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[bigtree]

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[KG]

1. no oil under Ferguson.

[jaysunb]

2. Ugly and uncalled for.

As is the OP

[elleng]

4. Yes.

THANK you.

[bigtree]

5. it's a fair question. I didn't mean it to be ugly. We're kind and decent people

. . . and we're sitting here utterly helpless and very concerned for these protestor's safety.

YOU are out of line, not someone expressing concern on a message board. Put me on ignore, damnit.

[jaysunb]

34. The President of the United States is doing his job.

The people of Missouri are handling --or mishandling --the affairs of that STATE. Nothing there is of Federal import that has not already been addressed. The Attorney General Eric Holder has ordered the FBI to investigate if any Federal laws have been broken.

As to "where the President is,"I hope he is getting some well deserved r&r as his staff and administration monitor all things, as always.

[Aristus]

48. Yeah, I can just hear the howls of carefully crafted, prime-time-ready outrage from the right if

the President did something about the situation in Ferguson.


"How DARE he?!? Government overreach! States rights!" Etc, etc, etc,...

[Tsiyu]

78. The police are violating federal law

beating up and arresting the press? Demanding the press turn off cameras? Refusing to allow peaceable assembly?

Firing teargas and rubber bullets and using sound weapons to terrorize people upset but peacefully protesting cold-blooded murder?

These are federal offenses.

[BainsBane]

83. You want him to send in the National Guard?

That is the solution, or perhaps the military? Would that make you feel better?

[Tsiyu]

86. Your tone is unnecessary

I was born in 1959.

Good leaders - good presidents - address their nation in time of crisis, in my humble, crusty opinion.

You may prefer Obama act nonchalant about this issue. You, yourself, may feel nonchalant about this issue.

People who have been the victims of police brutality and unconstitutional treatment from law enforcement see this as an issue that is nation-wide in its scope. Ferguson is merely the pimple on the festering boil.

If the National Guard will help, I have no problem.

The people in Ferguson are human beings to me.

[BainsBane]

89. I agree they are human beings

What I don't understand is why you think what the President says on your television helps them. That isn't about them. It's about you and others here.

I don't know what the president is considering. I would assume he is talking to the governor and trying to work out a solution, but I don't know why you or the OP assumes he isn't doing anything because he isn't on TV talking to people outside of Ferguson.

It may be necessary to send it the National Guard, but I can guarantee you the same people blaming him right now for supposedly doing nothing will talk about how he violated the constitution and furthered militarization of America if he does send in the Guard.

[Tsiyu]

91. With all due respect, what criticism follows is no concern of mine

None.

Nada.

I realize a lot of people care deeply about the upcoming election. I understand that "what people might say! The horrors!" has been the excuse for inaction from human beings since they developed the language to gossip.

I don't really care what people say. I care that the people of Ferguson know that America has their backs, that their president cares that FEDERAL LAWS are being violated.

Your concerns may be far removed from Ferguson.

Mine are not. The people of Ferguson represent all of us, if the administration refuses to stop this militarization of our police, if our leader refuses to address cops murdering Americans all over this nation.

It's fine if the election, or Obama'a reputation - guide your sense of what is prudent.

I disagree wholeheartedly, but if that works for you, fine for you. Don't ask me to share your view.

[BainsBane]

122. I didn't say anything about the election

Last edited Thu Aug 14, 2014, 08:24 AM - Edit history (1)

and Obama isn't running in 2014 or 2016. I asked about why you others are so concerned about his speaking on television to you. Your response that you care about Ferguson doesn't answer that question, nor does Dave Matthews.

[Tsiyu]

167. Because it is the right thing to do

Your snark is noted and I'm sure there is someone who truly appreciates it.

[Voice for Peace]

203. you guys are just tossing snark back and forth without reading each other's posts I think

because it seems you are not in disagreement, you are in misunderstanding.

[Tsiyu]

204. I stated my opinion

That's it.

It's a snarky world, and you have to expect the snark will rear its ugly head no matter what.

The president should be speaking soon, so apparently he agrees with me. Crazy.

http://www.hulkusaa.com/watch-msnbc-live-streaming/

[Voice for Peace]

205. it seemed the point was we all hope he will be speaking, we think he should or that it is a good

idea, and someone pointed out that just because he was not speaking
(yet) did not mean he was unconcerned. And then it seemed to turn
into a silly debate for no good reason. I'm not sure which posters
here were involved.. it happens all the time. We rush through our
communications, taking offense when none is intended, creating
conflicts instead of resolving them. This isn't meant to be personal
towards you. Lots of people do this all the time but it is mostly
a fruitless loop.

[Scuba]

109. Some people will criticize him whether he's right or wrong.

Others will defend him whether he's right or wrong.

True patriots will praise him when he's right, criticize him when he's wrong. So far, he's been silent on this, and that's wrong.

[MADem]

112. They don't bigfoot the governments of states, either.

It has nothing to do with "nonchalant." It has to do with rule of law.

Let the governor of the state fix his own damn mess. Let his attorney general take appropriate measures.

Here's how it works--if the local government can't do it, they look to the state.

If the state can't manage their own problems, that's when they work with the federal government to get additional help--but not before.

There's a pecking order, there.

The fact that anyone would suggest that Obama "send in the clowns" as the solution of First Resort is extremely troubling to me, and should be to anyone who understands the way this nation operates.

And good Presidents don't play the "Every little sparrow" game--MO has a governor, it's for HIM to show leadership, not for the POTUS to usurp his authority. You do know that governors can call out their state National Guards, if needs must? They are the first-line commanders of their own state militias--not the POTUS. They have state police at their beck and call, too.

No need to put carts before horses.

[Tsiyu]

156. Your pragmatism is impressive

The sparrows of Ferguson appreciate it, I'm sure.

[MADem]

187. The sparrows of Ferguson need to look to their leader, who is NOT

the POTUS, but the governor--who is IN THEIR COMMUNITY today, addressing their issues, as he should do.

Tweet, tweet.

[Tsiyu]

190. Obama, fortunately, disagrees with you

and will be addressing the nation at 11:15 cst 12:15 est

[bigtree]

194. kinda vindicates my family's concerns

. . . I'll be watching, with appreciation and respect for his public comments.

[MADem]

197. No he doesn't. He's giving a presser to talk about Iraq and

he will also offer an update on Ferguson. You do know that Governor Nixon asked for a DOJ investigation DAYS ago, don't you? It's entirely appropriate that he would make a few remarks about that. But the leadership on the ground, in Ferguson, is Governor Nixon, not POTUS--who isn't in Ferguson, he's in EDGARTOWN.

Here's the link, it comes on in fifteen minutes:

http://www.whitehouse.gov/live

[bigtree]

198. here's the link I'm looking at

Talking Points Memo ‏@TPM 16m

WATCH LIVE: Obama to deliver statement on #Ferguson today at 12:15 p.m. ET http://bit.ly/1mN9O9q

[MADem]

199. Well, my source is the White House, so...what evs, as the kids say.

Last edited Thu Aug 14, 2014, 12:52 PM - Edit history (1)

And, on edit...he led with Iraq and the Yazidis, as the White House said he would.

[Autumn]

129. I think what's happening is a scenario that any constitutional scholar might would weigh in on

and I agree a President certainly should. I think young people today don't remember times of turmoil and how our leaders reacted.

[Tsiyu]

165. You are so correct

This is the role of a leader.

This is the role of the US president.

At least stand up and say something.

Political expediency trumps doing the right thing, I understand the game, but it does not make that thing any less right to do.

[merrily]

90. The right will say something negative, regardless.

So, worrying about what the right may say should never be a factor in the decisions of the left.

If it is, wouldn't the most vocal elements of the right be governing the left?

(The above is something I post whenever I see a comment suggesting that what the right might say about a Democrat has any importance and is not about this thread in particular.)

[Scuba]

108. Yeah, we'd hate for the Republicans to start criticizing our President.

[doxydad]

116. NAILED IT!

[avebury]

117. So you are saying that tne intentional

denying of the Constitutional right to freedom of assembly in Ferguson is not of concern to anyone outside of Missouri? So you are saying that the illegal detention by the police of 2 reporters, and Alderman, and who knows else is of no concern to anyone outside of Missouri?

How soon we forget. From Wikipedia ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_they_came_...)


“First they came …” is a famous statement and provocative poem attributed to pastor Martin Niemöller (1892–1984) about the cowardice of German intellectuals following the Nazis' rise to power and the subsequent purging of their chosen targets, group after group. There is some disagreement over the exact wording of the quotation and when it was created; the content of the quotation may have been presented differently by Niemöller on different occasions.[1]

The best-known versions of the speech are the poems that began circulating by the 1950s.[1] The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum quotes the following text as one of the many poetic versions of the speech:[2]

First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Socialist.

Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Trade Unionist.

Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Jew.

Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.



Perhaps it is time for the President to visit Ferguson. It would be hard for the Police to gas the neighborhoods with the President visiting.

[Historic NY]

53. Ask then where is the Democrat that is Governor of the state.....

[bigtree]

72. where is Nixon?

. . . I didn't see the same venom directed toward those who've already asked this as I've received from some on this thread. I am reassured and a bit calmed (strangely enough, or not) by the discussion on this thread, though. My wife, my two sons, and have been talking and watching reports throughout the discussions I've been reading and participating in here, so it's been worthwhile for us, on the whole, to post this.

[MADem]

113. Why HERE he is.

Missouri governor calls Ferguson situation ‘deeply troubling,’ will visit Thursday

Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon (D) called the situation in Ferguson, Mo., "deeply troubling" late Wednesday and announced he would change his schedule in order to visit the city on Thursday, signaling a new, more intense level of engagement than in previous days.

“The worsening situation in Ferguson is deeply troubling, and does not represent who we are as Missourians or as Americans," Nixon said in a statement. "While we all respect the solemn responsibility of our law enforcement officers to protect the public, we must also safeguard the rights of Missourians to peaceably assemble and the rights of the press to report on matters of public concern."

Nixon said he is "committed to ensuring the pain of last weekend’s tragedy does not continue to be compounded by this ongoing crisis. Once again, I ask that members of the community demonstrate patience and calm while the investigation continues, and I urge law enforcement agencies to keep the peace and respect the rights of residents and the press during this difficult time."

The comments from Nixon marked a shift following four days of more restrained input. On Monday, the governor issued a statement calling for a federal investigation into the death of Michael Brown, the unarmed black teenager who was shot and killed by a police officer on Saturday, triggering days of confrontations between police and angry protesters. On Tuesday, at a meeting of civic and faith leaders, Nixon asked for patience and peace as facts are being gathered in the case. ...The state's two U.S. senators tweeted late Wednesday that they were in touch with state and federal officials. The last time Sens. Claire McCaskill (D) and Roy Blunt (R) had weighed in on the Ferguson situation on Twitter before then had been Monday, when both released statements calling for a "transparent" investigation into Brown's death....

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/post-politics/wp/2014/08/14/gov-jay-nixon-calls-ferguson-situation-deeply-troubling-will-visit-thursday/

[SidDithers]

43. It's what DU has become...

And it sucks bigtime.

Sid

[jaysunb]

45. Right before our eyes :( n/t

[bigtree]

57. I don't remember this site being about fealty to the President in 2003 when I arrived here

. . . or fealty to party or politicians. It was about holding principles and values above the politics of the day.

That used to be respected here. Now we have these shallow appeals to adhere to politics. In that, I'd agree, wholeheartedly, that DU has changed and that it 'sucks' what it has become for many here.

[Scuba]

105. +1,000

[MADem]

124. Well you are mistaken...think about what you just said.

This site was created as a reaction to the stolen Bush-Gore election.

In 2003, the POTUS was Bush. This site was all about deriding that "selected, not elected" jerk.

So of course the site wasn't about "fealty to the President." It was about deriding that nitwit at any and every opportunity. The guy was HATED.

DU was more unified in terms of the Democratic Party back then than it is now. There wasn't as much wholesale bashing and trashing of Democratic politicians. Disagreements with policies were addressed in a much more respectful fashion than they are today. People were more open, they swore with abandon, even using the (gasp) BEE word, they said things that were a little off-color and maybe not (hate this term) "PC" ... they told jokes, they laughed and commiserated, and they were much less scolding, finger-wagging and net-nannyish than they are now.

This isn't necessarily a criticism, it's an observation.

[woo me with science]

131. Very well said.

[SixString]

132. +1

[rhett o rick]

44. Would you care to expound on your snarky comment? nm

[jaysunb]

46. All facts....no snark.

If you're looking for a fight move on.

[rhett o rick]

52. You jump into a thread with "Ugly and uncalled for." with no explanation what so ever, and accuse

me of wanting to start a fight. There are always two sides to every issue, but you really don't present any "facts" as you claim, just unabashed adulation.

[jaysunb]

54. Ugly and uncalled for is a a FACTUAL opinion. n/t

[rhett o rick]

61. And it's the best you've got. With nothing to back it up, it's just snark. nm

[cui bono]

85. Or is it a factual OPINION? n/t

[Deny and Shred]

138. Factual opinion

That is great - thanks. I needed a good laugh.

[grahamhgreen]

80. But true!

[DiverDave]

121. so no one can criticize him? AT ALL??

Why not?
The actions of the cops in Mo. cry out for a lessening of tensions.

He should have sent in the National Guard 2 days ago.
Oh and constructive criticism is not bashing, as most of you "he's never wrong" crowd dont seem to understand

[MADem]

125. My kitchen floor needs mopping-where the hell is OBAMA? Why hasn't he taken care of that?

Seriously, the understanding that some people here--who are supposed to be the "interested twenty percent" in terms of politics--have as regards the relationships between LOCAL, COUNTY, STATE and FEDERAL governments is nothing short of pathetic.

I am sometimes embarrassed for people when they get up on a soapbox and DEMAND that Obama intervene, like a benevolent KING, in the affairs of a town before the intermediate governments responsible for that community have had a chance to work out a solution.

It's just appalling to see.

PSSST--FYI, there's a National Guard in Missouri, the guy who can call it out, if needs must, is the GOVERNOR.

[rhett o rick]

142. Are you equating the problem in Ferguson with "mopping the floor"?

We are sitting on a power keg that's ready to explode. But apparently it's not his problem.

[MADem]

146. No, I'm making a comment about how people feel that Obama should involve himself in EVERYTHING

to include the duties that properly fall to a governor of a state.

Obama is not the KING, any more than he is my house cleaner.


It's NOT his problem--it's the governor's problem. It's not his problem unless and until the governor can't handle it.

You might want to check the link at post 113.

[rhett o rick]

151. More rationalizations. It seems like the buck always stops elsewhere.

I remember that some presidents didn't wait for the governors to act because they knew the governors wouldn't act.

[MADem]

154. It's not a rationalization. It's called "understanding how government works."

But enjoy the view from the high horse.

And you remember wrong. Go check those timelines. You will find that your memory is faulty.

[rhett o rick]

170. "But enjoy the view from the high horse. " Really? You can't have a discussion

w/o snark?

http://www.nytimes.com/learning/general/onthisday/big/0925.html

[MADem]

180. Hey--you were the one who rolled in here with the condescending snark wagon, so don't even go there.

Again--you check your timelines, there, and then come on back and tell the entire class how long it took for the President to send those troops to Little Rock. Make sure you include a brief dissertation regarding the role of the FEDERAL COURTS in that action as well, because it's salient to the discussion.

And then check your context. You apparently are under the impression, based on your use of Little Rock as an example, that Obama, the POTUS, and Nixon, the governor, aren't on the same page. Do you realize that the governor of Arkansas had deployed troops to PREVENT the integration of schools? And THAT is why Ike, with court backing, intervened? And that Ike "federalized" the Guard in order to, in essence, force them to "switch sides?"

Your little newspaper sample is dramatic, but one thing has nothing to do with another. Your misguided attempt at a history lesson had to do with integration in an era of segregation; the issue that Governor Nixon and the people of greater St. Louis are dealing with is police brutality in a suburb of that city.

Every picture tells a story, but it doesn't tell the WHOLE story. You go do your homework, now, and come back with a full report. Or don't. I really don't care. Your example is a FAIL.

[rhett o rick]

193. You are wrong but I am not wasting anymore time on someone that is determine to use

snark to control the discussion. "You go do your homework, now, and come back with a full report." How condescending.

[MADem]

201. No, I'm not wrong, and the fact that you are running from this conversation is

proof positive of that.

You started in with the snark, to say nothing of extreme condescension -- accusing everyone who didn't agree with YOU with "rationalizing."

That shoe PINCHES like hell on the other foot, doesn't it?

If you don't want to be met with snark, don't come out flinging it. If you think people are going to just sit with head bowed and eat it when you get snide, you'd best think again.

If you want to have an adult conversation, I'm happy to oblige you--but accusing people who know their American history of rationalization and worse, while using poor examples to try and fail to make your point, is just something I'm not willing to put up with--so you just shouldn't do it.

[Kilgore]

159. +1000

[elleng]

3. He has the WORLD to deal with, you might have noticed,

as well as a few other national issues.

Ferguson is a job for the Governor and local elected officials.

[Cali_Democrat]

7. Stop making sense.

Let's just engage in unmitigated hysterics and attack Obama.

[elleng]

13. Its happening here! Amazing!

Not on MSNBC, fortunately.

[sheshe2]

29. I just came from an OP that said...

Obama...don't make this your Katrina!!!! WTF!

Nine recs already.

[Behind the Aegis]

76. Digusting isn't it?

More threads in the same vein are now appearing.

[sheshe2]

81. Okay, breath. I need to be calm.

Damn, that doesn't seem to work.

Yes it is damn disgusting, I just don't know how to even respond anymore. Thanks BtA, I needed you here tonight. I thank you.

[Behind the Aegis]

87. Some people look for ANY reason.

Makes one wonder. Well, not really.

[MADem]

150. Some people are just intent on making this place suck.

They really want to tear the joint down and destroy it.

I can't wait for election season--it'll clear out a lot of the low-level disruptors and shit-stirrers.

[greatauntoftriplets]

181. And in the lead-up to the November election!

[RandiFan1290]

111. Thanks!

I just gave it a K&R

15 recs now!

[Andy823]

157. What I find amazing is

It seems to always be he same posters and their "loyal" followers who start this crap, blaming Obama.

It's like some challenge to start a thread to see if you can get more recs that the other posters in their group. It's not only getting old, but predictable. Maybe we need a "blame Obama forum" so the rest of the board doesn't have to keep reading their crap.

[rhett o rick]

47. No let's let Pres Obama off the hook once again because he is such a nice guy.

The OP wasn't hysterical, but then that doesn't matter does it. Defend the President no matter what.

[Cali_Democrat]

56. And what has Elizabeth Warren said about this? Crickets?? Thought so.

Obama already talked about the situation and the FBI is investigating. Warren hasn't even opened her mouth.

[rhett o rick]

58. What does Sen Warren have to do with this? Oh yeah, it's called the distraction tactic.

"Don't hold our idol Pres Obama accountable because ...... hey look over there at Sen Warren." It's funny how those that claim the president is perfect yet somehow never accountable. Maybe you should blame this on Congress.

[Cali_Democrat]

63. Like I said....Obama weighed in and the FBI is investigating...

Warren? Not even a peep. Nothing. Nada. Zip. Zilch.

Keep trying....

Funny you talk about idols...the guy with a Warren sig line and avatar.

[Scuba]

106. Worst diversion attempt ever.

Warren is a Senator from a different State. Obama is President of all the States.

[oregonjen]

136. From Sen. Warren's Facebook page...

Elizabeth Warren
38 minutes ago ·
This is America, not a war zone. The people of Ferguson, Missouri just want answers. We all want answers.
14,903 Likes · 573 Comments

https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethWarren

[rhett o rick]

137. "This is America, not a war zone. The people of #Ferguson just want answers. We all want answers."

http://talkingpointsmemo.com/livewire/elizabeth-warren-ferguson-war-zone

"Obama already talked about the situation and the FBI is investigating." Really?

[Cali_Democrat]

140. So all your precious Warren could muster is a single tweet hours after my post?

Obama weighs in on Michael brown:

http://www.bet.com/news/politics/2014/08/12/obama-weighs-in-on-death-of-michael-brown.html

FBI opens investigation into shooting of Michael Brown

http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/post-nation/wp/2014/08/11/fbi-opens-investigation-into-shooting-of-michael-brown/

You don't care about what's going on in Ferguson. You're simply trying to use it as a cudgel to attack Obama and I'm calling you out on it.

You talk about idols, yet you're the one who idolizes Warren and all she could do is muster a single tweet many days later.

[rhett o rick]

143. "You don't care about what's going on in Ferguson." That's low and you know it.

I want to see more than rhetoric.

[Cali_Democrat]

145. Ya...instead of having the FBI investigate the situation...

maybe Obama should just post an 18 word tweet like Warren.

Now that's leadership.

Again, the only interest you have in Ferguson is using the situation to attack Obama while you give your idol, Elizabeth Warren, a pass.

[rhett o rick]

149. You said that I don't care about the people in Ferguson. I am guessing you will say

just about anything to defend the President. I care and that's why I want to see something done more than rhetoric. It seems to me that defending the President is the most important thing for you.

[Cali_Democrat]

153. You're the one who is defending and protecting your idol, the most important thing to you...

with your Warren avatar and signature line.

Conducting a federal investigation isn't just rhetoric. It's happening. Your idol on the other hand could only muster a small tweet. The very definition of rhetoric.

Obama is having the FBI investigate. That is concrete action. I could only imagine your response if all Obama did was post and 18 word tweet instead of having a federal investigation.

You need new material.

[rhett o rick]

164. Once again, this isn't about Sen Warren. Poor attempt to distract.

Do you really think that I don't care about the people of Ferguson? Why would you even say that? Do you think the ends justify your means? That you will say anything to defend the President?

[Cali_Democrat]

169. Actually this is nothing more than your poor attempt to attack Obama

I don't think you care about what's happening. You're simply using the situation in Ferguson as a cudgel to attack Obama.

When it was pointed out that the FBI is investigating, you had no response and claimed Obama was only engaged in rhetoric.

Yet when Warren posts a single tweet about the situation, you defend that as concrete action.

You've become a parody of yourself.

[rhett o rick]

172. "You've become a parody of yourself." I am sick of your petty insults. You apparently can't

have a discussion w/o them. And since you add nothing here but pure unabashed adulation, I don't wish to play your game.

[Cali_Democrat]

175. You're the one who cannot have a real discussion

You gleefully posted Warren's small tweet while ignoring the FBI investigation.

You cannot be taken seriously.

[Autumn]

212. I think you missed it

http://www.democraticunderground.com/1014870477

No surprise there. What did Obama have to say? I'm still waiting on the feed here.

[Cali_Democrat]

217. Check the timing of my post and Warren's tweet/fb post

Reading is fundamental...

[Autumn]

218. I don't need to check the timing, I just thought you might have missed it. What did Obama say?

I'm still waiting for the feed.

[Cali_Democrat]

220. Apparently you do

You just responded to a post I made last night.

Warren's tweet was this morning.

[Autumn]

221. I just read through the thread. I was out last night.

You got a link to what Obama said yesterday? I missed it.

[Cali_Democrat]

222. Next time pay more attention to when a post is made...

before you try and play gotcha with a Warren tweet created hours after my post.

Class dismissed.

[Autumn]

225. Wow so hostile. Guess no link to what Obama said yesterday?

There was no gotcha. Most of us have no need to play those games. I thought yours was a recent post as I have heard or seen nothing said by Obama about this and he is getting ready to respond today. Dismiss yourself.

[Cali_Democrat]

227. "I thought yours was a recent post"

I know you did...that's why I'm LMAO

BTW...Obama first weighed in on the situation several days ago:

Obama weighs in on Michael brown:

http://www.bet.com/news/politics/2014/08/12/obama-weighs-in-on-death-of-michael-brown.html

FBI opens investigation into shooting of Michael Brown

http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/post-nation/wp/2014/08/11/fbi-opens-investigation-into-shooting-of-michael-brown/

Had you READ the thread, you would have seen these links.

But you were quick to try and play a game of gotcha and you were taught a lesson that hopefully you will not forget.

Class dismissed....yet again.....

[sheshe2]

97. Hey rhett

So let me see if I have this right.

Obama is the President of the United States. He has a job to do and he is doing it! Got it. We now have a Congress that refuses to do their job 'cause ya know they just don't fricking like that black man in office. Mitchie said from day one that they would see he was a one term President. So now this President is doing his job and their job too.

Now...Now you also want him to do the Governors job too. Ya know the one I mean. He is AWOL in his State. He was elected to govern his state, Obama was not. HFS! Is no one but Obama accountable for any fricking thing! We pay these people with our taxes to do their job and ya know what, they are not doing shit! And here you are in all your splendor putting full blame on the President. Shame on you!

[Scuba]

107. "Full blame"? Hmmm, didn't see that.

[rhett o rick]

139. Let me see if I have this right. "He has a job to do and he is doing it! Got it."

"Got it". Really? You're asking me if I "got it" like that powerful talk is going to stifle me? Shame on you.

Yes Congress is bad and the President has a hard job and we have climate change to worry about. Are you saying those are excuses? Now more than ever he needs to be dynamic and cut the rhetoric.

I will always hold my elected representatives accountable and those that call themselves liberals that don't do that are the ones that should be shamed.

[woolldog]

8. Lame excuse.

He's MIA on this and that shouldn't be the case.

[bigtree]

12. wow

I remember reading . . .

When Connor realized that the Birmingham jail was full, on May 3 he changed police tactics to keep protesters out of the downtown business area. Another thousand students gathered at the church and left to walk across Kelly Ingram Park while chanting, "We're going to walk, walk, walk. Freedom ... freedom ... freedom." As the demonstrators left the church, police warned them to stop and turn back, "or you'll get wet". When they continued, Connor ordered the city's fire hoses, set at a level that would peel bark off a tree or separate bricks from mortar, to be turned on the children. Boys' shirts were ripped off, and young women were pushed over the tops of cars by the force of the water. When the students crouched or fell, the blasts of water rolled them down the asphalt streets and concrete sidewalks. Connor allowed white spectators to push forward, shouting, "Let those people come forward, sergeant. I want 'em to see the dogs work."

A.G. Gaston, who was appalled at the idea of using children, was on the phone with white attorney David Vann trying to negotiate a resolution to the crisis. When Gaston looked out the window and saw the children being hit with high-pressure water, he said, "Lawyer Vann, I can't talk to you now or ever. My people are out there fighting for their lives and my freedom. I have to go help them", and hung up the phone. Black parents and adults who were observing cheered the marching students, but when the hoses were turned on, bystanders began to throw rocks and bottles at the police. To disperse them, Connor ordered police to use German shepherd dogs to keep them in line. James Bevel wove in and out of the crowds warning them, "If any cops get hurt, we're going to lose this fight." At 3 p.m., the protest was over. During a kind of truce, protesters went home. Police removed the barricades and re-opened the streets to traffic. That evening King told worried parents in a crowd of a thousand, "Don't worry about your children who are in jail. The eyes of the world are on Birmingham. We're going on in spite of dogs and fire hoses. We've gone too far to turn back."

A battle-hardened Huntley-Brinkley reporter later said that no military action he had witnessed had ever frightened or disturbed him as much as what he saw in Birmingham. Two out-of-town photographers in Birmingham that day were Charles Moore, who had previously worked with the Montgomery Advertiser and was now working for Life magazine, and Bill Hudson, with the Associated Press. Moore was a Marine combat photographer who was "jarred" and "sickened" by the use of children and what the Birmingham police and fire departments did to them. Moore was hit in the ankle by a brick meant for the police. He took several photos that were printed in Life. The first photo Moore shot that day showed three teenagers being hit by a water jet from a high-pressure firehose. It was titled "They Fight a Fire That Won't Go Out". A shorter version of the caption was later used as the title for Fred Shuttlesworth's biography. The Life photo became an "era-defining picture" and was compared to the photo of Marines raising the U.S. flag on Iwo Jima. Moore suspected that the film he shot "was likely to obliterate in the national psyche any notion of a 'good southerner'."Hudson remarked later that his only priorities that day were "making pictures and staying alive" and "not getting bit by a dog."

Right in front of Hudson stepped Parker High School senior Walter Gadsden when a police officer grabbed the young man's sweater and a police dog charged him. Gadsden had been attending the demonstration as an observer. He was related to the editor of Birmingham's black newspaper, The Birmingham World, who strongly disapproved of King's leadership in the campaign. Gadsden was arrested for "parading without a permit", and after witnessing his arrest, Commissioner Connor remarked to the officer, "Why didn't you bring a meaner dog; this one is not the vicious one." Hudson's photo of Gadsden and the dog ran across three columns in the prominent position above the fold on the front page of The New York Times on May 4, 1963.

Television cameras broadcast to the nation the scenes of fire hoses knocking down schoolchildren and police dogs attacking unprotected demonstrators. Such coverage and photos were given credit for shifting international support to the protesters and making Bull Connor "the villain of the era". President Kennedy told a group of people at the White House that The New York Times photo made him "sick".Kennedy called the scenes "shameful" and said that they were "so much more eloquently reported by the news camera than by any number of explanatory words."


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Birmingham_campaign

[elleng]

15. This is NOT Birmingham,

and many of us can tell the difference.

[bigtree]

19. do we need it to go that far?

. . . before you can bear a simple question about wondering whether the President is watching this?

[elleng]

24. I don't have to wonder what this President is watching.

Its too bad that you think you have to.

[bigtree]

33. we're very upset here

. . . you don't seem to want to help.

[elleng]

39. Want to 'help?'

I want the State and local authorities to 'help,' and if they are unable to do so, I expect the Federal authorities will do so.

That is the way things should work.

Want a ? I don't think so.

[MADem]

206. It sure as hell isn't Little Rock, either.

It's more like Los Angeles, writ small.

Police brutality is a terrible thing, and there's plenty of it to go around. It needs to be addressed, and perhaps this incident will be a catalyst.

These ready-yet-inaccurate analogies are flung around with abandon, and they're tiresome.

[elleng]

210. Yes, with you 100%, MADem.

Governor appears to be stepping in, and President about to speak.

An awful lot of hate this Pres. going on here last night.

[840high]

20. Aren't we part of the World?

[elleng]

26. We are indeed, and he knows it.

[ForgoTheConsequence]

55. He's President of the United States.

Not the world. He needs to attend to issues at home as a priority.

[elleng]

59. Which he does,

and recognizes the important role of the United States in the world.

[ForgoTheConsequence]

65. You seem to have a direct connection.

You guys must be close.

[sheshe2]

98. How about that Governor?!!!

Shouldn't he be handling the job that he was elected to do?

[elleng]

211. Hi, she2. Yes, he should be,

and it appears he may be doing that now.

[sheshe2]

216. Thanks ellen...

listening now.

[grahamhgreen]

82. Right, we elected him president of the world!!!

[Javaman]

128. And right you are! World First, U.S. Second. Check!

[hughee99]

173. Exactly, it's not like a Harvard professor was hassled by the police who thought he was

breaking into his own house, the president doesn't have time for this sort of stuff.

[wavesofeuphoria]

209. good point!

[aint_no_life_nowhere]

6. Hopefully we've seen the worst of it

and federal authorities won't have to get involved.

[elleng]

17. Yes, and they shouldn't have to get involved.

The Democratic governor, and other local officials, should be at least embarrassed, and able to handle things from here.

[bobduca]

23. "able to handle things"

sure but are they willing?

[elleng]

31. We'll see soon enough whether they are willing or not,

and if NOT, THEN it becomes a Federal matter.

[notadmblnd]

9. He's on vaca but will be back in DC in the am

Is she wondering where the Gov of Mo is too?

[randys1]

10. You can be sure he called the gov and the gov has announced he is going there

You do realize the racists

IE

the entire teaparty and most repubs are just waiting for Obama to cause one white person to be arrested and then they will burn down the country, you do KNOW that???

do you?

[sabrina 1]

21. I hope you realize that that what 'most repubs or teapartiers are waiting for' is of no consequence.

I was not aware that when we vote we do so with the understanding that our Party's elected officials will check first to see what 'most Republicans and Teabaggers' think before we do ANYTHING.

[randys1]

32. The president has to take all factors into consideration, if he believes the racists, which is the

entire teaparty and 90% of repub party will react violently, he has to consider that

[backscatter712]

141. I'm all for trolling the right wing into violence and using their violence as an excuse to end them.

The Bundy thugs, militias, and hate groups have been allowed too much leeway. Democrats need to learn to be utterly ruthless when dealing with these subhuman fucks.

[Solomon]

11. As i said in another thread that you chose to delete, when you turn, you really turn, dont you!?

Really scraping the barrel. Wow.

[bigtree]

18. I have never cast my principles or values aside for politics

I am a decent and kind man.



You are out of line.

[bravenak]

27. Is that you??

You look like my Uncle Carlos when he was a bit younger.

Edit: He calls himself 'The Real Package'.

[bigtree]

35. tis me

I'm calming a bit. Thanks for your kind response.

[bravenak]

40. I understand the frustration.

This is out of control and I do think the national guard should be used to stop the cops from antagonizing people into rioting.

[Solomon]

38. Sorry dude but you're breaking my heart. Used to look forward to reading your posts and never

had any problems with your legitimate criticisms. But lately you been acting like Obama did something to you personally. Hey, maybe he did. If so, my bad!

[bigtree]

50. he did do something that made me turn away from the support I offered on this forum for years

. . .to him, his family. I still have great respect for his humanity, but he's moved past where my own principles and values will allow me to spend time here making the same kind of favorable posts. I regret that very much. I came to this board in 2003 protesting militarism, abuses of civil liberties, and assaults on our privacy rights. President Obama has moved past the point on these specific issues where I can, in good conscience, support him. It makes me incredibly sad. I want you to know that.

But . . .this post isn't an attack on the president. It's a simple, and I think, understandable question that my wife and I are asking publicly tonight. I think our concerns expressed here deserve more consideration than expectations that they conform to some fealty to politics or politicians. I hope you can understand that.

[SammyWinstonJack]

135. From day one, bush was called upon to do something, anything before and in the aftermath of Katrina

He was lambasted for his non response and then slow response, yet some here are saying that Obama should let the governor and local authorities work it out first.

Bush didn't get a pass and he shouldn't 't have, but Obama does?

[JTFrog]

144. No, he's just come full circle to where he was before Obama got elected.

Just saying... I remember DU2.

[PuraVidaDreamin]

14. Something about a hug?

Hoping he's been on the phone with Nixon!

[6000eliot]

22. Wondering how long it would take for the "blame Obama" people to start.

[villager]

25. No longer than the "there's not a single damn thing the President can possibly do!" people

n/t

[bigtree]

28. nowhere in my comment is there any 'blame'

. . . I'm concerned that the state isn't respecting their citizens. I'm wondering if the President is watching. Beyond that, I hope he's called the governor.



Your comment is out of line. Neither my wife, nor I, are 'blaming the President.'

[6000eliot]

30. Why do you assume he ISN'T watching?

[bigtree]

37. I'm reaching out

. . . mostly because my wife asked me to. I respect this online community and we're looking for support (and to offer what support we're able), not scorn or ridicule.

[6000eliot]

88. Where in my post do you read scorn or ridicule?

[pennylane100]

51. I never buy into to the passive aggressive approach.

"Just wondering if the president is watching" Do you think anyone really believes that is what you are really wondering.

[bigtree]

60. I am a kind and decent man. My wife, who urged me to post this is also kind and decent

. . . my post isn't an attack on anyone; not 'passive aggressive, or otherwise. Yours? I'm not so sure.

[pennylane100]

68. Well of course you can't be sure.

Then you would have to say what you really mean.

[bigtree]

69. I don't harbor hatred or bitterness toward anyone. I reject it,

. . .I'm a large man, and i can be overly aggressive, but my practiced instincts are to respect people and to push away any impulses I might have to hurt or anger people I interact with. I'm not perfect, but I assure you, I am sincere, and sincerely sorry if I have offended you with this post or any other.

[neverforget]

71. I like how anonymous internet posters are telling you what you really think.

Armchair psychologists I guess.

[bigtree]

73. no real harm done discussing this, talking it through, neverforget

. . . I appreciate your kind words, though.

[neverforget]

74. Keep up the fight and good work bigtree!

[sheshe2]

36. So where is the Governor?

Where is Governor Jay Nixon?

Five days ago, Ferguson, MO, cops shot and killed unarmed teenager Michael Brown, and the outrage of area residents—and the country—has grown day by day. Jay Nixon, the Democratic governor of Missouri whose name has been floated as a possible 2016 candidate (VP or, if Hillary doesn't run, even presidential), has been notably absent. Yesterday he finally issued a brief statement. And today, as St. Louis County Police fired rubber bullets and tear gas canisters at protestors and arrested reporters from the Washington Post and the Huffington Post, he's been silent on the conflict. So I wondered:


Snip/
http://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2014/08/where-governor-jay-nixon

And Holder has launched an investigation.

[bigtree]

41. yeah, where is he?

. . . I think he just might have gotten that call from the POTUS tonight, sheshe2. I see where he's cancelled his outing at the fair tomorrow to focus on this.

[sheshe2]

70. The Governor was AWOL in his own fricking state.

The Gov is a Dem and I find that appalling. Glad to hear he will focus on the murder of a young man and the terrorist tactics of the police in his state. A child, I still see him as that, was shot ten times for walking while black. Who does that sort of thing? I am outraged.

I read an Op as I said here, they said Obama don't make this your Katrina. Yes, I support this President, however I am not blind or stupid. If someone truly believes on DU that this President is GWB then I am in the wrong place.


As for Obama, bigtree. IMHO, he was already on this, vacation or not. Unlike Bush he takes the briefings seriously.



@petesouza: Natl Security Advisor Susan Rice briefs President Obama this am in Chilmark, Ma

http://theobamadiary.com/page/4/

[bigtree]

75. I think you know I want to believe that

. . . days of silence from him on this and other police misconduct has made my family anxious . . . I've stopped expecting Nixon to do the right thing without outside pressure. I always ask the ranking authority to assume leadership. I'm trying to understand why we haven't heard something publicly from the President. I really am trying to understand.

I'm always grateful for the dialogue between us, sheshe2, and I very much appreciate your perspective and comments.

[sheshe2]

100. No, I no longer am sure that you believe that, bigtree.

Why are you even bringing up Nixon here? What the hell does he have to do with this.

Yikes. Sorry, I no longer have a clue what you are saying and I am sorry for that. I have always liked your earlier posts.

I've stopped expecting Nixon to do the right thing without outside pressure. I always ask the ranking authority to assume leadership. I'm trying to understand why we haven't heard something publicly from the President. I really am trying to understand.

You've lost me, bigtree and I am sorry for that.

[bigtree]

147. Gov. Jay Nixon (D-Missouri)

. . . are you really tuned in to Ferguson? You asked me where the governor was and I echoed that. I even see in a post above that you mention Jay Nixon.

"I've stopped expecting (Jay) Nixon to do the right thing without outside pressure. I always ask the ranking authority (in this case, the President ranking above him) to assume leadership. I'm trying to understand why we haven't heard something publicly from the President. I really am trying to understand."

Nixon, the governor . . . how did you misunderstand that?

I offer you my most sincere thoughts with as much respect and grace that I have for anyone here. You cast them back at me with understandable concern, but you won't take one step in my shoes to try and understand where I'm coming from.

I've told you before how sad it is that I've 'lost you' where I stand today. I don't say a word about your praise for the things you're satisfied enough with President Obama about to post your glowing and beautiful portraits of praise. I welcome them from you. Not once did I come to any of your threads to tell you that I'm disappointed in any of that. Never once would I.

All I ask from people here is that they respect that I may feel differently from their own opinion and that I seek to express those thoughts, those differences, perhaps, here on these pages to reflect on, and, perhaps, to have them reflected back to me.

I don't think that's too much to ask. I understand that people will have just as strong feelings for whatever they are advocating. That's natural and good. I want to hear those (most times), I want to reflect those opinions against my own (most times).

I've heard you say before that I've 'lost you.' I guess I'm wondering now if you ever really took the time to 'find me' at all.

[Autumn]

166. Nixon is very relevant to this situation. He has a lot to do with it.

[MADem]

224. How does he have a lot to do with it? I really would like to know,

seeing as he's a popular governor who got 92 percent of the AA vote.

[Autumn]

228. He's the Governor??? So I think he would have things to say.

He can maybe make a difference as to what is going on there? Is the amount of AA vote he got relevant?

[treestar]

102. Good point she

people are so friggin' obsessed with the Presidency - they treat it like it's the only source of political power in this country.

[MADem]

192. He's in Ferguson today. But the INTERNET Looks For BLAME!!!!

Of course, the cop is no longer anonymous...!

President Obama, Gov. Nixon, an Anonymous Cop: The Internet Looks for Blame in Ferguson

http://www.slate.com/blogs/weigel/2014/08/14/president_obama_gov_nixon_an_anonymous_cop_the_internet_looks_for_blame.html


....The reaction to Ferguson (or #Ferguson) is happening on social media, everywhere, shaped by conservatives who want to blame Democrats, police state critics who want to talk about militarization, and foreigners who wonder what the hell is wrong with America. The easiest and most famous targets are the politicians. But as Josh Harkinson has been reporting, Internet activists with no determinated location are currently working to identify the cop who killed Mike Brown......

[VanGoghRocks]

42. When Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in 1968, then-Senator Robert F. Kennedy

spoke to the shocked and outraged masses in Indianapolis, IN. Historians generally credit RFK's magnificent compassion and empathy -- his ability to show people he cared and really felt their pain and suffering -- with keeping Indy from burning to the ground in the days that followed King's assassination.

This, however, has something of the flavor of Moscow, ca. 1917, about it.

Your question needed to be asked, not to excoriate President Obama, but to summon him to a higher level of leadership.

[BrotherIvan]

95. This.

It is a call for leadership. Not bashing. Not hatred. Not even criticism. Leadership. This is not a situation to be timid about and wait for the polls.

[JaydenD]

49. your objection would be less if the cafe was called The Sour Life Cafe?

Is that what your angle is, that Obama enjoys The Sweet Life while the world broils with Fergusons?

Bad taste post. Poor form and all that.

[bigtree]

62. what?

. . . what does that even mean? The name of the cafe? that's the caption provided. I'll delete that if it offends you; if it will help you to focus on the simple question I asked.

[akbacchus_BC]

66. Welcome to DU!

That Cafe got disenchanted with President Obama and closed its doors. It was called the last Democratic Cafe, if memory serves me right!

Good to have you here.

Best regards

[akbacchus_BC]

64. Why does everything have to be the President's responsibility?

He has enough to deal with and fighting ignorant asses rethuglicans! Give the President a break, am sure he too is sad!

[bigtree]

67. I don't think it's too much to ask.

. . .I don't believe that my wife and I are alone in wondering this.(and now my grown sons are up here vocalizing the same thing). I've seen him comment on much less. We'd sure appreciate it.

[BrotherIvan]

94. He's so worried about ignorant Republicans

He can't make a statement about a child who was murdered and an occupied town? He needs to lead. Whenever there is turmoil, a president can do a lot to address the nation. Why be so timid?

[Tsiyu]

77. Address your nation, Mr. President.

They are looking to you for leadership.

Stand up for Michael Brown.

Stand up for the people of Ferguson.

Unless you want us to think this is the future of protest, in which case, I have some other choice words for you I shall not print here.

[grahamhgreen]

79. Havin a beer with the.... Police?

[cui bono]

84. I just read on HuffPo that he was at a birthday celebration.

Clinton was there too.

President Barack Obama attended a birthday party in Martha's Vineyard on Wednesday evening, the same night protests in Ferguson, Missouri, escalated after the death of Michael Brown, an unarmed black teenager who was shot and killed by a police officer last week.

According to a White House spokesman, "a good time was had by all."

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/08/13/obama-hillary-ferguson-protest_n_5677092.html?utm_hp_ref=politics

[merrily]

92. I understand you and your wife. I also think the President,

and even more, the President's family, are entitled to a vacation together.

I even think Americans are also entitled to have a President who takes a vacation. Studies show all workers are more productive if they take vacations. And, they are entitled to go out during their vacation.

There is always something going on in somewhere in America or somewhere in the world that requires the attention of the President. It is said, and I believe, that he is always in communication. But vacations are necessary.

Where he is, however, is different from what he is saying and doing about any given situation. If we think he should be making a statement or taking some other action, let's focus on that and not on where he and his family are.

BTW, I note that Eric Holder, head of the Department of Justice, was present. It is the D of J that would be the most involved. So, maybe it was a subject Holder and Obama covered during their time together.

[NaturalHigh]

93. Serious question - what do you think President Obama should do?

I've been critical of the president over a lot of things in the past, but this situation is on the local and state officials.

[bigtree]

161. I want him to lead, publicy

. . . I don't presume to make those decisions for him, but I want to know where he is on Ferguson and what he personally feels, and if he is watching the same images that I am.

I think I'd be satisfied with just a few words about any effort he's making and some comfort or leadership expressed to the family of the victim(and to the victims in the 3 other police shootings), and to the people in the streets.

I'd be satisfied with that, to hear him say how he feels, to project that to the country, and to hear what he's doing about it, if anything. I won't presume to tell him what to do, although I have some ideas.

[zappaman]

96. Is this DU?

I think I must have been shuttled off to a RW site.

[CTyankee]

99. The Vineyard is pretty much a vacation place for Democrats...

for Republicans you have to go to Nantucket (John Kerry is an exception, but it is his wife's vacation place there which she had with her late former husband, John Heinz, a Republican.

[CakeGrrl]

101. He's issued a statement about Mike Brown. Been briefed by Holder and Jarrett.

It's so ironic that some on the Left seem to want GW Bush-style bullhorn moments from him to prove that he's "doing" something.

…and pretty damned sad that the man who made the final decision on the Bin Laden raid when his advisors were split 50-50, who has Special Forces deployed to evacuate trapped civilians in the Middle East, and who has done a shitload of other heavy lifting against a racist, obstructionist, do-nothing Tea Party Congress is thought so little of that some are concerned he's just sitting on his ass partying and doing nothing else.

Wow.

[Cha]

103. ..

Mahalo CakeGrrl..

[CakeGrrl]

213. ...

[betsuni]

110. YES

The OP made me angry. The current administration is not the last one, talking tough but doing nothing, as has been demonstrated over and over again. Angry.

[Bobbie Jo]

123. Wow is right.

This is a whole new level of ridiculous.

[treestar]

133. thank you CakeGrrl

Nice to see you around again.

There have been posts like this before. I no longer recall the local incidents, but we've seen this before. It's like there is no Congress, no Courts, no governors, no mayors, no state legislatures and no city councils. The President "runs the country" and he's the only one there.

[bigtree]

163. I don't want 'Connor'

. . . I want Kennedy.

[CakeGrrl]

223. Neither JFK nor RFK were

out-of-the-box frontline crusaders for Civil Rights. JFK had Dixiecrats to appease to get elected.

It took RFK to be brought around by seeing police dogs and fire hoses used on children…to have one of his own staff members bloodied before it really sunk in how serious things were.

The Kennedy Justice Department took a while to really engage in the Jim Crow south.

The epic grandstanding by George Wallace was a tipping point.

The point being, perhaps President Obama is unfairly measured against a Kennedy standard that isn't as heroic as some might assume. The Kennedys came around - they weren't leading the charge.

[Quayblue]

195. +1

[greatauntoftriplets]

200. ...

[redqueen]

207. I wasn't gonna read this thread, but now I'm glad I did.

Thank you for saying this.

[justiceischeap]

104. I think, at this point, the better question is: Where is the Governor of Missouri?

He's been notably absent and quiet in regards to this situation until Twitter started a "Where's Jay Nixon" (think Where's Waldo) campaign. Apparently he'll arrive in N. St. Louis County sometime today.

[maced666]

114. hear hear

World problems will be here before during and after he is gone and need addressed.
But this is a racial 911.

[doxydad]

115. I want my president...

...well rested. He's doing what he can on vacation, leave him alone. We have people to do what has to be done. He has had 109 days ov vacation in 7 years. Bush had OVER 900 DAYS. ...and he started 2 wars.

[betsuni]

118. He's looking tired and old lately

I'm a year older than he and notice how quickly he's aging. I only have a few white hairs... Let him have a damn vacation.

[doxydad]

120. AMEN!

[FSogol]

119. DIVIDE, DIVIDE, DIVIDE, DIVIDE, DIVIDE...

[Pholus]

130. Huh. Denominator must be less than one then...

because the problem seems to be growing, growing, growing, growing, growing.

[FSogol]

134. Sure thing. Obama should skip dinner and fix all the problems with Ferguson's police department.

Will DU complain about him golfing next?

[MADem]

202. Yep--I really think something needs to happen up in here.

This is getting absurd.

[BeyondGeography]

126. Asinine OP

[babylonsister]

127. Under the bus with him, I see.

This place is sounding more and more like freeperville. He's now only allowed a vacation if nothing is going on in the world? THAT will never happen.

[bigtree]

155. where did you read that in my question?

. . . 'under the bus?'

I made a gentle and sincere call, for my wife, my children, and I, for some word, any word, from the President on Ferguson; on any of the shootings, but mostly on the police violence we were all horrified watching in Ferguson.

No judgement, except, maybe, that his silence was disappointing.

You heard, 'under the bus.' You're listening to your own politics and completely ignoring what I'm actually saying.

No, I do believe he needs a vacation. I don't think that a public word from him would interrupt that as much as you seem to believe. I think it would do much good for him to try and exert some public leadership on Ferguson while the world is watching.

I don't think that's so much to ask. If I can't ask that here, I really don't know what these pages are good for - outside of shallow politics, which is what you seem more concerned about, than the issues at hand.

[babylonsister]

162. Then you must have missed this from two days ago:

Obama calls Missouri shooting death tragic, urges reflection

By Carey Gillam

FERGUSON Mo. Tue Aug 12, 2014 6:20pm EDT


(Reuters) - President Barack Obama called the police shooting death of an unarmed black teenager a tragedy and called on Tuesday for thoughtful response after two nights of violent protests, looting, arrests and tear gas in a St. Louis suburb.

He promised a full investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice into the case, which has provoked outrage in the largely African-American town of Ferguson where police have not released the shooter's name, citing security concerns and death threats.

"I know the events of the past few days have prompted strong passions, but ... I urge everyone in Ferguson, Missouri, and across the country, to remember this young man through reflection and understanding," Obama said in a statement.

more...

http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/08/12/us-usa-missouri-shooting-idUSKBN0GA0Q420140812

[bigtree]

171. no I didn't miss that

. . .I wanted to know where he was, we wanted to know, where he was last night as we were watching the images on television.

You've projected all sorts of ugliness onto a simple and reasonable question.

I remember wondering where the president before him was, on many occasion, and I read his words as well. I wanted to see and hear him last night, or this morning, perhaps. I don't think it was out of hand to ask that here, reaching out to people who had the same thought as they witnessed the violence.

'Strong passions,' by the way, doesn't cover the police action against a mostly peaceful protest.

[babylonsister]

177. Don't accuse me of anything, my friend.

You're the one wringing your hands over there. And fyi, he's giving a presser at 12:15pmET, content unknown. I hope he eases your worries.

[bigtree]

182. why roll eyes at hope I might have that he'd address this in ANY statement?

. . . read my words. Look beyond your own politics.

When he does speak out publicly, I will acknowledge that and thank him.

[PopSixSquish]

148. And Where Are You Tonight?

I mean these as serious questions. Have you called the White House to ask the President to do something more about the situation? Have you called the Office of the Missouri Governor? Your local news media?

If you have plans this weekend, will you cancel them in solidarity? Will you organize a protest in your hometown to support the folks in Ferguson? Will you travel to Missouri yourself?

Yes, Obama is the President of the United States, but you and I are citizens of the same. Do we as citizens not have our own responsibility in these times to act? We have protested for civil rights, to stop wars, to end hunger and suffering.

Where are both of us right now? What have either of us done to change the situation and others like it?

[bigtree]

176. I do what i can, with what I have at my disposal.

. . . in addition to that, I speak out here, publicly.

I don't think anyone should expect more than that. I really am not asking or expecting more than that from the President, except, of course, for him to use the elevation of his office to lead and the weight of his office to act. I want to hear him tell us where he's at, face to face, publicly. I want to know for certain that he was watching the same images that my family and I are anguishing over.

[PopSixSquish]

191. The President Will Give a Statement Shortly

at 12:15pm Eastern. I will be interested in your response afterward.

[bigtree]

196. I think that vindicates my family's concern

. . . I'll be watching with respect and appreciation for his public comments.

[whatchamacallit]

152. Ferguson is the future

If the president expresses concern it'll be window dressing.

[karynnj]

158. Rethink what you posted after thinking who the people with Obama are

The President is never really "on Vacation". Here he is with a key national security adviser - likely needed to help with responses on all that the US is doing in Iraq and with comments on Gaza - as well as many other global problems. He is also with Holder - who is the administration person most likely to get involved if the federal government becomes involved.

I hope that Obama/Holder have spoken to Jay Nixon, the Democratic governor. This SHOULD have been something handled by the city (which obviously is more part of the problem), and then by the state. The President could make a statement - as he did on Trayven Martin and Professor Gates. I wish Nixon had been more obviously present when this first happened.

[Brickbat]

160. If Bush were still president, more would be asking that question with you.

[L0oniX]

168. It would be nice if he at least acknowledged the issue. USA first ...other countries can wait.

[onecent]

174. The President of the United States CANNOT go out to dinner

with his wife????? What the hell is wrong with americans.

Is there ever a good time????? There's so damn much crap going on in this world
right not NO EVENING would be a good evening to step out to dinner.

Jesus...no one LETS him do his job anyway. They all fight against him....He could have
gotten alot done if he wasn't black..that's the way too many of you people THINK. especially republicans and our senators..crap

[bigtree]

178. he could maybe stop in front of all of the cameras and say a word or two?

. . . either then, or some part of his day?

I'm really just looking for a public expression from him telling us that he's watching the same brutality and explain to us just what he's trying to do about it.

[JaydenD]

183. Now you want to be his PR manager? You think you know better?

Quit while you are behind. There is no doubt this tragedy and all others in this point in time are on the President's mind. Do you think he's stupid, or careless or thoughtless because he is none of those things and you are sleight of hand accusing him by questioning his whereabouts and his thoughts and feelings on the issue.

[bigtree]

186. you express an opinion. I express my own

. . . are you really saying that we shouldn't express opinions about what these people we elect should say or do?

I don't believe you are sincere in that. Your comment is so far removed from what our political system is all about that it's almost unbelievable.

[JaydenD]

188. What's unbelievable is you trying to channel the President

and assuming he doesn't give a shit or enough shit - according to you. Sure you can have yours, and I'll have mine, thanks.

[gollygee]

179. What a scandal. He's eating dinner.

He can have a meal and also deal with business.

[MADem]

185. How DARE he!!!!!!!!!! The NERVE of that man!!!!!!!!!!

Why isn't he wearing sackcloth and ashes, and a crown of thorns, while he's at it?

Just who does he think he is? Mighty full of himself, wouldn't you say? Eating DINNER? Harummph! I'll bet he thinks he owns the road! Bet he had a fancy dessert, too, the lazy one percenter!!!!





for those who just can't grasp irony from the written word...

[Skidmore]

184. Perhaps he's been busy trying to rein in Bibi and his boys at the Pentagon.

Or dealing with some people trapped on a mountain in Iraq. How do you know that he hasn't been tracking on this as well. My guess is that he wants to have his ducks in a row before he acts on anything, and I don't blame him since these events cross all sorts of jurisdictions.

WHen these law enforcement officers are dealt with, I would like that any sanctions they recieve are not shot down by technicalities.

[bigtree]

189. I'm not going to delete this, but I am disengaging from this thread

. . . I spent several hours talking about this last night, very late into the early morning, here with my wife; and then with my two sons who came upstairs to share their own anguish with us over the images they'd seen from Ferguson.

I'm going to continue to read without responding, with respect and understanding for even the differences with my own view - expressed in the op in such a simple set of sentences - with an appreciation for the opportunity to discuss these things publicly and with such a knowledgeable and diverse community of opinion.

Thank you for the discussions.

[LordGlenconner]

208. You are a terrific poster in my view

I don't agree with everything you have to say, but I appreciate the way in which you say it and raise questions that are usually fair.

[AtomicKitten]

214. You'll get an answer when he speaks any minute now ....

[whatchamacallit]

215. bigtree don't be bullied by bots

They're so busy covering ass, they don't have time to worry about creeping fascism. You asked a simple legitimate question "where's the president on Ferguson?"

[Capt. Obvious]

219. Everybody chill the fuck out

He's got this

[Bobbie Jo]

226. Oooooh! Good one!

Send that tidbit of clever to Faux right now! They may be able to get it up in time for he lunch crowd.

Brilliant!