Tom Hanks: "I think the President of the United States is doing a SPECTACULAR job...."

[Clio the Leo]

.... and derides Congressional grid-lock and do-nothingness.

That old left wing nutcase Obama cheerleader! :)

Tom Hanks' appearance earlier today on Morning Joe (video)

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/35723940#35723940

[Cosmocat]

1. WE NEED MORE OF THIS !

People need to unabashedly support this president ...

[Clio the Leo]

2. Cha and I are noticing a trend...

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=433&topic_id=205356#205452

... perhaps the Obama admin is calling in some favors from its 2008 Hollywood supporters. We will, no doubt, see Ashton and Demi staging a protest march on the steps of Capitol Hill soon. :)

[Cosmocat]

7. Time for progressives, democrats, liberals ...

or simply and decent minded non right wing american to get behind President Obama ...

The opposition will not stop, it will continue to find new depths to stoop to and it will attack mercilessly every second ...

He is doing the best he can, flat out ... And, the alternative is a republican, and there difference could not be more extreme. People on the left might not see everything they want, but Romney, Santorum, whoever the RS will bring to the table next year will be 1000 times worse than BO ...

He is a good, decent, thoughtful and wise man, and is tough enough to continue to relentlessly just do the right thing as much as possible ...

"I don't know how it plays politically, I just know it is the right thing ..."

Time to stop letting the arsehats define him ...

[DeschutesRiver]

58. +1000. That is exactly how I feel, too. nt

[DeschutesRiver]

59. +1000. That is exactly how I feel, too. nt

[Fruittree]

75. Absolutely agree!!!

[goclark]

94. Absolutely agree!

[liberation]

87. Time for centrist and center-right people to stop telling liberals what they have to do

or who they should get behind.

Obama is welcome to come to our side of the political spectrum any time he wishes, and he will be welcome with open hands. Until then, if he thinks that the far right is going to be placated by his continual throwing of liberal causes under the bus, I have a ocean front property in Arizona he may be interested in.

[Cha]

22. COOL! We willed

it! :fistbump:

[DissedByBush]

121. I'll keep supporting him

And keep reminding him of the things he's promised.

I am willing to take a wait and see attitude for most of it.

He's a FAR better politician than I am so I can't pretend know what kind of game he's playing with Congress in order to try to fulfill promises.

[NJmaverick]

3. Way to go Tom! Bravo for having the courage to speak the truth!

:applause:

[Mithreal]

46. That took courage? You really are funny.

Let Obama take on the War Criminals, not to mention discontinue Bush's brand of domestic and international terrorism, then get back to me, okay?

[followthemoney]

71. "I'm not a smart man... but I know what love is."

Forrest Gump loves Obama.

[Mithreal]

77. .

Thanks for the laugh.

Like Tom Hanks opinion is more important than yours or mine? On acting and hollywood, damn straight he knows, but politics? Every DU'ers opinion is just as relevant.

[dionysus]

107. actually, the funny thing is, you had to chime in and poo poo his opinion.

:rofl:

[Mithreal]

112. Yes, that is it. Actually was pooh-poohing njM's.

[demwing]

149. Nope, nope, nope. Just as valid? Sure. Relevant? No way!

Tom Hanks has a voice. He gets booked on talk shows, and is loved and admired by millions. There is no way any DUer (unless we have some celebrity lurkers) who can have that impact. Therefore, though his opinion is not more valid than yours or mine, it sure as hell is more relevant.

No, if you were to ask me if I agreed with him, I'd say no as well. I think Obama is not-for whatever reason-a very effective leader. I think hedoing an OK job. Some successes, some failures, but overall he's got much less backbone than I thought he would, or hoped he would.

[Mithreal]

184. I may have misused a word or could just be plain wrong.

Any data on the power of celebrity political endorsement? Seems to me like people who agreed would be comforted, those who disagreed turned off. Isn't it just as likely that the next celebrity that comes around and gives the anti-position, will sway the same people? Maybe the data gives a short term bump? Just curious if it could possibly have any lasting impact. I don't know, maybe you do? I like the impact of individual activism more, you know, face to face with a real person or possibly over the phone if you have a real conversation not just a script. Hit me back with a response though, would like to hear more of what you have to say on this.

[demwing]

218. Hmm... If you were thinking that I would promote the value of celebrity

endorsements, I won't. But to me, it's obvious that there must be some "bottom-line" reasons to get a celebrity to endorse your product or issue, otherwise the practice would not exist at the level which it does. Neither advertisers or politicians waste their own resources on processes that don't produce results.

I'd guess that the endorsement value comes when attempting to convince the unconvinced. I doubt that very many people will change their view based on what Tom Hanks thinks, but if you're undecided on an issue, and you hear a trusted friend, family member - or celebrity - speak out on that topic, you will undoubtedly be drawn to a similar perspective, or at least drawn toward doing more research on your own.

Do I think this process of celebrity endorsement is good or bad? I'm not sure, but that's not my point (though it may be yours). I'm just saying it is what it is, and a celebrity's opinion, due to their ability to get a message out to greater multiples of people, and their created image of being a trusted well wisher, has more relevance (but not more validity) than the opinion of a single, anonymous person on a partisan political forum.

[Mithreal]

223. Agreed, anonymous posting has nothing on real face to face or other activism

Celebrity endorsements OF PRODUCTS does seem to me to be a different class of persuasion. I haven't studied marketing, pretty obvious, so probably not even using proper terms.

Maybe the celebrity provides an image that you know gets the foot in the door? You pay attention because you have positive feelings about that person.

Tom Hanks was just being a good citizen, sharing his views. Those people we admire but never meet are part of some extended family is it? Like our brains are tricked into thinking they are part of our social group so their opinion matters more, relevance wise? It is very interesting, there has to be a lot of science behind this. In the marketing aspects, just curious what the data out there looks like.

[defendandprotect]

202. Interesting chat . . .

I think really the problem is how many citizens -- including here at DU -- don't

understand manipulation and how much of it goes on.

For instance, "Forest Gump" -- !!! Couldn't get my own daughter to see the

manipulation in that movie!! She just doesn't get it.

And, when I hear that Tom Hanks gets booked on "talk shows" . . . I wonder really

if there is any chance that Americans will ever wake up before it's too late if they

are still watching TV!!!????

When the nation should have been dealing with atomic weapons and making sure about

what the hell the CIA was doing in other countries -- and what McCarthyism was doing

to our own nation in destroying the ideals of democracy . . . everyone was watching

"I Love Lucy"?????

Same thing going on now --

[defendandprotect]

97. Agree . .. Tom Hanks didn't mention two wars raging, Treasury bankrupted by wars...

45,000 people a year dying because they don't have health care?

And loved what Tom and Opie did with "The DaVinci Code" . . . turned it into a

car chase movie for 11 year olds!!

[Mithreal]

104. Seems too radioactive for a lot of DU'ers even.

[TheUnspeakable]

140. What do all the fans think of this?

On his upcoming project re: the JFK assassination:
"We're going to do the American public a service," Hanks says. "A lot of conspiracy types are going to be upset. If we do it right it'll perhaps be one of the most controversial things that has ever been on TV."



Hanks is producing a 10 part mini-series for HBO based on Vincent Bugliosi's piece of propaganda,
"Re(writing)claiming History" 1600 pages of Oswald and the magic bullet.
I used to be a fan of Hanks-I never really watched "Band of Brothers" or his other war films, but I felt it was nice someone was honoring the soldiers. Since I saw this article I've been thinking, what this stuff really does is glorify war and continue to make it honorable. Now, since this "Time "article, and the Morning Joe appearance, suddenly the meme is out there that he's "our
historian" so of course his JFK show will finally put all those "pesky" rumors about "conspiracy" to rest.

[defendandprotect]

143. Heard about this last night on Schultz.... Didn't know Hanks was involved -- he's a player ...

So's Opie --

Hanks is obviously bright enough not to be fooled by garbage like Bugliosi's

so I presume it's some distorted sense of patriotism that has led to this --

whatever, it's obvious that the right wing demons need some help in keeping

the cover up going re JFK -- that is, no one believes it.

Meanwhile, they've had to keep posthumously murdering JFK -- in every way they

can.

According to the official autopsy, the neck wound was a wound of entry - with no outlet.

The back wound was near his right shoulder blade -- also a wound of entry - with no outlet.

The back wound was probed numerous times at autopsy with both fingers and surgical tools --

NO OUTLET.

It's also thought that whatever missile struct JFK in his throat that it dropped into his chest

cavity.

All of this was immediately known -- it took the likes of Arlene Specter to move this lie

forward -- and LBJ in the White House -- and very violent means to keep the truth of this hidden.


Can I believe that Tom Hanks is that dumb?

Evidently the "Moon Landing" also needed some help . . . !!!

[TheUnspeakable]

148. yes-I've come to believe for many..

it is some sort of "distorted sense of patriotism" like you say. I guess "we can't handle the truth" LOL There seems to be an all-out push as we approach the 50th anniversary of the end of democracy to keep the propaganda flowing.

[defendandprotect]

203. The more they control the easier the destruction becomes . . .

Americans can certainly handle the truth . . . but as you can see from DU'ers here

if you give them an easy out -- a "Forest Gump" or "Apollo" out -- they pick it up

and worship it. And, if the TV doesn't tell them that there was actually a coup on

JFK and exactly who pulled the trigger, they will continue to wait for that to happen!

Actually, I think some would think that if they knew who pulled the trigger, then

they would KNOW everything!!

The right wing propaganda machinery has been running full blast for decades now --

will they never make a mistake big enough to wake up the public?

[defendandprotect]

144. Don't think Tom Hanks needs Medicare For All . . . or is that worried about the economy--???

[opihimoimoi]

4. Hanks is my MAN...he has a voice of REASON

[wryter2000]

5. He's a good, Oaktown boy

And proud of his roots. :hi:

[FrenchieCat]

41. Yes he is!

Didn't he attend Skyline High School, up in the Oakland Hills?

[Peacetrain]

6. Go Tom!

[Hawaii Hiker]

8. You know how it is, if a Hollywood star supports

rethugs, it's free speech..

But when someone from Hollywood supports Democratic candiates and policies, he or she is told to STFU & stick to acting...

Good for you Tom Hanks, :woohoo:

BTW, "Castaway" is my favorite Hanks film....

[4lbs]

16. For me it's a tie between "Philadelphia" and "Saving Private Ryan".

Although, "Castaway" and "Apollo 13" are also really great films.

"Charlie Wilson's War" is also good.

[lamp_shade]

9. I watched it. Thanks. I've been looking for a video.

[zulchzulu]

10. Tom was running circles around Moron Joe and Mika Mouse... it was a joy

Moron Joe's face was getting all red n' shit.

:rofl:

[TuxedoKat]

15. Wish I'd seen that

love seeing Joe's face get red and eyes even more squinty. He's such a bully he can't stand it when he meets his match.

[Enthusiast]

18. Me too.

Funny. Tom should have said "What's wrong with you, you squinty eyed fuck?"

[Cha]

23. That will be the youtube to watch! nt

[billymayshere]

76. LOL Morning Schmoe!

Yeah Joe we wanna see hanks do an impersonation of your douchebaggery. This is a classic Joey (dead intern) Scar video, ranks up there with the Stewart Crossfire video to me.

[Spazito]

11. I love Tom Hanks!

A good, good man who speaks from the heart whether it be politics or anything else, imo.

Recommended.

[jgraz]

12. Well, if Woody from Toy Story says so...

I'd ask Buzz, but I think he's a Republican.

[Carni]

13. He gave a great interview

I enjoyed watching Tom Hanks deflect Scarboroughs long winded BS this morning...and speaking of long winded, that Tom Brokaw is about as pompous and irrelevant as it gets IMO (he interrupted Hanks several times to blab on about nothing)

[xxqqqzme]

20. Hanks was doing an

impersonation goof of Brokaw last night on Letterman. It was very funny.

[Carni]

24. Wish I had seen that! eom

[progressoid]

14. He's too good for Morning Schmoe

[Enthusiast]

17. From this day forward Tom Hanks and

every movie he has even been in will be forever hated by every GOPer, Tea bagger, KKK and "conservative" of every stripe.

[dionysus]

28. and half of DU...

[Mithreal]

117. drama queen

[dionysus]

170. hey, if you're bitter because someone said something positive about the president, you're the one

with a problem, not me.

oh noes, that bastard tom hanks... damn him all to hell!!1!!

you proved my point exactly.

:rofl:

[Mithreal]

178. See, here is a problem you have. The comment you responded to

said the rightwinger coalition was going to turn on Hanks. Yet, you had to go ahead and lump in half of DU with the rightwingers. Why is that? What is your intent?

Hanks' opinion is no more or less important than your own. Some want to argue over the magic of star power. When did Hanks' opinion become more than that of any concerned citizen? I am not aware of his political chops, are you?

For those that buy in to the whole image is everything and argument by authority or celebrity, I can see how it would be extra persuasive.

[dionysus]

187. i think the fact that tom hanks can't compliment the president without you throwing the same type of

tantrum the republicans do when a celebrity says something nice about a democrat is hillarious.

[Mithreal]

190. That is amusing. You are the one lumping "half of DU" was it, with conservatives.

I grow weary of your childishness.

Actually anyone can say something nice, but you would prefer that my point was other than I made.

[JuniperLea]

227. Indeed...

And I think half is about right too.

[vaberella]

222. I thought his acting in Philidelphia, sealed that deal?! n/t

[tallahasseedem]

19. I have always loved Tom Hanks...

I think he is an amazing actor and producer.

[Phx_Dem]

21. I've always adored Tom Hanks. He's the perfect man, imo.

Good to hear he thinks POTUS is doing a spectatular job. I couldn't agree more.

Mika was just dying for him to say something negative and sounded disappointed when he didn't. Beyotch.

[PatSeg]

25. Once and a while I step back

and get a clearer perspective. Presidents in their first year are subjected to a lot of criticism and it is hard to judge a presidency on the first year. JFK was attacked often for his youth and inexperience. GW turned out to be ten times worse than I could have ever imagined.

[uponit7771]

26. But did Obama end global warming ?! NO?! well....there it is then

[shellgame26]

106. ROFL

:rofl:

[Jennicut]

27. He is my favorite actor and I respect him a lot because he has always been

a good guy. Joe Scar wish he was as liked half as much as Tom Hanks is.

[CreekDog]

29. Hanks makes the Bay Area proud (he's an Oakland native)

Barry Bonds on the other hand... :hide:

[Political Heretic]

30. BREAKING NEWS: RICH GUY THINKS OBAMA IS AWESOME! (Developing....)

[phleshdef]

31. Right because having money automatically lessens his opinion.

Thats just another form of bigotry coming from you there.

[Political Heretic]

67. I care less about the opinion of the super wealthy, yes.

No apology.

[WeekendWarrior]

119. What a surprise. nt

[Political Heretic]

137. Look if the ONLY reason someone is being cited as an "authority" is their fame/wealth, then

I really don't give a shit.

It's like:

OMG LISTEN TO THIS GUY!

Why?

DUDE....HE'S LIKE A CELEBRITY.

So?

DUDE! HE'S IMPORTANT!

In what way?

WELL...I DUNNO BE HE IS FAMOUS.

Ok well, does he have any particular expertise on the subject he's talking about?

NO...

Er..alright well, does he have any specialized background or experience, or some angle giving him some tangible claim to being some kind of an authority?

UHHHH....NO.

Then, again - why should I care?

DUDE! COMMON...HE'S LIKE A FRICKEN MILLIONAIRE.

Ah. Well, fuck off.

I don't care if its Tom Hanks praising the president or Danny Glover criticizing him. Why should I care? On the other hand, if someone has some particular reason to be appealed to as an authority of some type, then it would be different. Because there would be reason to reference them other than the fact that they are a celebrity.

Someone mentioned rich examples such as FDR or Kennedy. Right, and if they wanted to rise of the dead and give their opinion on our political situation, I'd listen. Not because they were rich, but because they were Presidents and probably have some expertise that makes their opinion interesting. It wouldn't matter how rich they were.

But what makes Tom Hanks special? (Or Danny Glover for that matter) - is it anything other than their celebrity, i.e. money?

It's a silly illicit appeal, and it yes - it does irk me when something is posted that is like RICH DUDE GIVES OPINION ON SOMETHING HE HAS NO CLUE ABOUT! EVERYONE TUNE IN!! :rofl:

If it was someone who had some other claim besides just being wealthy, then the being rich part wouldn't matter at all.

[liberalpress]

152. There are times when I had a lot money

and now I don't. My politics has been he same regardless of the size of my bank account. You either have a heart ir you don't.

[Political Heretic]

158. I'm not disputing this. I'm talking about why I should listen to an appeal to authority

If the only reason to listen is because someone's rich, that's not a good enough reason for me.

Of course you can "have a heart" and be rich or poor. In fact if anyone would stop to do a search history you'd discover me writing multiple times about the very fact that simply be rich doesn't make you a bad person any more than simply being poor makes you a good person.

However, an uncomfortably, yet provable fact is that is more difficult for a rich person to have a heart or keep a heart, simply because the inclination toward power hunger and greed are so great.

All one need do is look at the policies of the United States, which overwhelmingly serve the interests of the wealthy - and then note the massive cabal of financial elite daily fighting against the best interests of poor and working families so that they can line their belts with even more money. There is a trend to be noted here - the wealthy in our society hold the most power, and tend to use that power to enrich themselves at our expense.

That's an institutional level critique. Of course there are individuals who have been hearts or small hearts regardless of their wealth.

[WeekendWarrior]

156. It may or may not be silly, depending on whose opinion is being solicited

but Hanks has as much right as you do or me or any DUer to express his opinion and, I'm sorry, but the fact that he's famous DOES make a difference, simply because he is famous and has a certain amount of influence on people. That's the way the world works, and you can tell anyone who listens to him to FUCK OFF, but that won't change the simple fact that he WILL be listened to. And even rich friggin' millionaires have a right to express themselves, whether you like it or not.

[Political Heretic]

159. That's incredibly sad. And I have way more faith in people than that.

I think you grossly overestimate how much ordinary Americans care what celebrities think about politics when they are unemployed and being thrown out of their homes.

[WeekendWarrior]

162. Why is it sad? I have faith that people

will listen to what celebrities have to say, will evaluate it just as they would evaluate anything you or I say, and either accept it or dismiss it. There's nothing sinister or sad about it. It just is what it is.

[dionysus]

175. he's just pissed Hanks didn't crap all over him, really it's that simple.

if he did, then Hanks would be a wise sage, a hero...
:shrug:

[Mithreal]

188. -1

[namahage]

181. "I don't care...if it's Danny Glover criticizing him. Why should I care?"

Because you can both agree and not care, doncha know.

[Trajan]

201. This is a named fallacy ....

Argumentum ad Lazarum

.... The logical fallacy of thinking a conclusion is correct because the speaker is poor, or it's incorrect because the speaker is rich.

The implication that someone could not represent the truth because they possess more or less money is simply false ....

[BlueIdaho]

32. Yeah - because wealth always automatically destroys compassion.

Give ma a break.

[twitomy]

89. It does if you are a wealthy Republican,

right?

[BlueIdaho]

96. Nah - they never had any compassion to begin with

That's why they are perfectly happy getting rich by destroying Unions, the middle class, livable wages, access to health care, the environment, and public education.

Some folks with conscience do become wealthy - but that doesn't mean they have to abandoned their souls to get there.

[namahage]

33. IN OTHER NEWS...RICH GUY THINKS OBAMA=BUSH

DU posters agree

[berni_mccoy]

36. Ohhhhh SNNAAAPPPEEHHH!!!! Nice One! That's definitely gonna leave a mark.

[Number23]

43. lol! Very nice. Don't forget that Michael Moore gets more love here

when he's trashing Democrats than when he's trashing Republicans. And last I checked, ol' Michael was FAR from broke!

[Lorien]

125. MM doesn't "trash" Democrats. DLCers trash the Democratic party

with their anti-Dem actions, and Moore calls them out on their bullshit. AS HE SHOULD.

And if you think Moore is in the same financial league as Hanks, you're dreaming.

[JI7]

163. you can't be serious ? that's like saying some whore ceo isn't really wealthy

when compared to bill gates or warren buffet. even if that ceo has 10s or even 100s of millions.

[Political Heretic]

194. I think you're right, but probably for different reasons.

People who say the DLC aren't "real Democrats" or that "centrists" aren't "real Democrats" are doing a disservice, I think. It's convenient to say that, because it means you can avoid some painful truths.

But the simple truth is, not only are DLCers and "centrists" Democrats, combined they comprise the bulk of the Democratic party. People saying they are not the "real" Democrats may be earnest and have values I share - but they're not being realistic.

So then, MM does "trash" some Democrats. Many Democrats. I wouldn't describe it as "trashing" but obviously someone who believes in corporate capitulating staus-quo beneficiaries certainly would.

Rather than deny they are really Democrats let's instead just have the courage to say that they deserve to be harshly criticized for their failure to prioritize the needs of working families ahead of the wants and whims of the finanical elite. For their failure to care at all about Dr. King's dream of economic justice in America - the one he was preaching to the day he was assassinated. For their blatant apathy toward social inequality greater than any of our western industrialized peer nations.

They deserved to be trashed. Trashing Democrats? When they act like trash, then yes - I make no apology for that, neither should Michael Moore. Neither should other posters.

Cheers.
PH

[defendandprotect]

212. The DLC and Blue Dogs should be trashed . . . as all DINO's should be . . .

Are you for them?

[politicasista]

66. **Crickets**

Good one.

[Mithreal]

118. -1 for improper use of crickets

Why should anyone respond to that post? They'd have to click on the link to understand the slant of the insult.

[Political Heretic]

136. Not sure why anyone should CARE about his opinion either.

Since is only claim to notice is the fact that he's a "celebrity."

So...?

[Cali_Democrat]

34. Lame. n/t

[CBR]

37. Is it news that you don't like Obama? nt

[Mithreal]

47. Is it news that some of you all enjoy these appeals to authority?

[CBR]

50. I never gave my preference either way. nt

[Mithreal]

54. I stand corrected, fair enough.

[Political Heretic]

160. Actually, I neither "like" nor "dislike" Obama. I don't know the man.

But the fact that DU spends so much time in wars between people who "like" Obama as though they know him personally and those who "dislike" Obama in the same way is a big part of the reason why things suck so much.

It's not about the Man. It's about a system of structural injustice that the Office of the President refuses to acknowledge, and which the Congress of the United States refuses to acknowledge, and which the Justice Department and Supreme Court of the United States refuse to acknowledge...

[Mithreal]

185. Truth

[truedelphi]

224. Very nicely done. Thank you. n/t

[defendandprotect]

213. You mean in the sense of "have a beer with"? That great criteria which moved so

many Dems to vote for Bush in Florida -- 300,000 of Democrats in Florida?

I don't know the president -- to tell you the truth there are people I have known

who I've later realized I didn't know enough about.

So one of the last things I'd do is consider the president anything but a politician!

It's the agenda of the president that's important -- that's all!!

[Mithreal]

40. Well said.

:thumbsup:

[FrenchieCat]

44. But I thought that FDR and Kennedy were rich, and that didn't affect them!

Also hear that John Edwards although he fell from grace was worth 42 million!

[Faygo Kid]

73. My thoughts exactly.

Tom Hanks didn't deserve that. He does a lot of good works.

[JI7]

129. Nixon and Reagan didn't grow up rich, they are our hero

hhahahhahah

Max Baucus is also the least wealthiest in the SEnate. we may have lost TEddy, but at least we have someone who is one of us in Max. hahahhahahha

[defendandprotect]

204. FDR, JFK, Michael Moore are humanists . . .

but, if you're going to use sex/mistresses as a guide, they've all had them --

Is having a willing lover anti-humanist? Does it keep a president from doing

what they should be doing on human rights? Food, Shelter, Health Care, Clothing,

Education?

Presumably Obama has no mistress . . . does that make him an automatic friend of

human rights? Of the poor, of the homeless? Of those who need medical help?

Edwards also spouted quite a bit of populist sentiment -- did he suddenly go nuts

and change his mind on all of that?

[dionysus]

108. LOL teh bitter is just oozing out isn't it?

:rofl:

[spoony]

128. Lol, yeah with the kind of insulation he has

I imagine that endless warfare, banksters on the prowl, public education sinking, union-busting picking up, etc. doesn't get through to a guy like him. All he knows is that Obama is cool and that's that.

[berni_mccoy]

35. TOM HANKS?!? He's Just A CHEERLEADER!

:sarcasm:

Thanks for being one of the real liberals Tom!

[Mithreal]

42. "real" liberals, sure, that's it

The litmus test for liberal is how much you love Obama.

[FrenchieCat]

48. Real Liberals have open minds, and that is the lithmus test.....

They have a tendency not to omit inconvenient facts,
or be blinded of the limitations in consideration
with how things actually work.....
most acknowledge that this country has been fucked up for a long time,
and understand the circumstances of why one president in 14 months time
can't change it all exactly so
unless Congress comes along,
and the people are there to support him,
instead of critiquing him at ever opportunity,
no matter the facts as they are.

Real liberals don't believe in magic wands,
no matter how much they wish there was one available
for use.

The only folks who already think they know
everything and don't need to hear any other point of views,
and believe everything would work just so, only if....
are fools...
and yes....some hold liberal ideals and others don't,
but fools they are.

[Mithreal]

There is a point where much of the defense begins to look like

tired excuses, unprincipled and sold out.

"Magic wands" is just as bad as pony and don't think you are gaining ground by repeating it.

“I must learn to love the fool in me the one who feels too much, talks too much, takes too many chances, wins sometimes and loses often, lacks self-control, loves and hates, hurts and gets hurt, promises and breaks promises, laughs and cries” - Theodore Isaac Rubin

“The fool doth think he is wise, but the wise man knows himself a fool.” - Anatole France

You obviously mention fools for some reason, come out and say it, don't play the coward.

My Senator's CoS places the blame for the sorry state of HCR on the President and my Senator is a member of Senate Leadership. Blame Congress, of course, they are part of the problem but this fish is rotting from the head. Is the President a great guy, sure he is. Is he my President, for sure. Do we need to push him to do the right thing, unfortunately so.

[FrenchieCat]

57. "Sold Out" is as tired to me as you think "Magic Wands" is to you....

therefore we are even.

Open mind is the touchstone concept of liberalism.

Pushing someone to do what one thinks is right
doesn't give license to be negative about every single thing,
all of the time.....as there has been good coming from this White House....
and those of us with open minds know this, and acknowledge it as often as possible
to make up for the spoiled sour pusses who are more vested in the blame game,
than in actually getting anything done, even if it ain't everything they'd wish.

[Mithreal]

60. I have called the WH to thank and to disagree.

Not just open mind, of course, but also We Are in This Together and people are essentially good and many of the problems we experience are situational rather than the result of "bad" human nature.

There is room for people who are supporters at all costs and critics.
http://journals.democraticunderground.com/Skinner/347

When a rationalization seems to abandon principles or never have them in the first place, sold out, as in sold progressives out does seem appropriate. "Magic wands" is plain silly, it's fantastic by supernature.

[FrenchieCat]

62. it's fantastic by supernature also describe what most expect

from this President.

Obama is a progressive, just not as progressive as you would want him...
but you aren't his only constituent, nor are you the one that got him into office,
that took all of us.....and so, no, he's not going to construct every single policy
to pass your specific mustard......nor would that, or should that be expected of any
one President, who not only has to deal with his constituents, but also with
the congress as it comes.

There is a reason that the lesser populated states
get two Senators, and that many who are part of the Senate leadership
also happens to come from those lesser populated states, where most get their
campaign fund dollars not from their miniscule population but from "special Interest",
many which are not the friends of progressives.

This means that no matter what, the Senate's inclinations are less progressive
as Baucus plays an equal role to another Senator who's constituency might be
100 times as populous. That's a fact.

At the end of the day, the President doesn't Rule,
especially when he has to fight a media and some folks who would rather that he
didn't even govern, let alone rule.

[Mithreal]

68. You are diverting, nice block by the way.

We should expect that the President does what the American people want. He is not just his own man but is supposed to be the people's champion, he's a Democrat after all, and he is supposed to be our chief representative. A true test has been his impotence behind what the majority of Americans from all stripes want in HCR. He is not de facto head of Congress, damn straight, but he is the head of the party and is exercising that influence. I get where you are coming from. Though you may not see it, I consider you a strong ally in the larger struggle but I won't fail to respond to spin and of course, you shouldn't to whatever spin you see coming from the other "side." I have noticed you acknowledge the President is making mistakes, how could anyone not. The other "side" acknowledges he has done many positive things. The times don't call for an adequate President or Democrat. I do believe they call for more than he has presented himself to this date. One side wants to rile up Progressives to action while not pushing them over into despair. The other side here wants to make sure that when the president is ready to be great, he has the support he needs, maybe has support regardless of what he does. There is going to be inevitable conflict as we discuss these ideas. I don't want to bring anyone down, but I do want to make sure people are not blind to the fact that too much of Bush's status quo is in place and being continued. Without all of us, we are not getting out of this Great recession any time soon. I know we irritate each other, but I respect your pov. I know there are many more than two sides, but both "sides" view each other with suspicion. Not sure how we get past that.

[FrenchieCat]

69. Breaking up that big block of writing of yours would be good.......

otherwise, :boring:

As for Democrats, you do not represent all Democrats, not even close.
and he is exactly doing what he believe is right for all Americans,
as he was elected to govern, not to cater to those at DU
who would have elected Kucinich (Prince of all magic wands)
if they could have....
but really couldn't, not by even a little bit.

Methinks, perhaps you spend too much time at DU, obviously, cause it appears you believe yourself
to being in some kind of majority, and you actually believe that everyone thinks
like you. That's kind of funny AND naive!

The Democrats you are talking about supported Kucinich for President,
i.e., 3% of Democrats if that!

[Mithreal]

70. You already responded, I let it stand.

[defendandprotect]

206. Re Health Care, Obama is certainly NOT doing what he knows is right

for all Americans --

Americans want government run health care -- not private insurance --

Obama is turning hundreds of billions of dollars over to the insurance companies!!

Giving them sway over health care!

Even CATHOLICS for gawd's sake want government run health care -- yes, the Catholic

Bishops were lying to you, me and Pelosi -- and they want reproductive covering included --

incouding birth control and abortion!!

And when Latinos/Latinas are included -- the Catholic numbers are even higher!!

A wholloping mamority of Americans want single payer -- government run health care.


I well remember that Kerry was preferred by primary voters at about .03% . . . who won?

Ah, those computers!

[ProfessorGAC]

134. There Is A Point Where the Indignation Becomes Tired

An inability to distinguish reality from fantasy is not an excuse to continue to behave like Don Quixote. But, you go ahead and drown in your self-righteous, self-serving indignation and tilt at windmills.

Then we can refill the gov't with Republicans and you'll finally have a true dragon to slay.
GAC

[Mithreal]

153. Laughable - "The Era Of Low Expectations Is Over"

He is doing a stellar job giving the government back to Republicans. Self-righteousness, yeah that's it. And self-serving too, oh really?

[defendandprotect]

207. Noticing wars and objecting to them is "tilting at windmills" . .. ??? 8 year wars!!!??

How do you ignore that each day?

Including the fact that they're bankrupting our Treasury?

How do you listen to what Obama is saying without filtering that info into

the pile?

No health care . . . eh, Taj Mahal of a US Embassy in Iraq -- $635 million a year

to protect our Embassy in Baghdad!!

Still Blackwater and other privatization of our military going on and helping to

bankrupt us --

No one moving to re-regulate capitalism? Glass-Steagall? Leaving us open to trillions

more in bail-outs?

What about banks and the risks they continue to take with our money?

Derivatives?

[Political Heretic]

72. Real liberals stand with workers rather than rulers.

Real liberal prioritize the needs of working families first, ahead of the wants and whims of the financial elite.

Ok you know what, maybe "real liberals" don't do that. In which case, they are part of the problem.

[Mithreal]

78. Maybe some regressives have it right, these "real liberals" are elitist?

I know people here on DU weeks ago were falling all over themselves to say Progressives weren't Obama's base.

[liberation]

99. A lot of people here are under some severe denial, and must have everything both ways

I am just tired of being lectured about what a "real liberal" is, by people who don't know their own neo-liberalism from real leftist political ideologies (hey they both have liberalism in their titles, so they must be the same thing, right?).

As an actual liberal, I am tired of being told to "stay behind" a person who has absolutely no interest in enacting or enabling any significant liberal item of policy. I am tired of people trying to pass cult of personality as a sound political argument. I am tired of people resorting to appeals to victim status to defend the same president they claim to be so courageous. I am tired of being told that this president using his face to punch the GOP's gloves is exactly part of his strategy.


This is what an actual liberal president should stand for: No unnecessary wars of choice, social equality and fairness, advocacy for the weakest members of our society, protection of the working class and its interests, access and fomenting of education, investment in the nation's future, health care as a human right, protection of individual rights, etc. Heck I would be thrilled if Mr. Obama would stand unequivocally (with actual actions) on just a SINGLE one of those items. I mean, talk about fucking low expectation. But no, we won't get even that... and we are told to take it and smile.

Fuck that... I am a liberal, I will support a liberal politician. Mr. Obama is free to continue his center-right agenda, more power to him. I just wish his fan club would quit it with trying to tap dance about why on earth do they feel entitled to have the support of liberals, for whom by now it is clear they have nothing but contempt.

[Mithreal]

103. Well said.

[BigBearJohn]

122. WOW! Wish I said that.!!! You are one smart cookie!

:hug:

[Lorien]

127. *1. Well said. nt

[Political Heretic]

135. Thank you. Very well said.

[ElboRuum]

145. I know what you mean...

I'm tired of being lectured... period.

[Yuugal]

146. hear hear

[Puglover]

147. This should be an OP.

Certainly abit more substance then "Tom Hanks thinks POTUS is doing a SPECTACLAR job!"

[Mithreal]

166. +1 indeed

[defendandprotect]

205. Bravo -- !!

And too many people are not up to trying to put any thought into understanding the

difference between people -- labels make it so much easier!!

I'm not that familiar with Tom Hanks so I don't really know what he has tried to do

for the nation, if anything.

From the long list of movies, I'm looking at quite a few which seem sheer manipulation to

me! Ignoring reality! "Forest Gump" . . "Apollo" . . . "DaVinci Code" --

And now he's working on a JFK documentary which pushes the inane Bugliosi book?

Pitiful!

Then, again, there's Michael Moore with a long list of credits which are intended to help

all of us wake up -- a humanist!!

[liberation]

95. Question is... do you actually get paid for the whole PR some of you do...

... or is it done in a pro bono basis.

I can't wait to be lectured by milquetoast centrist on what the left is... LOL

[Lorien]

126. Wow. Define "liberal".

on war, the environment, corporate power and free trade, education, GLBT rights, the environment...point by point; how do YOU define liberalism on each of these issues?

[pecwae]

38. How marvelous for Tom!

Of course, he has no economic or healthcare access worries, but Hurray for him!!

[change_notfinetuning]

39. Rahm, Rahm, he's our man. If he can't do it, Tom can. Tom, Tom he's our

man. If he can't do it . . .

And the band played on.

[Kind of Blue]

45. Rah Rah Sis Boom bah! as the old cheer goes

for the man who's cleaning up the Epic Mess.
Thank you, Tom.

[grahamhgreen]

49. How are his investments in big insurance doing? nt

[FrenchieCat]

51. What are they?

Do you have a link?

Or are you just doing meaningless one-liner drive through,
while talking out of your ass and hope no one notices?

[grahamhgreen]

61. No, extropolation. Anyone with his kind of money would be hard pressed not to

have some money in big insurance.

[Name removed]

63. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[dionysus]

111. so you're just making shit up, like republicans do. sweeet.

:eyes:

[dionysus]

110. i believe it's called "making shit up"

[Wardoc]

52. He is, for Republicans. Union busting, increasing wars, Patriot Act, insurance mandates...

the list goes on BUT he wears the right team colors so RAH RAH RAH!!!!!!! GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO TEAM!!!!

Whatever.

[Mithreal]

53. How dare you challenge the status quo. Don't you know your President

is both a pragmatist and proud incrementalist.

[BigBearJohn]

132. That sums it up.

[defendandprotect]

208. The cheerleading goes on . . . but the supporters are getting weary . . . agree with you!!!

Too often that ball is ending up at the wrong end of the court --

and in the wrong net!!

[Puglover]

55. I like Tom Hanks

He seems like a nice man and for sure a good actor. What he thinks about a politician? Meh. I judge Obama on his actions and deeds as I suspect most here do. Not on what a person I'll never meet thinks. Sorta juvenile really.

[boomerbust]

56. Beautiful

He even called it Morning JOke

[politicasista]

64. Kick

:kick:

[Metta]

65. He doesn't know wtf he's talking about. Or, he has a narrow worldview.

In any case, who cares?

[Mithreal]

80. His opinion is as important as yours or mine.

Less, I suppose, if you multiply your vote through activism.

[Vattel]

74. is he one of the guys from "Bosom Buddies?"

[demwing]

150. No, you're thinking of Tom Hanks the TV star. This is Tom Hanks.

Two time academy award winner.

Funny, they do look a lot alike..... ;)

[TuxedoKat]

154. Actually, yes

he was on that show before he went on to do his other Hollywood films.

[icee]

79. Well, that is the end of Tom Hanks movies for me.

[Puglover]

81. That is as juvenile

as the OP.

[Name removed]

83. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[golfguru]

82. I can only agree if we retain House & Senate after Nov 2010

[Mithreal]

113. There is that, reasonable point. Nothing sells like failure.

[Historic NY]

84. I almost pee'd when he called the show "the Morning Junk".

[Kablooie]

85. That's just one man's opinion. Another man's opinion is ...

... that the President of the United States is a Martian that secretly leads Al Quaeda.


So who ya gonna believe?

[DCBob]

86. Totally agree. More people need to speak out in support or else the Evil Empire wins...

Thanks Tom!!

[defendandprotect]

209. Is the "Evil Empire" not wars and re-funding them? Ignoring single payer?

What is evil if a president doesn't get up every day with "America's" homeless

in mind? Or our impoverished children?

What the hell is evil in your mind?

[frylock]

88. has anybody contacted peter scolari for his opinion?

:jackoff:

[twitomy]

90. All the more reason whyI dont take actors opinons very seriously

After all, they play "lets pretend" for a living. Mr Hanks obviously didnt hear the director say "Cut"!

10% unemployment, the HCR debacle, getting no where with Iran, spending money we dont have that makes Bush look like a spendthrift. Bailing out crooks on wall street. Yes Tom, things are going swimmingly well.

In ancient Rome, actors where on the level with prostitutes. I think the wrong profession has been elevated.

[defendandprotect]

211. The label I look for is "humanist" . . . I'd be happy to see some of that from Hanks . . .

what I generally see is able manipulator --

Hope I'm wrong -- but why wouldn't he mention the wars? Refunding them?

Bankrupting the Treasury? Torture? Patriot Act? Wiretapping?

"America" . . . ??? Don't think so!

[backtomn]

91. So what !!

Is this going to help? Will it help pass healthcare?.....or is it just another Hollywood type that doesn't know anything more than any DUer? A waste of air time.......NEXT !!

How about hearing from some House members that will support the Senate plan or a majority of Senate and House members supporting reconciliation? We can only hope.....but don't waste our time with the opinions of people that would support Obama no matter what.

[Raine]

92. I'm not star struck so what a

celebrity says means no more to me than what my neighbor says. :shrug:

[Mithreal]

114. +1 Is it learned, genetic or some combination?

[zenprole]

93. Delusional

I can't be surprised at this. Tom Hanks went around the bend with his WWII memorial antics. He claimed the veterans didn't get a monument for their sacrifices. WRONG! The middle class that existed after WWII, constructed of such things as the 52-20 club, the GI Bill, and a period of relative labor peace, was their prize, flag-waving and anger at longhairs notwithstanding.

Personally, Hanks comes across as very classy and has staked out the calm middle ground, and that's OK, but he often falls into the trap of believing his own publicity.

At street level, Obama has been a complete disaster, failing to correct even the simplest wrongs lavished upon the body politic over 30+ years. I'm talking basic, rote matters: restoring habeas corpus and prosecuting torturers. If Jefferson and Madison were alive today, they'd give Obama the verbal thrashing of his spineless life, and not even Tom Hanks can hang with them.

[impik]

138. Oh man, so much BS in one post. You're talented.

[butterfly77]

98. Why was Joe so subdued...

He is always so opinionated :think:

[TuxedoKat]

155. I don't know but that was very interesting

To watch his behavior. He almost seemed like he was intimidated by Tom Hanks. He didn't challenge him or try to one-up him or put him down in any way as he does with many other guests. He always has to prove he's the alpha male in the room, but I guess he knew he wasn't with Tom Hanks there. I even noticed him rubbing his chin (subconscious sign of approval) when Tom was talking. Joe seemed to go out of his way to avoid talking about anything controversial like he didn't want to aggravate Tom.

[butterfly77]

164. That is my point..

and I cracked up during it I waited for Joe to start talking shit so Tom hanks could knock his ass down. I think that's what Tom was hoping for.

[bertman]

100. If I had been on that show with those two yammering heads I would have said exactly

what Tom Hanks said--or pretty damn close to it--but I am not at all happy with the way President Obama has abdicated leadership on far too many key issues, how he has failed to use the wave of popular support upon which he rode into office, and how he has been on the corporatist side more often than the people's side.

I would never give those Republican boot licking so-called celebrities even half an opportunity to say that President Obama is not fulfilling my vision. Not because I am all for what the President is doing, but because I feel that he is far, far superior to anyone the other side has offered or could offer and I wouldn't want to give them one more round of ammunition to say he is failing.

[Mithreal]

116. Good point.

[Puglover]

214. I agree whole heartedly.

I am very sure that some of the people on this board who think Obama can do no wrong would be very shocked how I defend and promote him with talking politics with Rightwingers. However on a Democratic board I would think all of us should be able to share our thoughts and concerns without being attacked. In a perfect world anyway.

[MichiganVote]

101. Pathetic. A movie star speaks up and that makes the Obama presidency great?

Like I said, pathetic. Get a grip DU.

[dionysus]

109. so sorry someone speaking well of the dem president on a dem board makes you queasy.

well, not really.

:eyes:

[Mithreal]

115. This is not a Dem board.

[dionysus]

157. you might want to inform Skinner, he'd be surprised to learn that.

:rofl:

[Mithreal]

165. You really do obtuse well.

"Since then, DU has become one of the premier left-wing websites on the Internet, publishing original content six days a week, and hosting one of the Web's most active left-wing discussion boards."

Hmm, what is that, left-wing? Not Democratic, tell me more.

"Democratic Underground is not affiliated with the Democratic Party, and comments posted here are not representative of the Democratic Party or its candidates."

dionysus, you want to prove me wrong, I'll admit when I am. If you can embarrass me, I will consider it a learning experience. That was weak, sorry. Don't waste my time with pathetic.

[dionysus]

167. what's pathetic is you cherrypicking from the mission statement;

Democratic Underground is an online community for Democrats and other progressives. Members are expected to be generally supportive of progressive ideals, and to support Democratic candidates for political office.

nice try pal.

[Mithreal]

168. And your argument was any different?

Actually Skinner and others have explained it, obviously not to your satisfaction.

Do you see that word "generally?" What does that mean to someone of your great intellect?

Unless you up your game, don't call me pal.

[dionysus]

169. hookay pal

:rofl:

it's okay, they'll let you smear dems to your bitter hearts content. have at it.

[Mithreal]

172. Done anything to elect Dems today? I have.

See, I question that whole paradigm if that is the right word.

I want Dems who represent my interests.

I was an organizer for Obama ran phone banks daily and canvassed many days for Obama. I have a right to advocate my principles. I earned it.

But that offends you? I suppose as long as there is (D) you are a-okay? Probably like Blanche Lincoln too, don't you? What's that? She is a member of the party. Must be very hurtful what people say about her.

You never answered my question, what "generally" meant in that phrase. Weak, pathetic Dem you must be, lot of that going around.

[dionysus]

173. "I was an organizer for Obama ran phone banks daily and canvassed many days for Obama."

pardon me if i don't buy it for a second.

:hi:

[Mithreal]

176. Why should you? And considering what I think of your comments

tell me why I should care what you think?

[DumbBassRepublicans]

102. Tom Hanks: "I think the President of the United States is doing a SPECTACULAR job...."

"That's all I have to say about that...!!!"

LOL..!!!


:)

[pundaint]

105. There is a good deal of bullshit spoken on the morning joe.

[Lilyeye]

120. Wow I see some couldn't wait to come in and piss on this thread lol.

[Bluesbreaker]

123. Consider the source

Wow, that's a significant statement coming from a noted policy analyst like Tom Hanks. I guess it takes a celebrity to appreciate how truly great another celebrity is. If I'm looking for someone to represent me from the film industry it won't be Tom Hanks, great actor though he truly is. I'll throw my lot in with Michael Moore.

[Divine Discontent]

130. EXACTLY - I love Tom's acting and sincerity - I love Michael's penchant for telling the cold hard

TRUTH!

[Umbral]

124. Makes one wonder what 'doing a passable job' looks like in Hank's Universe. nt

[saltpoint]

131. A high-profile actor like Hanks is good for the blue team because he has

been on a lot of local screens over a long period of time. If he is "one of them Hollywood liberals" he's also the guy many, many U.S. citizens have seen at their local cineplex for decades.

Of course he's no Lee Greenwood...

[DisgustedInMN]

133. Exacly why should I care..

.. what any given actor thinks or who they support? I'm absolutely certain that I am FAR better informed than 99.9% of them. I'm also fairly certain that Tom Hank's perspective and financial situation has jack shit similarity with .0001% of Americans. Obviously Congress SUCKS, but what SUCKS even worse, is Obama's complete lack of leadership in putting Congress on the right course. THAT is HIS FAILURE and no one elses.

[Fruittree]

139. Please don't take this the wrong way but..

Do you think maybe the kind of anger and attitude you display in your letter might be the reason why more people don't align themselves with progressives in general?

[Puglover]

141. And please don't take this the wrong way but

FYI plenty of people align themselves with progressives. Ask Blanche Lincoln. "Anger" is a valid emotion in my world and would hardly scare folks off. At least those with any sort of a spine.

[brentspeak]

151. Have you taken a poll to determine how many people in general align themselves with progressives

or "centrists" or conservatives?

[dionysus]

171. !

:spray:

[Mithreal]

174. Yes, Dems shouldn't do anger. So uncivilized.

Never met an angry centrist, nope. Suppose you are one of the ones that agree with Rahm Emanuel that Progressives are "fucking retarded."

Oh wait, you are a righty? They have progressives over there too and there are a lot of different types of Progressives.

Yeah, it was the anger that turned you off. Whatever.

[DisgustedInMN]

210. No, I...

...DON'T "think maybe the kind of anger and attitude you display in your letter might be the reason why more people don't align themselves with progressives in general." I think they do it because they are greedy, me first, I got mine fuck you, self-centered assholes. But please don't take that the wrong way.

[PatrynXX]

142. Heard part of the interview, but liked

his response about his father being in WWII. Which he tried to play down because his dad was a Machinist. Hey they kept the stuff working. Can't go much w/o them. My grandpa was one of those for I think the Air Force.

[treestar]

161. When that other actor said Obama was no good

I said who cares about their opinions, they are just actors.

so I guess I'm stuck with that now! x(

[dionysus]

177. the funny thing is , the detractors on this thread are acting the exact same way the RWers did

with the dixie chicks...

[Mithreal]

179. You don't do nuance do you?

I am getting a little tired of stupid Dems.

The Dixie chicks had as much a right to their opinion as Tom Hanks and you and me.

Maybe there is some comment you could point to that is more illustrative of your point.

[dionysus]

186. i can't get the image of you gnashing your teeth and shaking your cheetoh-stained fist at the

monitor out of my mind.

[Mithreal]

189. That's alright if it gives you some comfort.

[Name removed]

191. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Mithreal]

192. Believe what you like. Are you trying to get this thread deleted?

I have seen this a number of times. Someone writes something very embarrassing and then friends or the original poster seem to try to push the discussion to name calling or to other outrageous point that it gets deleted. No, I'd rather let this thread stand.

[Alexander]

193. No, I'd rather the Hanks-bashers be shown for the fools they are.

You want embarrassing, check out the Hanks bashing.

[Mithreal]

195. Must have missed it. I like Hanks, who doesn't?

Care to point to a particular comment?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_uCnx_qCKY&feature=channel

[Alexander]

197. Yeah, not much of a reader, are you? Check out #30, #39, #49, #65 and #93, for starters.

Of course, you yourself claimed Hanks's opinion is no more important than yours, even though Hanks is a respected celebrity who is well-known to most Americans. His opinion may be no more valid than yours or mine, but it does carry significant weight, whether you like it or not.

Let me know when you reach his level of fame and influence, and I'll agree with you that your opinion is just as "important" as his. :eyes:

[Name removed]

199. Deleted sub-thread

Sub-thread removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Puglover]

215. OMG like really?

"Let me know when you reach his level of fame and influence, and I'll agree with you that your opinion is just as "important" as his."

Like I so much like actors and famous people too!!!!!!!!!!!!! Like I read all the Hollywood mags to find out what Paris and Angelie and Brad and Kim's important opinions are!!!!!!!!!!!! And George Clooney too!

I do not believe I just read this comment on this board. Dude you should be embarrassed.

[Alexander]

216. Reading is FUNdamental.

I didn't say his opinion was more valid. Merely that it was of greater importance.

"Like I so much like actors and famous people too!!!!!!!!!!!!! Like I read all the Hollywood mags to find out what Paris and Angelie and Brad and Kim's important opinions are!!!!!!!!!!!! And George Clooney too!"

Whether you do or not is irrelevant. A lot of people do. You may not like it, but it's the truth.

Apparently reading comprehension is not your strong suit. You should be embarrassed.

[spoony]

217. +1

TV tell me who important, what think, ug.

[Bobbie Jo]

200. Acting like RW'ers in more ways than one. nt

[Mithreal]

220. Fine, you win, celebrity endorsements are more important than

your or my opinion. Sorry, not buying it.

I also don't buy the whole "supporters at all costs" are the victim and when are challenged must be because the mean old liberals, you know, the principled types are bullies and using rightwing tactics. Would be nice if all sides took a look in the mirror, but what chance of that is there?

The HATE card seems to be nearly the only option for "supporters at all costs." Hope for all of our sakes, Dem majorities survive November 2010. Whatever contribution Hanks made is solid, but those "detractors" only question whether his speaking out is more important than yours or mine. I prefer the kind of activism, where, you know, you and I get off our asses and knock on doors, make phone calls, show up. See watching someone on the tv just doesn't have the impact of a face to face or phone call. Think about that. Tv? tv? Please. I'd like to see more people speak up for themselves. Just know that the next numbskull on the tv that speaks negatively about Obama can be just as persuasive or have the star power, you know the anchors and other talking head with the 7 figure salaries that do nothing but trash Obama day in and day out. The antidote isn't Hanks, it is us. Too much nuance for the simple minded for sure. Wouldn't it just be easier to claim I hate Hanks, couldn't be further from the truth, whatever.

I'll take the power of you and me working together to reach out to our neighbors over a Hanks endorsement any day. It's not because I HATE Hanks, but it is because I prefer people power. Yeah, yeah, Hanks has starmentum, fine. Leave it to him to do our work for us, don't think so.

[TheBigotBasher]

180. More.

We'd probably all have been drafted to Iran by now if McLame had won and the semi house trained Bible Barbie would be trying to shove him out of the way so she could play with the nuclear weapons.

[Mithreal]

182. There is that. However, the election was Nov 2008.

Why does anyone want to keep re-litigating. I know that is not the right word, but not sure whether a word even exists that fits my intent of revisiting that election.

This is another form of lesser of two evils btw.

It is also a false choice in a sense because Americans already chose.

If "at least he isn't McCain" gives anyone comfort then I would argue one is unfocused. The issue isn't over who is President, we have a President. WHO is President mattered way back when, over a year ago. Our focus should rather be on pushing our agendas or providing him the support to do what needs be done. I think we should do both despite some disagreement over how to go about it. Our comfort should come from the fruit of our efforts.

I'd add that all we have done is delay the inevitable. Conservatives will return to power, we both know it. How is it I am supposed to be comforted while "Bible Barbie" and Job-killer Mittens are out there waiting their turn? Hmm?

If our party was serious we would have taken on the whole verifiable paper balloting issue, won't be surprised if another election is stolen. How many times do Regressives need to teach us a lesson, hmm?

[hulka38]

183. I admit, I was wavering, wondering what to think of the Obama Presidency. Now

that Tom Hanks has finally weighed in, I believe he's doing a spectacular job too. No more confusion. No more conflicting thoughts. I feel much better too, like a weight has been lifted.

[jonnyblitz]

221. I am reserving opinion/judgment until i hear what BRITNEY

thinks!! :o

[Mudoria]

196. I'm glad someone thinks so

[Jim Sagle]

198. Hey Tom, go have a box of chocolates.

[whistler162]

219. What do you expect from a Republican

<SARCASM>:)

After all he is related to Lincoln.

[old mark]

225. So do I, Tom - I just wish he'd hit those GOP motherfuckers a bit harder...nt

[Cha]

226. I thought of that last night

when I saw him introducing at the Oscars.

Another Hollywood shoutout to the Prez was the flick "Year One" with Michael Cera and Jack Black..it was kinda cheezy but really funny in parts and at one point Michael Cera said "Yes We Can":patriot::patriot: