Honorable Senator Kerry,

I don’t get all the whoopla over the joke…if we as Americans focused as much time and energy on Iraq as some are on this, we’d be much better off.

I got the joke.

Keep the faith.  While I know it means little, but I think you would be a great President.

You just had to add…
It is clear the Republican Party would rather talk about anything but their failed security policy. I don’t want my verbal slip to be a diversion from the real issues. I will continue to fight for a change of course to provide real security for our country, and a winning strategy for our troops

WHY?

Senator,
Thank you for speaking truth to power. The Bush administration should be the ones apologizing to our troops for putting them in danger in Iraq because of their sloppy intelligence and lies.  Please keep on fighting for military families and Americans who have been left behind by Republicans.
Repectfully,
Joshua Schulze

John Boehner, the Republican majority leader in the House of Representatives, has publically stated (on CNN just now, and elsewhere as well) that Senator Kerry’s apology for his mispoken remarks is fully acceptable to him and to the troops as well, and that as far as he’s concerned this is now a case-closed non-issue. Even the White House issued a statement to the same effect this afternoon.

It would seem that the only people still thrashing this as though it’s evidence of party-wide treasonous intentions on the part of Democrats everywhere are the neocons’ pet blabbing heads on the cable snooze shows, reich-wing bloggers, foaming-at-the-mouth talk radio poseurs, and others of their ilk who have their own agendas for wanting to mislead and misdirect the voters’ attention this close to November 7.

Everybody else is now be admitting the obvious here—which is that this whole vitriolic kerfluffle was much ado about nothing right from the start.

guess they’ll have to set up another straw man to kick at now instead,
Otter

Thank you for the apology and I hope the other side and everyone else accepts it.  I understood the statement and the situation but it’s a pretty sad country when you have to apologize for making such a mistake.  How about Bush apologizing to Democrats since he calls all of us Terrorists and brags that we are helping terrorists if we vote for Democrats.  Is this guy for real?  He really does need an education and I hope he gets one on 7 November.  I’m a Patriot, a Christian, retired Federal employee, I love life and family values.  Oh, and I’m proud to be a Democrat.
I love this country and will be voting on Tuesday.  Thank you and God bless you.

FINALLY someone standing up to the Republican Neo-cons at the time they try to define us.  Thank you and please do not back down!!!!!!

Thank you Senator Kerry for your fortitude in the face of RW cowardice!

The Republicans have shown this week the depths to which they will sink to distort, and the ensuing frenzy proved the viciousness such distortions can unleash! I am extremely disappointed in those who helped the RW message along.

Thank you for your courage and tremendous efforts on behalf of our party and our country.

Dear Senator Kerry,

Thanks for a well-worded apology.  The irony of the situation is not lost on me. Had it not been for President Bush and the Republican Political Machine, your misstatement would have stopped in the room where you spoke. It saddens me that in their rush for political advantage, President Bush and Republicans spread a misinterpretation of your meaning, which was hurtful to those whom they were supposedly protecting. However, the issue is best forgotten now, so that there will be no distractions as the voters select from a wide range of appealing Democratic candidates.

Sincerely yours,
Jay

This should have been done two days ago.

John Kerry do not apologize for anything. It’s those hooligans who have ruined our country. Your words were never truer. Those who do not study the lessons of history are doomed to repeat them. Any idiot who can read something besides My Pet Goat, knew exactly what you meant.

Do not apologize, these yellow bellied cowards have destroyed our country, and we have to take it back.

And as for those democrats like Hilary and Harold Ford who will say anything to get elected, please, turn around, drop trou and give em the mooning they deserve.

Kerry08, god willing.

Please apologize to President Bush and the troops for your recent comments.  I am very thankful for their sacrifices and the work that they are doing.

Those wingnutz are a bunch of morans.  All their Katrinas don’t add up to one dragonfly on a stick.  I stand with sholder to sholder with John Kerry as he blasts the neocons back into the stoneage.  Keep up the good work comrade!  We’re gonna win fashizzle.

What a joke the Bush administration is. Now someone has actually voiced the truth. I don’t think John Kerry said enough, there’s so much more to be said about the lies, deceit, and ignorance going on in this country. Just because you do not support the war DOES NOT mean you do not support the brave men and women whose job it is to protect our country, not protect evil, rich, republican minded, old white men and their fantasies of dictatorship.

Senator Kerry:
Terribly sad that you have provided Bush and the GOP with more amunition to attack the Demoncrats just when we had real hopes of winning back Congress.  When has this administration ever focused on the real issues. They patiently waited for this kind of opportunity and you delivered.  It was a slip, it was unintentional and everyone knows that is not how you feel but this administration excels at twisting words and phrases - you know that. It was reckless of you to even think you could pull that kind of joke off. And, even if you did pull it off and that audience (well educated) got it, do you honestly think that most of America would get that sarcasm.  Bad judgement, bad delivery.

It’s about time Senator Kerry…  Whatever your intention was you should have issued an apology to the people whom you offended right off the bat, not because the republicans called for it but because it was the right thing to do.

Sincerely,
DSCFAN

The Honorable Senator Kerry,
There is no need for an apology.  We understand that those of us past and present in the military have been drafted or chose to enlist for benefits and to provide an honorable service for our nation.  In the past those in power have always been able to purchase their way out of the military.  Some things never change.  Please move on an extol on the benefits of a Democratic victory.  And if you must, let all those know of the atrocitices this and past administrations has performed against our nation and the peoples of the world.  Thanks, Vincent Montaino Solideo.

Senator John Kerry,

    As a Republican I thought you were a voice of reason within the Democratic party.  I would listen to your view points with great anticipation and agreed with you on more than one occasion. 

    What you said was so painfull to so many.  You lost so much credibility that I fear you have detroyed any chance you may have had to run for president.  What came out was not a poor choice of words or an accident.  It represented a deeper attitude of arrogance towards those less fortunate than you or I.  Those young men and women In our Armed Services need our support until this horrible situation ends. 

    I can not believe that someone with your platform, would say what you did. 

                            Mark O’Brien
                            Bradford MA

Dear Senator,
I have no problem with your remarks and respect your service record. However, i also grew up in the 1960’s. If you did well in high school and were college bound you received a college deferment.
Senator, what you meant is obvious. If you did well in grade school… you went to college, if you didn’t you went to Vietnam.
It’s true. It’s not a national secret. And it doesn’t mean that today there are not many in the military today because of their patriotism.

What is so hard about telling the truth??

You made careless remark, and you are sorry for it!!

It’s rarely the deed, we all make mistakes, it’s your attempts to cover it up that becomes your real problem.

It has nothing to do with party affiliation, but it has everything to do with personal integrity.

I commend you for your rapid response to the verbal faux pas.  While the majority of America is intelligent enough to understand that this was an unfortunate, misspoken, attempt at humor, thank you for defusing the lies and innuendo of those who who would mislead our country, through your honorable act of apology.  It is what I would expect of a gentleman, and a leader.
The critical difference; our Commander In Chief, on the other hand, seldom (if ever) apologizes for his many much greater mistakes; ignores the advice of his military experts; and attacks the patriotism of those of us who served, simply because we disagree with his failed position.
It is time for those of us who have served together to close ranks, cover each other’s backs as we once did, and speak truth to authority.

John Boehner, the Republican majority leader in the House of Representatives, has publically stated (on CNN just now, and elsewhere as well) that Senator Kerry’s apology for his mispoken remarks is fully acceptable to him and to the troops as well, and that as far as he’s concerned this is now a case-closed non-issue. Even the White House issued a statement to the same effect this afternoon. “

That’s nice…considering that Boehner was quoted in the right wing New York Post this morning as saying that “We’re going to beat him [Kerry] to death” if he did not apologize.  Now, why don’t our people just “interpret” words the same way as Republicans do and accuse Boehner of threatening to have Kerry killed?  It’s the same logic, after all.

Oncall:
Now that Senator Kerry expressed his regret to military families and personel, I wonder how long it will be before the trolls start saying it is not enough.

I think the apology was enough, although I think he should have left out the republican comment.  It sounded like he did it to make up for the bad press, and not because he felt like he disrespected the troops.

Had he given the apology, without the republican comments, he might have earned a little respect back in the process.  Kerry seems more concerned with showing the republicans that he is a tugh guy, moreso that wanting to show the troops and families of the troops that he is sincerely sorry for the remark.

Again, the apology is enough for me, but I am sorry to see that there is more concern for slander tossing, than working on the important issues at hand.

R.

Thank you Senator Kerry!

This was never about apologizing to the Bush Administration.  If that was all the “hoopla” had been about, I would have been in favour of Senator Kerry telling them to stuff it.

What this was about was apologizing to the past and present members of the armed forces, as well as their families. 

Thankfully Senator Kerry has now done so and we can move on with the real issue at hand.  Defeating the Republican’s and regaining control of Congress!

For those of you who just never “got it”, I must assume that you have not ever been a member of the US Military, nor had a family member who is either currently serving or has previously served.  Not “getting it” is one of the reasons we Democrats have had so many problems penetrating this voting bloc.

It is possible to shoot the message without shooting the messenger.  It’s just that it is VERY difficult to do without hitting the messenger along the way.  When doing so, it is very easy to come across as elitist and condescending.

As Democrats, we need to work a hell of a lot harder at not shooting the messenger.  We need to support and praise our troops every chance we get.  Saying we support them while intimating that they are out to burn women, children, houses, and villages doesn’t work.  We have to support these folks and MEAN it!

The members of our Armed Forces are not stupid by any stretch of the imagination.  They bust hump and are willing to die so that you and I can have conversations such as this.  So that we have the freedom to protest and dissent.  Don’t lose sight of that fact.  These folks can see when we are being disingenuous, and don’t deserve it.  They deserve our utmost respect and pride.

Many of these folks are not happy with what is happening in Iraq.  Many are not happy with the current administration and their handling of the war.  We want these folks with us and not against us.  My fervent hope is that Senator Kerry’s apology will allow these individuals to help us bring some sanity back into our Government, and vote Democratic next Tuesday.

Mr. Kerry -  I would like to say that I was not offended by what you said.  Back in the days of the Vietnam War our young men had pretty much only 2 choices: 1. go to college or 2. go to war and face the unknown.  Many of these young people did not make it home and some were are still MIA.  I personally am against our “continued” efforts in Iraq as I do not see many improvements.  Everytime I watch the news I hear about another young life lost.  And in my opinion:  FOR WHAT?  I support you and stand by you!!!!

Senator Kerry,
You are a great American and you have my complete support. I am also a Vietnam combat veteran: Army Infantry, Americal Division, 11th Light Infantry Brigade, August ‘68 - August ‘69. Like you, I am lucky to be alive today and am proud of my military service but not proud of everything we did in Vietnam.
Do not let these dispicable people get away with “swift-boating” you again. Do not make yourself the issue…it’s all about Bush et al botching Iraq. While he and his stooges have been insulting you, more Americans and Iraquis have died and we’ve let murder-squad chief Al-Sadir conspire with Al-Malaki to order U.S. troops to disband our check points and stop the search for a missing American soldier. Bush, Cheney, Snow, and the stooges would rather insult you than talk about the unnecessary disastor in Iraq.
Hang in there!
John Moran.

Senator Kerry, I stand with you on this issue.  Focus the misgivings and disjoinder on this administration lack of compassion for the American people let alone the men and women of the armed forces.  An apology for a misspeak is premature, at best and should be reserved for the men and women as well as the American people who are not offended at the misguided non-mitigate circumstances why we are in Iraq.

Moreover, the peoples of Iraq ought to get an apology as well.

K.T. Blake
Dem in Florida

Dear John Kerry,

Thanks for your heartfelt apology, although you really didn’t owe it to anyone.  It shows that at least the Democrats are willing to stand up and admit a mistake, unlike someone like Rush Limbaugh, who flat-out insults Michael J. Fox and then refuses to acknowledge it.  And, you were right to include in your statement the truth that this is simply an attempt by the Republicans to change the subject and go on the offense, no matter how ridiculous the excuse.  Keep on speaking the truth and fighting for common sense foreign and domestic policy, we really, really, really need it.  I strongly urge you to run for President again, I think you’ve definitely got the right stuff.

Sincerely,
Gabriel Morris, Portland, Oregon

John Kerry,

I understand that my edit above will be probably be ignored because, well. :-)  But I hope that messages from some of your oldest supporters, like me, will be passed along.  I’m a long-time supporter and I’ve done serious time in a heavily battled state—Missouri—a state that is still is a toss-up. 

Please keep your messages pointed and short.  Pointed, short and sans phrasing.  Trust me on this.  Do not pay by the word.  @;-)

All the best.

Posted by Barbara LeBlanc | November 1, 2006 5:05 PM

Thanks for proving my point Barb.

Posted by oncall | November 1, 2006 4:41 PM

Last month my good friend and former boss enlisted in the military to, in his words, “give back something to the country that gave so much to him.” 

He is a self made millionaire, well educated and a comunity leader.

It is unfortunate that your comments in light of what real people are doing in this world.

Thank you for your apology to us - troops and veterans.
Would it have been so hard to leave the Republicans and political comments out of it?

Well, here you have it;  Once again JK has to be the standard bearer for the country and “take one for the team” that you’d never find anyone in the administration, the GOP, or most Dems doing. Even though it was just politics as usual for the Republicans, Kerry won’t let his own party take the fall for it. He once again has to be the sacrificial lamb to demonstrate what separates him from all the wannabe’s…...he’ll do whatever it takes to help this country even to his own detriment.

Senator Kerry,

I don’t think you have anything to apologize for.  The Republicans are just twisting your words around because they’re getting desperate.  They’re afraid the people in this Country are finally realizing what a mistake they made in voting for George Bush.  They’re afraid their going to lose control of Congress in the upcoming election and Bush won’t be King George anymore.

Senator Kerry:

Anyone who heard your complete remarks, or took the time to read a transcript, would easily understand what you were trying to convey. I have no doubt in my mind that the Republican leadership was well aware of the truth, yet spread the misinformation anyway. Indeed, they seem to have a low opinion of the intelligence of their supporters!

Senator Kerry,

Yesterday you said you would not apologize: Let me make it crystal clear, as crystal clear as I know how: I apologize to no one for my criticism of the president and of his broken policy.

You kept your word. I think your apology is exactly right, you are apologizing for words that this pResident decided to use for POLITICAL reasons only. He could care less about the troops, its all about power to him, and how despicable of him to use them again.

I know who supports the troops and you Sir are at the top of that list.

I would hardly consider about 3 oe 64 being packed with negatives.

Senator Kerry,

You made a mistake.  Go on TV and tell the troops and veterans your sorry.  It is very lame to post it on your website, if not cowardly.

Forget the politics and just say your sorry.  The last paragraph you added to your statement above make it very clear that you don’t really care, you just had to add that in.  Senator Kerry, I’m glad I’ll be retired from the military before you have a chance to run for President again.

How about just appologizing without trying to make it into a political attack.  Politics are out of control, and you are part of the problem.

You need to hire KJ to write your comments. He did a MUCH better job than whoever you used.

sir. you screwed up a joke. it’s ok. you’re human. you can admit it. the real POTUS does it all the time. and when he can’t do it or does not reconcile his blunders, i call him out on it, too.

it’s ok. don’t lash out at President Bush at every chance. you lost fair and balanced… i mean, square.

all politics aside, you seem like a very honorable man, and i respect that.

thanks.

Sen. Kerry,
I think that you did not mean to say what you did, and my husband and I like that you fought back at President Bush. We do not agree with the President, and we do agree that you did not need to apologize. The focus should stay on Iraq, and the troops. Even though we are Independents we definetly think that you and Edwards should take another run at The White House.

Hey wait a minute. Why should dumbass Bush get a free pass for not apologizin’ for going to war on false intel, especially since he keeps changin’ the Iraq War’s rationale after not finding wmd’s?

Don’t forget Dubya didn’t apologize for a skit he did when he was pretending to look for wmd’s in the Oval Office. Remember when Bush was going in his drawers and asking comically in front of his friends: “Are the wmd’s here? Nope. How about here?”

Don’t worry, Senator Kerry, I forgive you but that was a pretty stupid remark. Did you want to give the GOP last-minute ammunition with only 1 week to go? We have the Republicans on the defense and we want to keep it that way.

The joke you made was very obviously NOT intended for the troops. There was nothing wrong with it and you shouldn’t have had to apologize for it. Watching Fox News with the story makes me sick to my stomach. The only thing this so-called news channel can do is blow it out of proportion. How quickly they can forget about stories that really affect our country. “Fair and balanced” as a slogen is a slap in the face to everyone who believes in fairness.

Can’t wait to take back congress, Good luck to the entire party.

Don’t feel bad, John. People in the media are very rude to anyone that says stuff that you not meant to say.

To those who have an issue with Senator Kerry’s comments:

Just like he never mentioned the President so how would someone infer that he was directing the “joke” to the President, he never used the word “troops” either. 

John Kerry went to Yale and had the winning ticket, he could have enjoyed a very happy life in the private sector.  He volunteered for Vietnam.  He killed for this Country and got fired upon and saved the life of a fellow Sailor.  He found that our Nation had thrown in the towell and was beginning to withdraw from Vietnam.  His point when he addressed the Congress was, if we know we want out, and if we behave like we made a mistake, the slow withdrawl is not fair for the men still fighting.  “Who wants to be the last to die for a mistake?”  He was heroic for pointing out the obvious and from that point was targeted by the Republicans.  John O’Neil, the guy who wrote the Swift Boat book was hand picked by Richard Nixon to debate John Kerry. 

Please don’t buy the hype.  Those that are the most evil will pretend that they are religious.  Some of those that claim that they are for the troops are really just for the rich.  In a capitalistic society that has a democratic political system, the rich need to find the cheapest way to get votes.  They prey upon those that don’t ask many questions, followers, those that don’t dig deep, think, ask questions and are intellectually lazy.  If enough of our citizens are intellectually lazy, we can be easily misled.  This begs the question:  Was John Kerry intellectually lazy for supporting the war? 

It feels macho to quickly react, but if the Senator clarified his statements and truly meant that the troops were dumb, you’d have to wait in line to get a piece of him.  He didn’t mean that.  Just as people made fun of the long haired people who were protesting the war when Kerry gave his testimony who said “You are being disrespectful to the troops”.  One long haired guy said “Lady, we are the Troops”.  That was a misfire by the lady.

If you want to be insulted, Dick Cheney said that when his helicopter flies over Arlington National Cemetery, he always makes it a point to look down and respectfully see the rows and rows of crosses.  The problem is that they have white tombstones in Arlington and they don’t have crosses at all.  He was pretending to care about the troops, he lied so he could pretend to be someone who honored the troops. 

John Kerry fought to get legislation to help Vietnam Veterans get treatment from exposure to Agent Orange.  That’s right, our own Government sprayed a deadly chemical on our own Troops. 

In 1995 I met John Kerry one on one in the street in Lowell, Massachusetts.  No one else was around.  He was very polite and nice to me. I thanked him for all the work he had done for our Veterans.  When he votes against a Military proposal, it is usually because the technology is obsolete, or that the Military contractors are gouging taxpayers.  Military contractors donate to and love Republicans.  Military contractors are not the Troops and we need to show a bit of capitalistic discipline when we deal with them.  You don’t see many Republicans confronting Halliburton?  So a Halliburton employee gets a 6 figure salary and the Guardsman is the one being shot at?

Lastly, another person who has his character assassinated is Senator Kennedy.  During Vietnam, I had an older cousin who was shot in combat and was wounded.  My aunt tried to find out about her son and wasn’t getting answers from the Military.  She turned to Ted Kennedy. Ted Kennedy sent a staff member to her home to give a full report on her son.  My aunt was a very poor Italian woman who any other rich politician wouldn’t have cared about.  In Massachusetts, Republicans and Democrats both know how much personal work Ted Kennedy does for family of those in the Military.  A lifelong Republican wrote an article in the Boston Globe after he had lost his son in Iraq.  The article was written by I believe Mike Barnacle.  This man described how much help and support he got from Senator Kennedy.  So when the rest of the country scratches their head about Kennedy and Kerry, we here in Massachusetts can hear real stories from our family members, neighbors, etc. about the behind the scenes acts that the rest of the country doesn’t hear about.  You hear the character assassination. 

The good ones always get assassinated, because they are a threat to those that are really out to take advantage of you.  Isn’t it funny that Dick Cheney makes a comment like “He was for the joke before he was against it.”  It’s like they wait for Kerry to misspeak and they get a tremendous amount of mileage on it.  They do, because people are intellectually lazy and like to be entertained and feel macho like John Wayne and don’t want to dig deep to find out if they are reacting to truth or propaganda. If John Kerry did mean this and said that he meant it, you would have a point to be upset, but he didn’t, in fact, he clarified what he meant and said that he was not referring to the Troops.  My question is if he is not attacking the troops, and he is in fact more representative of the Troops being a soldier, from Yale (not dumb), and he dedicated his career to helping the Troops, who are you really mad at?  Kerry did finish Yale, and then again, chose to go to Vietnam. Why would he think that by flunking out you would have to go to Iraq.  He completed college and volunteered to serve in uniform??? We don’t have a draft so how could you imply that by flunking out would mean that you would be required to serve in Iraq?  Are you making a characture of John Kerry so you can hit him like a piñata?  Does this make you feel macho?  It’s easy being a tough guy to a straw man; why aren’t the tough guy Republicans talking about the madman who does have nuclear weapons in North Korea and who is lighting them off and firing test rockets off towards Japan. Saddam was a legitimately suspected threat, the guy from North Korea is a crystal clear threat.  He is plainly open about having nuclear weapons and is threaten to use them.  Why were we so certain to attack Saddam who we weren’t sure had weapons and had made no threats to use them, and we don’t do anything to the guy that is threaten using them?  If we need tough guys, we need them to fight the real threats, not make believe people that want to jump on a misstatement and wave the flag and pretend to be macho.  Republicans have us fighting Grenada and tiny little non-threat nations.

Our founding fathers, many from Massachusetts fought so that each person got an equal vote.  We honor those men and women by tearing ourselves to pieces to find the truth and to not be misled by propaganda.  It is courageous to be nuanced and to struggle with weighing and representing both sides of an issue.  It is easy to march lock-step and not challenge or question.  It is uncomfortable to be uncertain and to always look for more information and a deeper understanding of the truth.  If we had done more of this we may have had moment to pause before spending trillions and thousands of American lives. We are the mightiest Nation and like many that have declined it is due to intellectual laziness and people that want things to be served to them as entertainment and overly simplified. A growing threat to our Nation is this laziness and comfort in certitude.  Most of the talking heads that you may hear on the radio every day are entertainers.  It is insulting that they talk about the Military like they actually care.  They want to sell advertisements, books; they want to entertain. 

With respect,

John Pesa

Senator Kerry,

The apology, though unwarranted, was demanded by the White House to humiliate you and signal neocon power and dominance over weak Democrats, who will knuckle under when pressed. They have gotten their way, having you apologize for being swiftboated.

They did the same thing to Dan Rather when he had the goods on Bush going AWOL. Fox and some of the other news outlets are still under the neocon thumb. When the administration ordered the attack on you they meekly complied and launched a blizzard of lies and distortions.

Your apology had to be hard to take. You sacrificed yourself for the good of the wave forming to sweep out the neocons. Neither Bush nor Chaney would ever display that much class or courage. I am angry too, but at least we know now what you will be up against in your battle to become President.

The jury is out on the net effect of this insignificant gaffe. An argument can be made that the voters in America will be turned off by another swiftboating campaign, as they were in the case of John Murtha and this will be ultimately beneficial.

You have taken a heavy body blow in the last two days, but you sure look strong and confident. Remember, Clinton gave the first punch for which he was excoriated and then you scored bigtime with the second.

I think you will make it and become our next president, because the people have had it to the eyeballs with these scumbags and you sure seem like a breath of fresh air to a lot more folks across America, projecting competent leadership. People know that you can tackle the enormous problems we face with your experience and intellect, and they also know that the Keystone Cops can’t do anything right except maybe swagger and smirk.

Mr. Kerry,
I stood up applauded you when I’d heard your statement about working hard and getting an education so that you don’t end up in Iraq (or some other unending war).  It’s true, not all of us are handed money and a wonderful life from the moment we’re born, we have to work for it, and some have to work very hard.

I’m disappointed that you ‘apologized’ for your comment - which was NOT intended for the troops. There was nothing wrong with it and you shouldn’t have had to apologize for it. 

It was not a joke and I believe that you minimized the impact you had on a lot of Americans by cowtowing to the media machine. Please stand up and be your own man.  We will respect you for that.

Posted by Ron Chusid | November 1, 2006 5:46 PM

Hey, Ron!  :-)

Posted by Larry | November 1, 2006 5:49 PM

Give it up Larry, the “game” is over. The Republicans will lose next Tuesday.

Senator Kerry,

Thank you for this gracious apology. 

The context of your words made it clear to me that you were referring to President Bush as being stuck in Iraq. Perhaps the “joke” failed because it refers to a truth that is actually rather painful.  President Bush is indeed stuck in Iraq.  The situation there is deteriorating, and this President has no idea what to do.  He is stuck because wars are not won by tactics such as taking words out of context in order to distort their meaning.

However, such tactics can be used to win elections—and also to start wars—by those who are willing to “fix the facts” to support their policies.  Thus we now have brave fighting men and women who are stuck in Iraq.  They are stuck in a different way thay you were referring to, but they are stuck nevertheless.  You know it, we know it, and the troops know it.

So who should be apologizing to the troops? 
In truth, the apology should come from those who have continued to misrepresent the intention of your remarks even after that intention has been made clear, both by commentators who paid attention to the context and by your own statements.  However, it is obvious that they will not apologize, since that would run counter to their strategy distracting attention from their failures in Iraq and in national security overall.

So it is left to you to apologize.  Perhaps that is fitting, for you also have made mistakes.  For example, you speak imperfectly as if you were human.  Also, back in 2002 and 2003, you actually trusted that the President of the United States would not mislead Congress and the American people, would not indulge in a war of choice, would not go to war without a plan, would not politicize war and national security, would not use the troops as props, would not despise the advice of experts and commanders on the ground, would not treat ignorant subborness as strength.

So I understand, Senator Kerry, why you have chosen to offer a personal apology.  I often feel the same need myself.

John,
It is unfortunate that you made an error with your statement. Frankly, if this was scripted you should fire your speechwriter. If not, then you need to be especially careful in your off-hand remarks.

That said, I have no doubt at all that you did not intend to dishonor our troops. I only wish that you had used your speaking opportunity to drive home the true point - the Bush administration has no clear plan for Iraq, Rumsfield must go, and we should either go “all in” in Iraq or withdraw as orderly as possible.

I was against the invasion of Iraq and for the life of me don’t understand why we didn’t concentrate our resources on securing Afganistan (which remains a real problem, though few talk about it).

Keep up the good fight—and rethink your writers!

I was livid this morning while I was watching the news.  Kerry’s slur-turned-botched-joke, the Republican reaction, and then the Democratic reaction to the Republican reaction.  When does it stop being about the party and become about Americans?  I am beyond sick of it.  There is no common, middle ground, and it is impossible for the average person to sift through all of the trash to get to what’s important.  So I sat down and started writing, as if anyone in our government really cares what an American citizen thinks.

Support Our Troops

Support Our Troops.  I’ve been hearing these words for the past few years, and I’m a bit embarrassed to say that I only recently began to wonder what exactly people mean when they say this.

I’m a Troop – well, an ex-troop, I retired from the Army in 2005 after 20 years of service.  I didn’t give much of a thought to politics until September 11, 2001, and then I became very interested.  And I can’t accurately express my deep disappointment in what I’ve observed and learned since then.

I spent most of Bill Clinton’s presidency in Heidelberg, Germany.  I was in my mid-20’s to early-30’s, a single mother of two daughters.  I had a full time job that I enjoyed, and I didn’t need for anything.  The military provided my family’s housing and medical care, and what I couldn’t find at our military installation, I could order from Sears or JC Penney.  I was living my life like I thought every other American was living:  working, spending time with my kids, paying my bills, and working hard to get promoted so I could make more money.  The only news that interested me had to do with Yugoslavia, because it impacted my family directly.  I didn’t understand what was going on there at all.  I only knew that I may end up there, and I did, in 1996.  I still didn’t understand it, but there was a job to do there, so I went there and did the job.

The only other significant political news I remember from those years I spent in Germany was when I heard that Congress had voted themselves a $23,000 raise.  I was as angry at that moment as I had ever been in my life.  I wasn’t making $23,000 a year, and I was serving my country overseas.  My average yearly raise was about $30-$40 per month, and when you take into account that a soldier is a soldier 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (every soldier will tell you this if you ask), it didn’t amount to much of a raise.

I got over that, and the whole Yugoslavia thing, when I heard that President Clinton had not only balanced the budget, but we actually had a surplus, and he had come up with a Welfare Reform plan.  Again, I didn’t really know what that meant, but it sounded great, so I gave him credit for it.  I thought that the media made way too big a deal out of the whole Monica Lewinski scandal (people cheat, and it sounded pretty consensual), and not enough of a big deal about White Water – that sounded like lying and stealing to me.  In the meantime, my father was forced to either move from Missouri to Oregon or to retire.  Clinton had the Bureau of Mines closed – my father had just gotten a promotion and was moving from making ends meet to preparing for his and my mother’s retirement years – and then Clinton turned the Bureau of Mines activities over to the university there and gave them a grant to do the same thing my father was doing.  I didn’t make the connection, being focused on my own life at the time, but my parents knew exactly what happened.

I didn’t vote in 2000, but I truly wanted Al Gore to win because I figured he’d continue what Clinton had going on.  I didn’t like George Bush at all.  He was taking an economical victory and turning it into a “recession”.  I didn’t know what that was, but it sounded bad, and I had my first realization that politics were about parties and not the American people.  I couldn’t believe the “hanging chad” fiasco in Florida, and I was convinced that Bush won that state because his brother was governor.

One of the first things George Bush did when he entered office was give me a raise and start the “No Child Left Behind” program.  I eased up on him a bit after that.  The only thing I really cared about was taking care of my family, and both of those actions stood to directly impact my ability to do that. 

A side note:  The “No Child Left Behind” program was a dud – both of my kids were left behind when we moved to Fairfax County, Virginia.  I had researched the area and found that Fairfax County had the best education program in the country.  That county is very expensive, and although we couldn’t really afford it, we moved there specifically with my younger daughter’s education in mind.  We found out the hard way that Fairfax County caters to students who are already serious about their education – not the ones with educational challenges such as being behind and/or ambivalent.  My younger daughter was behind and ambivalent.  My older daughter was neither behind nor was ambivalent before she moved to Fairfax County, but the curriculum was so accelerated that she was a year behind the day she arrived, and she gave up before she caught up.  My tax dollars at work.  “No Child Left Behind” had a nice sound, but it did not apply to my daughters.

I was a “moderate liberal” (without knowing it) before September 11, 2001, and for a while after.  I didn’t agree with George Bush on much of anything, but I was a patriot.  I believed that I was lucky to be American, and very proud to be a soldier, serving my country.  And I was enjoying my regular increases in pay.

I gained a new respect for President Bush after 9/11.  I was stationed in Alexandria, Virginia, at the time, working Casualty Operations at Department of the Army.  My reaction to the attacks was much the same as the reactions I was seeing in the media – shock, grief, anger, fear.  I felt sucker-punched by a total stranger for no reason but that I had my back turned.  And then I had to go to work, put everything I was feeling on a shelf, and deal with the chaos caused by the massacre at the Pentagon, of my brothers and sisters in arms.  That was the day I started watching the news.  I was not a Democrat or a Republican.  I was an American.  I watched every news channel, flipping channels when the commercials came on.  It didn’t take long to see that Fox News was doing a much better job of covering the aftermath of 9/11 than any other news station, so eventually I stopped watching any other news.

And still I was a “moderate liberal”.

I did not give President Bush the benefit of any doubt.  I didn’t care for him, other than my raises.  He earned my respect with his handling of 9/11, the way he stood up, beat on his chest, and told the rest of the world that he was going to annihilate terrorism, and they were either with us or against us.  I needed to hear that.  Every soldier I new was excited and relieved when we found out we were moving into Afghanistan to fight the terrorists.  Progress.  Good.

Shortly thereafter, I started seeing “Countdown to Iraq” flashing across the news screen.  I thought that was the dumbest thing – what did Iraq have to do with anything?  I wanted to find UBL, kill him, and kill all the terrorists in Afghanistan.  Soldiers were dying there, so it seemed that we still had work to do.  Any attention on Iraq, to me, was taking our eye off the ball.  I couldn’t believe that we were actually planning to invade Iraq, but I knew it was true because at work, we were planning for it.  I watched the news and read the paper, looking for any words of dissention.  There weren’t any.  Remember, I was till a “moderate liberal” living in a suburb of Washington, DC, at the time.  And I thought President Bush was royally screwing up.  I used the word “cowboy” to describe him long before I ever heard it on the news.  When Congress voted to support the President’s decision to invade Iraq, I couldn’t say anything, because I was a soldier, and it was my job to do the bidding of the American people, and in turn, their elected officials and our Commander in Chief.  But no one was standing up and protesting, at least not loudly enough for me to hear it, and I was listening intently.  I knew this was going to be a mess if we went through with it.

We had plenty of talks about invading Iraq at work.  Everyone had an opinion, and the opinions were diverse.  It wasn’t about Democrats and Republicans.  It was about being soldiers and going to war.  But we all talked about it, and we all had opinions.

So we invaded Iraq, whether we wanted to or not, whether we understood it or not.  Our job was not to understand or agree – our job was to execute.  I didn’t agree, but I executed.  It was hard because I didn’t agree.  I was coordinating casualty reporting, and notification and assistance of family members of dead and missing soldiers.  It truly wrenched my guts.  It all seemed pointless.

And then the “Support Our Troops” campaign began.  You betcha, support our troops.  The troops were doing what they were told to do, and many of them believed in what they were doing.  The ones who didn’t were doing it anyway because it was their job and they love their country.

When the statue of Saddam Hussein fell, I cried, and then I understood why we were there.  I was relieved that we actually had a purpose there, and it was a noble one.  I hoped that I had been wrong about the mess, and that the Iraqi people would step up and fight for their opportunity for freedom.  They didn’t.  They started fighting amongst themselves.

But it didn’t matter, because we were there, and there was no way we could leave until Iraq had the chance to rebuild and establish their new democracy.

Then I started hearing the protests from the other side, loud and clear.  It was ok for us to go in, but now that we’re there we don’t like it because soldiers are dying.  What did they think was going to happen?

The nay-sayers weren’t nay-saying before the war.  They could have supported our troops then and it would have meant something.  After we start a war is not the time to say “nay” and then masquerade it as “supporting our troops by bringing them home”.

That was when I became a “moderate conservative”, because the liberals whom I supported and agreed with until that point weren’t about me, or any other American.  They were about the Democrats.  When we (the “moderate liberal” soldiers) needed them most, they were giving President Bush the rope he needed to hang himself instead of preventing pointless death of American soldiers by speaking up before we invaded.

Republicans are no better.  It’s all about the party, not the people.  I’m just less offended by the Republican party.  Some serious issues need resolving in this country, and it seems that all either party can do is talk and take vacations.  I haven’t seen nearly enough results on those issues.  There is so much more going on in this country than the war in Iraq.

I still disagree with the reasons we went to war with Saddam Hussein, but it didn’t matter that I disagreed, and it matters less now because we did it and we are there.

What matters is that we started this war, so we have to finish it, no matter what we think about it.  The war is in progress, and every time a soldier dies or is injured in Iraq, it becomes more important that Iraq be able to stand on its own two feet before we leave.  The proof of that is in the results here, as well as in Iraq.  To date, we have not had another terrorist attack on American soil.  If we leave before the job is finished, the flood gates will be opened, and we will know what it is to be attacked.

We don’t have to like the war to support our troops, but we do have to win the war to support our troops.  We as Americans have to help Iraq stand up, not pressure or threaten them or criticize how poorly they are getting the job done.  We have to support their progress and encourage them to keep fighting for their democracy and figure it out.  We got them into this.  We have to help them sort it out and make it work.  When I hear “Support our troops by bringing them home,” I want to scream.  It would make everything the troops have done, whether they believe in it or not, pointless, and it would endanger our population.  It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure that out.

We aren’t over there.  We really don’t know what’s going on.  But the Iraqi government has not told us to leave.  Iraq is a sovereign nation, and if they wanted us out, they would be fully within their rights to tell us.  The way our international relations have been since this whole thing started, Iraq would have the full backing of the rest of the world.  It’s not happening.  They want us there.  If we left without being told to leave, not a nation on this planet would trust us for the next 100 years.  Imagine the impact that alone would have on our country, and that is aside from the invasion of the terrorists that would take place immediately.  We would be all alone, and innocent American civilians would be dying every day.

The troops are doing the very best they can to accomplish their mission.  It’s what they do, and they will do it until they finish or until they are pulled out.  President Bush may or may not have screwed up when he declared war on Saddam Hussein.  It’s water under the bridge.  We’re there, we have to win.  We have to stay there until we win, or American civilians are going to die.

The Democrats can complain about it until the cows come home, or until they are elected back into office.  Complaining is allowed in this country, and we’re all good at it.  But the Democrats’ intentions are my personal concern.  I don’t think any American voter really knows what the Democrats’ intentions are.  And I don’t understand how so many Americans can back a party that is so ambiguous about an issue with such serious implications. 

At least we know what’s going to happen with Republicans in charge, and the one thing they have proven is that they are capable of heading off terrorist attacks.  Whether we want to give them credit or not, the fact is that there haven’t been any.  That can’t be luck.  They’re doing something right.  And whatever it is, it’s important to me that they keep doing it.  The threat of another terrorist attack is there, but the action isn’t.  I’m ok with that.

I don’t get that “warm and fuzzy” from the Democrats.  I don’t believe they can protect us or that they understand what it takes to protect us.  If they did, wouldn’t they be telling us how they plan to do it?  I’d rather go with what I know, what I live, and what I see every day.
 
The troops understand what their job is – to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, both foreign and domestic.  They just want to do their job.  They understand that although they have opinions about the war, they all volunteered and signed on the dotted line.  It’s just like any other job:  you don’t have to like it all of the time, but you do have to do it.  If you don’t like it, change jobs.  It’s exactly that simple.

Since the hierarchy of the military is shaped like a triangle, with old soldiers at the top and new soldiers at the bottom, it is safe to assess that those who were in it for the paycheck and the education benefits are long gone.  What you have left in the military are Americans who understand what they’ve gotten themselves into.  The war didn’t start yesterday.  It’s no longer a surprise to unsuspecting soldiers.  They are there because they want to be there.

If we pull them out before they accomplish their mission, how can that be called “Supporting Our Troops”?

That said, I just can’t help but edit.  It’s sort of like a tick.  See words, edit words.

Bravo to John Kerry!  He’s a brave man who isn’t afraid of slime or slander and I value that in him enormously.

Sen Kerry,

As a veteran of Iraq and a retired officer, thank you.  I must admit it took me a while to figure out how the joke was botched and it was aimed at Bush.  I got the “aha” eventually.

Could everyone of us please learn that this is not an issue to be frivolous with, war is really not something to joke about.  So, when you go to joke about it you approach a dangerous place.  Too bad your poor delivery of the joke hurt people. 

Believe me, apology accepted.

Strangest “joke” I’ve ever seen.  Was there a set-up that I missed before you blew the punch-line?  Joke huh…

Thanks KJ.  It was very frustrating to be labeled as being anti-Kerry all day, as well as the constant post deletions.  There is a difference between diatribe and dialogue.  The former is just pedantic rehashing of the same position.  The latter involves discussion between differing viewpoints.  Unfortunately, dialogue was the victim here today…

I’m not anti-Kerry.  Far from it.  In fact I voted for him in 2004, and have supported him since.  I am though a political realist, and understand that there are times when you just have to do what is needed to fix a problem before it spirals out of control.

Kerry has a lot to say, but he needs to quit focusing on the elite and the intelligentsia, and start talking to, and not down to, middle America.  THAT will win us the White House in 2008.

WHO HAS THE REAL STONES AMONGST ANY OF YOU TO TELL BOEHNER NOT TO BLAME THE TROOPS FOR THE WAR IN IRAQ?

FROM TODAY AT AMERICABLOG:

Do Republican candidates around the country agree that the Iraq mess is the fault of US troops in Iraq?

My statement yesterday concerning the desperation of the Republican party and specially That coward chickenhawk Bush and his gang who takes advise and welcomes to the WH at anytime Henry Kissinger…read below

And now a word on our fighting men from a close advisor to President Bush
On the Iraq War:

_"Military men are dumb, stupid animals to be used as pawns for foreign policy.”

—Henry A. Kissinger, quoted by Monika Jensen-Stevenson, Kiss the Boys Goodbye, Dutton, 1990, Page 97, citing The Final Days, Woodward and Bernstein (Simon & Schuster, 1976)

If Bush receives and listens to this Former Sec he must feel that somewhat as good ole Henry since we know Bush boy does NOT keep anyone around him that does NOT have the same mind set!

Why all the hoopla about this comment.  Botched or not, this is just an elephant in the room comment.  Very few, if any people who are smart and can write a check for college enter the military.  Even the military knows this, that is why they advertise that they will pay for college.  I don’t know why it is a topic that no one is allowed to address.

Senator Kerry,

You absolutely did the right thing in pushing back when Republican hacks tried to divert the nation’s attention from the incompentency demonstrated in the White House and the failed policy in Iraq.

The Republicans are clutching at anything to maintain their power in congress and have only themselves to blame for allienting the American electorate.

Keep fighting the republican machine and showing them for what they are, “the worst administration in history”  We must do better and and we must defeat them for the survival of our country.

Posted by violet | November 1, 2006 6:03 PM

If you know anyone, tell them I’ll look at his statements beforehand—for nothing, no money, no credit— I just love to edit and I’d love to see John Kerry’s words hit their target in these kinds of situations.  ;-)

We need Missouri blue.  We’re red from the bottom up.  But we all need our country back.  That’s what unites us.

Hi All right-wingers,

What a relief it has been to find that you are more offended by a bad joke teller than by a paedophile.  (Than again most Republican’s couldn’t spell paedophile)

Anyhoo, I guess we can abuse Congressional Pages all we want and win this election while the country takes it’s eye off the ball.  I love running for office in an ignorant country.

Love,
Mark Foley

Tyger,

“Strangest “joke” I’ve ever seen. Was there a set-up that I missed before you blew the punch-line? Joke huh…”

Set up? The set up is a Presidential who lacks intellectual curiosity and does not apply his education. The set up is also a poorly conceived and unnecessary war which was managed incompetently.

This was just one of many jokes Kerry has told at Bush’s expense. He has joked about Bush often. John Kerry has never joked about, or insulted, the troops.

While some Republicans might want to blame the generals and troops on the ground, Harry Truman told us where the buck really stops.

......I love running for office in an ignorant country.

Love,
Mark Foley…....

I thought Mark Foley had resigned.

Mr. Kerry,

I wish you hadn’t apologized.  I think it’s disgusting that so much publicity has come out of one silly comment, but no one seems to care about government eavesdropping or global warming or the deficit or the Iraqi war.  Honestly, I think you should have stuck to your guns.  This is all a desperate attempt, again, to deflect the problems of the Republican party.  Honestly, I’m losing faith in the American public—it’ll probably work.

When was the last time Bush apologized?  Uh, never. 

A true fan,

Thais Fletcher

Senator Kerry,
I feel your joke was in poor taste regardless if you left the word “us” out of it.  To take a pot shot at our college students and military to get to the president was stupidity on your part.  And I feel you should make a public apology, not just the statement that you made on your website, to college students, our military and Americans for your distasteful joke.

Posted by Jim Waid | November 1, 2006 6:03 PM

The mods here may not have had the time or people power to parse the differences between diatribe and dialogue—due to the speed and number of the responses.  Comments were most likely scanned, despite the best intentions, and sentiments missed. 

You and I were able to have a conversation today and once I found out where you lived, I realized your comments weren’t anti-Kerry.  I will tell you that on-line Kerry supporters are a tough lot, and they are loyal.  I’m sure if you hang around here after this situation dies down, you’ll find you’re engaging with some pretty informed people that hold a wide range of views.

I am also a political realist, you can’t not be in rural red parts of this country!  but the difference between our positions today boiled down to this: I was confident that John Kerry would do the right thing—today—to stop this spiral, and he did.  You made your point over and over again probably in order to assure that you would be heard.  You were heard.  I knew you would be.  Really.

And yes, Kerry connects with middle America in a crowd, I can’t wait to see it happen more often on the teevee.  b;-)

Monica,

Try reading the beginning of the blog post you just posted on.

L Ford:

Senator Kerry -

I don’t understand why you felt any need to apologize for your remarks. Democrats have long known that only those forced by financial or educational pressure have opted for the military. There are no jobs in this country, and those who come up short have to do something. This is why Democrats are for the poor. So they don’t have to resort to enlisting. The military is mostly made up of poor minorities who don’t have other options. Why apologize for pointing this out?

Posted by L Ford | November 1, 2006 6:02 PM
—

Wow!  This of course is what keeps costing the Democrats the military vote, year, after year.  It’s just not true.  The vast majority of people enlist in the military because they CARE about this country so much they are willing to die to defend it.  The vast majority of the jobs in the military are made up of highly educated, trained, and skilled professionals.

As a political party we MUST stop this misguided, simplistic, and condescending view of those in the military.  This is not Viet Nam.  There is not a draft.  These people are volunteers.  If we want to win back the White House, we must stop insulting those in our military this way.  And yes, your entire post was insulting and condescending…

Too little, too late from a parent whose son is currently serving in Iraq.

Bet you don’t leave this up on your blog.  I am sure you edit it.  This was no misconstrued joke.  I watched the clip.  You should truly appologize for what you said.  The apology on your site is a nonapology.  Responsible men take responsibility for thier own actions. Be a man Senator.

Sen. Kerry,

As the daughter of a WWII Navy veteran, the sister and aunt of two peace time Navy sailors, and mother of two sons who served in the Navy and Marines respectively, I am hurt and angry at your comments. 

The apology was too little, too late and exceedingly insincere.

Your true feelings of condescending arrogance came through loud and clear in both the delivery of your comments and your initial lame attempts to justify them without apology.

In honor of my deceased father and all my family who are staunch Democrats, I say to you Senator Kerry, your apology is not accepted.

Where is the Democratic party of my father?

I’m sure this comment will not make it to the website.  But I have stated my opinion in the hopes that at least one person will read it and my point will be heard.

“Then join in hand, brave Americans all! By uniting we stand, by dividing we fall.
- John Dickinson, The Liberty Song of 1768”

May the God of our Founding Fathers Bless This Great Country and Guide the Hands, Hearts and Consciences of its Political Servants.

The Foley comment is telling: that fact is all this outrage is a phoney act. How can these easily outraged people be indifferent to a sexual predator or a President that said the war in Iraq made him “happy"sometimes?

And most of the critiques are from trolls too.

Sir - Yes, it was a clumsy comment, an easy target for those who jump at any misstep to redirect the conversation away from their misdeeds. I am a life-long Democrat, and combat veteran, who supported your 04 campaign. I also was a draftee during the Vietnam era, and believe wholeheartedly that military service then, as it is now, is a task, and an obligation that falls predominately to the low and middle classes. So I have no inherent problem with a reading of your comment at face value - but I do wish you would be a bit more precise in your public statements and comments, as Mr. Rove has proven himself quite capable of spinning any ill considered utterance into a polemic against the Progressive political position which I believe we both cherish. Thank you for your work in this regard.

Senator Kerry,

I understood your remarks all along and never construed them to be directed at the troops. They were only construed that way by media spin aimed at taking down Democrats. SHAME on those Democrats who failed to recognize that and failed to stand up for you. Those Democrats owe you an apology - but I won’t hold my breath.

That said, I am glad that you recognized that some people may have genuinely misunderstood your remarks - the fact that they only heard those remarks out of context, and were fed what to think, is not their fault - sadly, it is the norm in our society to accept this treatment from the media.

Thank you for this apology that you should not have needed to make in any sane world.

And thank you more than ever, sir, for your incredible efforts in the service of this country and our veterans. Anyone who knows your real record would not have misinterpreted your statement for one second.

pretty insulting.Am a major in the USAF Reserves…you are no class act

Posted by Ron Chusid | November 1, 2006 6:25 PM

My best is we would see the original man of steel if Kerry chooses to run in 2008.  :-)

And yes, I’ve enjoyed David Wade’s recent snarks.  There is an art to snark and I think he has it.

I did not mean to critize Kerry’s remarks or his speechwriters.  I just twinge sometimes when I read the statements and decided today to take a break from poetry submissions and jump in and move his words around.  Arrogant, but I meant well.

I hope John runs in 2008 and I hope the Dems take Congress in 2006.

Don’t apologize for what you said Mr. kerry. All of us veterans know exactly where you and the other liberal nut jobs stand when it comes to our troops. It is really sad for you to have such a disdain for our troops.  Im sure the other nutjobs in your party will celebrate and join you in making fun of and putting down our heroes in the military. I dont know why anyone is suprised by your recent comments. you and your fellow democrats have been lying and crapping on veterans and active duty military for years. Mr. Kerry your lies and false pretenses may work on those people who have never served, but it will not work for those that have served. Shame on you Mr. Kerry. My only hope is that the people in Massachusetts will not forget what you said and make you pay during your next election by showing you and the other ungrateful democrat jerks the door.. GOD BLESS AMERICA AND OUR TROOPS.

Ron, that would be David Waid, and not Wade you were referencing to.  I should know, he’s my first cousin…  As I said, I come from a LONG line of rabid Democrats, and I want us to WIN.  I’m just sick and tired of us shooting ourselves in the foot every time it looks like we’re going to do so.

Posted by Larry | November 1, 2006 5:49 PM

Give it up Larry, the “game” is over. The Republicans will lose next Tuesday.

If you had been a Republican and made an inappropriate remark, you would have followed the typical Republican response of apologize, change the subject and check into rehab.  We need to get this thing off the front burner and that would be to keep pounding at Bush’s countless failings.  It’s not only the Iraq issue, but also the complete disregard for the environment to include global warming.  Failing to complete the mission in Afghanistan is another biggie.  The list goes on.

Mr. Kerry, there is no way to not know that you gave a shot to our military and not Bush.  My husband just returned from Iraq in May and was almost killed.  He is a purple heart recipient because his vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb.  He also has a master’s degree and is a Major in the Army.  How dare you imply that our soldiers are stupid and have nothing going for them so they join the service.  These soldiers are patriotic and feel a call to protect our nation.  Thank God they do because what would America be without our troops protecting us?  Agree or not agree with the war, but if you have not walked a day in their shoes then you have no right to bash them.  You can hate a war but you can support the men and women in uniform that stand on the wall for everyone, including you that hate them.  You can not back track out of this one, the damage is done and you spoke how you felt.  I will never forget it and neither will any other service member and family that you insulted.  I have no respect left for you and I did vote for you in the last election.  However, I have nothing for you now.  I was without my husband for 2 years and my children did not have their father.  This is the thanks they get from you for their sacrifices, not to mention thosel that have given all…...their lives.  I am sorry but your failed attempt at an apology falls on deaf ears.

Posted by Rod | November 1, 2006 6:41 PM

Maybe if you piped down and listened, or read, you might discover solutions offered by Demoracts.  Just a thought.  Check around this site, come back and discuss.  It’s done all the time.  :-)

Jim Waid,

Sorry for the spelling error. If he is your cousin I certainly am not going to argue the spelling, but note the spelling I used (even if incorrect) is quite common in the media. For example:

“We made a decision not to allow the Republican hate machine to use Democratic candidates as proxies in their distorted spin war,” said David Wade, a Kerry spokesman, in a statement.

http://www.phillyburbs.com/pb-dyn/news/103-11012006-735472.html

As for shooting ourselves in the foot, granted Kerry messed up in leaving out a word, but I wonder if anyone out speaking as much as Kerry, and under as much scrutiny, could avoid saying anything that couldn’t be twisted like this.

Yes, Senator Kerry, the art of communication is not what you think you said nor what you believed your intent was; it’s what the listeners hear.  I’m certain your apology will be graciously accepted.

PS I added the URL to the Enternal Word Television Network, Global Catholic Network.  Very, very interesting reading can be found there.

“As for shooting ourselves in the foot, granted Kerry messed up in leaving out a word, but I wonder if anyone out speaking as much as Kerry, and under as much scrutiny, could avoid saying anything that couldn’t be twisted like this.”
~~Posted by Ron Chusid | November 1, 2006 6:47 PM

Agreed.  I also think it points to the level of frustration in ‘wingers, who are, for whatever reasons, unable to express outrage with the disaster that is Iraq and Afghanistan.  I should say, Iraq and Afghanistan and American domestic and foreign policy.

Later, all.  Homemade stew calling.

You’re slow John, real slow!  And the poorly worded statement your staff came up with does not qualify as an apology.  If you had been under my command I would have chewed your backside and sent you back out in front of a camera and the troops.  You can’t have it both ways; and that’s exactly what I think you’re trying to do with your “joke” and your joke of an “apology”.  Go to Iraq on the next MAC flight and spend 96 hours in country with the grunts “apologizing” to them in person!

Mr Kerry,

As a natural born citizen of this great country, daughter of a disabled Vietnam Vet, granddaughter of a WWII vet, wife of a Gulf War Vet, I cannot accept your insincere apology.  First, you try to say that it was a botched joke.  Well, I for one am tired of all the negative bashing that goes on in the political arena.  I am no more fond of President Bush and the Republican Party than I am of you or any of the Democrats.  There was a time when Political Service meant something, but that seems to have vanished with the growth of power and media.  Its obvious that you cannot comprehend how hurtful your words are because you, like all of your Political counterparts, are too busy trying to win elections rather than trying to actually serve this country.  Your words, even had the entire line been said, are simply unfair and wrong for students and our servicemen and women.  I doubt you will ever actually read this, and should any of your staff condescend to read what the “common people” have to say, I’m sure it won’t get back to you.  In the end, you will face God and have to explain your behavior to him.  I hope he has mercy on your soul.

Could someone tell me WHY Congressman Boehner insists that the fault for Iraq’s prolonged war on the ground is the TROOPS?

What kind of leadership is THAT?

And WHY doesn’t HE apologize???????

Senator Kerry,

Regardless of the real intent of your botched joke, the sad fact is you were absolutely correct.

Most of our current men and women are in the armed services by little choice if they want something they don’t have nor can afford, an education.

I had the sad honor of growing up during the Vietnam war.  That war too, put the least likely to succeed in front of bullets and horrifying booby traps.  Regardless of Race, if you couldn’t afford to go to college, you went to Vietnam or to Canada.

To avoid deployment to Vietnam you enlisted and were given a choice of other deployments.  My brother and several cousins were in service at that time.  All my cousins went to Nam, my brother, who enlisted was Air Force in Tiawan.

The facts are clear, there are no jobs for those who struggled through school, those jobs are now in other countries.  What choice do these folks have if they want to earn a ‘living?’  They enlist in the Armed Services.

So, who really should say, “I’m sorry,” are those responsible for educating our children.  It’s very clear that educational equality at any level does not exist.

Your comments were not insulting, they merely pointed out a simple unavoidable fact.

It’s a shame you had to take such a backlash from those ill educated in the administration.  I’m sorry for those who attempted to judge you they are in no position to be judging anything, not even a cake eating contest.

Botched or not, you still spoke the truth.  I’ll forever defend your right and accuracy to state grim realities that are this country.

Mr.Kerry you’r so funny hehehaahaa hoohohoh (from Mr. tickle me extreme Elmo)

Hi Senator Kerry,

(KJ, please do not edit my post. BTW, you crack me up!)

As a conservative I shouldn’t look a gift horse in the mouth, however, I believe the exceptionally poor “joke” was just that; an exceptionally stupid joke!

Campaigns on both sides this election year have been ruthless (yes, you too Democrats). This thread reminds me of the Republican threads after the “Macaca” incident. How about the Webb campaign drudging up George Allens alleged use of the “N” word 30 years ago to portray him as a racist? How about Allen’s campaign reviewing the fictional works of Jim Webb to come up with illicit content in order to portray him as a deviant? People throwing oreos at Michael Steele? What about Michael J. Fox and that whole kerfuffle? I find all these things disgusting, irrelevant and counterproductive.

I have yet to see or hear any candidate’s political ad this year which actually discussed said candidate’s position on the issues. Rather we get, “I’m Dirk Asstard and I’m running on the anyone but my opponent platform”. The funny thing is that is seems just peachy to us voters as we are quick to support.

We as Americans, whether Democrat or Republican, need to demand more from our elected officials and our candidates!

Sen. Kerry was right to apologize for the misunderstanding and should have done it yesterday. We (repugs I believe you like to call us) should not have tried to capitalize on this poor attempt at humor.

Everyone needs to just chill out and lighten up ya bunch of Macacas. Bring civility back to political discourse.

Lug, out

sen john kerry i have two sons in the marines one has been to iraq and afg and the other one is getting ready to go now   and the one son is trying to stay in the marines now and i a sure you that my sons finshed school and are both vey smart young men and i am very proud of all our guys in the miltary for wanting to fight for your and my freedom   and i hope as a parent that all the people in the USA feel the same way   god bless our men and women they are very smart to stick up for the USA BOTH MY BOYS WILL BE IN IRAQ IN 2007

To John Kerry:
I don’t understand you,  how can you apologize for a bad joke.  Heck, when you were in the military there was the draft and if you didn’t get a college deferment you could very likely end up in Viet Nam unless you got a priviledged appointment to join the Reserve like some idots we know.  You have to attack the idots in charge, ie. best defence is a good offence.  Where is the courage, bravery, military training you showed when you were in the military.  Take the gloves off for once.
Whoever is advising you needs some backbone.

When will George W. Bush apologize for recklessly taking the nation to war?

When will he apologize for lying to the United States Congress when he stated that “Approving this resolution does not mean that military action is imminent or unavoidable. It means “America speaks with one voice.”

We know from the Downing Street Memos that George Bush had made the decision in July 2002 to go to war in Iraq.  He had no intention of allowing the weapons inspectors to certify that Hussein was in compliance with the various UN resolutions. 

When will President Bush apologize for his crimes against democracy, and against the United States Constitution?

I’m curious.  What kind of people don’t accept an apology?
I’m not sure how some of you ‘know’ what the Senator meant.  He misspoke, he explained what he really meant to say, and when he discovered people were still offended, he apologized for offending them.  The apology is sincere.  Anyone who hears or reads it with an open mind can see that.
Senator Kerry’s remark was intended for Bush.  George Bush.  The person who actually DID insult the troops and all Americans with his WMD ‘joke’.  Bush, who said he doesn’t think much about Osama bin Laden while our troops are fighting and dying in the ME.  Think about that for a minute.
Personally, I think Sen Kerry should direct a few more attacks at Don “you go to war with the army you have, not the army you wish you had” Rumsfeld. 
Some of you are actually attacking Sen Kerry for a mistake and leave Bush and Rummy to belittle our troops and insult the majority of Americans who disagree with their disasterous policies.
Honestly, why do Bush and Rumsfeld deserve a pass for their INTENTIONAL swipes at the military, and yet a failed swipe at Bush is cause for such vitriol?
Today, Bush said “Anyone who is in a position to serve this country ought to understand the consequences of his words.”  I say look in the mirror, Mr Bush.  You’ve attacked American citizens with your poorly chosen words more times than I care to remember. 
 
Remember, people ... dissent is patriotic.  Blindly following failed leadership is not.

As I wife of a marine currently serving in Iraq. I am deeply personally offended at the supposed “Botched Joke”. I believe that was excuse was used after he realized the outrage at his statment. I can assure Mr. Kerry that both myself and my husband are highly educated people who come from a long line of military service. Mr Kerry’s comment shows uneducation on his part as well as a total lack of respect for the men and woman of the armed forces as well as their families.  I am very proud of my husbands choice to serve we could be making a much better living in the civilian sector but unfortunatly defending freedom and the right to free speech means defending the jerks in the world such as Mr. Kerry. He may have served his country in the past but he is doing us all a great injustice now. I demand for my fellow military families a full apology none of this botched joke bull.

First of all, I think the Senator has nothing to apologize for.  He was not speaking disparagingly about our troops.  As a veteran, Kerry, better than most of his non military critics, can speak to the fact that if you are kind of lost as either a high school grad or drop out, the military option is a more viable option than a dead end minimum wage job.  It doesn’t mean that they are not intelligent.  They weigh their options, because they can’t afford school or aren’t motivated and they see the military as a way to better themselves. 
We’re not talking about officers, we’re talking about the grunts.
Respecting and honoring the military means supporting them while the war is going on as well as when they come home and they need extensive medical care.  Where is the money for that?
Make that the Democrat talking point.  Take a lesson from Karl Rove.

Audrey:

Just to correct you, Senator Kerry is not a member of this pResident’s cabinet. You see a Senator is elected by his constituents in his/her state. This pesident’s cabinet is filled by one party and all their corporate interests, Republicans.

They don’t trust Senator’s like John Kerry because he actually does oversight on crooks and liars ( Iran Contra/ BCCI).

John Kerry came into office in 1985, while George Bush was failing ( in every business he touched) and boozing. Some of those partners that he failed in business with are part of his administration now. Along with those of his brain (Karl Rove). So please don’t confuse the two.

I posted this morning on something here, a little after 08:00, but all the comments from that time seem to have disappeared, so I’m repeating myself.

Mr. Kerry, 
Perhaps you could go read my poem to the president, as I am not likely to have that opportunity.

Coming Home

Ask him what it looks like
To watch a buddy die.
Ask her when the light goes out,
when blankness greets her eye.
Ask about the sunshine
That doesn’t stop for death.
Ask about the feeling
When nothing else is left.

When coming home to people
Who haven’t lived a war,
Pasting on a phony smile,
With tired heart still sore,
Just try to face the sunshine
That doesn’t stop for death,
And try to face the feeling
When nothing else is left.

Maybe you could explain it to him, having been through Viet Nam.

Dear Senator Kerry,
I don’t know if you will ever be able to read this but if you do I would like for you to know that I think you are a good and honest man and that if anyone needs to apologize to our country it should be Mr. Bush a few bloched words can be said by anyone but men and women’s lives can never be given back. Ihope you never give up fighting for our country. I work with three year olds ,a simple daycare teacher, I am not fooled by the republican antics because they remind me of the children I teach [very predictable ]right down to Mrs. Cheney’s sad sob “Can we talk about a childrens book?” to George Bush’s “Your doin a good job Browne” Its all so manipulated for the American people.I know it had to be hard to give the apology but you are a better and stronger man for it and thats how it will go in the History books someday.The people in America who cant understand the truth about Iraq are like parents who are to wrapped up in there own lifes to busy to listen to there children,they only hear what they want,they think the only way to win a child’s respect is through force.We use a phrase at school that merely say’s,“USE YOUR WORDS” I think Mr Bush has never been very good at this .He is the one who should be apologizing not you!

Senator Kerry,

I think the joke was in poor taste, as were your comments that folks who didn’t get it were “stupid”. The apology, while welcome, came late and looks politically motivated.

The explanation that you weren’t insulting the troops, but rather the President is no consolation. We are at war. What’s worse; insulting the troops or insulting their commander-in-chief? Many of the fine men and women serving in this war are there specifically because they’re trying to do something about terrorism. Are they foolish for their support of our policies in Iraq and Afghanistan? To publicly fault our president in the midst of a war insults the intelligence of thinking men and women who are serving overseas by their own choice, many of whom have set aside their careers and lives to serve. We must stand together on this war and defeat these enemies who seek to destroy our way of life.

Disagreement is fine, but egregious insults levied at those leading our efforts are, at this time, most inappropriate.

I’m sorry, usually I don’t delight in bashing Americans, but just this once, I’m gonna pose this question to the lot of you….what in the world is WRONG with you people? How can you keep bothering over such a meaningless “mistake”?
Is there anyone in the world who can seriously and honestly tell me they are ignorant and/or unintelligent enough to actually suspect John Kerry, a Vietnam veteran, of having low thoughts of the men and women who are currently in that same horrible situation he once was? I just cannot believe this cheap attack is actually being taken seriously by anyone except the people who personally have something to gain by making Kerry look bad.

Mr. Kerry Sir,

    This joke was not offensive at all to any of the millitary members I know, and I know quite a few.  I am an MArine Corps Vetran of OIF, and found this joke to be quite funny actualy, whether or not the joke was ment the way the nut-jobs say that you ment it or not.  Myself and my fellow Marine Corps Vertans find both equaly amusing!!

You know, Brenda, my three boys are grown now, but when people at work talk about hitting their children to get them to behave, I tell them I tried hitting my kids for a little while, but it didn’t teach them to behave, it taught them to hit to get what they want.  Now we know how Bush was raised.

I have seen the tape of your speech and I have seen the transcript of your words.  I also read the “intended speech”.

Someone, please correct me if I am wrong, but I don’t remember seeing a Power Point presentation behind you so that we could read along.  To offer in your apology that:

“I sincerely regret that my words were misinterpreted to wrongly imply anything negative about those in uniform, and I personally apologize to any service member, family member, or American who was offended.”

Are we now supposed to be mind readers to interpret what you meant to say?  What you said and what you say you ‘intended’ to say are quite different.  Come on, give me a break.  I just don’t see it!

It is quite bothersome to me that people can be so rapped up in other people, that they will believe anything they say.

I hope that more of your supporters are seeing just how pompous you are…

I don’t like the fact that we are at war; however, we could NOT, not do anything after 911.  If it had been up to the ‘liberal left wing’ we would have done nothing.  All you have to do is look at our youth to see that the ‘liberal do-nothing’ stance doesn’t work.

Hey!  Give Jane a call… she may can give you some pointers. 

Although I have not sit here and read every comment; T Self about sums it up.  Thank you T.

PS - For the ‘liberals’ that will take issue to my comments; don’t bother blasting me.  I have had my say and do not plan to visit this site again.  God Bless our troops!!  You are in my prayers daily!

I don’t think you needed to apologize, but since it is so close to the election, it was the safest way to go.

I think the Republicans were just waiting for some distraction to pounce on and make a giant issue to distract the prospective voters on the Iraq war and also how they will likely lose the house.

I’m sorry Imus was so cross with you also this morning.  Imus is a favorite of mine, and I always enjoy his interviews with you and others.  I’m sorry he didn’t let you explain your position.

Good luck and thanks for your all you have done for our country.

G-Man:
any more buildings blown down since 9/11??
thank you for your fortitude Mr. Bush!

Posted by G-Man | November 1, 2006 7:28 PM

G-Man:

Any more Weapons of Mass Destruction found in Iraq?

Any more Iraqi civilians we can find to kill? (HINT: We’ve already killled over 650,000 of them)

Any more US or coalition dead? (Try 2,815)

No thanks to you for your ineptitude Mr. Bush!!!

From the AP:

http://www.dfw.com/mld/dfw/news/breaking_news/15904309….

Kerry gaffe shows pols must self-edit
2006/11

By JOCELYN NOVECK, AP National Writer 13 minutes ago

NEW YORK - We‘ll never really know if Marie Antoinette said “Let them eat cake.” But we‘d certainly know if she made that infamous (and perhaps fictional) political gaffe today: The video would have thousands of YouTube hits within an hour.

Which is why, analysts say, Sen. John Kerry ‘s much-quoted remarks on education and Iraq , which he apologized for Wednesday, show that now more than ever, danger lurks when a politician strays off script. And it shows that successful politicians (and their staffs) must hone a few crucial skills: listening to yourself speak, and correcting a mistake the minute it happens
...

“What‘s lost in all this is any genuine discussion of the issue,” says Cohen, professor of public policy at Columbia University. “Have we made mistakes in Iraq? Where should we go now? The questions have instead become, ‘Is John Kerry disrespectful to troops?‘ and ‘Is George Bush stupid?‘”

“It happens to people who give lots of speeches — you get tired, and you start to abbreviate,” says Jamieson. “It wouldn‘t be like Kerry to criticize the troops — it‘s perfectly plausible that he was trying to joke about Bush.”

“I‘m hard pressed to find a politician since Barry Goldwater who‘s had his words used against him so many times by the opposition,” Jamieson said.

Of course, President Bush has gotten into his share of trouble when he‘s gone “extemporaneous.” To cite just one example, he was ridiculed during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina for saying “Brownie, you‘re doing a heckuva job” to Michael Brown, who soon lost his job as chief of the Federal Emergency Management Agency amid bitter criticism of his performance.

All I have to say is RIGHT ON. Keep it real. This comes from a TRUE WORKING AMERICAN. Thanks! Coule you please come to New Orleans and run for office?

This is a letter to G-Man:  I figure the biggest reason no more buildings have gone down since 9/11 is that it suits the terrorists to keep the man who is doing the least about them, and the most to recruit for them, in power.  I figure we are due for some saber-rattling from Osama over the weekend to try to sway the election, just like he did in 2004.  It sure as hell worked last time!

I thought the comment you made about education and the military was not right at all. I have been in the service for 13 years and have a college degree. If you want to make comments about Bush then do it to Bush. Do not bend it off to the military. You were in the service and it doesn’t sound like you are proud of that at all. If you have a problem with your life do not take other people down with it. What I am doing is giving you the right to say what you want by being a soldier. Be very careful what you say cause it will hurt you in the long run.

Dear Mr. Kerry,

I unlike many actually interpreted your comments in a different manner. As a straight A student from a working class background, who worked a part-job, excelled in extracurricular activities and gave back to my community, I still found a college education out of my reach because of the hugh tuition hikes and cutbacks in federal aid to college students.

The only way I and many of my friends could afford a college education was through the ROTC, and this is how I found myself in Iraq.

When I read your comments, I did not think you were calling the troops in Iraq “Uneducated”, I thought you were referring to the many many of us who are now not only putting our lives on the line for our country, but also possibly paying for that college education with our lives.

I do not complain because I am a proud very highly educated intelligent serviceman.

But I do get angry when the policies of the Bush Administration and the Republican Party, have asked me to put my life on the line for what should be the right of every American - AN AFFORDABLE EDUCATION.

Turn on Keith Olbermann NOW

Thanks, Ron.  Watching Olbermann.

Here Debbie,

Just send this to Senator Kerry

Not Coming Home

Tell him what it looks like
to watch your buddy die.
Describe how the light goes out
when a blank stare greets your eye.

This fate feared by every soldier
and yet they stand steadfast
to defend our country
and save your sorry ass.

And then the soldiers body
is sent home to bury
is met with scorn and disdain
by Senator John F. Kerry.

Maye it was a botched joke or a freudian slip… who cares. I started teaching grade school in l971… Viet Nam still raged… teacher pupil ratios were 49 to 1… those children are now trying to raise their children and to support them they joined the National Guard… there are no manufacturing jobs, the housing industry is a joke, when all the contractors employed have no insurance, sick leave, or vacation pay… we have wasted so much time and money on effing war… Viet Nam ruined my life, and now I watch as Iraq is ruining the next two generations… none of those men would have joined up if they had decent jobs.
It’s time to beat swords into plowshares… so no one educated or uneducated, skilled or unskilled, will be stuck in Iraq.

Mr Kerry:
    I wish you had apologized to anyone who’d misconstrued your comments earlier. I know you didn’t mean to insult service members but, no matter the intent, you did insult some of them. People will perceive what they will perceive. Your first comments in regard to this, saying that you wouldn’t apologize and, that the President should apologize for the war in the first place, didn’t take into account the feelings and perceptions of any service members who were offended. I appreciate that you did apologize, at last. you didn’t have to apologize for what was said but, for how it was received.

Bush’s immoral joke:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0TnqUlB4Gg

I want everyone who has come here and criticized John Kerry becaue they interpret his words as not supporting the troops to put their money where their mouth is and go to the website anysoldier.com, and send a donation, or better yet, a letter and a Xmas present to a soldier on the list.  Then come back here and tell me you did it.

president kerry (2008)
  mr kerry i feel that we democrats have the GOP very worried about the upcoming elections.it is absolutely ridiculous for anyone to think that a speaker and person of your intelligence would mean anything negative towards individual troops in iraq.john mccain jumped all over the chance to smear mr kerry after that interview.theres nothing really to talk about concerning this.what is important to talk about that we all still back you in your efforts and pray that you will run in the year 2008.you have dedicated the last 30 years to your country while george bush was playing games owning a baseball team.its sad that it todays world the republican voters are so close minded they could put anyone up as candidates and they would vote for them.anyways everyone still back john in his efforts and vote for a new beginning next week.

Keith Olbermann’s special comment re: JK and apologies coming up soon…

mr kerry i will be breif i can not believe the statement that you made joking or not . my son is in the u.s. army (who did sign on at war time) we are very proud of what he has done for this and his country. for you to make a statement like that when you rise and fall daily under the very protection that he has sworn to uphold for each and every one of us. i dont think a very smart person would make a statement like that, and you want to run this country i dont think so!

105. That’s the number of our troops killed in Iraq in October, the 4th highest total of the war.  The New York Times reports on Monday that we have weapons lost in Iraq, weapons that might be in use against our troops, that we can’t even trace because the Pentagon didn’t bother to record their serial numbers.  Today, the New York Times reports that Central Command is drawing up PowerPoint slides that show that Iraq is dangerously close to falling into total chaos.

Sen. Kerry, I’m sorry this whole episode came up. I’m sorry that we have a media that thinks more about verbal gaffes and what is and isn’t a joke than it does about our actual troops in Iraq and what this country is doing to safeguard them and bring them home.

Most of all I’m sorry that the focus of this discussions is not on the veterans, active duty troops and friends and family of people currently serving in Iraq.  It’s the bungling of this Administration that is endangering and disrespecting our troops, not misquoted words in a speech. 

Keep fighting the fight. I know where your real focus is. I heard it in that speech at Faneuil Hall where you said that this war is immoral, not because of those you called ‘our heroes’ but because of those in high office who have failed ‘our heroes.’ Keep up the real fight for better health care, for better protection and security for our troops and most of all, keep up the fight to get our government to withdraw from this immoral war. That is what we need all our best people to do. That is what really matters. Thanks!

I heard a comment today that struck home.  The comment was that the media allowed Bush to joke about not finding weapons of mass detruction and pretending there were no wmd under his desk.

People laughed.

Yet, I want to tell you about Lila who saw that same clip and cried.  Because Lila’s lost her son in the Iraq war because of the lie about wmd.  Yet Bush joked.  He hammed it up.

No reporters blinked an eye.

When will people stop excusing Bush, Rummy, And Cheney for their lies, their exagerations, their jokes, and their smearings?

When your child comes home in a casket is it the result of a lie in 2002?

Common people.  Get your priorities straight!  Bush, Rummy, and Cheney, the same people who Bush still says is doing a great job have caused the death of close to 3000 soldiers and the mutilation of more and the death of hundreds of thousands Iraqis.

Thank God that John Kerry understands this.  I’m sickened by the other Democrats who sit siliently.

I hope they know their silence is complicity!

Dear Senator Kerry:
Please note that I am a registered Independent and found your comment somewhat troubling to me. I believe you that the “Right Wing Conspiracy….under the direction of Karl Rove” placed those comments into your mouth. Next time, think before you speak since this son of an American Veteran took offense to this. Better yet…just apologize rather than continue to make half-hearted ones.

“As a combat veteran, I want to make it clear to anyone in uniform and to their loved ones: my poorly stated joke at a rally was not about, and never intended to refer to any troop.”

I just wanted to make sure that the first line of this post was showing up on everyone’s computer in case those of you who still think he was talking about the military are having display problems.

Amazing that some people don’t know how to properly accept a clearly stated explanation and apology.

Sen. Kerry,

Don’t worry about how the media handles this little misunderstanding.  You merely stated a simple fact and then all hell broke loose.  Some of our party’s leaders are using this to modify their own public profiles, and it’s a bit pathetic.  (I won’t give any names, but let’s just say these folks have got nothing on you for 2008).

What you said about getting “stuck in Iraq” hits the truth like never before.  Of course, students who do poorly in school are likely to have narrower options than those who do well.  There is a real possibility that underachieving students may at some point turn to the military as a career option.  A person in such a vulnerable position today would most likely end up fighting an unwinnable war.  You committed no wrongdoing by telling the truth.

Don’t apologize too much.  I’m writing this message from Thailand (I’ve been in Asia for the past four years waiting for regime change at home).  Here I’ve learned that more face is lost when apologizing than when one pretends that nothing happened.  Profuse apology causes everyone to lose face.  Just let it go.  Let the right-wing media make themselves red in the face.  You’re above all that. 

In 2000, a secret service agent had overheard VP Gore saying something similar to his son, who was then in high school.  Referring to secret service agents in the immediate vicinity, Gore said, “you’d better do good in school, or else you’ll end up like these guys.”  The press never caught wind of it, as back in those days, we had the media on our side.  I am confident we may someday have it that way again!

Derrick Credito

Dear Sir:

    While I am glad that you apologized for your poor joke, I still think your intention to insult the President was foolish and idiotic….and I voted for you in the Presidential election!!  This week’s “poor joke” fiasco is reminiscent of last week’s comments by Rush Limbaugh, in which he poked fun of Michael J. Fox’s condition.  Whether it be Democrat or Republican…when are you people (politicians) going to get it?!  Stop the personal attacks and mud-slinging!  You guys open your big mouths to insult the other party and it blows up in your face.  Both parties are guilty and it needs to stop…especially when we are less than a week away from the election!

I don’t accept your apology because it wasn’t done because it was how you feel.  You did it because you were pressured to by republicans and democrats.  I would have accepted it if you have tried to make your joke and then said, right away, “excuse me I’m sorry that isn’t what I meant to say.”  But you lashed out and blamed other people for your mistake.  The point isn’t that you made a mistake, it’s that you refused to atone for it.  Even once you did apologise, you still didn’t accept responsibility, you tried to spin it again.  I don’t trust you and I am asking you nicely, please don’t run to represent my state again.  It’s not just about this issue, this is just a symptom.

The Honorable Senator Kerry,

I support your words, understood your message, and appreciate your principled stand. It is appropriate for statesmen to apologize and clarify confusion, and, as you have done, remain steadfast in your resolve. Continue the fight. Thank you. You have my continued support.

[More thoughts at link under my name.]

KO’s special comment on now!

But Tammy, Senator Kerry has never has any antipathy toward the troops.  How do you expect him to apologize for something he’s stated he never felt?

Olbermann rocks!  Mr Bush, you are NOT the United States of America.
Bush MUST apologize.

This is a must-see.

What a sad state of affairs.

It certainly proves AGAIN that “comedy” should be left to the professionals like Letterman and Leno.  Or even aspiring comedians at the comedy clubs.  Let’s hope you learned a valuable lesson:  Comedy isn’t easy.                     

On the OTHER hand, I doubt GW understood your slip up until it was pointed out to him.  There is NO doubt in my mind that GW’s comments and demand for an apology were “politically” motivated.

And where does that leave the average American??  I can’t speak for all, but it sure leaves me wondering why “you” folks are running things.  It seems to me that’s the biggest question that comes out of all this recent situation.

Bill.

Cody Noren:

First of all, thank you for your service.  My brother retired a few years ago as a Chief Petty Officer after 24 years of service to the US Navy, 6 active, 18 in the Reserves. I was very proud to be there for his retirement ceremony and to wish him ‘fair winds and following seas,’ along with a lot of others. It was a very proud day indeed to acknowledge the sacrifices his family made to make that service possible.

I agree with you. The focus should be on the real problems being faced by our troops, those serving currently in Iraq and on rotation to serve again and on the families who have to sacrifice so much at home for this country.

There is a recent documentary that Sen. Kerry asked people to watch about how some people are getting very rich off of the situation in Iraq and how our troops are getting shafted. This is called ‘Iraq for Sale’ and it talks specifically about the contractor scams in Iraq and how some people, like those connected to the giant KBR division of Halliburton are making a lot of money off of this war. We need to get the word out on this.

It is unbelievable that this discussion has gone on and on about a bungled joke when we have real problems to talk about. If the apology at the top of this thread helps to put more focus back on Iraq and back on the actual men and women serving this country and on how we can better help them while on active duty and after that when they come home, then so much the better.  That is what ‘our troops’ deserve.

Again, thank you for your service. It means a lot to hear from people who are walking the walk, so to speak and who know what is really going on.

Tammy

As someone who was at the event on Monday I can assure you what John Kerry has said was taken out of context. He went on to speak about Iraq right after he make the comment. It was only hours later that right wing news and blog took what he said and twisted it. Sadly people only hear what they want to hear sometimes and when a soundbite is repeated out of context then it can easily be misconstrued.

I don’t think there are many people who have not had their words misconstrued by others.

Keep up the good fight, Senator Kerry. We’re fighting right beside you and we’re not going anywhere. :)

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=bush+stumble

could this be an answer…..

Ron, funnily enough there is I believe, a David Wade who works directly for Senator Kerry.  My cousin, David Waid is the chairman of the Democratic Party in the state of Arizona.  Too many David Waid/Wade’s!  LOL

Stephen,

Even as a blunder, the comment about achieving higher education was right on the money.  The NCLB and the elimination of jobs for the middle class and the poor has created the environment where only a high school diploma (and poor grades) may leave the military as the only choice.

Furthermore, the NCLB has explicitly mandated that the students’ personal information be forwarded to the military.  I know from experience that the higher achievers are sent recruitment solicitations to the Academy while the poor scorers are recruited for the front lines. 

The comment of elitism isn’t from John Kerry’s mouth.  It’s quite a misinterpretation to find that John Kerry is supporting elitists schools with his comment—particularly since he’s worked all his life to make sure education is properly funded for all economic classes.

However, the fact remains that the few people who have driven this country into the ground have never served and they have underfunded education, taken away jobs, and left no options available for the middle-class and poor.

And they’re not dumb. Put your arrogance aside and go visit them.

Posted by David | November 1, 2006 9:11 PM

He HAS visited—at least twice I know of.  And he met with many over there who shared their concerns about what is happening.

Mr. Kerry,
    I believe your comment was not at all poorly stated, and that it was just jumped on by your critics, namely Republicans, who would rather divert attention from their faults then focus on what is good for our country. You should never have had to “apologize” for your truthful observation in any case. Keep up the good fight.
                                -Jonathan

In looking at the past few blogs, I am left with nothing but incredulity. Besides those brave few who have the courage to make an independent critical analysis of what happened here, I’m left with two clear things to say to each camp of Senator Kerry’s enemies:

To the Republicans who have posted: even if Kerry HAD been mocking the men and women in uniform, and more broadly those hare-brained enough to vote for a party and president that promulgate policies that result in having their children killed for no good reason, you people here have proved the point - even if it was a point that YOU wanted to hear and not one that was actually made. To those with family members in the military crying “Shame on You…”, I say: Shame on you for being incapable of admitting your own mistakes with regards to supporting this government that is putting your children in harm’s way and for your inability to take responsibility for your actions. Shame on you for smearing a man who has done nothing but fight for your rights, and for the well-being of the troops. Shame on you for not bothering to think things through and for failing to do your research properly. And to those who, like the quasi-totality of the Bush administration, are too cowardly to serve but have no problem sending other people to their deaths: shut up, will you? You have nothing to contribute to anything, let alone democratic discourse.

To the “cut and run” Democrats: Shame on you, too, for repeating the endless mistake of taking your cues from the GOP playbook. Stabbing your own in the back and virtually goose-stepping to the cancerous breathing of Rove and Mehlman is a reason why we keep losing, and they keep winning. They want us to do it, and you cowards drop your weapons at the first sight of the enemy and wave the white flag. The criticism of Democrats as lacking a spine applies to you, and certainly not to Senator Kerry. Above all, if you have it left in you, don’t forget how much the Senator has done for so many of your local candidates.

To John McCain: Sleeping around too much eventually results in no-one wanting to touch you with a cattleprod. Your valued service notwithstanding, stabbing your old friends in the back won’t ensure that your new “friends” will stay in bed with you. 

And finally, to Senator Kerry: I am dismayed that you were forced to apologize, but I understand why you eventually had to. I understand why you refused to do so, and for that you retain, and enhance, my highest respect for you. The road to hell is paved with good intentions; ultimately, you can hold your head high. History is on your side - if it is written properly. Sir - again, my deepest respects.

Posted by wife of soldier | November 1, 2006 9:16 PM

Really?  Sounds like a complete 10 second spin to me.

Let’s discuss true flip flopping.

1.  “This vote does not mean we are going to war…”  GWB right before he bagan the Iraq war.

2.  “We have never tortured anyone…”  GWB, Ashcroft, Cheney…etc…  “We waterboard people…it’s a no-brainer.”

3.  “We don’t have secret prisons with torture throughout Europe…”  GWB.. just recently, “We have had and continue to have secret prisons in Europe and that’s why we need to ‘define torture and the Geneva Conventions…”

That’s just a start.  So when they say this, are they filp-flopping or flat out lying!

Senator Kerry: 
You did not have to apologize.  It is unfortunate that so many people lack common sense in judging you.  You have done so much for our veterans.  I want to thank you for all you have done in helping our veterans and devoting so much time and energy in helping the democratic candidates by raising so much money to help them win their elections.  I was deeply saddened when I heard some of these candidates had said for you to stay away from their camp.  They should return the money you gave them.  As for John McCain and Hilliary, they should be ashamed of themselves for their unkind comments.
Keep on fighting Sen. Kerry - you have my full support.

I believe I said this.  But here are some very wise words from KO…

A brief reminder, Mr. Bush: You are not the United States of America.

You are merely a politician whose entire legacy will have been a willingness to make anything political; to have, in this case, refused to acknowledge that the insult wasn’t about the troops, and that the insult was not even truly about you either, that the insult, in fact, is you.

So now John Kerry has apologized to the troops; apologized for the Republicans’ deliberate distortions.

Thus, the president will now begin the apologies he owes our troops, right?

This president must apologize to the troops for having suggested, six weeks ago, that the chaos in Iraq, the death and the carnage, the slaughtered Iraqi civilians and the dead American service personnel, will, to history, “look like just a comma.”

This president must apologize to the troops because the intelligence he claims led us into Iraq proved to be undeniably and irredeemably wrong.

This president must apologize to the troops for having laughed about the failure of that intelligence at a banquet while our troops were in harm’s way.

This president must apologize to the troops because the streets of Iraq were not strewn with flowers and its residents did not greet them as liberators.

This president must apologize to the troops because his administration ran out of “plan” after barely two months.

This president must apologize to the troops for getting 2,815 of them killed.

This president must apologize to the troops for getting this country into a war without a clue.

And Mr. Bush owes us an apology for this destructive and omnivorous presidency.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15519404/

AND I’ll say independently that it’s time for the Democrats to stand up with John Kerry and support him instead of pulling a “Hillary”.

Shame on you Hillary for chosing the wrong person to demand an apology from.

Honorable Senator Kerry,

You did the correct thing by apologizing to anyone who may have taken your misspeak out of context.  The Republicans will try to take everything out of context and use it to their advantage.  How many times has President Bush misspoken during his political career?  Too numerous to count. 

We know how dirty they operate.  My fellow Democrats need to understand that everything must revolve around pointing out their failures.  After the apology, you need to point out that you have shown him how to lead.  Announce that it is time for him to apologize to the American people for his failures that have cost American troops their lives.  Announce it is time for him to stand-up and address the mistakes he has made, when he was informed of the tragedies those decisions would cost the citizens of our great and noble country.  Point out that while you will do what is right, you will not hold your breath waiting for the apology.  Explain that you understand the type of person he is and that is why he fails to see his poor decisions, as he has stated on numerous occasions.  Point out that he feels no remorse for the horror he has created.  Stay on the attack.  Open the public’s eyes to the consequences we suffer due to his failed policies.  Keep pointing out to everyone who voted for him in the last presidential election the mistake they made.  Campaigning Democratic principles doesn’t just occur during election season, but must continuously be addressed.

Thank you, Senator Kerry, for you service to this country, both for your decorated military service and in Congress.  Continue to show us how a leader peforms their duties.  Do not allow the cronies in Washington any celebration.  As a veteran myself, I will never forgive or forget the RNC wearing band-aids with Purple Hearts on them.  I will never forgive them for ridiculing a decorated Vietnam veteran to enrich their corporate masters.  As former President Clinton has shown us, we must bite back each and every time.

Sincerely,

Chad Hartman

Dear Wife of a Soldier,
I left one thing out…  the reason Kerry lost in ‘04 was that the secretary of state of Ohio promised Bush the state, and he stole it and gave it to him.  And now that a h extroadinaire is running for governor there.

When Bush says he defends our troops, fights terrorism, is aginst gays, is pro-religion, pro-morality, pro-free market, etc etc. It’s all lies.  He is *only* for tax cuts for the very wealthy and for increased profits for corrupt predatory corporations *and that is all he is for*!!!!
John!, there is only one thing you need to say!:  “Bush say he’s for xyz—-, but the truth is, he’s only for 2 things: Tax Cuts for the very wealthy and increased profits for corrupt predatory corporations like Enron.  John!, you need to say this 100 times a day!!
You’ve been a very fine Senator and I hope you continue with that!
ps I don’t think health care is going to win elections, if the clueless haven’t figured out that Dems are for social programs, then forget it.  Too many people with health care vote their pocket books against significantly increased healthcare

Hi, Sen. Kerry—
Please count me among the many who’ve already said you have NOTHING to apologize for. I cannot believe what a huge stink our so-called administration is making over this one little remark of yours. I guess it just shows how desperate they are to try to distract the American public from THEIR miserable failures in Iraq and at home.

On the other hand, the fact that you went out of your way to point out that you did NOT mean to insult anyone in the military, and would never do that, demonstrates that you have more class in your smallest fingernail than everyone in the Bush admin has in their entire bodies.

Just one more thing: PLEASE DON’T take Don Imus’s advice seriously. DON’T EVER stop talking!!

We Got Your Back,
Jenzi