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Wimping out
Author: Raine
Date: 07/30/2012 11:52:10
I strongly suggest this be read.... The article is even more scathing than the cover that accompanies it....
Never have I read a more scathing critique of a Presidential Candidate. I almost believe that no more need be said about Romney. Almost.... but not quite.
and 
Raine
The episode highlights what’s really wrong with Romney. He’s kind of lame, and he’s really ... annoying. He keeps saying these ... things, these incredibly off-key things. Then he apologizes immediately—with all the sincerity of a hostage. Or maybe he doesn’t: sometimes he whines about the subsequent attacks on him. But the one thing he never does? Man up, double down, take his lumps.
In some respects, he’s more weenie than wimp—socially inept; at times awkwardy ingratiating, at other times mocking those “below” him, but almost always getting the situation a little wrong, and never in a sympathetic way. The evidence resonates across too many years to deny. What kind of teenager beats up on the misfit, sissy kid, pinning him down and violently cutting his hair with a pair of school scissors—the incident from Romney’s youth that The Washington Post famously reported (and Romney famously didn’t really deny) back in May? The behavior extends, through more sedate means, into adulthood.
And what kind of presidential candidate whines about a few attacks and demands an apology when the going starts to get rough? And tries to sound tough by accusing the president who killed the world’s most-wanted villain of appeasement? That’s what they call overcompensation, and it’s a dead giveaway; it’s the “tell.” This guy is nervous—terrified—about looking weak. And ironically, being terrified of looking weak makes him look weaker still.
Romney will go at Obama hard until the election on Pentagon cuts and security leaks and Obama’s alleged apologies for America. Here and there he’ll score a point. But here, too, he’s just trying too hard. You watch something like his recent VFW speech, and you see that he so desperately wants people to see him and think: “He’s like Reagan.” Please. You would no more cast Romney as Reagan than you would Pee-wee Herman as James Bond.
Never have I read a more scathing critique of a Presidential Candidate. I almost believe that no more need be said about Romney. Almost.... but not quite.
and Raine
Comments:
Order comments Newest to Oldest Refresh Comments
Comment by 
Raine on 07/30/2012 12:35:08
Raine on 07/30/2012 12:35:08
Romney said he refuses to discuss Foreign Policy while on Foreign Soil -- and then discusses Foreign Policy while on Foreign Soil---
Also at about 6:24 minutes in, he responded to the Newsweek cover. This was actually not a bad interview-- he however gave wretched answers.
Also at about 6:24 minutes in, he responded to the Newsweek cover. This was actually not a bad interview-- he however gave wretched answers.
Comment by 
Mondobubba on 07/30/2012 13:03:14
Mondobubba on 07/30/2012 13:03:14
No bacon wrapped shrimp at the Wailing Wall. His handlers reigned him in a little.
Comment by 
wickedpam on 07/30/2012 13:12:30
wickedpam on 07/30/2012 13:12:30
Morning 
Comment by wickedpam on 07/30/2012 13:21:29
wickedpam on 07/30/2012 13:21:29
Wait - he's not going to talk foreign policy when overseas, yet he supposedly went to give a foreign policy speech in London and then also said he'd give Israel a big thumbs up on taking out Iran's nuclear program. Seriously?
and what kills me is that people will actually believe he's not talking foreign policy
and what kills me is that people will actually believe he's not talking foreign policy
Comment by wickedpam on 07/30/2012 13:24:40
wickedpam on 07/30/2012 13:24:40
New Rebecca? What happened to Rebecca?
Comment by Raine on 07/30/2012 13:35:07
Friday was her last day. 
Family things she said. I haz a sad.
And she looked beautiful on Friday -- she wore a black dress and everything.
Raine on 07/30/2012 13:35:07
Quote by wickedpam:
New Rebecca? What happened to Rebecca?
Family things she said. I haz a sad. And she looked beautiful on Friday -- she wore a black dress and everything.
Comment by wickedpam on 07/30/2012 13:36:59
awww - sorry I missed that. Hope everything turns out okay for her, she'll be missed. No one could do Ross Perot like Rebecca
wickedpam on 07/30/2012 13:36:59
Quote by Raine:Friday was her last day.Quote by wickedpam:
New Rebecca? What happened to Rebecca?
And she looked beautiful on Friday -- she wore a black dress and everything.
awww - sorry I missed that. Hope everything turns out okay for her, she'll be missed. No one could do Ross Perot like Rebecca
Comment by Raine on 07/30/2012 13:45:55
This is kinda funny.
Raine on 07/30/2012 13:45:55
This is kinda funny. From the department of poor music coordination: CNN says it regrets playing the Pink song “Stupid Girls†ahead of a segment on Sarah Palin’s recent visit to Chick-fi-A.
Comment by 
BobR on 07/30/2012 13:47:25
She did a little of that.
BobR on 07/30/2012 13:47:25
Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Raine:Friday was her last day.Quote by wickedpam:
New Rebecca? What happened to Rebecca?
And she looked beautiful on Friday -- she wore a black dress and everything.
awww - sorry I missed that. Hope everything turns out okay for her, she'll be missed. No one could do Ross Perot like Rebecca
She did a little of that.
Comment by BobR on 07/30/2012 13:48:57
perfection
BobR on 07/30/2012 13:48:57
Quote by Raine:
From the department of poor music coordination: CNN says it regrets playing the Pink song “Stupid Girls†ahead of a segment on Sarah Palin’s recent visit to Chick-fi-A.
perfection
Comment by Raine on 07/30/2012 13:51:58
Raine on 07/30/2012 13:51:58
Comment by wickedpam on 07/30/2012 14:00:01
love that song - and very apropos
wickedpam on 07/30/2012 14:00:01
Quote by Raine:
From the department of poor music coordination: CNN says it regrets playing the Pink song “Stupid Girls†ahead of a segment on Sarah Palin’s recent visit to Chick-fi-A.
love that song - and very apropos
Comment by Raine on 07/30/2012 14:14:56
Raine on 07/30/2012 14:14:56
Romney is screwing up royally in Israel.
First there is this.
Then there is the Insurance Mandate (see post below)
Then this sort of insulting comment about Palestine.
AND then this: (which will probably piss off People there more than here, but still, not very diplomatic) Pretty shitty.
First there is this.
We cannot stand silent as those who seek to undermine Israel voice their criticisms. And we certainly should not join in that criticism. Diplomatic distance in our public between our nations emboldens Israel’s adversaries.
Romney regularly attacks While Romney is right to say that Israel is a close American ally that deserves our support, that doesn’t mean we can’t or shouldn’t ever publicly criticize Israel when we believe it to be in American (or Israeli) interests. Indeed, though Romney said the United States and Israel have “been the most natural of allies†since 1948, every Republican President since then has publicly criticized Israeli policies:
Then there is the Insurance Mandate (see post below)
Then this sort of insulting comment about Palestine.
"As you come here and you see the GDP per capita, for instance, in Israel which is about $21,000 dollars, and compare that with the GDP per capita just across the areas managed by the Palestinian Authority, which is more like $10,000 per capita, you notice such a dramatically stark difference in economic vitality," the Republican presidential candidate told about 40 wealthy donors who breakfasted around a U-shaped table at the luxurious King David Hotel.
The reaction of Palestinian leaders to Romney's comments was swift and pointed.
"It is a racist statement and this man doesn't realize that the Palestinian economy cannot reach its potential because there is an Israeli occupation," said Saeb Erekat, a senior aide to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
AND then this: (which will probably piss off People there more than here, but still, not very diplomatic)
Minutes before Netanyahu meeting, Romney cancels on Yacimovich
Circles close to former opposition leader Yacimovich say meeting cancelled over disagreements surrounding the economic measures the Netanyahu government is about to adopt.
Comment by Mondobubba on 07/30/2012 14:37:30
No more favorable treatment when I call the shew.
Mondobubba on 07/30/2012 14:37:30
Quote by wickedpam:
New Rebecca? What happened to Rebecca?
No more favorable treatment when I call the shew.
Comment by Mondobubba on 07/30/2012 14:38:54
So, what you are saying is there is a metaphorical gift of a bacon-wrapped shrimp being given to the Israelis?
Mondobubba on 07/30/2012 14:38:54
Quote by Raine:
Romney is screwing up royally in Israel.
First there is this.We cannot stand silent as those who seek to undermine Israel voice their criticisms. And we certainly should not join in that criticism. Diplomatic distance in our public between our nations emboldens Israel’s adversaries.
Romney regularly attacks While Romney is right to say that Israel is a close American ally that deserves our support, that doesn’t mean we can’t or shouldn’t ever publicly criticize Israel when we believe it to be in American (or Israeli) interests. Indeed, though Romney said the United States and Israel have “been the most natural of allies†since 1948, every Republican President since then has publicly criticized Israeli policies:
Then there is the Insurance Mandate (see post below)
Then this sort of insulting comment about Palestine."As you come here and you see the GDP per capita, for instance, in Israel which is about $21,000 dollars, and compare that with the GDP per capita just across the areas managed by the Palestinian Authority, which is more like $10,000 per capita, you notice such a dramatically stark difference in economic vitality," the Republican presidential candidate told about 40 wealthy donors who breakfasted around a U-shaped table at the luxurious King David Hotel.
The reaction of Palestinian leaders to Romney's comments was swift and pointed.
"It is a racist statement and this man doesn't realize that the Palestinian economy cannot reach its potential because there is an Israeli occupation," said Saeb Erekat, a senior aide to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
AND then this: (which will probably piss off People there more than here, but still, not very diplomatic)Pretty shitty.Minutes before Netanyahu meeting, Romney cancels on Yacimovich
Circles close to former opposition leader Yacimovich say meeting cancelled over disagreements surrounding the economic measures the Netanyahu government is about to adopt.
So, what you are saying is there is a metaphorical gift of a bacon-wrapped shrimp being given to the Israelis?
Comment by wickedpam on 07/30/2012 14:39:31
you'll have to get it good with the new guy
wickedpam on 07/30/2012 14:39:31
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by wickedpam:
New Rebecca? What happened to Rebecca?
No more favorable treatment when I call the shew.
you'll have to get it good with the new guy
Comment by Raine on 07/30/2012 15:06:10
Well, no dear, you said that. 
I am surprised you didn't have more snark WRT to the Romney Wimp article.
I thought that was right in your sweet spot.
What I do believe is that Romney is literally tearing apart a lot of foreign policy politics with his trip. He's pandering to the politics of Israel as opposed to the diplomacy of Israeli relations-- and that is dangerous, IMO.
Raine on 07/30/2012 15:06:10
Quote by Mondobubba:
So, what you are saying is there is a metaphorical gift of a bacon-wrapped shrimp being given to the Israelis?
I am surprised you didn't have more snark WRT to the Romney Wimp article.
I thought that was right in your sweet spot.
What I do believe is that Romney is literally tearing apart a lot of foreign policy politics with his trip. He's pandering to the politics of Israel as opposed to the diplomacy of Israeli relations-- and that is dangerous, IMO.
Comment by Raine on 07/30/2012 15:07:36
Call Screeners are the ultimate gatekeepers of the show...
Treat a call screener bad and you don;t get past the velvet rope.
Raine on 07/30/2012 15:07:36
Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by wickedpam:
New Rebecca? What happened to Rebecca?
No more favorable treatment when I call the shew.
you'll have to get it good with the new guy
Treat a call screener bad and you don;t get past the velvet rope.
Comment by Mondobubba on 07/30/2012 15:10:42
Dont have time to read it.
Mondobubba on 07/30/2012 15:10:42
Quote by Raine:Well, no dear, you said that.Quote by Mondobubba:
So, what you are saying is there is a metaphorical gift of a bacon-wrapped shrimp being given to the Israelis?
I am surprised you didn't have more snark WRT to the Romney Wimp article.
I thought that was right in your sweet spot.
What I do believe is that Romney is literally tearing apart a lot of foreign policy politics with his trip. He's pandering to the politics of Israel as opposed to the diplomacy of Israeli relations-- and that is dangerous, IMO.
Dont have time to read it.
Comment by Raine on 07/30/2012 15:18:01
When you do -- you are going to LOVE LOVE LOVE it.
Raine on 07/30/2012 15:18:01
Quote by Mondobubba:
Dont have time to read it.
Comment by Raine on 07/30/2012 15:29:25
Raine on 07/30/2012 15:29:25
Well this caller is the first test of T-Bone.
Comment by Raine on 07/30/2012 15:30:18
Raine on 07/30/2012 15:30:18
This caller is a paid caller.
Comment by wickedpam on 07/30/2012 15:33:30
had that feeling of being scripted - he so liberal but he wants everyone to own whatever gun they want but he's only going to sell guns to certain people? WTF - that was though salad
wickedpam on 07/30/2012 15:33:30
Quote by Raine:
This caller is a paid caller.
had that feeling of being scripted - he so liberal but he wants everyone to own whatever gun they want but he's only going to sell guns to certain people? WTF - that was though salad
Comment by Raine on 07/30/2012 15:38:31
I thought so as well.
Darfur? REALLY?
Raine on 07/30/2012 15:38:31
Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Raine:
This caller is a paid caller.
had that feeling of being scripted - he so liberal but he wants everyone to own whatever gun they want but he's only going to sell guns to certain people? WTF - that was though salad
Darfur? REALLY?
Comment by wickedpam on 07/30/2012 15:44:07
<-- face I made when he said that followed by ---> 
wickedpam on 07/30/2012 15:44:07
Quote by Raine:I thought so as well.Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Raine:
This caller is a paid caller.
had that feeling of being scripted - he so liberal but he wants everyone to own whatever gun they want but he's only going to sell guns to certain people? WTF - that was though salad
Darfur? REALLY?
<-- face I made when he said that followed by --->
Comment by 
Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 15:53:07
Raine, Romney is pandering to the Likud and the right wing parties in Israel not so much as to support Bibi Netanyahu as to gain favor with a conservative segment of American voters -- including some Jews but many evangelical Christians. Israeli politics includes a constellation of political parties, such as Labor and Meretz-Yachad, the Democratic Socialist Party.
Romney's missteps have been surprisingly bad and I dread his visit to Poland. If Mitt Romney can not handle a simple series of visits as a candidate without committing serious gaffes, how can we expect him to handle negotiations with China and Russia or build coalitions.
Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 15:53:07
Quote by Raine:Well, no dear, you said that.Quote by Mondobubba:
So, what you are saying is there is a metaphorical gift of a bacon-wrapped shrimp being given to the Israelis?
I am surprised you didn't have more snark WRT to the Romney Wimp article.
I thought that was right in your sweet spot.
What I do believe is that Romney is literally tearing apart a lot of foreign policy politics with his trip. He's pandering to the politics of Israel as opposed to the diplomacy of Israeli relations-- and that is dangerous, IMO.
Raine, Romney is pandering to the Likud and the right wing parties in Israel not so much as to support Bibi Netanyahu as to gain favor with a conservative segment of American voters -- including some Jews but many evangelical Christians. Israeli politics includes a constellation of political parties, such as Labor and Meretz-Yachad, the Democratic Socialist Party.
Romney's missteps have been surprisingly bad and I dread his visit to Poland. If Mitt Romney can not handle a simple series of visits as a candidate without committing serious gaffes, how can we expect him to handle negotiations with China and Russia or build coalitions.
Comment by Raine on 07/30/2012 16:08:45
I am really glad you came in to comment, Will.
This is all really a bit of a train wreck -- for everyone except the parties you mentioned. That can't be good.
Raine on 07/30/2012 16:08:45
Quote by Will in Chicago:
Raine, Romney is pandering to the Likud and the right wing parties in Israel not so much as to support Bibi Netanyahu as to gain favor with a conservative segment of American voters -- including some Jews but many evangelical Christians. Israeli politics includes a constellation of political parties, such as Labor and Meretz-Yachad, the Democratic Socialist Party.
Romney's missteps have been surprisingly bad and I dread his visit to Poland. If Mitt Romney can not handle a simple series of visits as a candidate without committing serious gaffes, how can we expect him to handle negotiations with China and Russia or build coalitions.
This is all really a bit of a train wreck -- for everyone except the parties you mentioned. That can't be good.
Comment by Raine on 07/30/2012 16:17:23
Raine on 07/30/2012 16:17:23
I really like listening to Pap. he's spot on wrt to Romney and his foreign policy. It makes Duby a look like a dove.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 16:18:32
I am not sure that Netanyahu will get much out of this visit either. I mean Romney had to cancel a fund raiser on July 29th, which is Tisha B'Av. Many Jews formally commemorate the day that remembers the destruction of the First and Second Temples, the expulsion of Jews from England, France, and Spain by reading the book of Lamentations and fasting. So, Romney -- without planning on it -- probably annoyed several of Netanyahu's Orthodox and ultra-Orthodox coalition members and their supporters.
Still, I suppose the worst may be yet to come. I keep dreading the thought that Romney will crack Polish jokes in Warsaw.
Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 16:18:32
Quote by Raine:I am really glad you came in to comment, Will.Quote by Will in Chicago:
Raine, Romney is pandering to the Likud and the right wing parties in Israel not so much as to support Bibi Netanyahu as to gain favor with a conservative segment of American voters -- including some Jews but many evangelical Christians. Israeli politics includes a constellation of political parties, such as Labor and Meretz-Yachad, the Democratic Socialist Party.
Romney's missteps have been surprisingly bad and I dread his visit to Poland. If Mitt Romney can not handle a simple series of visits as a candidate without committing serious gaffes, how can we expect him to handle negotiations with China and Russia or build coalitions.
This is all really a bit of a train wreck -- for everyone except the parties you mentioned. That can't be good.
I am not sure that Netanyahu will get much out of this visit either. I mean Romney had to cancel a fund raiser on July 29th, which is Tisha B'Av. Many Jews formally commemorate the day that remembers the destruction of the First and Second Temples, the expulsion of Jews from England, France, and Spain by reading the book of Lamentations and fasting. So, Romney -- without planning on it -- probably annoyed several of Netanyahu's Orthodox and ultra-Orthodox coalition members and their supporters.
Still, I suppose the worst may be yet to come. I keep dreading the thought that Romney will crack Polish jokes in Warsaw.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 16:21:47
Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 16:21:47
Labor, Kadima, Meretz-Yachad and the other opposition parties can point to Romney's gaffes and his closeness to Netanyahu to make people wonder about the company that Netanyahu keeps. Let me say this -- the average Israeli voter likes the health care system and may be wondering about Romney running away from one that he created that is working well in Massachusetts.
I am anticipating our elections, but Netanyahu -- who has lost a lot of public support in Israeli opinion polls -- may have thought that Romney would shore him up with his base and the public. Instead, Netanyahu may feel even more uncomfortable about our elections and the next Israeli elections. (Bye bye, Bibi!)
I am anticipating our elections, but Netanyahu -- who has lost a lot of public support in Israeli opinion polls -- may have thought that Romney would shore him up with his base and the public. Instead, Netanyahu may feel even more uncomfortable about our elections and the next Israeli elections. (Bye bye, Bibi!)
Comment by 
livingonli on 07/30/2012 16:45:01
livingonli on 07/30/2012 16:45:01
Good day, folks. I think the one thing that might actually make miss me W as President is a Romney presidency although he does seem to be filling track records of the other MBA Presidents like W and Hoover who are now both considered pit stains of American History.
Comment by BobR on 07/30/2012 17:26:18
"You know, my friends... My Dad used to say that polacks were the hardest working guys down at the auto plant..."
BobR on 07/30/2012 17:26:18
Quote by Will in Chicago:
[..]
Still, I suppose the worst may be yet to come. I keep dreading the thought that Romney will crack Polish jokes in Warsaw.
"You know, my friends... My Dad used to say that polacks were the hardest working guys down at the auto plant..."
Comment by 
clintster on 07/30/2012 17:33:57
clintster on 07/30/2012 17:33:57
Just saw this on my Facebook timeline. I am including the photo in case anyone can't see it on the link.
PS: The comments on the photo are pretty much what you would expect.
This just left a horrible taste in my mouth, so I wrote a letter to McDonald's Social Responsibility division. My letter:
I am planning on posting this elsewhere, probably in a Daily Kos diary. Would you all mind likewise asking McDonald's about this sign? The link to send the message is here:
http://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en/contact_us/social_responsibility/social_responsibility.html
PS: The comments on the photo are pretty much what you would expect.
This just left a horrible taste in my mouth, so I wrote a letter to McDonald's Social Responsibility division. My letter:
To Whom It May Concern:
As I was going through my Facebook timeline today, I happened to see a posting that a friend of mine had shared second-hand. It shows what appears to be a McDonald's sign making a statement about the recent Chick-Fil-A controversy. I am including the link here, but in case you can't see it for what ever reason, it says "We support Chick-Fil-A / Now try to boycott us"
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=3061231709237&set=p.3061231709237&type=1&theater
I would hope that this is not an official stance of the McDonald's corporation, seeing as how McDonald's has been targeted by anti-gay groups for various attempts to reach out to the GLBT community. The sign seems to offer the kind of bullying behavior that I, and millions of other people, find distasteful and offensive
Based on the location of the original poster, it appears that the photo was taken in or near Burlington, Graham, or Mebane NC. Would you please contact me regarding this, to let me know if this is indeed official McDonald's policy?
I am planning on posting this elsewhere, probably in a Daily Kos diary. Would you all mind likewise asking McDonald's about this sign? The link to send the message is here:
http://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en/contact_us/social_responsibility/social_responsibility.html
Comment by BobR on 07/30/2012 17:36:43
BobR on 07/30/2012 17:36:43
Clint - are you certain that photo is real?
Comment by BobR on 07/30/2012 17:39:11
BobR on 07/30/2012 17:39:11
Comment by clintster on 07/30/2012 17:45:10
Thanks for finding that, Bobber. Luckily I hadn't sent the letter off yet. I guess I should have researched a little before I saddled the horse. Sorry, everyone, sorry.
clintster on 07/30/2012 17:45:10
Quote by BobR:Quote by BobR:
Clint - are you certain that photo is real?
It's not real (scroll to the bottom)
Thanks for finding that, Bobber. Luckily I hadn't sent the letter off yet. I guess I should have researched a little before I saddled the horse. Sorry, everyone, sorry.
Comment by Raine on 07/30/2012 17:57:50
No need to be sorry. I'd like to think that we are our own little snopes here.
VENT freely. We'll sort that stuff out later.
Raine on 07/30/2012 17:57:50
Quote by clintster:Quote by BobR:Quote by BobR:
Clint - are you certain that photo is real?
It's not real (scroll to the bottom)
Thanks for finding that, Bobber. Luckily I hadn't sent the letter off yet. I guess I should have researched a little before I saddled the horse. Sorry, everyone, sorry.
VENT freely. We'll sort that stuff out later.
Comment by wickedpam on 07/30/2012 17:58:51
no worries - looks like someone did a rather good photoshop job on it - had the shadowing and everything
wickedpam on 07/30/2012 17:58:51
Quote by clintster:Quote by BobR:Quote by BobR:
Clint - are you certain that photo is real?
It's not real (scroll to the bottom)
Thanks for finding that, Bobber. Luckily I hadn't sent the letter off yet. I guess I should have researched a little before I saddled the horse. Sorry, everyone, sorry.
no worries - looks like someone did a rather good photoshop job on it - had the shadowing and everything
Comment by Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 18:00:36
I am afraid that Mitt will say something like that. Or make some quip that would be inappropriate.
Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 18:00:36
Quote by BobR:Quote by Will in Chicago:
[..]
Still, I suppose the worst may be yet to come. I keep dreading the thought that Romney will crack Polish jokes in Warsaw.
"You know, my friends... My Dad used to say that polacks were the hardest working guys down at the auto plant..."
I am afraid that Mitt will say something like that. Or make some quip that would be inappropriate.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 18:13:55
Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 18:13:55
There he goes again!!
Mitt Romney has managed to offend the Palestinians. Here is the story from the Huffington Post and the Associated Press:
It is not fair to compare the economies of Israel and the Palestinian territories. The Palestinian territories are occupied and this impacts everything there. I believe that the occupation must end and must end soon. My hope is that in the near future, an Israeli leader and a Palestinian leader will work out a peace treaty. Then, I think we will see the Palestinian people -- who place a high value on education -- build a very strong economy.
By the way, Reuters reports the following: Romney raises more than $1 million at end of Israel trip, Sheldon "the Gambling Man" Adelson was there.
As Adelson stands accused of bribing Chinese officials and encouraging prostitution in Macau, perhaps he should be reminded that the Torah condemns bribes and that the fees of a prostitute (okay, I know it was temple cultic prostitute such as those associated with Asharoth) are not acceptable.
Mitt Romney has managed to offend the Palestinians. Here is the story from the Huffington Post and the Associated Press:
Mitt Romney Comments At Fundraiser Outrage Palestinians
By KASIE HUNT and KARIN LAUB 07/30/12 01:49 PM ET AP
JERUSALEM — Mitt Romney told Jewish donors Monday that their culture is part of what has allowed them to be more economically successful than the Palestinians, outraging Palestinian leaders who suggested his comments were racist and out of touch with the realities of the Middle East. Romney's campaign later said his remarks were mischaracterized.
"As you come here and you see the GDP per capita, for instance, in Israel which is about $21,000, and compare that with the GDP per capita just across the areas managed by the Palestinian Authority, which is more like $10,000 per capita, you notice such a dramatically stark difference in economic vitality," the Republican presidential candidate told about 40 wealthy donors who ate breakfast at the luxurious King David Hotel.
Romney said some economic histories have theorized that "culture makes all the difference."
"And as I come here and I look out over this city and consider the accomplishments of the people of this nation, I recognize the power of at least culture and a few other things," Romney said, citing an innovative business climate, the Jewish history of thriving in difficult circumstances and the "hand of providence." He said similar disparity exists between neighboring countries, like Mexico and the United States.
It is not fair to compare the economies of Israel and the Palestinian territories. The Palestinian territories are occupied and this impacts everything there. I believe that the occupation must end and must end soon. My hope is that in the near future, an Israeli leader and a Palestinian leader will work out a peace treaty. Then, I think we will see the Palestinian people -- who place a high value on education -- build a very strong economy.
By the way, Reuters reports the following: Romney raises more than $1 million at end of Israel trip, Sheldon "the Gambling Man" Adelson was there.
As Adelson stands accused of bribing Chinese officials and encouraging prostitution in Macau, perhaps he should be reminded that the Torah condemns bribes and that the fees of a prostitute (okay, I know it was temple cultic prostitute such as those associated with Asharoth) are not acceptable.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 19:08:45
Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 19:08:45
Here is a thought: Did Mitt also manage to offend Mexican Americans with his remarks as well as Mexico? A key cause of poverty in Mexico is the fact that much of the country's wealth is held by a very small percentage of the population.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 19:49:17
Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 19:49:17
Anyone here?
Comment by wickedpam on 07/30/2012 19:53:58
wickedpam on 07/30/2012 19:53:58
Quote by Will in Chicago:
Anyone here?
Comment by Raine on 07/30/2012 19:56:28
I am here... walked away to watch a bit of the olympics.
I posted about Romney insulting the Palestinians, I was really in shock about that one.
Raine on 07/30/2012 19:56:28
Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Will in Chicago:
Anyone here?
I posted about Romney insulting the Palestinians, I was really in shock about that one.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 21:22:23
I was stunned but what is particularly upsetting is how Romney is proving again and again that he is inept on the international stage. This is a man who seems to be intelligent and cultured, having the benefits of his upbringing, who seems to personify the worst of the Ugly American stereotype.
Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 21:22:23
Quote by Raine:I am here... walked away to watch a bit of the olympics.Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Will in Chicago:
Anyone here?
I posted about Romney insulting the Palestinians, I was really in shock about that one.
I was stunned but what is particularly upsetting is how Romney is proving again and again that he is inept on the international stage. This is a man who seems to be intelligent and cultured, having the benefits of his upbringing, who seems to personify the worst of the Ugly American stereotype.
Comment by 
TriSec on 07/30/2012 21:52:22
TriSec on 07/30/2012 21:52:22
Home again, home again...Jiggity-Jig!
10 hours at the hospital. Portacath is placed without any complications, and the first 3 hours of chemo (plus 46 more via pump) are so far proceeding without incident.
Mrs. TriSec has gone to pick up my anti-nausea cocktail (3 drugs), but so far I'm frieakin' hungry...you may want to hide children and small dogs.
< munch bite eat chew >
10 hours at the hospital. Portacath is placed without any complications, and the first 3 hours of chemo (plus 46 more via pump) are so far proceeding without incident.
Mrs. TriSec has gone to pick up my anti-nausea cocktail (3 drugs), but so far I'm frieakin' hungry...you may want to hide children and small dogs.
< munch bite eat chew >
Comment by Mondobubba on 07/30/2012 21:55:27
I really do think the twitter hash tags that were all aflame on Friday, #romneyshambles and #americanborat due seem to some him up very well.
Mondobubba on 07/30/2012 21:55:27
Quote by Will in Chicago:Quote by Raine:I am here... walked away to watch a bit of the olympics.Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Will in Chicago:
Anyone here?
I posted about Romney insulting the Palestinians, I was really in shock about that one.
I was stunned but what is particularly upsetting is how Romney is proving again and again that he is inept on the international stage. This is a man who seems to be intelligent and cultured, having the benefits of his upbringing, who seems to personify the worst of the Ugly American stereotype.
I really do think the twitter hash tags that were all aflame on Friday, #romneyshambles and #americanborat due seem to some him up very well.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 21:55:39
Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 21:55:39
In further developments, Crooks and Liars cites a Vanity Fair profile on Bibi Netanyau, who has said that Mitt Romney was not entirely accurate in saying that the two of them were close when they worked together in the past.
Netanyahu is once reported to have said—he now denies it—that he “speaks English with a heavy Republican accent.†“Israel’s current prime minister is not just a friend, he’s an old friend,†Mitt Romney, with whom Netanyahu worked at the Boston Consulting Group in the 1970s, told aipac in March. (Romney, Netanyahu suggests, may have overstated the tie. “I remember him for sure, but I don’t think we had any particular connections,†he tells me. “I knew him and he knew me, I suppose.â€)
Comment by BobR on 07/30/2012 22:17:21
BobR on 07/30/2012 22:17:21
Quote by Will in Chicago:
I was stunned but what is particularly upsetting is how Romney is proving again and again that he is inept on the international stage. This is a man who seems to be intelligent and cultured, having the benefits of his upbringing, who seems to personify the worst of the Ugly American stereotype.
Comment by BobR on 07/30/2012 22:18:19
BobR on 07/30/2012 22:18:19
Quote by TriSec:
Home again, home again...Jiggity-Jig!
10 hours at the hospital. Portacath is placed without any complications, and the first 3 hours of chemo (plus 46 more via pump) are so far proceeding without incident.
Mrs. TriSec has gone to pick up my anti-nausea cocktail (3 drugs), but so far I'm frieakin' hungry...you may want to hide children and small dogs.
< munch bite eat chew >
Comment by Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 22:19:46
Bob, for some reason, the audio cons are not showing up for me. Do you have any advice?
Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 22:19:46
Quote by BobR:Quote by Will in Chicago:
I was stunned but what is particularly upsetting is how Romney is proving again and again that he is inept on the international stage. This is a man who seems to be intelligent and cultured, having the benefits of his upbringing, who seems to personify the worst of the Ugly American stereotype.
Bob, for some reason, the audio cons are not showing up for me. Do you have any advice?
Comment by BobR on 07/30/2012 22:21:24
I think it's time for a code change. The embedded applet seems to no longer be available.
BobR on 07/30/2012 22:21:24
Quote by Will in Chicago:Quote by BobR:Quote by Will in Chicago:
I was stunned but what is particularly upsetting is how Romney is proving again and again that he is inept on the international stage. This is a man who seems to be intelligent and cultured, having the benefits of his upbringing, who seems to personify the worst of the Ugly American stereotype.
Bob, for some reason, the audio cons are not showing up for me. Do you have any advice?
I think it's time for a code change. The embedded applet seems to no longer be available.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 22:33:11
Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 22:33:11
Dov Waxman, a writer for the Israeli liberal daily Haaretz, has posted:
The entire article is well worth a read. I would also like to ask aloud if Romney on some level believes that American Jews are primarily concerned with Israel as their top issue. The answer, according to multiple polls, is not really as any president will maintain a strong relationship with Israel. However, I find Mitt's focus somewhat insulting. There is a very old and ugly stereotype that Jews are more loyal to each other than their countries. I hope that is not part of Mitt's motivations in trying to drum up votes and dollars by visiting Israel. (I do not know what is in Mitt's mind, but I would not be shocked if he has all the stereotypes about the Other that he grew up with back in the 1950s and 1960s.)
An Open Letter to Mitt Romney
By Dov Waxman
I hate to burst your bubble, but if you believe that American Jews are going to vote for you in large numbers because they perceive you as more committed to Israel and more respectful of its current prime minister, you’re dead wrong.
For one thing, whatever the failings of his administration’s policy toward Israel and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, President Obama’s support for Israel cannot be denied. Obama is not another President Carter. The facts speak for themselves. Defense assistance to Israel under Obama has significantly increased, both quantitatively and qualitatively. The Obama Administration has repeatedly sided with Israel in international forums, above all in the United Nations, where Palestine might now be a member state were it not for Obama’s threatened veto.
Sure, on a personal level there’s little love lost between Obama and Netanyahu, but many Israelis also find Bibi’s tendency to procrastinate and prevaricate frustrating. You probably will too if you become president.
The entire article is well worth a read. I would also like to ask aloud if Romney on some level believes that American Jews are primarily concerned with Israel as their top issue. The answer, according to multiple polls, is not really as any president will maintain a strong relationship with Israel. However, I find Mitt's focus somewhat insulting. There is a very old and ugly stereotype that Jews are more loyal to each other than their countries. I hope that is not part of Mitt's motivations in trying to drum up votes and dollars by visiting Israel. (I do not know what is in Mitt's mind, but I would not be shocked if he has all the stereotypes about the Other that he grew up with back in the 1950s and 1960s.)
Comment by BobR on 07/30/2012 22:38:50
audicon code is fixed. I think this is better too
BobR on 07/30/2012 22:38:50
Quote by BobR:Quote by Will in Chicago:
Bob, for some reason, the audio cons are not showing up for me. Do you have any advice?
I think it's time for a code change. The embedded applet seems to no longer be available.
audicon code is fixed. I think this is better too
Comment by Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 23:27:51
Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 23:27:51
More on the Mitt Trip. from Hararetz (I also happen to like this headline.)
Can we have Mitt visit Antarctica? At least he would have trouble offending penguins. Unless he confuses them with waiters, and asks them to make him a sandwich.
When Mitt didn't meet Shelly
Yacimovich's associates blamed the cancelation on Netanyahu.
By Yossi Verter
Much has been written about the friendship between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and presumptive Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney. But on Sunday, it seemed theirs is more than just a friendship: Romney canceled a planned meeting with Labor Party leader Shelly Yacimovich at the last minute, apparently on orders from Netanyahu or someone from his staff.
About a month ago, when Yacimovich was still leader of the opposition, Romney advisor Dan Senor asked the head of Labor's Knesset faction, Isaac Herzog, to arrange for Romney to meet Yacimovich during his visit here. Meeting the opposition leader is standard protocol: When Barack Obama came here during his presidential campaign, in the summer of 2008, he met with then-opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu.
At the height of the recent coalition crisis between Netanyahu and Kadima chairman Shaul Mofaz, Herzog called Senor to warn him that Yacimovich wasn't likely to still be opposition leader when Romney arrived, and he would certainly understand if the Americans canceled the meeting. But Romney's staff insisted it should still take place.
Even after Kadima left the government and Mofaz indeed replaced Yacimovich as opposition leader, Romney's staff said the candidate still wanted to meet with her as well as Mofaz. The preparations went full steam ahead, and were still continuing on Sunday morning, when Yacimovich's media adviser held discussions with her counterparts on Romney's staff about which media crews should attend. They even agreed that Romney and Yacimovich would each give a two-minute press statement but wouldn't answer questions.
Can we have Mitt visit Antarctica? At least he would have trouble offending penguins. Unless he confuses them with waiters, and asks them to make him a sandwich.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 23:57:18
Will in Chicago on 07/30/2012 23:57:18
Here are too short ones relating to Mittster's recent trip as we await from the latest gaffes from Poland. (I hope that none will be referred to as the Sausage Incident.)
From Haaretz's Editorial page on Netanyahu being involved in Romney's campaign: Don't Interfere .
The following story makes me wonder if Israeli Defense Minister (and former Prime Minister) Ehud Barak is getting ready for another run with the blessing of Israeli President Shimon Peres. Courtesy of Think Progress which referenced the Political Ticker at CNN:
Hmm, Bibi Netanyahu has to be wondering about bringing Mitt in for a visit.
From Haaretz's Editorial page on Netanyahu being involved in Romney's campaign: Don't Interfere .
The following story makes me wonder if Israeli Defense Minister (and former Prime Minister) Ehud Barak is getting ready for another run with the blessing of Israeli President Shimon Peres. Courtesy of Think Progress which referenced the Political Ticker at CNN:
Israeli Leaders Praise Obama's Commitment to Israeli Security
BARAK: I should tell you honestly that this administration under President Obama is doing, in regard to our security, more than anything that I can remember in the past. … In terms of the support for our security, the cooperation of our intelligence, the sharing of sorts in a very open way even when there are differences.
PERES: When I look at the record of President Obama concerning the major issues, security, I think it’s a highly satisfactory record, from an Israeli point of view.
Hmm, Bibi Netanyahu has to be wondering about bringing Mitt in for a visit.
Comment by livingonli on 07/31/2012 00:46:08
livingonli on 07/31/2012 00:46:08
I'm sure the Poles are awaiting Mittens arrival with great anticipation at this rate.
Comment by TriSec on 07/31/2012 00:47:37
TriSec hitting it --> 
<-- The Wall
It's been a long day, folks.
TriSec on 07/31/2012 00:47:37
<-- The WallIt's been a long day, folks.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 07/31/2012 03:16:51
Well, let's say that they will likely view a visit by Mitt as somewhat better than some of their other visitors in the last few hundred years. At least he is not leading a cavalry charge or arriving in a tank.
Will in Chicago on 07/31/2012 03:16:51
Quote by livingonli:
I'm sure the Poles are awaiting Mittens arrival with great anticipation at this rate.
Well, let's say that they will likely view a visit by Mitt as somewhat better than some of their other visitors in the last few hundred years. At least he is not leading a cavalry charge or arriving in a tank.