotiating compromises. Yes! It does not necessarily get him all that he wants but being the tough guy would only have everyone upset with no one being willing to be civil. I think PBO’s pleas to the public to come down on their legislators is probably the most pragmatic solution. We need to help in this.
‘take of the kid gloves’ please Spike need to stop living in movieland.
They do not listen proud of obama. He has stated loud and clear that when he feels that someone is trying to “play” him he will show them. Now I take the President at his word. He gave the orders for OBL, right, what the heck do they people listen to or read or for that matter, which President are they watching? Shame on them.
meant/these people
Exactly.
I find it astounding that people, such as Mr. Lee, who actually have access to the media has said absolutely NOTHING about the Republicans obstructing job bills and holding this nation hostage. Mr. Lee, instead of lecturing the President, should use HIS high visibility and name recognition to garner a seat at the table on some of these cable political shows. Or is Mr. Lee part of that lazy bunch who only wants to direct and supervise but never get down in the trenches.
Don Lemon and CNN = FOX Lite. They are interested in ratings, which means stirring the pot. They want to make 2012 a horse race so expect to see everybody and anybody who has something negative to say about the President on these shows. Turn them off, IMO.
Sabreen60, you and I see him the same way. I say, Spike needs to put more action into calling out the haters. He is after all, a movie producer. It shouldn’t be hard for him to come up with something to be a help, instead of a hindrance in offering up sound-bites, however innocently (I doubt, but’s that’s me). PBO and we do not need a heavier burden than there is right now, and I just feel people should think about the consequences of their words, before they open their mouths.
I think Spike Lee is a true supporter of President Obama. I take it that there are some supporters who want President Obama to get into full campaign mode sooner rather than later because they hate the Tea Party and the rest of the GOP who talk crap against the President all of the time. That crap about Maxine Waters not having a line to the White House when she voted for Hillary Clinton is a joke. That has Tavis Smiley and Cornel West whining about not being invited to the White House written all over it.
They may want him to be in campaign mode, but he is in president mode right now, with one year and some months left to this present term. If they want campaign, they’d do well to begin their own with so much high visibility. Spike needs to shut up, period, or put his big mouth into action and wreak a little havoc onto those who are obstructing. I tell you, too many of PBO’s supporters are whiners, and if I were him, I’d feel a certain way about these kind of friends. Like, who the hell needs enemies?
OT, I am watching Extreme Home Makeover, from 2010, and FLOTUS is not the only WH personality featured (up-coming). This episode has Hilda Solis, Steven Chu, and Arne Duncan. I hadn’t seen it before.
Spike just sent a tweet to CNN accusing them of “spinning” his comment negatively. What planet does this fool live on? He said something negative. The msm ran with it. If you don’t want that to happen, don’t give them the opportunity.
Thank you, I know what I heard and it was not positive. Lord have mercy.
Scared he won’t get another invite from the Pres. Hope he doesn’t.
Yep.
I think Spike Lee made a mistake. So long as he recognizes it, lets not rush to excommunicate him. I think Spike Lee is a genuine supporter of the president who was very careless in the way he worded his comment. I really don’t see him sharing the sentiments of people, like Tavis Smiley and Cornel West, who are out pouting because the president did not make them the center of attention.
I’m thinking you are right.
You are right Nath…
I tweeted to Spike and told him that the narrative this week is that Obama is losing AA support and his tweet added to it no matter what else he wrote. I believe Spike is a true supporter. Look how excited he got over having seen Obama AND took a pic. In fact, Spike Lee has been or is working with the Dept. of Ed – Arne Duncan to recruit more male teachers. I personally think Obama doesn’t need to hear anymore advice right now. He’s on vacation. Just give the man a fist bump, tell him we have his back and keep it moving.
THIS!
Spike Lee could have given him “advice” privately without tweeting what he said. The media is now scouring for any “evidence” of disapproval among Black supporters and will use whatever word, line, sentence or sneeze to prove their point. So Lee should have exercised better judgment in that regard.
Oh yes, I totally agree. Charles blow was worse though. He really is pretending to be shocked shocked that the media would pick up his words and use them against Obama.
sigh.
That’s true. Blow is a real blowhard.
These folk either aren’t real supporters, or they aren’t very bright. Further, they are feeding off the power of personal association with the POTUS, like they never had before, and it adds to their creds. Sad !
Y.E.S. EXactly!!!!!
Yes !!
In this world of tweeting something before you even pause to think of how it would sound or be taken by others causes many misunderstandings. Instant tweets may not be the best route to go. Take a breath and think about it before doing it.
Spot on…
I just sent him this tweet:
@SpikeLee NO WORDS for extremist right-wing Repubs? Only criticism of President Obama? Join the enemy & then be surprised they quote you.
Thanks Meta.
Spike is not in the Obamas’ inner circle for this very reason…and he only got to speak to him for a few seconds. Also, to my knowledge Spike was not among the 200 guests personally selected by the President to be at his birthday BBQ at the WH. I’m glad that Spike supports him but he should know the President’s style by now. He’ll be on Piers Morgan show next week I bet. The President will save his mojo for the general election when there is a clear Republican nominee. And I agree that Spike should not be a coward himself….why isn’t he being more forceful with the Teapublicans? Is Spike scared? He should use his energy for that.
Spike hasn’t done a good movie in a minute so I’d go to plenty of fundraisings for the President;hang out with him but keep all of his “advice” for his damn self! 🙄
I love it when Obama gives a smack down but uhm, Imma let him decide when he does that.
My take on Spike’s word is for PO to tell folks to F**** off. That is what I got from that tweet. Sometimes I say it for the man. PO has the patience of Job. We are lucky to have him because I couldn’t do it. I just couldn’t.
I couldn’t either.
And that’s why he’s the President in such a time as this. It could only take that kind of patience when you’ve got daggers coming left and right. Going off would be such a blunder. The whole world is looking……and in the spirit of the woman who raised him, he is staying true to himself. God bless him to remain that way. And God smite all who would do him harm. Cowboys are for westerns, thugs are for gangsta movies, boxers are Rocky films. Thinkers are like Gandhi!
I get that EDP4BHO. I get it. That is why I said, we are lucky to have him.
However, it doesn’t stop us/Spike from feeling righteous anger on the President’s behalf. That is where I sense Spike’s words came from. So I get his comment. Whether it was helpful or not is a side point, but I get why he said it and understand the context.
I am with you in that we feel the anger and sometimes feel quite powerless to do anything about it. As for Spike, this is not the first time I’ve known of him speaking in that manner about PBO’s temperament. Frankly, he was kinder this time. Last year, he made a scathing remark about he not “manning up”. So we understand PBO, but at the same time, we can’t accept someone broadcasting to the world that PBO has no nuts, so to speak.
An absolute Amen EDP4BHO…
Perfectly stated..Amen! So many people want a ringside seat to a slug feast. Barack Obama is going to beat them with his brain cells and his cunning. They won’t know what hit them!
I totally agree with you, nospin, that I couldn’t be as disciplined as President Obama when I am being maliciously attacked from all sides! But upon reflection, I realize that that is why he is the President and I am not. As comedian Steve Harvey said President Obama was not elected “president of the hood!” Nor was he elected President of “purity” progressives! He was elected President of the United States. His challenge is to govern one of the most diverse countries (ethnically, Ideologically and religiously) in the world.
I am ok with Spike Lee expressing himself, because I believe his intention is good, unlike those in the MSM that just attempted to exploit his comments. Let’s face it the MSM are blood sucking opportunists. President Obama is probably happy to listen….but is so self-possessed that he doesn’t let others define who he is. I really admire that about him, and I for one refuse to equate how he conducts himself as weak.
America has begun to understand the inherent problems with the Republicans, guided by the leadership of President Obama and they are not liking what they are waking up to. President Obama simply pulled the curtain on their act and is letting Americans see with their own eyes and judge for themselves. President Obama is not an enabler, he is an empowerer, he is allowing us to draw appropriate conclusions and encouraging us to act. I think he is politically brilliant.
I also get tired of the constant drum beat,and the constant directions being launched at him, instructing him what to do. President Obama has a considerably higher emotional IQ than most of us, he knows what to brush off and what to respond to. This is one of the things that drive his detractors nuts, they can not disrupt his ‘flow’. President Obama is helping us be better observers, analyzers and better responders. We have a long way to go…but I believe he is attempting to repair our politics, and if we give him the space and time, I believe he will.
Thank you Sue. That is my take on it. I also agree that only a fool would equate PO as weak. That is just silly.
Because PO has removed the curtains and exposed the Repubs, media and even some Dems. . . , Spike was probably thinking *&%#$@@ them. lol I get that and my sense is so did PO.
Aside from all that, given what is going on in Libya. . . this too shall pass.
Most Americans don’t function at the level he does intellectually or emotionally. Americans are projecting onto him, including in this case Spike Lee. I still think his intentions were good.
The MSM should remind us to be very responsible in the way we express ourselves, say what you need to say, but say it with care. Lee should have made clear initially, that he was not being negative, or better, he could have kept his advice to President Obama private. I will always maintain that opinions expressed reflect more about the person offering them than they do the subject of the opinion.
I am so emotionally attached to our First family as I think everyone here is, the challenge for me is to not set my hair on fire, or have a crying jag everytime the President is treated unfairly, but try to draw on my own convictions about who he is, why I value him and trust him, and how I can better manage my responses to what so often is intended for percisely that effect, to upset and disarm us. I know I am not alone when I say it’s tough not to react.
From the wisdom of the commenters here….”let’s keep our eyes on the prize” (I think I am the Micheal Eric Dyson of Toddersville…blah,blah,blah…sorry for my LONG way of talking!)
I’m not mad at Spike Lee at all. He was excited and thrilled to have met the President and used a carelessly worded phrase that was then jumped on and taken out of context. If this was any other President it would never have drawn any attention. I do think it’s ironic that this is the kerfuffel that’s going on when the President is being briefed by his military advisers on the situation in Libya. It reminds me of the Donald Trump fiasco. The President was working on a mission to strike down the #1 enemy of the United States while a loudmouth man with a bad hairdo was nipping at his ankles and accusing him of being an imposter. And the media gave it serious coverage.
Spike Lee fell into the trap of forgetting that the media are ready at all times to jump on anything that can be twisted and used to cause a fake outrage. I hope Spike Lee gets on the TV and gives them some hell. He could do it effectively and prove he has the President’s back.
The President must be shaking his head in disbelief sometimes at the things that consume our attention. He’s being told not just by Spike Lee but by a sizable chunk of his own supporters and also the media to get tough. It’s the media that have spun this theme until they have hypnotized the people into believing it. Ironic. He is tough. He’s just not arrogant. And he usually gets what he wants against the odds. He’s persistent. Ask OBL. Ask Ghadaffi. But the President is fair and unlike the two people I just mentioned he’s not a dictator and he respects democracy.
Thanks Walking _on_Sunshine…we agree. I look forward to the day when they cease to treat him like a marionette, attempting to pull on his strings, attempting to jerk him around. They aren’t successful because President Obama pulls his own strings. But they are successful at jerking the rest of us around.
He absolutely respects Democracy and he is trying to both repair and perserve it at the same time. I am not going to overlook, no matter the issue, the conditions he is having to work in. Two things: lets get him reelected, and get him a Congress that believes in the responsibilities of government to govern. Time for some serious house cleaning….and then lets get comfortable with the principle of compromise and serious debate, not gamesmanship and food fights.
Exactly Sue. It would be great if there were more than just “one adult in the room”. Imagine what we could accomplish if the entire government were made up of adults. But the people have to demand that from their representatives.
Very well put Sue, thanks…
WHAT I LOVED MOST ABOUT THE PRESIDENTS 2008 CAMPAIGN WAS THAT HE BROUGHT ALL ETHNIC GROUPS TOGETHER…EVERYBODY…THIS WAS THE BEAUTY OF IT..TO CHANGE OUR COUNTRY AND THE WORLD TOGETHER…NOW EVRYONE IS RIPPING AT THE VERY BEING OF WHO HE IS.
HE MADE EVERYONE FEEL APART OF THE AMERICAN STORY ,JUST LIKE HIM!!!!
THE BLACKS ARE YELLING NOT MOVING FAST ENOUGH FOR THE,GAY FOLKS,THE LATINO GROUPS SCREAMING ABOUT IMMIGRATION AS THOUGH HE COULD MOVE LEGISLATION BY HIMSELF. ..I MEAN EVERYONE!!!!
LETS COME TOGETHER PEOPLE…AT THE END OF THE DAY….WE RISE AND FALL TOGETHER AS ONE NATION!!!!
NO MATTER WHAT THIS PRESIDENT DOES,IT IS NOT ENOUGH….I KNOW THIS IS A GOOD MAN…MAYBE TOO GOOD FOR ROTTEN ASS AMERICA!!!!
This! x2
When you are Oppressed it is never fast enough…
and there is the rub…..but …The Struggle Continues….
The oppressed you speak of were pretty subdued for the 8 long years of George Bush and yet President Obama can’t clean it all up quick enough…
Heavens…
I also think people allowed to be in President Obama’s space don’t have to tell us everything.. Spike and all just need to keep their mouths shut and just say simply, I spoke to the President for 20 seconds…
This is why I don’t like twitter because every fucking body wants to be a journalist/reporter.. You don’t have to “run and go tell that”
I agree. I believe that Spike got over-excited that he got to speak to the President and was using Twitter to show off, not realizing that his tweets would be exploited.
and that is it in a nutshell hopefruit2 and for that I can’t be mad at him. We all do things sometimes where in hindsight, we would have handled it differently. I don’t think Spike had any malicious intent.
I miss Michelle.
You know I love my President,but I love the First Lady too. And I sure have miss seeing her.
Annie, she is staying out of the spotlight and getting the private quality time she and the girls deserve…
She is not paid in her role as First Lady and we ought to respect her right to some private time in her role as mother, daughter, sister, and most importantly, wife to the man who carries the world’s numerous problems on his shoulders…
She must be allowed to have time to create a healthy and loving space for her husband to unwind and reboot without being subject to the daggers that are constantly drawn at her alongside her husband…
Chi, I could feel your love and compassion for Michelle and our First Family, I share your sentiments. Women both create and keep our nurturing spaces. That is the energy of women.
Thank you…I totaly agree.
Love Spike. But damn, they shoulda never given some folks Twitter. I’m tired as hell of all these stream-of-consciousness tweets. Can people just live their lives without tweeting every damn move they make and every damn thought that pops into their head??? Why did he need to jump on Twitter to let people know he had just been with PBO?
Argh 😡
Can we say….immaturity?
Thank you, Sue in Minnesota, for this thoughtful comment. It really captures the essence of President Obama.
Damn it anyway Spike–the President doesn’t need your advice. I am getting a little concerned about the First Lady. Haven’t seen her for awhile–I wouldn’t blame her at all if she needs a break from all the ugly out there. Hope she is just resting and reflecting.
I’m getting concerned about FLOTUS too…no signs of her at all..ugh. I hope everything is ok with her. #withdrawals
Not concerned. She went on a date with the President last night and they kept it private. I guess she wants to have her down time because she will be on the campaign trail. She will be in NH early September doing some campaigning.
This!….. PLUS the girls are out of school. Family time while she can have it. Bonding with family and friends. She traveled with the girls to visit with her brother right before the trip to the Vineyard. I would imagine Mr. Souza has a few photos for us soon.
Thank you Hopefruit…
I’m getting just a tad irritated with these funky comments…
The First Lady position unlike the President’s, is not a paid gig and Mrs Obama has a right to privacy and quality family time on her terms and as she pleases…
2 bloody weeks out of the spotlight and it’s already eliciting gossip, innuendo and hand-wringing…
My goodness, the woman should be able to stay out of the spotlight for 3 months without being queried…
The thing with the media is that they wait for every morsel of negative news to spin about the president. I remind the ones in my e-mail list everyday. I send a note every single day on any given topic that they take and stretch to the limits.
Spike Lee statement never would have seen the day of light had ne not used the phrase he used trying to tell PBO what to do.
Dear Africa,
May I say that you are one of my favorite people here…
Your intelligent and insightful comments backed by real action, are thoroughly appreciated…
Thank you…
This. Unfortunately, Spike has a history of whining and criticizing. This tweet is a perfect example of how he can’t say something positive and then move on. I don’t Tweet…yet…but I hope he’s getting a major earful on the negative tone he ALWAYS takes.
No offense but if Spike Lee had to negotiate with Boehner, Cantor or McConnell they would roll him ten out of ten times. What does take off the kid gloves mean? Republicans wanted to gut Medicaid, Social Security and ever other safety net. After the final debt ceiling passed ALL of those programs got exempted. Pretty good for someone wearing kid gloves.
The thing that burns me up about these progressives is they never pay attention to what actually happens. They don’t want results just more theater. Take off the gloves and do what? Call Boehner every name in the book? Yeah that will work.
So many of them are frightfully naive when it comes to politics. If all any President had to do was give a stem-winder of a speech then James Buchanan would have single handedly ended slavery and prevented the Civil War.
I saw Spike, his wife Tanya, and two other people at the inauguration. The Lees looked highly pissed while the other two looked just happy to be there. This was actually after the main event and the lot of them were somehow stuck way back, trapped in the garden that’s next to the Arts and Industries Building. With the rest of us lesser lights trying to return home/to hotel accommodations. My mother knew someone who grew up with Spike. He was a little guy and nerd who seems to be living his life now acting like he’s one of the cool kids. Familiar, or what?