Harry Belafonte Says Obama Lacks "Moral Compass"

[xchrom]

http://www.alternet.org/newsandviews/article/761542/harry_belafonte_says_obama_lacks_%22moral_compass%22/

Earlier this week, "Day-O" Banana-Boat singer/actor/activist Harry Belafonte spoke on the radio show Smiley & (Cornel) West, where Belafonte unleashed some harsh criticism of Obama's leadership that never made it to the broadcast. The Radio Equalizer, however, has exposed Belafonte's rant, uncensored.

HARRY BELAFONTE: When I think of Barack Obama and I think about all that is at stake here I’ve really long since left talking about how many terms he will be as a president. My question is what legacy will he leave having had the opportunity to serve under such hugely dramatic circumstances and boggled the mind and boggled people’s thinking and had such a huge impact on the universal state of things.

And how could he have had such a splendid opportunity to do more than most presidents would have ever been able to do and he let that opportunity slip away from him. And I am very cautious of the fact of those who thinks that he has some hidden agenda and that if only he could be given a second term for us to see the new light new things will be revealed. A new efforts will be made to take us to a place other than where we have been and where we languish.

I just don’t trust that. I don’t think that a safe way an accurate way to look at the scenario. I think if there was the kind of moral compass serving Barack Obama in the way we had all hoped, the moral force would have helped him make choices. The absence of that force in his equations the absence of that barometer to guide him when he has to make these decision which are hugely complicated, especially from the political perspective. He should have come to the table with things that I think would have helped us in this moment of crisis.

*** audio at link

[ensho]

1. Harry has lost his mind

nt

[BlueCaliDem]

144. No. He's just doing the KISS thing:

Keeping It Simple Stupid.

Governing is a helluva lot harder than most Lefties are kvetching about. In their FireBaggerLake La-la world, Glenn Greenwald is a Liberal, Ron Paul is God and can do no wrong, and that black man in the White House is an affront to Democrats. They conveniently forget Obama IS the MOST progressive president since LBJ - and yeah, that includes DLC Clinton - and considering what Congress a horrible filibuster-happy, obstructionist congress we have, that's pretty damn good.

I'll take Obama over Harry any day. Then again, I'm not lost in Ron Paul or brainwashed by Obamahater Hamsher, and I understand the political reality President Obama has to face day in, day out. But as most blacks will tell you here in America, their best is never enough.

[DonCoquixote]

214. If I copuld K and r this reply

I would

[BlueCaliDem]

278. Thanks, DC.

I really appreciate it.

[Mimosa]

217. WHo on DU is a Ron Paul supporter?

I doubt any good long term democrats 'hate' President Obama. Most of us contributed time and money to elect President Obama.

Harry Belafonte represents many Democrats who have expressed sincere disappointment regarding policies.

[BlueCaliDem]

275. Constructive criticism is good. DEstructive criticism will guarantee a President Romney.

I'm not 100% happy with everything President Obama has been able to accomplish, either, but I understand the political reality he faces with an unprecedented hostile Congress that's discovered the power of the filibuster. And whether most Americans know it or not, he needed to work with Congress to get anything done. It's how our government works.

Unfortunately, most Independents - NOT ALL, for those Independents who read this post and might get b-hurt - aren't politically astute, and the loud and angry voices of those on the Left together with the louder and angrier voices of the TeaBaggers on the Right, is all they heard. And it influenced their votes. Result? The TeaBagger blowout in Nov. 2010. This is destructive.

We are not doing ourselves any favors by shooting ourselves in the foot, or cutting our noses to spite our faces with continued wailing how Obama didn't give us everything we wanted. We got a helluva lot done, though, but thanks to the loud voices of the Firebaggers on the Left and the establishment and monied GOP, Teapublicans, and TeaBaggers on the Right, Independents and so-called Moderates voted for the TeaBagger candidate in overwhelming numbers. How is that supposed to help our country progress? By knee-capping our President?

There's a reason why today PPACA has 54% of Americans favoring repealing it although it's one of the most progressive and comprehensive reform on health care in sixty years. The constant wailing and kvetching from the Professional Left combined with the louder wailing and hateful rhetoric from the Monied Right has pushed the numbers down making people think, "Hey. Where there's smoke there's gotta be fire!" when nothing could be further from the truth.

[Cherchez la Femme]

412. This is a site FOR THE LEFT

Left = Liberals

the so-called Professional Left and "Firebaggers" included.

the "loud and angry voices of those on the Left" belong here just as much, if not perhaps more, than the centrists of the 'Obama can do no wrong' squad

If this angers you so, perhaps a venue without so many Professional Lefty Liberals would suit you better. Yes?












or didn't you know that?

As advertised on DU's front page:
"The best liberal discussion forums on the internet"

[BlueCaliDem]

414. Oh, I'm sorry. I thought this site was called the DEMOCRATIC Underground

and last I looked, President Obama is a DEMOCRAT. FireBaggerLake maven, Hamsher, is NOT.

So, being a Liberal Democrat, and being the wonderfully inclusive Leftist you are, why again should I be the one to have to leave? Especially considering I've been here four years longer than you?

>>>> As advertised on DU's front page:
"The best liberal discussion forums on the internet" >>>

No wonder it's infested with anti-Obama lefties here. This is new, but at least it explains a lot. This is also a HUGE mistake. Thanks for pointing it out to me.

Professional Left: Out to make Barack Hussein Obama a one-term president and to install Republicans back in power.

GOP/TeaBaggers/Rightwingers: Out to make Barack Hussein Obama a one-term president and to install Republicans back in power

Democrats: Out to ensure Barack Hussein Obama has a second term and to prevent Republicans from coming back in power.

[kneedeepinthehoopla]

442. Democrats are only as good as their ACTIONS!

Worshipping people like movie stars in a dangerous, ignorant business.

[eridani]

285. Obama is just as DLC as Clinton n/t

[Whisp]

433. +1 golden.

excellent.

[fortyfeetunder]

447. +1 also

The man was not elected to be a miracle worker. He can't possibly undo 8 years of mess in one term. And 2010 mid-terms results sealed that deal!

[harmonicon]

152. Your evidence for this is what?

He's nearly 85 years old and incredibly eloquent. If he's lost his mind, I only wish that more people could lose their minds in the same way.

[Xtraneous]

185. Agreed! So now that MSM has chosen the Rep candidate...

time to forget about the past four years of missed opportunities. Looks like that's the trend here.

[BlueCaliDem]

277. They did. On November 2, 2010.

How is that working out for us and the progressive movement?

Harry has a right to his opinion, but he doesn't have a right to his own set of facts. And considering his celebrity status, he should've been more careful with his words. He's part of the Liberals who are undermining the progressive movement by cutting our noses to spite our faces.

He could've simply stated, "I support President Obama because his policies are closer to my ideals than any Republicans, but I wish he'd do more to help the poor and impoverished."

What Harry did was scorched earth rhetoric, and that's not just dumb.

[zipplewrath]

393. Evidence?

There is little to no evidence that any activity on the part of progressives was the reason for the 2010 result. The primary evidence of which I am aware is a combination of generally low turn out of everyone except the Tea Baggers, and a shift of the moderate/centrist/independent voters away from democrats.

[BlueCaliDem]

394. And you don't think the loud and continuous kvetching by so-called Liberals on teevee

had any influence whatsoever? To believe that is to believe Liberal voices are powerless.

The constant attacks by DKos subscribers, Glenn Greenwald, Cenk Uygur, Markos Molitos, Robert Scheer, Jane Hamsher, some here on DU and on Huffington Post, Truthdig, and other Liberal sites had everything to do with the demoralization that caused Independents to hate ObamaCares and indirectly, all Democrats, and had them turn against the Democratic Party despite twelve years of failed rightwing policies and unprecedented GOP obstructionism in government.

[WorseBeforeBetter]

415. Bullshit. Here in NC, Republicans won control of the legislature in 2010...

primarily because Teabaggers were whipped into a Corporate Media-induced frenzy over death panels and socialism. Obama did next-to-nothing to explain "ObamaCares" and assuage their fears and he was applauded, you know, because chill the fuck out...he's got this!

Fast forward to 2011, and NC Democrats kicked ass at the local level, with the Dem mayoral candidate in Raleigh winning handily, and the Koch-funded Teabagger losing in a VICIOUS school board race, giving control back to the Dems. No one turned against the Democratic Party because candidates acted like Democrats, not milquetoast Circle Ders.

It's been said many times before on DU, but if Independents are that fucking malleable, perhaps Obama and every other Democrat should STICK WITH THE BASE, and not pander to people who can't make up their minds and take a stand, election after election. It's really pretty basic.

[BlueCaliDem]

449. Thank you for the information

but just as I don't think yours is, mine is not bullshit, either.

The 2011 elections in NC are a result of buyer's remorse spreading throughout the country after the huge victories TeaBaggers were able to book during the 2010 mid-terms, and the overreach by the Republican Party that campaigned on jobs, but once in power, were eliminating them and pushing socially conservative bills through their legislatures, instead.

President Obama did explain the PPACA as best as he could, but the Democratic Party themselves didn't go out and do much explaining, did they? In fact, Corporate Media exploited the TeaBaggers rage and Democratic acquiescence, projecting the right-wing fringe group as some force to be reckoned with when all they are, are Republicans; the same who vote Republican all the time.

Corporate Media, backed by millions of corporate dollars, happily propagandized exactly what the Koch bros and Freedom Works paid them to, and congressional Dems were almost non-existent on all the major networks where most people get most of their news. Even Ed Schultz and Rachel Maddow asked where were the Democrats to help President Obama.

And, I'm sorry to have to inform you, the Liberal Base is a powerful and well-meaning group, but they're not big enough to put the Democratic Party over the top and win elections. Democrats still need to court moderate, even somewhat conservative Independents - the largest voting block between the two parties - to win. That's just political reality.

[BlueCaliDem]

450. Thank you for the information

but just as I don't think yours is, mine is not bullshit, either.

The 2011 elections in NC are a result of buyer's remorse spreading throughout the country after the huge victories TeaBaggers were able to book during the 2010 mid-terms, and the overreach by the Republican Party that campaigned on jobs, but once in power, were eliminating them and pushing socially conservative bills through their legislatures, instead.

President Obama did explain the PPACA as best as he could, but the Democratic Party themselves didn't go out and do much explaining, did they? In fact, Corporate Media exploited the TeaBaggers rage and Democratic acquiescence, projecting the right-wing fringe group as some force to be reckoned with when all they are, are Republicans; the same who vote Republican all the time.

Corporate Media, backed by millions of corporate dollars, happily propagandized exactly what the Koch bros and Freedom Works paid them to, and congressional Dems were almost non-existent on all the major networks where most people get most of their news. Even Ed Schultz and Rachel Maddow asked where were the Democrats to help President Obama.

And, I'm sorry to have to inform you, the Liberal Base is a powerful and well-meaning group, but they're not big enough to put the Democratic Party over the top and win elections. Democrats still need to court moderate, even somewhat conservative Independents - the largest voting block between the two parties - to win. That's just political reality.

[zipplewrath]

457. Again, evidence

Your making an assertion based upon an assumption. Where is the evidence that the behaviors you describe resulted in the outcomes you observed. That is the fundamental aspect of science and logic. Most polls indicate it was the moderate/centrists that abandoned the democrats/Obama and those were supposedly the people that DID NOT agree with the criticisms of the progressive/liberals/leftists (professional left/sanctimonious/drug addled" as the White House called them).

[AAO]

456. "Tea Baggers, and a shift of the moderate/centrist/independent voters away from democrats."

You just cited the misinformed, the low-informed, and the truth-seekers.

[zipplewrath]

458. And the polls

exit pulling indicated that hard core leftist/progressives/liberals showed up in the usual numbers. It was the centrists/independents and "casual" voters who stayed home. They were turned off by the negotiations of the ACA by the White House and Bacuus. Even Obama will tell you that it was the PROCESS of the ACA that turned off many voters.

[AAO]

459. It sure did turn me off.

Especially taking single payer "off the table". But I will always vote. Unless it becomes completely meaningless.

[zipplewrath]

460. Sorta the point

LIberals/progressives/leftists were pissed, and voted. The centrists/moderates/independents voted, for the GOP. The Obama voters (who otherwise don't show up) didn't show up at all, despite OFA. There is the contingent that likes to blame the left for 2010 but the polls don't support their assertion. Otherwise the Blue Dogs should have won in droves.

[AAO]

461. Natch!

[jefferson_dem]

2. Fool.

[fascisthunter]

86. No... fools Follow Leaders Unquestioningly

and tend to attack critics with the usual garbage, because in truth, they can't defend their leader.

[BlueCaliDem]

143. Like you're doing now?

Thanks for clearing that up!

I'm so sick of Obamahaters here on DU. It's unbelievable how many there are. I'm so happy you are in the minority though, with polls showing Obama ENJOYS 84% approval rating with Liberal DEMOCRATS.

FiredogBaggers, of course, don't count. For anything, actually, except maybe for the longest whining and kvetching.

[Wind Dancer]

151. Obamahaters?

Questioning some of his policies does NOT make one a hater. This is a discussion forum, after all.

[BlueCaliDem]

207. And both you and I have been here long enough

to know there is very little questioning President Obama's policies, but LOTS of frothing-at-the-mouth hating wrapped in so-called "discussion".

I can go to the majority of posts here, in this thread alone, where judgment is passed as if Obama is a Republican - and blind support is posted for anyone who trashes PBO while Ron Paul is hailed as the second coming.

But, Wind Dancer, if the shoe doesn't fit . . .

[SwampG8r]

280. do it then and do it as you said "in this thread alone"

"go to the majority of posts here, in this thread alone, where judgment is passed as if Obama is a Republican - and blind support is posted for anyone who trashes PBO while Ron Paul is hailed as the second coming."
like will sonnet said "it aint braggin if you can do it"

[Xtraneous]

188. Whaaaaaaat?

Amazing how someone who disagrees with the pretty lame past 4 years is now a hater. Why bother debating anything? Just blindly become an Obamabot and you won't be attacked as an outsider. Why the heck is this blog called Democratic Underground if it's just a bunch of people who agree that the Democratic President is beyond reproach?

[BlueCaliDem]

209. A disingenuous response, at best

when I'm sure you're clever enough to have read the posts here, at the Democratic Underground, that excoriates a sitting Democratic president while defending wishy-washy Libertarians like Glenn Greenwald and Ron Paul, and when any and all negative comments or opinions posted by other critics are considered holy and not to be questioned.

Ever since I'd been a member of DU, since back in 2004, I have never, EVER, seen so many posts full of vitriol when a positive post appears in support of President Obama.

I would love to see a poll where the amount of positive posts for President Obama is held against the negative posts of him here. I believe I wouldn't be surprised by the results, but then again, it might not surprise you, either.

[totodeinhere]

200. Disagreeing with him doesn't necessarily make you a hater. In fact I consider it an insult

to call me hater when I have sincere disagreements with some of his policies.

[fascisthunter]

203. LOL... defend the criticism! If Not...

...well, honest people won't take you serious.

[BlueCaliDem]

210. Well, at least I know why YOU

don't like PBO that much, considering your 2008 Kucinich avatar. But I'm curious, how do you feel when DK was mulling about choosing the most CONservative Republican/Libertarian U.S. Rep since 1937 as a VP running mate back in 07? A Rep who would have unregulated corporations run the country without government oversight? Isn't that the definition of fascism, fascism hunter?

[fascisthunter]

229. lol

embarrassing for you

[BlueCaliDem]

333. lol

embarrassing? I'm not a DK supporter. Now that's funny.

[jefferson_dem]

227. Why, exactly, should anyone try to defend Obama from such an egregrious character assassination?

Perhaps Belafonte should avoid judging how much of a "moral compass" Obama has and stick to legitimate policy critiques if he wants people to take him seriously.

[fascisthunter]

230. That's sad hyperbole

[jefferson_dem]

234. Ironically...

That's exactly what Belafonte (and the OP) served up.

[fascisthunter]

238. nope... fail... have a good evening

[Mojorabbit]

286. Belafonte has the cred and has walked the walk for decades

He has earned the right to speak however he wants about politics and be taken seriously. I can't believe how many people have been thrown under the bus by posters on this site.

[BlueCaliDem]

338. He has never held elective office

He doesn't walk the walk. Getting anything through Congress does not want to get through is not as easy as the professional Left or Harry thinks.

Until he's president and has to deal with Congress to get anything passed, he doesn't have the cred to criticize this first black president who is under constant attack from all sides.

And if anyone's being thrown under the bus at this site, it's been President Obama by the Lefties. That happened almost right after the 2008 elections, by the way.

[Mojorabbit]

362. I am sorry but I totally disagree. I am amazed every day at how

members of this board will look the other way because a Democrat is president. This man put himself on the line for civil rights in the 50's and 60's. He walked his talk and paid a personal price for it. He has earned the right to speak out as he will. He totally has the cred.

[BlueCaliDem]

373. Disagree all you want

but those are the facts.

Harry has a right to his opinion and he has a right to speak out as he sees fit, but that doesn't make him right, and the scorched earth, cut-my-nose-to-spite-my face rhetoric isn't helpful for those he and you claim to care about. It can only make things worse on the poor should Obama not win reelection. You actually think any Repub would care about Harry and the poor?

Whether the Left want to admit it or not, President Obama has done more for the poor than any other president since LBJ, considering the uphill battle he's been waging with this Congress from the get-go.

You'd be disingenuous to say otherwise.

[SwampG8r]

279. how is he doing with the independents?

any sitting dem pres will have the support of a majority of his party
as any GOP candidate will have the suppot of the majority of his party
so it boils to the indie vote
how is that tracking?
and please...i am not being snarky i saw your post on percentages and thats the first question i had

[OnyxCollie]

345. 31% approval with independents.

http://www.gallup.com/poll/124922/presidential-approval-center.aspx

[BlueCaliDem]

351. According to that poll you've linked to, 41% not 31%

although I can recall your innate dislike for President Obama, so I can understand why you'd want to cite Gallup, and normally Republican friendly pollster, and shave off ten points just for kicks and giggles.

Period: January 2-8, 2012

Democrats: 83%

Republicans: 10% (duh)

Independents: 41%

But thank you for the link.

[OnyxCollie]

366. Pure independent- 31%

Your idol worship blinds you. That's what happens in cults.

[BlueCaliDem]

371. To be fair, you didn't mention PURE Independent

Check your own post. You posted Independents only.

So I'm right and you're wrong.

Your deep-seated hatred for all things Obama is fanatical, and fanaticism is true cult behavior.

[OnyxCollie]

372. The poll I cited

was the poll LoZoccolo used to tout the 85% approval among liberal Democrats.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/1002143461

It's not as impressive when one learns that moderate Democrats outnumber liberal Democrats, and that moderate independents are the largest group.

http://www.gallup.com/poll/148745/Political-Ideology-Stable-Conservatives-Leading.aspx
[IMG][/IMG]

Your posts provide a lot of unintentional humor.

[BlueCaliDem]

374. I really don't care who cited the poll first

My contention that it's a pro-GOP pollster still stands, based on their own history. Gallup usually only gets their numbers right just before an election. As a progressive, you would know this. As a regressive you would dismiss it.

And although you claim my posts provide a lot of unintentional humor, I know they annoy the cr*p out of you since you had to respond to my post TWICE. Overkill, Onnie. It gives you away.

[OnyxCollie]

377. It's not who cited it first,

it's that it allows you to understand my "innate dislike for President Obama."

Does it show LoZoccolo's "innate dislike for President Obama", too?

Better alert the BOG; one of their own has gone rogue.

"So I'm right and you're wrong."

No, you're hopelessly biased, and unable to be objective.

[BlueCaliDem]

392. Taken out of context

which is cowardly, at best, you can claim I'm hopelessly biased and unable to be objective. But when put back in context, nope, sweetie, you're dead wrong. But don't own up to it. No one expects you to.

And the fact that you posted "Independents" instead of "PURE" Independents is disingenuous at best. I called you on it and it p*$$es you off you couldn't get away with making it look worse than it is. So, I win. You lose.

Now go outside and play with your collie. You're not selling your HateObamaFirst schtick here.

[OnyxCollie]

400. Please explain the context.

This ought to be good.

[BlueCaliDem]

401. You consider yourself a smart cookie

figure it out on your own.

[MinervaX]

305. Funny

Whenever I see somebody posting polls extolling how great Obama is doing on DU, the poll inevitable ONLY states his approval rating among "Liberal" democrats. It's never his polling numbers with the general population. The word "liberal" is about as meaningless to describe most Democrats as the word "conservative" is to describe most Republicans.

[BlueCaliDem]

341. Maybe it's because we're on a DEMOCRATIC site?

And being a Liberal Democrat myself, I support him as my president even though he didn't give me my pony.

I guess people who post polls here automatically assume this being a DEMOCRATIC site in support of DEMOCRATIC pols, especially a DEMOCRATIC president, there'd be constructive as opposed to destructive criticism by DEMOCRATS.

[MinervaX]

347. Read Chris Hedges 'Death of the Liberal Class'

and you'll start to get what I'm talking about.

[BlueCaliDem]

355. Liberal is the generic word for anything not Republican these days.

I'm a Liberal, but not a FireDogBagger type of Liberal. I'm a Pragmatic progressive who understands the ugly political realities of our government, and that the president is only as strong as a cooperative Congress, because the real power is concentrated, as our Founders tried to make clear to us, in the "of, by, for the people" branch of government, and that's Congress.

I support our president - who is known as the most progressive Democratic president since LBJ, btw - as opposed to falling for regressive Libertarian la-la screeches by the most conservative U.S. Rep since 1937.

Then you have the Liberal Left, the DK rhetoric supporters, the Glenn Greenwald Liberal/Libertarian hybrids, Truthdig, Hamsher, Michale Moore kvetchers who are constantly undermining a Democratic president because they say they thought they were voting for a Liberal when he never ran as one. But then again, that would depend solely on their view what a Liberal is supposed to be.

I have no problem people pushing this president to the left, but I do have a problem when all their kvetching demoralizes their core members, and Independents catch on and rush to support another Regressive instead of more PROgressives - as we'd seen on Nov. 2, 2010, because that defeats our purpose as Liberals and Progressives, doesn't it?

[RetroLounge]

426. Here comes the BOG

RL

[Whisp]

3. maybe someone should tally his bananas

I think he's short a bunch

[babylonsister]

8. hahaha! nt

[Number23]

138. He has said this at least five other times and each time, it is BREATHLESSLY posted here

Perhaps I need to start posting all of the black singers/academics/politicians/writers who support this president.

On second thought, if I did that, that would be the only thing posted in GD for the next three months.

[harmonicon]

154. What on earth is "support" supposed to mean in this context?

Belafonte isn't going to vote for a Republican over Obama and neither are 90-some percent of the other people who voted for him last time (like myself), but criticize how he's governed.

[Whisp]

156. saying Obama 'lacks moral compass' is much more than criticism

it's lunacy. Just bring yourself to think of the team that was choosen in 2000, the people like Bush, Cheney, Wolfowitz, Rumsfeld - those fuckers lacked moral compass so saying that about Obama is just not living in the real world with real working parts in the head.

[harmonicon]

170. He didn't just say that one sentence and walk away.

Read the rest, which puts it into perspective. You may disagree with him, but he's really quite articulate and definitely very very sane.

[Whisp]

178. I bet many wish he did!

and keep walking away and go to a corner and think about what he said.

[harmonicon]

184. Yes, it's clear that you wish that.

Keep ignoring the facts if that suits your narrative.

[OnyxCollie]

257. Why do you say Bush, Cheney, Wolfowitz, and Rumsfeld lacked a moral compass?

What did they do that was so terrible?

[TruthBeTold65]

149. awesome! nt

[ClassWarrior]

218. Please show some respect for a man who - in so many ways - would make you...

...look like a flea in comparison.

NGU.

[Whisp]

367. well if I'm a flea, then you might be a molecule on a flea's butt

compared to Obama.

[ClassWarrior]

408. I always show respect to the President. What's your excuse?

NGU.

[Whisp]

409. and I don't show much respect to

people who say idiotic things like:
If it weren't for Harry, Obama would not be Pres' or some such shit.

I don't know if you said that, agree with it, or whatever. I don't really care to look it up, but that shows me what kind of nuttery there is here.Or the other one, Matt Damon, who knows more about presidentin' than 'caver in chief' Obama.

I used to think only Republicans were challenged upstairs in these ways... but like my mama used to say: you never too old to pay attention to some learning, there are always surprises.

[ClassWarrior]

418. In other words, you're lashing out at everyone for the words of a few...

...that got stuck under your craw. About a celebrity you idolize.

Enuff said.

NGU.

[Whisp]

419. well i guess that settles that!

very convincing I must say. but not in the way you desperately want.

[ClassWarrior]

422. If that's not it, what is it? Why don't you care if you slam your fellow Dems, whether they...

Last edited Sat Jan 14, 2012, 06:42 PM - Edit history (1)

...deserve your spite or not (as you said in post #409)?

NGU.

[ClassWarrior]

423. Is that all you have? Spite? No respect for anybody?

NGU.

[Whisp]

424. no respect for Anybody...

are you Always this, erm, excitable to speak in such superlatives ? are you, erm, drinking?

[ClassWarrior]

427. Nothing I could find using the search function.

So you really not know how to punctuate and capitalize a sentence, or are you... erm... drinking?

NGU.

[Whisp]

431. OMG!! why you....

:waves:

not interested in continuing, nothing there.

[ClassWarrior]

437. Of course not.

Nothing to see here. Look the other way.

NGU.

[RetroLounge]

434. Keeping it classy as usual

RL

[Whisp]

435. yah, you should talk to him.

I see your timid Vomit and I raise you a Projectile.

[RetroLounge]

425. Here comes the BOG

RL

[spanone]

4. well, harry, you can pull the lever for the mittster....who never had a moral compass

[Mira]

134. Lame response, and I'm sorry to say it n/t

[izquierdista]

5. Speak the truth, Harry

Even if the sycophants want to explain away murdering teenage children, explain away.

[roguevalley]

118. incredible. the fanboys and grrls just howl if there isn't sufficient love.

I think there is a generational divide here that those of you who have only known Reagan, Bush and et al cannot imagine someone saying this about your object of worship. I remember when a dem president would have cut off their hand before signing a law that allows Americans to be jailed, started with health care when the unemployment was double digit, offer up social security for cuts and allowed bush's tax cuts to live let alone have four more years.

Generational. That must be it. Some will never understand how things used to be and how PISSED some of us get with the quizling weasling of the politicians now over core Dem and Liberal issues. But I doubt that they care. They just don't know any better.

RV, who remembers the moral force that is Harry Belafonte

[kath]

255. Great post.

hope you don't mind that I quoted you in a post down below. (since you write so much better than I could)

[roguevalley]

266. not at all, darling. thank you.

[SwampG8r]

283. you are right

it is generational
i got to meet harry once
his auntie was a prep cook in a place i worked and he showed up to surprise her
a very sweet very personable gentle man and a gentleman
came in the back and begged not to be ratted out
i just realized i met alex haley the same way
i had a prep cook
her husband was one of the base race relations officers(air force bace up the road)
he came in one day for lunch
with another officer on the staff and the other mans father
the dad was alex haley
i recognized him and he also begged not to be ratted out
i got my malcolm x signed (still have it)as the cost of just being Lt.whatsisnames dad for the day
must not get to eat in peace when you get to a certain level of famous

[tomg]

306. Spot on. I think you are right about it

being - to a certain extent - generational. I never voted for a Republican for any office in my life, but I started marching in the streets against a Democratic President in 1967. As my so likes to say " principles over personalities."

[slay]

269. Indeed - And if he does have one - it's all wonky right now

too much negative republican pull on his compass. hopefully he will change that in his second term. good for Harry Belafonte for speaking the truth.

[Autumn]

6. Harry Belafonte has done it now.

But I still love him.

[MineralMan]

11. Disgusting.

I don't support Belafonte's conclusion, but what you wrote is just plain rude. I don't know that he has gonorrhea, and even if he did, it doesn't affect the brain. You may be thinking of syphilis, which I also don't know that he has. Rude, coarse insults against this man are out of line. I suggest you self-delete this ugly post. Argue the issues. Don't attack this man in that crude way.

[Number23]

140. I agree. That is a truly revolting post.

I don't even know if it's true that Harry has gonorrhea or not, but if he does that should be off limits. And you're right, it is syphilis that affects the brain as exemplified by the horrific Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment in the 1930s.

http://www.cdc.gov/tuskegee/timeline.htm

[Octafish]

9. Throw him under the bus.

Obviously, Mr. Belafonte doesn't know a thing about morality.

This is intended for the culturally deprived.

[xiamiam]

17. i love this photo..and was trying to upload it..thanks for doing this

I also have unbelievable respect for Harry Belafonte who has been in the trenches long before some of those trashing him were even born. He is right about Obama.

[Cali_Democrat]

31. Great photo!

Harry can teach us all something if we're willing to listen. I also saw a prison show on MSNBC recently where he was giving motivational speeches to prisoners and he really inspired them. He is an amazing man and he really cares.

[_ed_]

40. Excellent point -- will be lost on most here

Most people around DU these days are only interested in short-term political gain for the Democratic party, not for liberal or progressive principles. Between a close personal confidante of Dr. King, and a Democratic politician, I know who has my respect.

[Cannikin]

58. Throw him under a bus?

Yes, you're absolutely right. How dare he not conform and comply.

Can we maybe not wish death on those who's opinions differ from ours?

[FarLeftFist]

77. Im 99.999% sure that was sarcasm.

[JackRiddler]

88. It's an expression, used sarcastically.

Those who do not conform to a party line, are thrown under the bus (metaphorically). They no longer matter, what good they've done is forgotten. (See the first few posts in this thread for examples.) And Octafish is using it mockingly, meaning: No, get over your urges to throw everyone under the bus who doesn't conform to party line.

[Octafish]

114. Please know I've never wished death on anyone whose opinions differ from mine.

On Democratic Underground, I've been known to criticize the Bush Family Evil Empire since 2002. In documenting their various acts of treason, mass murder, criminality and injustice, I have never called on any member of that family -- or anyone else in public life or in the news -- to be put to death.

In many cases where people have been found to have harmed the nation and innocent people, however, I have called for their investigation, indictment, trial and imprisonment for life. Thus, I have stood up against preventive war as a policy, as well as the summary execution of people accused of terrorism.

In the present example of throwing Harry Belafonte under the bus: The statement was meant to chide, sardonically, those who are so quick to dismiss Mr. Belafonte for criticizing the president. The reason for the image was to remind said readers that we need to remember Mr. Belafonte was one of Dr. King's earliest and staunchest supporters. We in the present day, including the president, would be wise to heed his counsel.

[Cannikin]

128. My apologies....I'm not sure why, but I've been sarcasm/irony impaired

since returning to DU.

[Number23]

141. Oh my God! Is that a picture of him with MLK??!

Well then that should silence all criticism of him. FOREVER.

[Octafish]

159. I hope not. Obama has been deficient in many areas of leadership.

He rightly deserves criticism -- from his healthy insurance company bill to forgiving bush for lying America into war and torture and illegal domestic spying to all the welfare for wall street to dropping a drone on an American teenager because he could.

You, of all people, should know that. And more.

[Number23]

165. I was talking about Belafonte. You seem to have misread -- EVERYTHING

considering that it was you that posted the pic of Belafonte and MLK.

Edit: And as for your "You, of all people, should know that. And more." crap, I don't know what you're referring to but I have a feeling it is going to be VERY illuminating to find out.

[whistler162]

186. The correct term is jumping under the bus!

[Mimosa]

196. What could old Harry know about anything?

Octafish, don't you know Belafonte is a geezer who has no understanding of today's 'real politics'?

Just like Andrew Young and Cornel West, what can they know?

BTW, here's a link to a review and info about Belafonte's film noir masterpiece "Odds Against Tomorrow":

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0053133/

[slay]

271. Thanks for the link - I've never seen that

but i plan to now!

[WorseBeforeBetter]

416. Andrew Young was thrown under, too?

Damn, I missed it. At least they're all in stellar company.

[TransitJohn]

262. That cinches it. Belafonte is obviously a fringe purist who doesn't know how politics work.

He just wants a pony. He has no idea how hard it is for Obama to work with the Congress. etc. etc. etc.


Obviously:

[slay]

270. Great photo of two great men

and Belfaonte is right - Obama needs a compass adjustment from agreeing with the republicans way too damn much - to charting his own path - preferably a VERY progressive one.

[young but wise]

10. Well, I disagree with Mr. Belafonte.

[Itchinjim]

12. Mr. Belafonte is an idiot.

The Matt Damon of the calypso world.

[_ed_]

41. An idiot who used to hang around with

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He was one of Dr. King's closest friends and confidantes.

Is there no end to the list of actual progressives that we won't tarnish for short-term political gain around here?

[Itchinjim]

147. Charlton Heston also hung around with MLK .

I guess that makes him an "actual progressive" too. Here's an idea for Mr. Belafonte: Primary President Obama. Put your outrage where your mouth is; quit being a lefty ankle-biter and run for POTUS. Come on Harry, show America and the world what a real "actual progressive" like yourself can accomplish!

[EFerrari]

235. It really is lamentable to see such profound ignorance about Harry Belafonte posted here,

Belafonte who many times put his ass right in the line of fire, who was always among the first to answer any call, in Selma, in Montgomery, everywhere. Who supported Dr. King and his family right out of his own pocket.

Embarrassing, really, to call on a man like that to show anything to anybody when his life speaks for itself.

[Itchinjim]

296. Well a good way for Harry to educate America about his life is for him to run for POTUS.

Otherwise to most of America he will be forever known as that guy who sang that banana song from "Bettlejuice". Here is something that is profoundly sad, that a man of Mr. Belefonte's stature has reduced himself to sniping from bushes at the first African-American president. I wonder if the Harry Belefonte of 1962 ever expected that within his lifetime an African-American would be elected to any higher office, let alone the presidency? I betcha the 1962 Harry would tell the 2012 Harry to put a sock in it.

[EFerrari]

336. And I bet, as with everything else, you'd be wrong about that, too. n/t

[Itchinjim]

365. If you say so, honey

[_ed_]

302. I don't think Harry Belafonte has anything to prove

to you or anyone else. The man was at Selma (and you ironically ask him to "put his outrage where his mouth is&quot , among other crucial civil rights milestones, alongside one of our greatest American heroes, Dr. King.

Were you at Selma? Did you march with Dr. King? How dare you call him a "left ankle-biter?"

You should be ashamed of yourself. There's more to politics than winning the 24 hour news cycle.

[Itchinjim]

304. Until Mr. Belefonte accuses Condeliza Rice, Colon Powell, and Clarance Thomas

of lacking a "moral compass" he will be a left wing ankle-biter with very little credibility. In the meantime, if Harry Belefonte can do a better job than Obama, then he should run for POTUS. His country needs him!

[_ed_]

307. Come to think of it,

I've never specifically heard Harry Belafonte denounce and reject Adolf Hitler, either.

Also, interesting to read that nobody can criticize the President unless they are actually running for the office. Who knew? I remember lots of people here bashing Bush from 2000-2008, but I don't think any of them ran for office. I guess they didn't think they could do a better job.

[Itchinjim]

309. Nice use of Godwin's law.

[_ed_]

313. Nice way avoid my response

I was showing that your point about him not criticizing Condi Rice and Colin Powell is a fallacy and a cheap way to make an argument.

I was also pointing out that your requirement that one must run for office before criticizing the President is also fucking stupid.

[Itchinjim]

319. Ouch!

[LanternWaste]

317. Seems to me that Godwin's Law is more often than not

Seems to me that Godwin's Law is more often than not, cited merely as a replacement to sincere and honest dialog.

I imagine the day will soon come when the history professor is accused of breaking Godwin's Law after discussing 20th century history in a lecture. I imagine he also will allow it the same amount of consideration it truly warrants.

[PA Democrat]

322. If you took 10 seconds to do a little research

you'd find that Mr. Belafonte had harsh words for Herman Cain when he was the GOP frontrunner.

Last week, he called GOP frontrunner Herman Cain a “false negro” and despite Cain’s continued rise in the polls, continues to dismiss him and his campaign for president.

“Any man who can say that poor people are poor and it’s their own fault is not a man to be trusted,” says Belafonte. “A man who feels people should pull themselves up by their bootstraps isn’t someone who needs to lead. Some people don’t even have boots to put on. So what is he talking about.’’

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2011/10/16/harry-belafonte-on-his-life-obama-s-moral-compass-civil-rights-struggle.html

[Itchinjim]

327. I knew that. That's why I didn't mention him.

[PA Democrat]

329. Yeah, right. Because you were also wrong about Rice & Powell.

[Itchinjim]

330. Triple ouch!!!!

[PA Democrat]

326. Actually he had a much harsher assessment of Rice & Powell. He called Powell a "house slave"

Google is your friend if you don't want to further embarass yourself.

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2011/10/harry-belafonte-calls-herman-cain-a-bad-apple/

[Itchinjim]

328. Double ouch!

[Mojorabbit]

368. He is way ahead of you. You might want to look things up before you post

He dismisses the appointment of Condoleezza Rice and before her, Colin Powell, to positions of genuine power in George W Bush's administration.

He has described them as "house slaves", and doesn't feel their presence has helped his cause in any way.
Belafonte says he sees progress and is hopeful of more
"He puts them there in the service of power. They are quite powerless - powerless - powerless," he says.
"They are extensions of George W Bush, Condoleezza Rice is revered nowhere. She has influence over a nothingness."

Does she not make even one millimetre of difference, I asked. "She makes a difference for the worse," Belafonte replied.


http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/6420733.stm

[CakeGrrl]

259. "Short term political gain"?

What's being gained?

Once again, people who love people who criticize Obama can't stand it when others disagree with the criticism...oh, the violins out for pooooor Glenn Greenwald, etc. Disagreeing with opinions is ALL fair game all around or NONE of it should be.

[ronnie624]

268. Some of the posts are quite foul.

Disagreement is done by addressing the issues with logic and a reasonable, compelling argument. I don't find much of that here. I usually avoid posting in these partisan threads, because the anger, hyperbole and deliberate misrepresentations make rational discussion impossible. I like to skim through them and find the rare nuggets of insight.

[EFerrari]

261. No, there isn't. n/t

[Beacool]

72. And Obama is a Chicago, ivy leagued educated, yuppy.

Mr. Belafonte called it as he saw it.

[dionysus]

157. and here i was afraid the banky would come back marked "return to sender"

happy new year Bea

[Beacool]

211. Thank you, sweets!!!!

How were your holidays? Did Santa bring you lots of goodies?

I appreciated the banky. New year, new banky.

[dionysus]

410. the hollidays were quite relaxing... i got to visit maine, and santa was kind. how about you?

[Beacool]

438. I went to FL, AL & GA.

I had a blast. Pity I had to go back to work.

Oh, well............

[dionysus]

444. ooh, quite the jetsetter...

[Beacool]

445. You know how it is; places to go, people to see............

[dionysus]

448. but do you have a special airplane banky?

[Beacool]

453. No, I don't.

[DonCoquixote]

281. Actually

Hillary was the one born in Chicago, unlike Mr. Obama. Look it up.

And she was always an Ivy educated Yuppie (note the spelling, it's not Yuppy, like puppy.) Unlike Obama, she was a Republican once, and even helped work to put them in office (again , look it up.)

And if I may humbly call things as I see them, how people think that Hillary Clinton, she who helped her husband gut welfare, gut Glass-Steagal, and build the overall shift of the Democrats to the right would have been some iron liberal that would have whipped the Blue Dogs of congress into line is folly. Considering how she and her hubby supported many of them, like Blanche Lincoln and Mary Landrieu.

[CakeGrrl]

346. Thank you.

'Nuff said.

[jenmito]

375. WOO! Great post! I'd rec it if I could. n/t

[Beacool]

439. I know Obama's life history. Double ditto for Hillary's.

So you can save your snide remarks and stuff them.

[DonCoquixote]

440. and you were the one

using Chicago as an insult.

And if you know her history, you will know why many people on the left distrust the Clintons. I will note that you did not refute any of the facts given, just told me to "stuff them" which is the sort of thing that we would expect GOP to do when confrotned with facts. Not that I think you are GOP, but that you should know better.

[Beacool]

443. Please, save it.

The Clintons may not be perfect, but I personally know how much they care and how hard they work to help others. You don't like them? You are entitled to your opinion as much as I'm entitled to mine.

[EFerrari]

111. You have no idea who you are talking about.

There would be no Barack Obama without Harry Belafonte, who personally fought to get Obama senior to the United States when the British government tried to block his study here.

[ljm2002]

124. Way to go...

...smearing one of the earliest and staunchest supporters of the Civil Rights Movement, when it was anything but safe to do so.

Now one may disagree with his interpretation, or think it is a bit over the top. Personally, I agreed with most of his statement but I found the "moral compass" part to be a little harsh, in that neither Mr. Belafonte nor I knows what is in President Obama's heart. As he seems to be an excellent father and family man, I don't believe he lacks a moral compass; rather, when it comes to making policies, I think he filters it through his moderate-conservative-appeaser lens, and is hell-bent on making compromises with people who really do lack a moral compass. The resulting policies reflect that flawed process. (*)

(*) Please note in the above, I did not say or imply that I would prefer Romney / Gingrich / Paul in the role of POTUS.

One more comment: what, pray tell, is your objection to Matt Damon??? While I don't find him a particularly great actor, his heart seems to be in the right place politically IMO. Or did he come out and criticize President Obama too? Oh, pardon me, I seem to have a case of the vapors.

[RetroLounge]

428. Here comes the BOG

RL

[Arkansas Granny]

13. Mr. Belafonte has more to say about President Obama, if anyone cares to read.

“I think he’s lost his moral compass,’’ says Belafonte. “I saw a lot of the same qualities that I saw in Bobby and Martin in Barack in the beginning. But I think he’s allowed the opposition to get the better of him. I think he thought it would be different and that it wouldn’t be such a huge fight for every issue. He lost some of his fight, and that’s how he lost his moral compass. He has to get that back if he wants to be the type of leader that’s remembered for real change.’’

Belafonte is hopeful Obama can turn that corner, particularly in light of the recent protests over Wall Street and the continuing outcry for more attention to the plight of the poor.

“I always tell people that President Kennedy didn’t make history, history made Kennedy,’’ says Belafonte. “The social issues of that day, like civil rights, Vietnam and the women’s movement, forced Kennedy to be a leader, and a strong one. He had no other choice. The same will happen to Obama. The issues facing the country will force him to get back on track and regain his moral compass to fight hard for those who are suffering. He has all the smarts and ability to get the job done. He just has to do it.’’

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2011/10/16/harry-belafonte-on-his-life-obama-s-moral-compass-civil-rights-struggle.html

[Autumn]

14. This man is awesome

what a life he has led.

[Hell Hath No Fury]

21. Incredibly life.

A man dedicated to the cause in a way few are. That he REMAINS dedicated to it when a fellow African American is in office tells me about the depth of his commitment.

[Solly Mack]

59. Thank you for posting that.

[Beacool]

69. I have always liked Belafonte.

I'm sure that to some he has now become an enemy. I guess that only adulatory comments are permissible.

[SwampG8r]

287. if only adulatory posts are allowed

this will become florida gator underground
since all others should not be adulated

[Beacool]

316. Hi, Swamp!!!

How are you? Did you have a good holiday season?

[SwampG8r]

352. very nice

we listened to the harry belafonte christmas collection
beautiful clear voice
i hope your was good not too freezy not too hot but juuuuuuust right!
can you believe the things they are saying about this fine man? this is terribly terribly sad to me
he had an aunnt that i worked with
when he came to the town to sing he came by around 8 am looking for her to say hello
she didnt come on until 9 and he decided to surprise her
one of the best hours in my life
vvery nice very enjoyable company
a genuine gentleman
i would say he was at least an honorable honorary gator

[Beacool]

406. Wow, lucky you!!!

Amazing what they will say about him just because he's disappointed in Obama. I think that Belafonte has more than earned the right to have an opinion on Obama or anything else.

Yes, let's make him an honorary Gator!!!!

My holidays were nice. I was in FL, AL & GA. Had a lot of fun!!!

Hugs,
Bea

[AnotherMcIntosh]

104. Belafonte is right about many things. But, if the quote re JFK represents his views, he's wrong.

Kennedy was a leader long before he became President.

As a President, he had choices to make. All Presidents do.

None of the cited issues "forced Kennedy to be a leader." He was a leader before confronting those issues, and he made decisions which were morally right.

[LiberalAndProud]

121. I do care to read.

Marking for a later time.

[ronnie624]

273. A much better article.

“Any man who can say that poor people are poor and it’s their own fault is not a man to be trusted,” says Belafonte. “A man who feels people should pull themselves up by their bootstraps isn’t someone who needs to lead. Some people don’t even have boots to put on. So what is he talking about.’’

Love it!

[xiamiam]

16. i want to share one of my favorite photos of Harry and Dr King,

would someone tell me how to do that..
on edit..octafish already posted it although i still need to know how to do that

[immoderate]

50. You have to upload the photo to the internet first...

I have an account at PhotoBucket. There are others.

Then copy the link from your photo and paste it into the post here.

--imm

[xiamiam]

61. thank you..nt

[truth2power]

18. What many of us have been saying here for a long time. Sad, but true. n/t

[treestar]

19. Sounds like a republican

"morality" is not politics.

[marions ghost]

25. If not then

how do you counter Republican immorality?

Morality, ethics, integrity, is not a concern of theirs as far as I can see.

[treestar]

30. Obama has those things

Harry is confused about how the system works. You can have integrity but that won't stop the Republicans from filibustering every single issue. It's the Republicans who lack "morality" on that end.

[Autumn]

33. Harry is confused about how the system works.

Now that is just hilarious.

[treestar]

35. Glad to be able to amuse you and give you a good laugh

But how would Obama lack morality because Republicans and even Democrats won't do any given moral thing that he wants done?

Harry is a singer. He is likely not a constitutional scholar. I bet he cannot identify the top 10 Supreme Court cases or US statues on any given subject, nor can he apparently figure out that the most moral president in the world doesn't get his way entirely.

[immoderate]

52. Harry was an activist before he was a singer...

but not as well known for it. From Wiki -- just one paragraph:
[div class="excerpt" style="background:#ccccff;"]Belafonte supported the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and was one of Martin Luther King Jr.'s confidants. He provided for King's family, since King made only $8,000 a year as a preacher. Like many other civil rights activists, Belafonte was blacklisted during the McCarthy era. He bailed King out of the Birmingham City Jail and raised thousands of dollars to release other civil rights protesters. He financed the Freedom Rides, supported voter registration drives, and helped to organize the March on Washington in 1963.

There's more. He was an early protege of Paul Robeson. He's not a newcomer.

--imm

[JackRiddler]

56. You are kind to explain that.

I was getting ready to alert on the basis of "staggering ignorance and projection on a stranger," although that doesn't seem like grounds.

[immoderate]

57. No problem. As the late, great Sam Kinnison used to say...

"I'm just trying to help."


--imm

[treestar]

96. Why is it that singers are so precious and special?

Harry gets himself into politics and so if he can't take the heat, stay out of the kitchen. You can't alert because I don't like Harry's statements.

[JackRiddler]

117. Didn't alert, won't, don't generally...

But the ignorance your post shows by calling him stupid or a fool for being a singer, or your saying he couldn't name 10 Supreme Court decisions ... it's just shocking. How do you know? I bet he can run down a lot more SC decisions than you. I say so because first, I know he's a very smart man, and second, the evidence I see for you is that you indicate no idea who he is, or what he likely knows, although it's easy to learn about a public figure. This would be forgivable, except then you mouth off like that. Can't you even read about him on Wikipedia before posting, so that your slanders are at least remotely informed?

[Wind Dancer]

160. +1

Beautifully stated! Thank you!

[treestar]

167. I really don't care "who" anyone is

And I can bet I know more about Supreme Court decisions than he does, and I'm about sure President Obama does.

It's not a contest about he and I. It's me being able to criticism what he says. We are supposed to listen to criticism of the President and not defend it at risk of being doomed as cheerleaders. But criticism precious Harry and the gloves are off! We have no right to criticize the critics.

[dflprincess]

237. But you're not criticising what Belafonte says, you're just taking pot shots at him

and ones that clearly show you know nothing about the man or his long involvement in civil rights and humanitaran causes.

If you want to defend Obama, do so. But if the only way you can do it is by slamming Harry Belafonte I'm thinking you got nothing to defend Obama with.

I never heard anyone on this board complaining when Belafonte slammed Bush or saying that a singer didn't have any business doing so.

[treestar]

241. Precious Harry can never be criticized

We get it.

[scarletwoman]

258. Projection much?

What you're really saying is that "precious" Obama must not be criticised, and you'll mock and deride anyone who does so. You have already shown that you don't know a damn thing about Belafonte and his lifelong activism on behalf of justice and civil rights.

You just ignorantly attack anyone who doesn't toe your line of unquestioning Obama sycophancy.

[fascisthunter]

395. no... it's precious Obama and you can't handle any of it

nor can any other partisan fanatic.

[pecwae]

297. That sounds an awful

lot like plain green jealousy. Criticize all you want, but consider his contributions when tossing around words like fool, idiot and "I care more about ___than Harry". He's more than a singer and you've already made it a contest between yourself and Belafonte; no one else did that. Own it.

[ljm2002]

127. Obama got himself into politics...

...and so if he can't take the heat, stay out of the kitchen.

In other words, you try and discredit Harry Belafonte because he is a singer. Then you try and say he doesn't understand politics enough to understand that one must be able to "take the heat" in politics. This then becomes your flagpole to fly the banner of "You can't alert on me just because I don't like his statements".

Well, by the same token, Obama chose to go into politics. He needs to be able to "take the heat" also. So therefore, if Harry Belafonte wants to criticize Obama, well he is perfectly within his rights to do so. (as an aside, Obama clearly is able to take the heat; he seems anything but thin-skinned to me)

By the way, trying to imply that Harry Belafonte does not understand politics / heat / kitchens -- it is to laugh. No, really:



Maybe you should do a bit of reading on Belafonte's career before you try and dismiss him out of hand as just a singer who dares to speak out about politics.

By the way, here is a list of some other singer/activists off the top of my head: Paul Robeson, Odetta, Joan Baez, Bob Dylan. There are, of course, many, many more such artists who were instrumental in moving this country and others (e.g. South Africa) towards racial justice.

[treestar]

169. I'm not saying Obama can't be criticized

You're saying precious Harry cannot.



Apparently it is wrong ipso facto to support the president or defend him.

Enjoy your negativity. Now the President is "immoral" too I guess. Gee maybe Mitt will have moral force.

[ljm2002]

176. No, dear, I am not saying that "precious Harry" cannot be criticized...

...in fact, in another post I have stated that I would not have used the term "moral compass". It's the kind of term that is guaranteed to raise hackles, and indeed it has.

OTOH, Belafonte has indeed earned the right to be listened to respectfully on issues of politics including President Obama. One need not agree with him. One might think he is old school in his analysis; one might be correct in that assessment. One might vehemently disagree with his assessment of Obama. But he has damned well EARNED the right to speak his piece without being denigrated as "one banana short of a bunch", "an idiot", etc. as we have seen in this thread.

It is not wrong to support the president or defend him. But there are a lot of knee-jerk reactions to any and every criticism of the President. It's silly, and often seems to be done in an attempt to shut down reasoned discussion.

[treestar]

246. You're giving Harry sacred cow status

He earned the right to be "listened to?" OK, I listened. And did not find any intelligent comment.

He has not earned crap. Why don't you say President Obama then, "earned" the right to be heard?

[Old and In the Way]

263. He's the new Glen Greenwald.

Good for Harry. I haven't heard much from him in the past few years. I guess it was his turn to get some exposure. Maybe the Republicans will invite him to their convention and let him sing the Banana Boat Song. Seems like a great opportunity for Harry.

[PA Democrat]

299. "The new Glen Greenwald"

IOW, the next person to be targeted for character assassination for daring to criticize Obama.

Do you know ANYTHING about the history of the Civil Rights movement and the key role Harry Belafonte played in it? Because if you did, you wouldn't make such an assinine comment.

[treestar]

339. What of people who participated in the civil rights struggle, who support the President?

I suppose they are just "cheerleaders."

If Harry wants to get into it, he can be targeted for character assassination too. By saying PBO lacks moral compass, he's assassinating PBO's character. Can't stand the heat? Don't go into the kitchen.

[PA Democrat]

344. They should be treated with an equal amount of respect.

It is fine to disagree with someone's opinion without resorting to the disgusting comments posted by several people on this thread. I would expect that sort of trash at Free Republic (by the way the Freepers LOVED the comments about the "tally man" and "gonorrhea&quot not at DU. It's also telling that many on this thread are either completely ignorant of the contributions that Harry Belafonte made to the Civil Rights movement or choose to trivialize it. Again, not one of DU's finest moments.

I'd also encourage you to read the full text of Mr. Belafonte's comments because they are much more nuanced than the one line everyone is focused on. Belafonte has acknowleged the tremendous opposition that the President has faced from the Republicans. I think that Belafont also knows something about fighting against tremendous odds.

And please extend to me the common courtesy of not trying to put words into my mouth, treestar. I have never called anyone a cheerleader.

[Mimosa]

455. Treestar, it's generational

Remember when Andrew Young said he didn't believe Obama was 'seasoned enough' to becomed president 'at this time'?

I believed then and believe now that Andrew Young was simply mistaken.

But wer should always listen to and learn from people who are older. Their experiences and knowledge are valuable.

[Old and In the Way]

340. Oh gee, I am obviously not nearly as knowledgeable on the subject as you are.

I hope you enjoy Harry's message because I expect the republicans will spend $20MM on commercials using Harry's own words to sell the morons on how evil Obama is.

[PA Democrat]

356. LOL. Let me know when those $20 MM of Harry Belafonte commercials air.

In the infamous words of Bill Clinton, 'It's the economy stupid."

This election will be a referendum on the economy and people's assessment as to whether Obama's policies have been effective.

[treestar]

95. Didn't know that

Still, what is he complaining about here? Because the Civil Rights Act was right and proper doesn't mean Obama could get a public option or that Harry understands other bills and whether they are constitutional. Or, if he is so experienced, why is he going after Obama's morality for not getting whatever Harry wants? How does he think the most moral President could get everything he wants? It's the same old, same old "critique from the left."

[immoderate]

103. Yes, he's a leftist, and he sees Obama as a corporatist.

So do I, and I imagine so would Dr. King.

He's complaining that we have a system that funnels wealth to the wealthy and the president talks like a supply-sider.

--imm

[PA Democrat]

115. Amy Goodman did a great interview with Harry Belafonte last year

on the topic of his music and his activism.

[immoderate]

137. Good clip.

Thanks.

--imm

[Mimosa]

197. How well I remember

My mother was an NAACP volunteer. Mr. Belafonte was a guest at our home.

[SwampG8r]

288. isnt he the sweetest guy?

he was very nice when i met him very genuine
i had traveled a lot for work and he had been everywhere
so we sat and played i ate here and i worked here and did you ever go out to _______and try the ______ ?
seemed like he genuinely liked the interaction
fun kind of person

[Autumn]

55. Harry has put on his comfortable shoes and walked the walk,

he lived the life and was first and foremost an activist. I bet he could tell our Constitutional Scholar President about Constitutional protections. Harry has walked the walk and talked the talk. I would be willing to bet Harry knows a thing or two more about life and politics than Obama does.

[treestar]

98. Sorry but there's no way he knows as much about government, politics, or law

Or he wouldn't be bloating about "morals."

[Beacool]

70. What you don't know about Belafonte could fill an encyclopedia.

I'm glad that someone educated you on the subject.

[treestar]

97. So what, it is what he says not who he is

I don't have to know anything about him to critique what he is now saying. You're trying to create sacred cow status for a person.

[ljm2002]

129. "You're trying to create sacred cow status for a person."

Oh my. This appears to be a classic, CLASSIC case of projection.

Every time someone lobs a strong criticism towards President Obama, out of the woodwork they come, the cult-of-personality types who will brook NO criticism of their golden boy.

[treestar]

166. Better than brooking no criticism of Harry or Matt Damon or Glen G. or whoever

Why do we have a duty to not defend the President from criticism? Your only complaint seems to be me supporting the President. Like that is wrong by itself.

[ljm2002]

179. Bull puckey.

You say:

"Better than brooking no criticism of Harry or Matt Damon or Glen G. or whoever"

"Why do we have a duty to not defend the President from criticism?"

"Your only complaint seems to be me supporting the President.

Congratulations on the use of straw men. Three in one short post! Well done!

Please, feel free to defend the President from criticism. You might start by addressing the substance of Belafonte's remarks, rather than simply objecting to the fact that he makes them.

[treestar]

242. I did respond to substance, stating

that it is ridiculous to say the President doesn't have morals. He is simply not a monarch.

[Hell Hath No Fury]

76. You just need to stop on this topic --

Now you're just embarrassing yourself. Really.

[FarLeftFist]

80. I see what you're saying in terms of morality, it's the republicans who want children to starve,

senior citizens to go poor, no one to have healthcare etc. Also, in a way you're correct, we're a Nation built on laws not morals. But I do happen to agree with some of what Belafonte is trying to grasp at.

[choie]

26. Really? Politics...

IS about principles - and those are something that this current iteration of Obama clearly lacks.

[treestar]

32. Politics is not about pure principles

Politicians have to compromise. We all do, or we'd be at constant war with our neighbors.

It's a hard sell that the President lacks "morality." He has a personal moral code. There is no doubt of that. But you can't trace your personal moral code into a reality on earth - no one can. Right wingers honestly believe abortion is immoral - do you admire them for living up to their moral code?

[choie]

73. Compromise??

His actions are nothing to laud - he has compromised at every turn. At some point, you have to believe in something more than compromise.

[treestar]

101. In life, but in politics you have to compromise

At least, in the US, where it is reasonable to expect that. Everything is not a great Drama or Right and Wrong. In U.S. politics, that is long gone, ever since we were founded, we have had a decent system of laws.

As I said, you'd then have to admire the tea partiers and anti-choicers, no and would admire them more if they stuck to their moral code being legislated into law?

[itsnotaboutu]

212. Well said,

That's what I've seen in the last 3+ yrs. COMPROMISE after compromise after compromise.
I believe that's what Mr. Belafonte is referring to, I too have been waiting for Mr. Obama to stand firm on something, anything, rather than caving in every time the Republicans say no he just gives them what they want. It's very disheartening.

We all had such high hopes

[Doctor_J]

36. Yeah, they're always complaining about the president being too corpo-conservative

[Marr]

45. No-- YOU sound like a Republican.