OSLO (Reuters) - U.S. President Barack Obama won the Nobel Peace Prize on Friday for giving the world "hope for a better future" and striving for nuclear disarmament.
The decision to award one of the world's top accolades to a president less than nine months into his first term, who has yet to score a major foreign policy success, came as a big surprise and provoked strong international criticism as well as praise.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee praised Obama for "his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples."
The first African-American to hold his country's highest office, Obama has called for disarmament and worked to restart the stalled Middle East peace process since taking office in January.
"Very rarely has a person to the same extent as Obama captured the world's attention and given its people hope for a better future," the committee said in a citation.
In a speech in Prague in April, Obama declared: "So today, I state clearly and with conviction America's commitment to seek the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons."
But he was not the first American president to set that goal, and acknowledged it might not be reached in his lifetime.
On other pressing issues, he faces hard decisions on the future of the war in Afghanistan and is still searching for breakthroughs on Iran's disputed nuclear program and on the stalled Middle East peace process.
Israel's foreign minister said on Thursday there was no chance of a peace deal for many years.
"EMBARRASSING JOKE"
The chief Palestinian peace negotiator, Saeb Erekat, welcomed the award to Obama and expressed hope that "he will be able to achieve peace in the Middle East."
Mikhail Gorbachev, the last Soviet leader and a Nobel Prize winner himself, said: "I am happy. What Obama did during his presidency is a big signal, he gave a hope. In these hard times people who are capable of taking responsibility, who have a vision, commitment and political will should be supported."
But some Arab and Muslim reaction was fiercely critical.
"Obama's winning the peace prize shows these prizes are political, not governed by the principles of credibility, values and morals," said an Islamic Jihad leader, Khaled Al-Batsh.
"Why should Obama be given a peace prize while his country owns the largest nuclear arsenal on Earth and his soldiers continue to shed innocent blood in Iraq and Afghanistan?"
The prize worth 10 million Swedish crowns ($1.4 million) will be handed over in Oslo on December 10. Posted by glassman on :
IMO, the embarrassing joke here is that there was nobody else more deserving
the GOP and the Jihadists might find themselves in agreement if they are not careful.
Posted by osubucks30 on :
Wow I think this is way to early... No where to go but down from here??
Posted by The Bigfoot on :
I agree...this is early. Kinda like giving the prize to Big Brown based on his potential before the race is even run.
I think Steele's response was unnecessarily denigrating though.
quote:"It is unfortunate that the president's star power has outshined tireless advocates who have made real achievements working towards peace and human rights," Steele said.
"One thing is certain -- President Obama won't be receiving any awards from Americans for job creation, fiscal responsibility, or backing up rhetoric with concrete action."
Posted by bullitt49 on :
I feel what Steele said was pretty necessary, somebody needed to say it. He really hasn't accomplished much of anything during his presidency, and to win a Nobel Prize on the basis of wanting peace in the world is pretty thin. Yeah he opened some dialogue with countries but there haven't been any major strides yet. I think it brings down the accomplishments of anyone who has ever won a Nobel Prize.
Posted by The Bigfoot on :
That line about "He hasn't accomplished much" is gonna lose a lot of it's potency once health care reform passes.
And if Iran really does open up its second facility to investigations by the UN Nuclear Authority? It was after Obama's G20 speech that Iran agreed to inspections.
How about if Iraq ends up being just fine after Obama ends combat operations there next August?
There are many irons in the fire. I expect that once health care gets passed a number of the other projects he started earlier in the year will start resolving themselves as well.
That said I repeat that I think it was too early to be giving him a prize for anything.
Posted by bullitt49 on :
excellent point bigfoot, I also feel that once a big project falls a lot of others will fall in line. but you are correct and it is too early.
Posted by glassman on :
Obama 'in running for Nobel peace prize'
AP
Friday, 27 February 2009
The US president Barack Obama and his French counterpart Nicolas Sarkozy are believed to be among the record 205 nominations received for the 2009 Nobel peace prize.
The awards committee, based on Oslo, Norway, refuses to say who is nominated. It just says that 172 individuals and 33 organisations were on the final count released today.
The previous record was 199 in 2005.
Thousand of people have nomination rights for the coveted prize and sometimes announce their selections.
This year those names include Mr Obama, Mr Sarkozy, American musician Pete Seeger, Macedonian humanitarian Zivko Popovski-Cvetin, Austrian children's charity SOS-Kinderdorf International, Vietnamese religious leader Thich Quang Do, and American Greg Mortenson for his Asian school-building charity.
See what happens maybe he will be awarded the award.
Posted by glassman on :
there's been lots of controversy about science awards in the past...
they gave some of the contributors to the development of the MRI a prize a couple years ago and left out some contributors that other scientists felt were very important...
even the peace prize has been awarded contorversialy before.
the Nobel prize is like being Time man of the year...
or being elected President... people vote for who they like, i dunno why anybody would get upset about it one way or the other unless it was awarded to somebody like Sadam Hussein....
Posted by glassman on :
Controversy about This Year's Nobel Prize in Medicine
The Nobel Prize in Medicine in October 2003 was awarded for Magnetic Resonance Imaging( M.R.I.) research which is a widely used procedure to visualize the body's soft tissue without using X-ray radiation. This Year's Nobel Prize for M.R.I. was awarded to an American, Doctor Paul C. Lauterbur of the University of Illinois and a Briton Sir Peter Mansfield of the University of Nottingham in England.
A distinguished scientist and a MRI researcher Dr. Raymond Damadian was left out of the Noble Prize although his achievements in MRI research were monumental.
""Some people say — and I understand it — 'Isn't it premature? Too early?' Well, I'd say then that it could be too late to respond three years from now," Thorbjoern Jagland, chairman of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, told the AP. "It is now that we have the opportunity to respond — all of us.""
"Obama said he was surprised and deeply humbled by the honor, and planned to travel to Oslo in December to accept the prize.
"Let me be clear: I do not view it as a recognition of my own accomplishments, but rather as an affirmation of American leadership on behalf of aspirations held by people in all nations," he said at the White House. "To be honest, I do not feel that I deserve to be in the company of so many of the transformative figures who've been honored by this prize."
Obama will donate the $1.4 million cash award that comes with the prize to charity."
"The award appeared to be at least partly a slap at Bush from a committee that harshly criticized Obama's predecessor for his largely unilateral military action in the wake of the Sept. 11 terror attacks.
"Those who were in support of Bush in his belief in war solving problems, on rearmament, and that nuclear weapons play an important role ... probably won't be happy," said Valle."
Oh, my goodness, Big! Comparing Obama to a horse named 'Big Brown'! How racist!!
Seriously, though. I wanted to wait to hear from a couple of his supporters on this before I commented because I wanted to see if there would be recognition of his lack of merit for this award. While most that I've talked to at work and here on this board do believe it's 'premature' there is a hint of 'But just wait! He will merit it someday!'. That's just silly. On that basis we could award him an NBA Championship Ring and maybe even get him an Honorary Knighthood while we're at it. (Might have to give some oil contracts away to get the last one though).
In response to Glass' comparison between Nobel and Time awards, I don't know which is sadder. That the comparison can even be made, or that it can seriously be done with a straight face. Time's Man of the Year is nothing more than 'Hey, we think this guy is Big right now.' The Nobel Peace prize was established as a reward for " the person who shall have done the most or the best work for fraternity among nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses."
Remember, this is (supposedly) to reward Obama for his work toward world peace UP THROUGH 2008!.
Honestly, this is little more than a Golden Albatross for Obama. This is simply going to reinforce the belief that he is being given props that he hasn't earned. All of the commentary about how he wasn't ready for the job is going to return full force with this the 'most prestigious award in the world.'
He can't win with this one. Either he focuses on peaceful means for the next 3 years and looks weak on defense (already a weak point for him) or his sends troops to fight and kill in Afghanistan\Iraq\Iran and looks hypocritical\unworthy of the award.
(Shrug) This is a bad choice of the Norwegian Nobel Committee really does support him.
Posted by jordanreed on :
I cant think of anyone, here, who is, at all, qualified to judge someones merit when it comes to the nobel peace prize. The critisisms and endorsements seem to follow party lines. ..and that just aint right. when i read this.."The Nobel Peace prize was established as a reward for " the person who shall have done the most or the best work for fraternity among nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses."...obama certainly qualifies as a candidate. And for those who are always *****ing about americas standing in the world..this is a good thing.
as always,,this is jmo...
Posted by glassman on :
In response to Glass' comparison between Nobel and Time awards, I don't know which is sadder. That the comparison can even be made, or that it can seriously be done with a straight face. Time's Man of the Year is nothing more than 'Hey, we think this guy is Big right now.' The Nobel Peace prize was established as a reward for " the person who shall have done the most or the best work for fraternity among nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses."
LOL.... i suggest you read more about about Nobel and who he was, and how he mad ehis money.
the comparison was rather simple- Time magazine is privately funded organisation, and so is the Nobel foundation.
they can give the award to who ever they want. cuz they are private. you still do remember what that is right?
the truth is? Bush was so hated by our allies and the Coalition of the Willing was such a farce that the award was made simply because Obama is not George Bush.
you can say they are wrong, you can say they are dumb, but they have the money to give, and you don't Posted by raybond on :
All of Americans should be proud Of our president for this Award he is getting. Only an element of Republican trash that would ruin the country just to ruin a Presidents term in Office ,How unAmerican how just plain stupid.
Its like there fight in healthcare, educational standards,and all good community programs and sevices. They with there selfish greed and insane outlook on the world of war and disregard for the law of the land. Maybe it is time to tell these people the phrase they love to tell all that disagree with them, just get the hell out of our country. Of course most on the left won't do that. You can always take heart that I will consider all you conservative jerks for the next four years unamerican loosers. Posted by glassman on :
funny how being unPatriotic was such a popular epithet when Cheney was running the country huh?
Posted by SeekingFreedom on :
Ok, I'm game. Let's play with this one because I think it's downright hilarious...
Ray, Jordon...hell, even Pagan or anyone else who thinks that Obama is all that and a bag of chips...
What has Obama done...not said, done...that would qualify him for the award?
I'm honestly interested. No sarcasm.
Posted by SeekingFreedom on :
quote:the truth is? Bush was so hated by our allies and the Coalition of the Willing was such a farce that the award was made simply because Obama is not George Bush.
you can say they are wrong, you can say they are dumb, but they have the money to give, and you don't
At least we agree on his 'qualifications' for the award, Glass.
And yes, I DO say they are wrong, dumb and have money to give away. lol
Posted by glassman on :
but SF, that's enough... that's all it takes...
the Nobel Prize committee has spoken....
In 1962 James Watson (1928– ), Francis Crick (1916–2004), and Maurice Wilkins (1916–2004) jointly received the Nobel Prize in medicine or physiology for their determination in 1953 of the structure of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). Because the Nobel Prize can be awarded only to the living, Wilkins's colleague Rosalind Franklin (1920–1958), who died of cancer at the age of 37, could not be honored.
quote:Originally posted by SeekingFreedom: Ok, I'm game. Let's play with this one because I think it's downright hilarious...
Ray, Jordon...hell, even Pagan or anyone else who thinks that Obama is all that and a bag of chips...
What has Obama done...not said, done...that would qualify him for the award?
I'm honestly interested. No sarcasm.
well..my answer to that would be to read what i already said..cant speak for the others..but what makes you think you are qualified to judge?
Posted by Pagan on :
WASHINGTON — While Russia's president congratulated President Barack Obama for winning the Nobel Peace Prize, Republicans see the award as so outrageous that they're using it to raise campaign money.
Obama won the prize "for awesomeness," says the mocking GOP fundraising letter. Obama's honor shows "how meaningless a once honorable and respected award has become," says the letter, signed by Michael S. Steele, chairman of the Republican National Committee.
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev had a different view. He said the award will encourage further U.S.-Russian cooperation.
"I hope this decision would serve as an additional incentive for our common work to form a new climate in world politics and promote initiatives which are fundamentally important for global security," Medvedev said in a letter to Obama.
Former Cuban leader Fidel Castro also weighed in. He called the Nobel award a "positive step," although he said it was more a repudiation of former President George W. Bush than a recognition of anything concrete Obama has done.
Steele said Obama hasn't accomplished enough to deserve the prize. Numerous Democrats and independents have expressed similar views, although generally in less bombastic terms.
Asking for contributions to the RNC of $25 to $1,000, Steele wrote that "the Democrats and their international leftist allies want America made subservient to the agenda of global redistribution and control. And truly patriotic Americans like you and our Republican Party are the only thing standing in their way."
Posted by Relentless. on :
At this point I'd say SF is obviously more qualified to judge than any of the pocket lining idiots who voted to give Obama any friggen award... The guy hasn't been in office for a year yet... He's done nothing. Well except for putting every man woman and child of this nation in more debt than they will every get out of for twenty generations... He has done that. I guess spending more than you make is a noble action after all.
Posted by jordanreed on :
good humour, R
Posted by The Bigfoot on :
Interesting!! According to Steele the democratic agenda has now become an international conspiracy!
Better get your tinfoil hats ready folks. The brainwashing Obama-nation that threatens your children has gone GLOBAL!!!!
Seriously though, I have said that I think it is too early and that others should have received the award. Since you are asking what he has done to deserve it lets see....
Flair Tully at Yahoo Answers started this list asking
quote:
Help with a list of Obama's accomplishments since becoming pres. please? what i've got so far
1.Being first black pres great honor by the way 2.he ate a burger at some hole in the wall restaurant 3.he went to a baseball game 4.pretty speeches 5.he had some kind of beer party thing 6.he got a dog 7.he had a big ball with jay-z 8.dunno 9.dunno 10.dunno can you think of any?
Other detractors of Obama added:
quote: Likes to go on talk shows. Takes every available photo op. Takes vacations like he doesn't have a job.
1.attended a church for 20 yrs who's pastor was a racist. 2. had a communist mentor. 3. refused to pledge the flag. 4. just say present at most of the senate hearings. 5. lawyer for acorn!
He's not the first black president. Clinton was. He said so. Besides Owe Bama became president by fraud and deceit. The speeches he plagerized and only read.
Became the first African American President Became the first African American President Nobel Prize winner Became the first African American entry level Senator to become prsident without finishing one term Became the first African American to spend 2 trillion in less than 4 months
Being one of the best LIAR I have every seen. married a woman that has never been proud of her country. Got some great friends lol like ,Tony” Rezko ,Rev. Jeremiah Wright GD America ,Bill Ayers , smoke pot and did inhale ,did cocaine..Most Liberal Senator he just love taxes,,,
Number one Obama is the first Bi-racial president though he would like to forget that he was raised by his white mother and grandparents, it is a proven fact. He has ran the national debt through the roof...Spending more money in the 9 months he has been president than any other president in history. I guess that could be an accomplishment----I spent more money then you did nanny nanny boo boo. He offended every police officer in America when he called a cop stupid for arresting his friend And he played some basketball....
An Obama proponent put together this list
quote: 3/18/8 – Obama caught world-wide attention for his moving speech on race relations
7/24/8 - Obama lays the foundation for a new era of international relations and began inspiring renewed hope in American leadership during his campaign speech in Berlin
11/6/8 – Obama’s victory was hailed as a promise of hope for the world.
12/1/8 – Obama began plans to restore U.N. ambassador to cabinet rank.
1/22/9 - Appointed a Special Envoy for Middle East peace
1/22/9 – Ordered the closing of Guantanamo Bay
1/22/9 – Ordered comprehensive review of detention policies
1/22/9 – Prohibited use of torture
1/22/9 - Signed an executive order to close CIA secret prisons
1/23/9 – Lifted “Global Gag Rule” on international health groups
1/26/9 – Began to address climate change by increasing fuel standards for automobiles
1/26/9 – Appointed Special Envoy for Climate Change
1/27/9 - Signs Lily Ledbetter “Fair Pay” Act
2/1/9 – Expanded healthcare for children by signing SCHIP
2/5/9 - Again addressed energy conservation by increasing standards for appliances.
2/24/9 – Directed almost $1 billion for prevention and wellness to improve America’s health
2/25/9 - Initiated international efforts to reduce mercury emissions worldwide
2/27/9 – Committed to responsibly ending the war in Iraq
4/1/9 – Agreed to negotiation of a new Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty with Russia.
4/1/9 – Enhanced U.S. – China relations
4/2/9 - Led global response to the economic crisis through the G20, obtaining commitments of $1.1 trillion to safeguard the world’s most vulnerable economies
4/4/9 - Renewed dialog with NATO and other key allies
4/5/9 – Announced new strategy to responsible address international nuclear proliferation 4/13/9 – Began easing tension with Cuba through new policy stance
4/17/9 - Secured $5 billion in aid commitments "to bolster Pakistan's economy and help it fight terror and Islamic radicalism"
4/22/9 - Developed the renewable energy projects on the waters of our Outer Continental Shelf that produce electricity from wind, wave, and ocean currents.
5/8/9 – Proposed International Affaires budget that included funds to create a civilian response corps -- teams of civilian experts in rule of law, policing, transitional governance, economics, engineering, and other areas critical to helping rebuild war-torn societies; Provide $40 million for a "stabilization bridge fund," which would provide rapid response funds for the State Department to help stabilize a crisis situation.
6/4/9 - Gave historic address to the Muslim World in Cairo - "American is not at war with Islam" Foreign affairs experts insist that Obama's engagement with the Muslim world has been remarkable. "He has been able to dramatically change America's image in that region"
8/4/9 - Used DIPLOMACY to free 2 American journalists from a North Korea prison
9/18/9 - De-escalation of nuclear tension through repurposing of missile defense prompting Russia to withdraw its missile plan. Source(s): Public Records
Both lists are politically biased of course. Choose which list speaks of substance to you.
For the current discussion let's use the Pro-Obama list and assume it is factually acurrate and all points are relevant to the current topic.
Now, understanding that the 2009 Nobel Prize is for work done up to and through 2008, that means that Obama got the award for...
quote: 3/18/8 – Obama caught world-wide attention for his moving speech on race relations
7/24/8 - Obama lays the foundation for a new era of international relations and began inspiring renewed hope in American leadership during his campaign speech in Berlin
11/6/8 – Obama’s victory was hailed as a promise of hope for the world.
12/1/8 – Obama began plans to restore U.N. ambassador to cabinet rank.
Is that worth a Nobel Peace Prize?
(shrug)
Posted by The Bigfoot on :
Now then...nominations were in the middle of February so you should really be adding...
quote: 1/22/9 - Appointed a Special Envoy for Middle East peace
1/22/9 – Ordered the closing of Guantanamo Bay
1/22/9 – Ordered comprehensive review of detention policies
1/22/9 – Prohibited use of torture
1/22/9 - Signed an executive order to close CIA secret prisons
1/23/9 – Lifted “Global Gag Rule” on international health groups
1/26/9 – Began to address climate change by increasing fuel standards for automobiles
1/26/9 – Appointed Special Envoy for Climate Change
1/27/9 - Signs Lily Ledbetter “Fair Pay” Act
2/1/9 – Expanded healthcare for children by signing SCHIP
2/5/9 - Again addressed energy conservation by increasing standards for appliances.
I do believe a number of these items belong in the "promotion of peace congresses" category but that still doesn't come close to matching the achievements of Bono or Bill Clinton.
I don't know if you understand just how evil many Europeans thought George Bush and Cheney were. I was hearing about it way back in 2001-2002 and the feelings have only intensified since then. Many truly believed these two were intentionally trying to start World War 3.
To have someone of Obama's character show up to take the place of our former president has made some rather giddy with relief.
Posted by glassman on :
you know what SF, i think alot of people are kinda scratching their heads over this...
when Bush got re-elected? on of the big British papers headline was simply - "Oh God" i forget which one...
it really is about the American people electing him.
and i beleive Obama referenced that...
now, as i posted in my first response? the GOP is risking sounding just like the Jihadists by making more of a big deal about how "wrong" this is than is really needed, and they are not going to score points with moderate voters...
Obama just lost the bid for the Olympics and the GOP hoots and hollers, now he wins the Nobel prize and the GOP goes on and on about how wrong it is...
i see nothing productive in any of this... as a matter of fact? i beleive it is counterproductive. the only people that really give a darn about it are the ones that are either solidly for or solidly opposed to him anyway.. moderates are just laughing at how creepy it all is...
the Nobel pirze is a nice cash prize, and Obam will give it away... that's it...
yo know who prolly should have gotten one that never did? Ghandi....
but Mother Teresa did get one and while her work was Great? it had little to do with World Peace either....
in '94? Arafat Peres and Rabin got one together... and they surely did nothing lasting... as fara s i'm concerned, Arafat was always a terrorist...
Carter got one for mideast peace too.. only it hasn't happened...
Desmond Tutu got one and he prolly deserved it..
Posted by SeekingFreedom on :
Big, Glass,
Maybe I've missed my intended goal.
Let me start again.
I do not think he has earned this award.
Period.
That is not for debate. It's my opinion and it isn't going to change. I accept that. Others will have different opinions and nothing I say here will change them. I accept that as well.
But...what I do want to know, is for those that think he DID deserve it, what are they basing it on? Star power? Hope? Or concrete (in their opinion, not mine) accomplishments.
Here's what I really wanted to learn\be told by Obama supporters...
Is there something that Obama himself has done that merits this level of accolades, or is he simply still 'Not Bush.'
He ran against Hillary and won by 'not being' a Clinton.
He ran against McCain and won by 'not being' Bush.
He now wins the Nobel Peace Prize by again 'not being' George Bush.
At what point is he going to be something more than 'not being' someone else?
That is my question to Obama supporters.
Posted by raybond on :
Well would you be happy right wing nuts, if George Bush got the prize. He only started two wars for the sake of peace, threw Europe into a hate America rant, destroyed our country's economy. and threw the whole mess into another persons lap,not to mention taking a run at fascism just to see if it would go over. Take a look at the last election and that might tell the republicans something.
Posted by raybond on :
Don't worry republicans lard ass rush the dopper can get high as a kite and lead all of you into battle again. If he doesnot come up with an excuse like he is in to much pain because of a pimple on his ass. Why the draft board believed that one I don't know.
Posted by T e x on :
not George Bush is pretty good...
Posted by glassman on :
quote:Originally posted by SeekingFreedom: Big, Glass,
Maybe I've missed my intended goal.
Let me start again.
I do not think he has earned this award.
Period.
That is not for debate. It's my opinion and it isn't going to change. I accept that. Others will have different opinions and nothing I say here will change them. I accept that as well.
But...what I do want to know, is for those that think he DID deserve it, what are they basing it on? Star power? Hope? Or concrete (in their opinion, not mine) accomplishments.
Here's what I really wanted to learn\be told by Obama supporters...
Is there something that Obama himself has done that merits this level of accolades, or is he simply still 'Not Bush.'
He ran against Hillary and won by 'not being' a Clinton.
He ran against McCain and won by 'not being' Bush.
He now wins the Nobel Peace Prize by again 'not being' George Bush.
At what point is he going to be something more than 'not being' someone else?
That is my question to Obama supporters.
and i repeat that the only people who matter did think he deserves it
Nobel committee head defends Obama peace prize Posted: 11 October 2009 0245 hrs
OSLO - The head of the Nobel Peace Prize committee on Saturday defended its controversial decision to give the award to US President Barack Obama, saying his work so far justified the honour.
"He could have also had it too late," Thorbjoern Jagland told reporters.
"Can someone tell me who did more than him this year? It is difficult to name a winner of the peace prize who is more in line with Alfred Nobel's will."
Jagland, a former Norwegian prime minister, said "we are capturing the spirit of the times, the needs of the era."
He and the committee's four other members caused shockwaves on Friday by announcing that Obama had won the Nobel, praising his "extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples."
The committee attached "special importance to Obama's vision and work for a world without nuclear weapons."
The award for the first black US president sparked both praise and criticism, with many saying he has not yet done enough to deserve it.
Obama himself, saying he was "surprised" and "deeply humbled," said he doubted he deserved the honour.
The leader of Norway's main opposition called Saturday for Jagland's resignation, a newspaper reported.
Siv Jensen, head of the far-right Progress Party, said Jagland should step down because his new job as secretary general of the Council of Europe compromised his independence.
Erna Solberg, leader of Conservative party Hoejre, also criticised Jagland's attempt to do two jobs and questioned his decision to hand Obama the peace prize.
The Nobel committee's five members are appointed by parliament.
there you go...Obama himslef says he prolly didn't deserve it...
Posted by raybond on :
Deserve it or not he has got it and that all that counts. If you think it will make a difference I don't. Our policy will be what it is.
Posted by SeekingFreedom on :
quote:Originally posted by T e x: not George Bush is pretty good...
You can only 'not be' someone for so long, though. T.
Sooner or later you have to 'be' someone.
Posted by raybond on :
Beck: Obama should turn down the Nobel and give it ‘to the Tea Party goers and the 9-12 Project.’ Engaging in a bit of explicit blog-baiting on his radio show today, Glenn Beck declared the naming of President Obama as this year’s Nobel Peace Prize recipient “the last nail in the coffin” for the credibility of the Nobel committee. Beck conspiratorially claimed that the award revealed that “these progressives are extraordinarily powerful and this campaign of Barack Obama, this global campaign for Barack Obama is done by global interests that have extraordinary power. They’re very well-connected.” Beck said that the prize should have instead been given “to the Tea Party goers” who have protested Obama:
BECK: Of all things, the Nobel Peace Prize should be turned down by Barack Obama and given — you ready for this, oh this one’s going to make headlines — should be give to the Tea Party goers and the 9-12 Project. … Because of the arrogance of the progressives that thought no one would stand in their way. That he would be able to accomplish everything. Two weeks into his presidency, they nominated him for it and said, “oh this is going to be a slam dunk.” Because of the Tea Party goers and the 9-12 Project people that stood in his way and stopped him from accomplishing the things that he thought, “please, I’m the Messiah, I’ll be able to accomplish that.” Beck’s radio rival, Rush Limbaugh, was more caustic, telling Newsweek, “The Nobel gang just suicide bombed themselves. Gore, Carter, Obama, soon Bill Clinton. See a pattern here? They are all leftist sell-outs.
Posted by T e x on :
jeez, SF, everybody knows "america" won it...partly for getting rid of Bush/Cheney, partly for electing Obama.
Help him be who he is, trying for market reform (not as aggressively as I'd like), health care, etc.
It's as though you take it personally that the guy's not perfect...
Posted by The Bigfoot on :
And he will be more than "not Bush".
Whats that Billy Joel song again....
quote: First they tell you, you can't sleep alone in a strange place Then they'll tell you, you can't sleep with somebody else Ah, but sooner or later you sleep in your own space Either way it's okay to wake up with yourself
He has only been in office 9 months and the former pres left quite a specter that folks are gonna remember for a while. Sooner or later though folks are gonna stop with the comparisons, it was starting already before this unexpected event tossed things in a jumble. Give it time.
If you think he has had enough time look back and see what got accomplished in the first year of others presidencies. I think you will find he is on par. According to politifact.com he has made good on 47 campaign promises, compromised on 12, stalled out on 12, broken 7, has made the first steps on another 117, and has yet to take action on another 320.
As to your other point of getting others to say why they think he deserves it? I'd say he has taken some great first steps like putting to bed the water boarding debacle and the secret prisons...inviting nations and leaders we don't necessarily like very much to the G20...Getting Iran to agree to UN inspections of their underground site.
But I am not the one you want to be talking to as I have already stated that he shouldn't have gotten it yet.
Still proud though that people in other nations have so much faith in my Pres that they want to acclaim him. When you put the politics aside and just think on that one point alone it really is rather cool to see.
Posted by T e x on :
well said, Big
Posted by The Bigfoot on :
No Tex,
They take it personally that he is popular. It is an affront to the conservative movement and he must be torn down at all costs.
Posted by Relentless. on :
Can it be possible that anyone cares? There is no such thing as a two party system and all any of this is, is proof that most people still buy into the charade. Can anyone on this earth be surprised that republicans act like they don't like democrats?
Posted by raybond on :
Obama is some one and he has not changed what he is. Republicans are just mad that he works hard and has a good chance of being successful. And to them that just will not be allowed even if it means the ruin of the country.
Lets look at this award this way the people that give it out are the ones that make the rules Obama qualified according to them,Obama had no say in the matter. So we can add jealousy to the long list of conservative personality flaws and mental illness issues. Looks to me that the world is glad to be rid of you as much as America.
Posted by Relentless. on :
Ray, I can always count on you to prove my point..
Posted by raybond on :
Thank you
Posted by raybond on :
Kristol: Thank You, Nobel Committee, For Making My Job Easier
There is no need to pick a parody for this week's issue of The Weekly Standard. As the boss notes, the news is more ridiculous than anything we could create. Also a suggestion for the Nobel Committee of an American who might have deserved the prize:
Instead, we’ll do something we do occasionally, and publish a Not a Parody...
We could point out that peace hasn’t broken out anywhere yet during President Obama’s tenure, or that even his various peace efforts haven’t yet begun to make much progress. We could note that, if the Norwegians wanted to give the Nobel Peace Prize to an American, it would have been been better to give it to Sen. John McCain for having the guts to push through the surge in Iraq, which has brought relative peace to that country. But that would be overkill. The choice is so self-evidently Not a Parody that no explanation is required or possible.
Posted by Mary Katharine Ham on October 9, 2009 09:22 AM | Permali
sorry idiot the Romans said this thousands of years ago, The way of peace is through war.
A policy that is bound to bring failure and disgrace.
Posted by Relentless. on :
Your beloved and idolized Obama isn't looking for peace either as he drums up support for an attack on Iran...
Posted by jordanreed on :
yikes!!!///a little fear-mongering??
Posted by T e x on :
RD tries to keeps peeps on their toes...
nuttin' wrong widdat...I'm the same way.
Posted by Lockman on :
quote:Originally posted by jordanreed: I cant think of anyone, here, who is, at all, qualified to judge someones merit when it comes to the nobel peace prize. The critisisms and endorsements seem to follow party lines. ..and that just aint right. when i read this.."The Nobel Peace prize was established as a reward for " the person who shall have done the most or the best work for fraternity among nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses."...obama certainly qualifies as a candidate. And for those who are always *****ing about americas standing in the world..this is a good thing.
as always,,this is jmo...
And where is your list of what he has done?
Posted by jordanreed on :
I'd tell you where to look, but you might get lost..
thats a joke..
I like this list that was already posted..
3/18/8 – Obama caught world-wide attention for his moving speech on race relations
7/24/8 - Obama lays the foundation for a new era of international relations and began inspiring renewed hope in American leadership during his campaign speech in Berlin
11/6/8 – Obama’s victory was hailed as a promise of hope for the world.
12/1/8 – Obama began plans to restore U.N. ambassador to cabinet rank.
1/22/9 - Appointed a Special Envoy for Middle East peace
1/22/9 – Ordered the closing of Guantanamo Bay
1/22/9 – Ordered comprehensive review of detention policies
1/22/9 – Prohibited use of torture
1/22/9 - Signed an executive order to close CIA secret prisons
1/23/9 – Lifted “Global Gag Rule” on international health groups
1/26/9 – Began to address climate change by increasing fuel standards for automobiles
1/26/9 – Appointed Special Envoy for Climate Change
1/27/9 - Signs Lily Ledbetter “Fair Pay” Act
2/1/9 – Expanded healthcare for children by signing SCHIP
2/5/9 - Again addressed energy conservation by increasing standards for appliances.
2/24/9 – Directed almost $1 billion for prevention and wellness to improve America’s health
2/25/9 - Initiated international efforts to reduce mercury emissions worldwide
2/27/9 – Committed to responsibly ending the war in Iraq
4/1/9 – Agreed to negotiation of a new Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty with Russia.
4/1/9 – Enhanced U.S. – China relations
4/2/9 - Led global response to the economic crisis through the G20, obtaining commitments of $1.1 trillion to safeguard the world’s most vulnerable economies
4/4/9 - Renewed dialog with NATO and other key allies
4/5/9 – Announced new strategy to responsible address international nuclear proliferation 4/13/9 – Began easing tension with Cuba through new policy stance
4/17/9 - Secured $5 billion in aid commitments "to bolster Pakistan's economy and help it fight terror and Islamic radicalism"
4/22/9 - Developed the renewable energy projects on the waters of our Outer Continental Shelf that produce electricity from wind, wave, and ocean currents.
5/8/9 – Proposed International Affaires budget that included funds to create a civilian response corps -- teams of civilian experts in rule of law, policing, transitional governance, economics, engineering, and other areas critical to helping rebuild war-torn societies; Provide $40 million for a "stabilization bridge fund," which would provide rapid response funds for the State Department to help stabilize a crisis situation.
6/4/9 - Gave historic address to the Muslim World in Cairo - "American is not at war with Islam" Foreign affairs experts insist that Obama's engagement with the Muslim world has been remarkable. "He has been able to dramatically change America's image in that region"
8/4/9 - Used DIPLOMACY to free 2 American journalists from a North Korea prison
9/18/9 - De-escalation of nuclear tension through repurposing of missile defense prompting Russia to withdraw its missile plan. Source(s): Public Records
Posted by Lockman on :
quote:Originally posted by jordanreed: I'd tell you where to look, but you might get lost..
thats a joke..
I like this list that was already posted..
3/18/8 – Obama caught world-wide attention for his moving speech on race relations
7/24/8 - Obama lays the foundation for a new era of international relations and began inspiring renewed hope in American leadership during his campaign speech in Berlin
11/6/8 – Obama’s victory was hailed as a promise of hope for the world.
12/1/8 – Obama began plans to restore U.N. ambassador to cabinet rank.
1/22/9 - Appointed a Special Envoy for Middle East peace
1/22/9 – Ordered the closing of Guantanamo Bay
1/22/9 – Ordered comprehensive review of detention policies
1/22/9 – Prohibited use of torture
1/22/9 - Signed an executive order to close CIA secret prisons
1/23/9 – Lifted “Global Gag Rule” on international health groups
1/26/9 – Began to address climate change by increasing fuel standards for automobiles
1/26/9 – Appointed Special Envoy for Climate Change
1/27/9 - Signs Lily Ledbetter “Fair Pay” Act
2/1/9 – Expanded healthcare for children by signing SCHIP
2/5/9 - Again addressed energy conservation by increasing standards for appliances.
2/24/9 – Directed almost $1 billion for prevention and wellness to improve America’s health
2/25/9 - Initiated international efforts to reduce mercury emissions worldwide
2/27/9 – Committed to responsibly ending the war in Iraq
4/1/9 – Agreed to negotiation of a new Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty with Russia.
4/1/9 – Enhanced U.S. – China relations
4/2/9 - Led global response to the economic crisis through the G20, obtaining commitments of $1.1 trillion to safeguard the world’s most vulnerable economies
4/4/9 - Renewed dialog with NATO and other key allies
4/5/9 – Announced new strategy to responsible address international nuclear proliferation 4/13/9 – Began easing tension with Cuba through new policy stance
4/17/9 - Secured $5 billion in aid commitments "to bolster Pakistan's economy and help it fight terror and Islamic radicalism"
4/22/9 - Developed the renewable energy projects on the waters of our Outer Continental Shelf that produce electricity from wind, wave, and ocean currents.
5/8/9 – Proposed International Affaires budget that included funds to create a civilian response corps -- teams of civilian experts in rule of law, policing, transitional governance, economics, engineering, and other areas critical to helping rebuild war-torn societies; Provide $40 million for a "stabilization bridge fund," which would provide rapid response funds for the State Department to help stabilize a crisis situation.
6/4/9 - Gave historic address to the Muslim World in Cairo - "American is not at war with Islam" Foreign affairs experts insist that Obama's engagement with the Muslim world has been remarkable. "He has been able to dramatically change America's image in that region"
8/4/9 - Used DIPLOMACY to free 2 American journalists from a North Korea prison
9/18/9 - De-escalation of nuclear tension through repurposing of missile defense prompting Russia to withdraw its missile plan. Source(s): Public Records
So basically he's made speeches...guess that gets you a peace prize. Oh an Guantanimo won't be closing anytime soon. He's not bombing North Korea but he's kicking the Moon's a$$.
Posted by jordanreed on :
...and you can see russia from your window Posted by thinkmoney on :
Obama's biggest accomplishemnt ? Getting the Nobel prize. That in itself is a joke. Some say he got it for vision - I say he is the prez of the USA and his vision should be will of american folks vs his will of a worl egotist.
What I dont getis why so many folks here support a socialist ??
Posted by jordanreed on :
I dont know where you get your info, but he's a dem..and he was voted in by the will of the people.
not that it really matters, but is being a socialist such a horrible thing?..I know you equate it with communism but its not the same thing.
I dont think any here support a socialist , anyway..
calling obama a socialist is unpatriotic!..thats treason! where do you get your info..do they post it on your christian websites?
is hannity still using that socialist term?..is beck?..how bout limbutt? I thought you right wing fanatics gave that a rest..why not bring up that rev wright lie again?..or his not an american lie..geez..
Posted by thinkmoney on :
Voted in by folks who were fed up with Bush but they got something worse. I bet he wouldnt win the election now. And, voted in by the folks but doing what his socialist egotistical mind wants --And, half the country didnt support him then and now the 25 % more dont, probably -
I think when he breaks his biggest promise,no more taxes for 250k and under - that will be the turning point when most folks that voted for him will be sorry -
Posted by jordanreed on :
you're satan!! Posted by Relentless. on :
Not possible... There's only one of me
Posted by Dagny on :
I want to thank jordanreed and others who posted the list of Obama's accomplishments. I live and work in an extreme right environment and hear constant Obama bashing. The GOP can't come up with one positive plan to make anything better. All they can do is use scare tactics and every fallacy in the book to discredit our President. I am proud he won the Noble Peace Prize. He deserves it as much as anyone, and plans on giving the money awarded to charity. I voted for him with no regrets. He makes me proud to be an American...again. Posted by Relentless. on :
Really starting to look like I might vomit.
Posted by glassman on :
here:
Posted by T e x on :
not me, I feel purdy good
Posted by Dagny on :
ahhh, relentless, go put a white sheet over your head and eat a moose burger, you will feel better in no time,,,roflmao
Posted by T e x on :
Dag, you think he can see Russia from there?
Posted by Dagny on :
either that or some radical middle eastern that is afraid Obama might be better liked in their world than the ignorant leaders currently in control.
Posted by The Bigfoot on :
This got funny while I was out.
Posted by Lockman on :
Obama has told gay's he's gonna do away with don't ask and don't tell. Now he's in the running for a TONY award.
Posted by The Bigfoot on :
Do you think he will go for the triple threat and try for an Oscar too? OH! I do hope Kayne West won't grab the mic while he is accepting and say something stupid. Don't you think he and Mary Kate Olsen would make a great couple? They should SO hang out more!
Ending Don't Ask Don't tell would be a positive step. Pointless rule.
Posted by Lockman on :
quote:Originally posted by The Bigfoot: Do you think he will go for the triple threat and try for an Oscar too? OH! I do hope Kayne West won't grab the mic while he is accepting and say something stupid. Don't you think he and Mary Kate Olsen would make a great couple? They should SO hang out more!
Ending Don't Ask Don't tell would be a positive step. Pointless rule.
I agree I'd like to know who's jumping into the fox hole after me. LOL
Posted by The Bigfoot on :
lol If you are diving into foxholes I agree your thoughts should be about protecting your butt. I just disagree on who you should be focusing your attention on as the antagonist.
How many nen do you know of that have been raped by a gay man? Your irrational fears are your problem, it is a mistake to allow them to be projected upon our society.
Posted by Lockman on :
quote:Originally posted by The Bigfoot: lol If you are diving into foxholes I agree your thoughts should be about protecting your butt. I just disagree on who you should be focusing your attention on as the antagonist.
How many nen do you know of that have been raped by a gay man? Your irrational fears are your problem, it is a mistake to allow them to be projected upon our society.
I have no problem with homo's in the military , they might as well be on the front lines with the rest of the men.
Posted by CashCowMoo on :
Might as well give the olympians gold medals before they begin their event based on hope and their skin color statistics in such event.
Posted by a surfer on :
John was in the fertilized egg business.He had several hundred young layers (hens), called 'pullets,'and ten roosters to fertilize the eggs.He kept records, and any rooster not performing went into the soup pot and was replaced.
This took a lot of time, so he bought some tiny bells and attached them to his roosters. Each bell had a different tone, so he could tell from a distance, which rooster was performing. Now, he could sit on the porch And fill out an efficiency report by just listening to the bells.
John's favorite rooster, old Butch, was a very fine specimen, but this morning he noticed old Butch's bell hadn't rung at all! When he went to investigate, he saw the other roosters were busy chasing pullets, bells-a-ringing, but the pullets, hearing the roosters coming, could run for cover. To John's amazement, old Butch had his bell in his beak, so it couldn't ring. He'd sneak up on a pullet, do his job and walk on to the next one.
John was so proud of old Butch, he entered him in the Renfrew County Fair and he became an overnight sensation among the judges. The result was the judges not only awarded old Butch the No Bell Piece Prize but they also awarded him the Pulletsurprise as well.
Clearly old Butch was a politician in the making. Who else but a politician could figure out how to win two of the most highly coveted awards on our planet by being the best at sneaking up on the populace and screwing them when they weren't paying attention.
Vote carefully next year, the bells are not always audible.
Posted by raybond on :
the right wing is going nuts over this issue of a noble peace prize. none of you that are whining about the whole affair are qualified to be a person sitting on the board that nominates for the prize. I am not being critical be cause neither am I. I feel that although I have been an administrator for many years this is not my area.
So remarks like skin color and such are just not true.
Remarks like all he does is talk, well the last guy we had never communicated with us enough. I have one word for all of you this is just the start of the awards this man will accumulate in his first four years so you will have a lot of sour grapes yet to come keep it up it is music to our ears to hear your death moans. Posted by Lockman on :
Where is there Peace because of one of Obama's speeches?
Posted by The Bigfoot on :
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