Israel avoids public spat with Obama over Chuck Hagel defense nomination

Mark Wilson / Getty Images file

Defense nominee Chuck Hagel is a decorated Vietnam combat veteran.

ANALYSIS

TEL AVIV, Israel — Even before he was nominated to become the next U.S. secretary of defense, the bad-mouthing of former Republican Sen. Chuck Hagel had already begun.

Warnings flew like salvos across the U.S. media and beyond: Hagel is soft on Iran and no friend of Israel. Tea Party and Republican critics of the moderate and pragmatic Hagel smelled blood.

Ted Cruz, a freshman senator from Texas, said that Hagel "would make war with Iran more likely because he's too nice to Iran."


Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina said Hagel would be "the most antagonistic secretary of defense towards the state of Israel in our nation's history."

So you would expect to see the vitriol flowing here in Israel, especially just days before a crucial parliamentary election — on Jan. 22 — in which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is struggling to head off a late populist surge by an even more right-wing candidate.

But there have been no anti-Hagel protests outside the U.S. Embassy and no angry Israelis heard on radio talk shows. In fact, reaction to all the uproar back home has been muted.

'Dark cloud'
It's true that Israelis in general aren't happy with the nomination. "It represents a dark cloud over the relationship between the two countries, and it borders on hostility," said Simon Schiffer, a political analyst with the Yediot Ahronot daily newspaper.

Hagel's willingness to engage with Iran and its client, Hamas, upsets most Israelis, Schiffer noted. But he went on to say that “U.S. policy towards Israel is set in the White House, and there you can find today a president who has a very warm approach to Israel but at the same time a very angry and cold policy towards Netanyahu and his government.”

Related: Hagel — a man without a party

So far, Israeli government reaction has been minimal and mixed. Reuven Rivlin, the powerful speaker of Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, told The Associated Press he is worried about Hagel "because of his statements in the past and his stance toward Israel."

But Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon, wrapping up a trip to the U.S., told a group of major Jewish organizations that he personally knew and worked with Hagel and found him to be "a decent and fair interlocutor who believes in the natural partnership between Israel and the United States."

Until Sunday there had been not a peep from Netanyahu himself, whose "iron fist" approach to Iran, Hamas and the Palestinian territories seems diametrically opposed to Hagel's instinct for dialogue.

"I do not interfere in the political appointments of the U.S. president. It is his prerogative,'' Netanyahu told Israel's Army Radio. "Congress decides and confirms, and we will work with whoever is chosen.''

One Israeli official told NBC News that Netanyahu's silence doesn't mean he's not angry.

After making the mistake of “backing the wrong horse — [Gov. Mitt] Romney — during the last U.S. election, he's not willing to play that game again,” said the official, who was not authorized to speak on the record about policy matters.

'Revenge' for Romney?
Sever Plocker, an influential Israeli commentator, went further by suggesting that Obama picked Hagel as “revenge” for Netanyahu's public support for Romney.

Hagel hasn't yet defended his positions before the U.S. Senate, but he has faced the court of public opinion, emphasizing in recent days his "unequivocal support for Israel." On Iran, he told Defense Department officials Wednesday that he also strongly "supports multilateral sanctions against Iran and that Tehran must be prevented from acquiring nuclear warheads."

Hagel may have gotten into some hot water with a comment — made years ago in Washington — that “the political reality is that …the Jewish lobby intimidates a lot of people up here.” But on Monday one of the largest and most active of those "Jewish lobbies" -- the National Jewish Democratic Council -- released a statement saying it believes Hagel “will follow the president's lead in providing unrivaled support for Israel — on strategic cooperation, missile defense programs and leading the world against Iran's nuclear program.”

The consensus here is that Netanyahu may enjoy watching Hagel fight for his nomination in Washington, but staying out of the fight is probably a smart move.

Related stories:

Senators signal tough fight for Hagel

Full Israel coverage from NBC News

Discuss this post

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Comment author avatarbrenda1964Expand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

Last thing I give any credit to is something coming from the Republicans. Nobody is perfect especially the Republicans in the House. Get paid well for only working 6 days a month at the most and then gets upset at the pay for teachers who work 9 months of the year 5 days a week plus grading papers and setting up curricula on their off time. So last thing I would do is give any credit to the Republicans concerning Hagel.

Maybe if the House Republicans actually got something done in the 6 days they work a month then maybe I would listen to what they have to say, but until then.....NOT!

  • 52 votes
#1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:18 AM EST
Comment author avatarGlen-1484791Expand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

Brenda: 1964 Nice job instilling hatred for a group, especially with your view on money to judge who is deserving of the respect of others and not give credit based entirely on your feelings, regardless of what they think or do based on logic and bias for what they might do right or wrong. It is always good to set the tone by posting first, especially on -this- article with a hot topic such as this article. Well thought out. Nice job. : (

  • 15 votes
#1.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:03 AM EST
Comment author avatarFedupwithFedExpand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

Let me guess...Brenda is a disgruntled union teacher!

What does she care.......her job is set for life too, even if she is incompetent!

Brenda forgot to mention the biggest fight Obama faces is with the democrats in his nomination

  • 19 votes
#1.2 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:08 AM EST
Comment author avatarTomTom-72Expand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

One Israeli official told NBC News that Netanyahu's silence - over the Hagel appointment - doesn't mean he's not angry.

Netanyahu and silence in the same sentence? Wow! See what change an ass-whooping from Hamas can effectuate?

  • 16 votes
#1.3 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:15 AM EST
Comment author avatarFedupwithFedExpand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/right-turn/wp/2012/12/19/senate-dems-in-a-pickle-if-hagel-nominated/

Senate Dems in a pickle if Hagel nominated

While lying low, Democratic senators should be increasingly nervous that they will be presented with a nominee who is not defensible and proves to be an embarrassment to the administration. One can imagine the administration will soon trot out an ally (Colin Powell call your office! Sen. Dick Lugar (R-Ind.) the president is on the line!) to try to insulate Hagel from criticism and give Democrats cover. But it's easy for those who don't cast votes to do a favor for the president while sticking it to conservative hawks they despise. On this issue, however, Republicans senators will have an easy no vote; it's the Democrats who will be trapped.

  • 8 votes
#1.4 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:21 AM EST
Comment author avatarBob the medicExpand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

I'm thinking yer a racist, or a republicanophobe. You are filled with hate brenda1964. Wow. This finger pointing thing is easy. I'm gonna do it more often.

  • 13 votes
#1.5 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:22 AM EST
Comment author avatarbrenda1964Expand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

FedupwithFed

Let me guess...Brenda is a disgruntled union teacher!

What does she care.......her job is set for life too, even if she is incompetent!

Brenda forgot to mention the biggest fight Obama faces is with the democrats in his nomination

Wow, I must really have hit a nerve to get so much attention from this guy. Maybe he is a stocker. Republican, stocker, whats the difference. Oh and funny that you think I'm a teacher just because I mention teachers and the injustice they get. Standard Republican, always assuming something like what they are saying on Republican talk shows that President Obama is trying to take your guns away from you that you need to protect yourselves. He is trying to take assault weapons that do mass killings, not your little P-shooters or shotguns. If they can't win by telling the truth, they make stuff up. Oh and by the way, that's how President Obama won, Mitt the twit and Lyin Ryan couldn't tell the truth if it was force fed them. Flip floppers!

  • 29 votes
#1.6 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:48 AM EST

Not that I have an argument about the republicans, personally credit them with destroying this country by setting democracy back to the 1800's, but has any one thought that Israel is doing what they should be doing, "STAYING OUT OF AMERICAN POLITICS!" I wish we would! (that is stay out of other countries politics!)

  • 33 votes
#1.7 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:52 AM EST
Comment author avatarfreedomfrysExpand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

I support any American official who stands for America first. Chuck Hagel has my vote! The Republicans - once again - are pissing on the wrong tree.

  • 41 votes
#1.8 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:53 AM EST

It is way past time for all the politicians in DC to realize that Israel is NOT a member of the USA. They have been a very distrustful "ally" considering all of the money and special treatment that has come their way. We would be further ahead being the main ally of Saudi Arabia over Israel. No other country in the ME has bombed one of our navy ships and been allowed to plead innocence.

Israel is little different than being a friend of a crooked bully who you know will screw you over any way that they can. There is zero reason we should be constantly kissing their ass and giving them most anything that they want. Any politician who places the interests of Israel above those of the USA should be booted from office. Time to start demanding accountability from ALL politicians to put the interests of the citizens of the USA above those of Israel or any other country.

  • 25 votes
#1.9 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 7:22 AM EST
Comment author avatarFedupwithFedExpand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

who said anything about guns Brenda? Again, why so angry?

Noted that you didn't deny being a teacher...

You know, with that great insurance you have as a teacher, that the people pay for, you really should see someone for anger management, we dont want you going off on a gun toting republican

  • 14 votes
#1.10 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 7:24 AM EST

FedupwithFed

who said anything about guns Brenda? Again, why so angry?

Noted that you didn't deny being a teacher...

She didn't deny being a bullfighter either, that doesn't mean she is one. Grow up Fed and quit whining about Brenda.

  • 24 votes
#1.11 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 7:48 AM EST
Comment author avatarjohn-737278Expand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

brenda1964

And how many days a week do the Democrats work?

FedupwithFed

I am more concerned with attitudes like Brenda's teaching our kids the same.

  • 15 votes
#1.12 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 7:54 AM EST

fedupwithfed Dude so what if she is a teacher. So what if her benefits are better than yours. Why do you have a problem "that the people pay for" her benefits? Do you have a problem with veterans benefits, its the same thing. A teacher serves the country just like someone in the military or anyone who works for the government.

"We don't want anyone going off on a gun toting republican." What are you saying with that line? Thats a question I would like answered. That sounds almost like a threat. Speaking of anger management you might need to look into that yourself.

  • 19 votes
#1.13 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:00 AM EST

The fact that israels opinions on our government actually matters to anyone, is @!$%#ing disgusting! It is way past time to get the @!$%# out of that region.

I propose a constitutional amendment that would bar the US government or any American individuals or companies from conducting any business with any country whose government is based in or on religion or any individuals or companies in those countries.

Middle east problem, solved!

  • 17 votes
#1.14 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:06 AM EST

Gotta tell ya, I do not understand this one. As a usual Obama supporter, I do not support this pick. What does Hagel really bring to this Post? He's Wealthy... of course he is a Republican, that goes without saying. He voted more times than not against R-bills. He appears to have been a RINO, but back to the subject... what qualifies him to be "Defense" Secretary? 2 Purple Hearts, does not a DS make.

The only thing I can think of; Obama is trying to make the Republicans look stupid fighting against one of their own

  • 5 votes
#1.15 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:06 AM EST

I hate DemoCrip and RepubliBlood politicians. That said...

1. Who gives a crap what some foreign country thinks about our President's nominations?

2. Israel has 200 nukes and one the best militaries in the world...handle your own problems and quit acting like we're your guard dog.

3. If no two nuke nations have ever been in a prolonged and highly costly (in terms of lives) war with each other, because of "mutually assured destruction" (a game theory concept called being "unexploitable"), then why am I supposed to heed the call to war when they beat their war drums over yet another nation getting nukes again?

4. I'm tired of kowtowing to foreign nations. "Friend of Israel" is becoming a phrase that if withheld from you is like calling you a racist. It's nonsense.

5. You support Israel because you think they need us, remind yourself they have enough nukes to obliterate all their enemies in one day, and their enemies can't do anything about that. If you support them because of some mythology...grow up. If you hate them because of your politics or conspiracy theories, again, grow up. They don't need us, and you should be mad at your corrupt politicians, not them. They have their hand out like every other nation in the world we fund to be our "friend".

6. If we have to pay someone to be our friend, they aren't our friend.

  • 22 votes
#1.16 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:09 AM EST

"I support any American official who stands for America first. Chuck Hagel has my vote!"

And the key phrase is "stands for America first." This is The United States of America, not The United States of Israel. People in government take an oath to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, not the constitution of Israel. It's time some members of the Senate realize this.

  • 20 votes
#1.17 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:11 AM EST
Comment author avatarohiofanExpand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

Brenda1964 - It's really a shame that you parrot everything the liberal media and your liberal friends say. You sound like a robot. Why don't you try thinking for yourself you fool! Your boy in the oval office voted PRESENT while he was a senator for how long??? He never worked and he is still not working and he holds the highest office in the land. The house has passed many many many bills that the senate keeps rejecting so you tell me who is working and who isn't????? It's truly a shame that you, if you are a teacher (it doesn't sound like a very smart one) is permitted to teach young minds your idiotic values and beliefs. Get your facts straight. Also, try thinking for yourself, you robot.

  • 12 votes
#1.18 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:12 AM EST

He's Wealthy... of course he is a Republican, that goes without saying.

How many non-wealthy people, in either Party, are in the criminal class...errrrr...I mean ruling class of our government right now?

Don't tell me you think Congressmen on one side or the other are middle class...lol.

  • 12 votes
#1.19 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:15 AM EST

ohiofan the house has passed manny manny manny bills that the Senate keeps rejecting them......

Well have you ever thought that the bills that the house passed were meant to fail anyway. Think about "we need to make the President a one term President." Thats a good way to do it. Pass things so bad they won't even get read. Than blame the Senate and the President for their failed acts. To bad the American people saw through that plan huh?

  • 14 votes
#1.20 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:32 AM EST

I believe the President should be able to pick who ever he thinks would do a good job, especially with Congress, anything to obstruct again and again, again......

  • 16 votes
#1.21 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:38 AM EST

The problem the republicans have with Hagel is that he is more of an Independents than a Republican, he was against the war in Iraq, and Repubs didn't like that, so anyone who oppose the Repubs will not get their support, just obstruction, and the threat from the superpacs for no more funding.

  • 14 votes
#1.22 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:41 AM EST

Smitty-4183671

First of all, I believe it is quite plausible that Americans voted against Romney rather than for the President. I couldn't vote for either, even though I voted for Obama in 2008.

Secondly, People will almost always vote with their pocketbooks and what it will mean to them rather than for a higher purpose.

Finally, In the sprit of compromise and getting things done, House bills should always be heard by the Senate and not die on Reid's desk. And once heard, they should be either modified, passed or killed. But they should be heard regardless.

  • 4 votes
#1.23 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:47 AM EST

I don't see why anyone should give a damn what Israel thinks. We are not the United States of Israel, ya know what I mean, Vern?

  • 18 votes
#1.24 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:00 AM EST

Here's a "novel" concept: AMERICA FIRST!

I'm glad Obama has nominated Hagel, because at the very least we'll have someone that puts America's interests first!

  • 19 votes
#1.25 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:10 AM EST

ohiofan, a case of the pot calling the kettle black. Just repeating the same old Republican talking points.

You should try using a little critical thinking instead of repeating nonsense.

  • 14 votes
#1.26 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:18 AM EST

john In the spirit of compromise...........

Thats a laugh when have the house republican/tea party compromised? Look at their bills no compromise in any of that. So now you want compromise. Make up your mind compromise or no compromise.

  • 11 votes
#1.27 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:27 AM EST
Comment author avatarwitchrunnerExpand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

brenda: Actually, you are sadly misinformed. Perhaps intentionally so. You do realize that an AR-15 is NOT an assault weapon, don't you? Well, actually, I'm sure you don't. That's because of the purposeful misinformation campaign put out by the left. The ban being sought goes far beyond assault weapons, which, by the way, are pretty much banned already. Yes, you can get one legally, but it isn't easy or cheap to do. It's easier to get one illegally, which, as we know, the law won't prevent.

sum succubus: with friends like you, who needs enemies, ya know what I mean?

  • 3 votes
#1.28 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:29 AM EST

Here's a "novel" concept: AMERICA FIRST!

I'm glad Obama has nominated Hagel, because at the very least we'll have someone that puts America's interests first!

I have to say you're DEAD ON THE NUTS on this one. As anyone here knows, I've been VERY critical of MANY of Obama's policies here, but THIS is NOT one of them.

Hagel is the right choice. And Hagel is right concerning the Middle East, including Israel. We need to STAY OUT of their matters. By that I mean COMPLETELY OUT!!!!!

NO MORE:

Bombings

Invasions

Occupations

"heroic" missions

"liberation" stunts or "well meaning" interventions

Henchmomy............ahem........excuse me ............sorry about that .............HEDGEMONY in the Mid East, and above all:

NOT ONE MORE NICKEL WASTED IN THAT RATHOLE!!!!!

Doesn't mean I'm anti-Jew, a religiousphobe or ANYTHING of the kind, but the decision on Israel's policies towards it's neighbors should be LEFT UP TO ISRAEL. PERIOD.

  • 15 votes
#1.29 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:35 AM EST
Comment author avatarSnake BiteExpand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

Brenda is like the pot calling the kettle black. No use for your hypocracy here. stop calling names and stay in focus!

Brenda, its ok, settle down. Shh Shh good little lib. Take your valium like a good little over reactive spoiled brat. Shh Shh good girl , heres your food stamp, Shh good girl.

Do you like it?

  • 3 votes
#1.30 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:43 AM EST

"We don't want anyone going off on a gun toting republican." What are you saying with that line? Thats a question I would like answered. That sounds almost like a threat.

Smitty, its not gun toting republicans you need to worry about, it’s the criminals with illegal weapons who don’t give a damn about the law, which are probably democrats with a sense of entitlement…”give me your @!$%# dude, or Im gonna shoot you!” Hopefully one of the gun toting republicans will be nearby to save your ass!

BTW, the article is about Israel staying out of it.......so why all the hoopla?

  • 3 votes
#1.31 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 10:24 AM EST

Like it or not, the Jews who live here and are obviously endeared to their homeland of Israel control the financial sector of the USA. That is why the USA and Israel, basically, are one and why the USA will always support it.

  • 2 votes
#1.32 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 10:38 AM EST

Wake up people the opposition to Hagel is coming from one group of people the NEOCONS! Listening to them who only support people who approach israel on their belly is just plain stupid. Hagel is a gpood choice cause he has shown he is as impartial to things and votes on merit not party line. That makes him a moderate not som right win asshat.

  • 7 votes
#1.33 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 10:51 AM EST

Charlie (#1.17), you hit the nail on the head, why should this country not do what is best for us because we are terrified by what Israel thinks, they are not an ally, they have never done anything for us, they are a parasite taking our money, pressuring our government (AIPAC), and then spitting in our faces (West Bank settlements complicating peace efforts). I wonder how many of Hagel's critics served in the military, in combat, won 2 Purple Hearts, know and understand the true horrors of war first hand? Where and how did the GOP/TP's latest darling, Ted Cruz, serve? Graham served (Air Force), but not combat, big difference. Look what two of our greatest war heroes, W. Bush and Cheney got us into in Iraq.

"Tea Party and Republican critics of the moderate and pragmatic Hagel smelled blood"

My God, moderate and pragmatic, we can't have that, we need radicals leading us to Armageddon.

Bleep the Tea Party, they started out with good intentions, but they've morphed into the biggest group of anal apertures in this country.

  • 8 votes
#1.34 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:00 AM EST

Bibi does not have to do anything. His doormats in Washington are doing all he would like to do and some.

  • 4 votes
#1.35 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:07 AM EST

Like our government leaders don't inject their opinions into Isreali politics.... And speaking of political intrusions, how about the freakin' UN folks... Now there's an org that needs to be muffled.

  • 1 vote
#1.36 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 2:52 PM EST

Smitty-4183671

Did you actually read this part of my post?

"they should be either modified, passed or killed. But they should be heard regardless."

I haven't read the bills that the house has passed, but have read a list of many. Have you? That is why they need to at least be heard by the Senate. If they are so partisan, then they should be modified until a compromise can be reached. If at that time no compromise can be reached, then they should be killed. That is the proper non-partisan way to look at it. Which I am. Harry Reid is acting like a Senatorial dictator not allowing the Senate to even discuss things that might actually be good ideas.

From what I have read, Harry Reid is being just as partisan as the House republicans. You can blame the republicans if you wish, but it goes both ways. In my opinion, YOU are the problem with Congress because they are a mirror to the partisan crap in society.

  • 1 vote
#1.37 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:35 PM EST
Reply
Comment author avatarcoldwarrior777Expand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

America first and too hell with the jews, they have conspired to have us fight their enemy that they created and spilled american blood and looted american treasury. Save our selves and if their god is real then he will save them, apparently they don't beleive that because they ar always begging for our help.

  • 39 votes
#2 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:24 AM EST

they have conspired to have us fight their enemy that they created

Really? Is that why Israel is called the "little satan" and the US is called the "GREAT SATAN" by the extreme islamic terrorists?

Is that why 3000 people were murdered on American soil?

Your naïveté is astounding!!

  • 19 votes
#2.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:05 AM EST
Comment author avatarFrancleExpand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

Not naive. He's just stupid.

  • 15 votes
#2.2 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:26 AM EST

Too hell? to hell? two hell. Sorry two be a grammer nazi, but I R A butthole and I are am stupider than you.

  • 4 votes
#2.3 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:28 AM EST

WASHINGTON, GEORGE, in Maxims of George Washington by A. A. Appleton & Co.

"They (the Jews) work more effectively against us, than the enemy's armies. They are a hundred times more dangerous to our liberties and the great cause we are engaged in... It is much to be lamented that each state, long ago, has not hunted them down as pest to society and the greatest enemies we have to the happiness of America."

This prophecy, by Benjamin Franklin, was made in a "CHIT CHAT AROUND THE TABLE DURING INTERMISSION," at the Philadelphia Constitutional Convention of 1787. This statement was recorded in the dairy of Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, a delegate from South Carolina.

"I fully agree with General Washington, that we must protect this young nation from an insidious influence and impenetration. The menace, gentlemen, is the Jews.
In whatever country Jews have settled in any great number, they have lowered its moral tone; depreciated its commercial integrity; have segregated themselves and have not been assimilated; have sneered at and tried to undermine the Christian religion upon which that nation is founded, by objecting to its restrictions; have built up a state within the state; and when opposed have tried to strangle that country to death financially, as in the case of Spain and Portugal.
For over 1,700 years, the Jews have been bewailing their sad fate in that they have been exiled from their homeland, as they call Palestine. But gentlemen, did the world give it to them in fee simple, they would at once find some reason for not returning. Why? Because they are vampires, and vampires do not live on vampires. They cannot live only among themselves. They must subsist on Christians and other people not of their race.
If you do not exclude them from these United States, in their Constitution, in less than 200 years they will have swarmed here in such great numbers that they will dominate and devour the land and change our form of government, for which we Americans have shed our blood, given our lives our substance and jeopardized our liberty.
If you do not exclude them, in less than 200 years our descendants will be working in the fields to furnish them substance, while they will be in the counting houses rubbing their hands. I warn you, gentlemen, if you do not exclude Jews for all time, your children will curse you in your graves.
Jews, gentlemen, are Asiatics, let them be born where they will nor how many generations they are away from Asia, they will never be otherwise. Their ideas do not conform to an American's, and will not even thou they live among us ten generations. A leopard cannot change its spots. Jews are Asiatics, are a menace to this country if permitted entrance, and should be excluded by this Constitutional Convention.

    #2.4 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:40 AM EST

    FedupwithFed

    they have conspired to have us fight their enemy that they created

    Really? Is that why Israel is called the "little satan" and the US is called the "GREAT SATAN" by the extreme islamic terrorists?

    Is that why 3000 people were murdered on American soil?

    Your naïveté is astounding!!

    So then your saying Bush is a terrorist because he killed 4000 + Americans in the Iraq war that we shouldn't have gotten involved in. Especially since we didn't pay for it and there was not weapons of mass destruction. Not one. Talk about a lie, Bush told a whopper just so he had an excuse to do what he thought his father should have done.

    • 29 votes
    #2.5 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:54 AM EST

    coldwarrior777 take it easy you anti-semit you. You say their G_D as if you are an atheist too.Israel has always fought their own battles against their enemies(and have always defeated them).Israel is warning the stupid people of the world like you that iran is a threat to all nations,and need to be stopped before it's too late.Smartin up all you people that are as blind and stupid as coldwarrior777.

    • 18 votes
    #2.6 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 7:08 AM EST

    again with the anger Brenda...

    Did you FORGET democrats voted to go to war?

    "As a member of the House Intelligence Committee, I am keenly aware that the proliferation of chemical and biological weapons is an issue of grave importance to all nations. Saddam Hussein has been engaged in the development of weapons of mass destruction technology which is a threat to countries in the region and he has made a mockery of the weapons inspection process." -- Nancy Pelosi, December 16, 1998

    "[W]e urge you, after consulting with Congress, and consistent with the U.S. Constitution and laws, to take necessary actions (including, if appropriate, air and missile strikes on suspect Iraqi sites) to respond effectively to the threat posed by Iraq's refusal to end its weapons of mass destruction programs." -- From a letter signed by Joe Lieberman, Dianne Feinstein, Barbara A. Milulski, Tom Daschle, & John Kerry among others on October 9, 1998

    "Saddam's goal ... is to achieve the lifting of U.N. sanctions while retaining and enhancing Iraq's weapons of mass destruction programs. We cannot, we must not and we will not let him succeed." -- Madeline Albright, 1998

    "The community of nations may see more and more of the very kind of threat Iraq poses now: a rogue state with weapons of mass destruction, ready to use them or provide them to terrorists. If we fail to respond today, Saddam and all those who would follow in his footsteps will be emboldened tomorrow." -- Bill Clinton in 1998

    "In the four years since the inspectors left, intelligence reports show that Saddam Hussein has worked to rebuild his chemical and biological weapons stock, his missile delivery capability, and his nuclear program. He has also given aid, comfort, and sanctuary to terrorists, including Al Qaeda members, though there is apparently no evidence of his involvement in the terrible events of September 11, 2001. It is clear, however, that if left unchecked, Saddam Hussein will continue to increase his capacity to wage biological and chemical warfare, and will keep trying to develop nuclear weapons. Should he succeed in that endeavor, he could alter the political and security landscape of the Middle East, which as we know all too well affects American security." -- Hillary Clinton, October 10, 2002

    "Iraq does pose a serious threat to the stability of the Persian Gulf and we should organize an international coalition to eliminate his access to weapons of mass destruction. Iraq's search for weapons of mass destruction has proven impossible to completely deter and we should assume that it will continue for as long as Saddam is in power." -- Al Gore, 2002

    "We have known for many years that Saddam Hussein is seeking and developing weapons of mass destruction." -- Ted Kennedy, September 27, 2002

    "There is no doubt that Saddam Hussein's regime is a serious danger, that he is a tyrant, and that his pursuit of lethal weapons of mass destruction cannot be tolerated. He must be disarmed." -- Ted Kennedy, Sept 27, 2002

    "The threat of Saddam Hussein with weapons of mass destruction is real, but as I said, it is not new. It has been with us since the end of that war, and particularly in the last 4 years we know after Operation Desert Fox failed to force him to reaccept them, that he has continued to build those weapons. He has had a free hand for 4 years to reconstitute these weapons, allowing the world, during the interval, to lose the focus we had on weapons of mass destruction and the issue of proliferation." -- John Kerry, October 9, 2002

    Of course, pObama could only vote "present"

    Hypocrisy, thy name is Brenda


    • 21 votes
    #2.7 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 7:18 AM EST

    Brenda perhaps you missed it but 9-11 was on the news and was not a lie. At the time we all knew where that war should begin and agreed with it. Had Bush not gone into Iraq we very well could have had many mor attacks on American soil killing many more thousands.When America reacted harshly against that terrorist attack and went to where they were it forced a retreat. The responsible ones ran to the mountains because we were on thier trail. Anyone who belives we would have been better off not going to Iraq and then on to other country to find these killers is pretty nieve. If we had done as Clinton would have, we would have been watching war shots from our own contry on the news. I grow very tired of Bush being critisized for attacking Iraq. Every member of congress and nearly every citizen felt we should at that time and we all know that IF we wish to be honest with ourselves and others.

    • 8 votes
    #2.8 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 7:33 AM EST

    Did you FORGET democrats voted to go to war?

    Some did and some didn't. Obama was publicly opposed to the war and as is well documented democrats based their agreement on evidence Bush provided supposedly proving Saddam was building WMD. Evidence that proved false. It's also well known that Bush suppressed intelligence that didn't support his desire to finish what his daddy left un done. Intelligence agencies report directly to the president and only to congress when they're investigating something specific. Bush being able to sell Saddam being a threat doesn't make it any less his war. Nice try though.

    IRAQ: How Bush, Howard and Blair lied about WMD

    Wednesday, June 11, 2003 - 10:00

    BY ROHAN PEARCE

    On May 30, US President George Bush told Polish television that the US military had found Iraq's "weapons of mass destruction" (WMD). Well, sort of. Remember the three (some media outlets have inaccurately reported two) trailers the US found. According to Bush, these trailers — or "mobile biological laboratories", as he called them — are proof of US, British and Australian government claims that Iraq possessed an arsenal of banned weapons sufficient to justify their invasion of the country.

    The CIA's May 28 report on the trailers describes them as "the strongest evidence to date that Iraq was hiding a biological warfare program". However, when Iraqi officials at the al Kindi Research, Development and Engineering facility were shown photos of the trailers, "they claimed that the trailers were used to chemically produce hydrogen for artillery weather balloons". The report admits: "Hydrogen production would be a plausible cover story for the mobile production units."

    The next day, the New York Times reported, after a briefing of journalists by US intelligence officials, that "the trailers' hardware presented no direct evidence of weapons use". The "intelligence" officials "conceded that there were inconsistencies in the evidence and a lack of hard proof, like the presence of pathogens in trailer gear", and that "they had discovered neither biological agents nor evidence that the equipment had ever been used to make germ weapons".

    • 15 votes
    #2.9 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 7:49 AM EST

    Bush said Iraq oil would pay for the war. American tax payers didn't get a drop of it. We tax payers though paid for a 42" pipeline from Kikurk to Haifa harbour in Israel. They don't pay a dime for this oil at our expense. Hagel is right when he says there's to much Jewish influence in Washington.

    • 25 votes
    #2.10 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:02 AM EST

    .

      #2.11 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:04 AM EST

      Jews of Israel are smarter than that.

      They work through their lobbyists in the US and other nations.

      About 65 percent of funding of US candidates in elections are met by US Jews and their lobbyists.

      So who ever (Democrat or Republican) and his team comes to power, listen to Jewish lobby.

      On Syria and Iran, Jews and Jewish lobby need to lie low.

      While seventh century Sunni Islamists and tenth century Shiite battle between themselves in Syria and Iran, we (infidels) should all keep miles away from their battles.

      Israel should use this break to wipe out Hamas by intimidating and terrorizing from Gaza strip.

      • 8 votes
      #2.12 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:49 AM EST

      Just for 'Clarification', how did 'The Jews' make Iran an enemy?? Any Ideas, or just 'Anti- Semitic' hate speech.

      You probably don't have a 'Clue', about anything at all, But you gots h'an Computer-dora & h'all kinds of 'Rage'.

      But, then again you is probably a very Edicated person!!!

      • 5 votes
      #2.13 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:53 AM EST

      Really? Is that why Israel is called the "little satan" and the US is called the "GREAT SATAN" by the extreme islamic terrorists?

      Is that why 3000 people were murdered on American soil?

      Your naïveté is astounding!!

      Really Fedup?

      The middle east is what it is because of OUR meddling. We took out the Iranians democratically elected leader in 1953 and replaced it with one of our guys. 16 years of anger and hatred you get an Islamist movement and the Ayatollah in charge and the Iran hostage crisis. We fund Sadam to attack Iran, and you know how well that went, we fund Osama to go after the USSR, and you know how that went, we give Egypt billions of dollars, and you know how that went, we wanted to free Vietnamese from communism, and we know how that went. Korea? We know how that went.

      USA's foreign policy is a complete and utter failure and is bankrupting us.

      I voted for Obama in 2008 because he would bring us home, but I was wrong. He is creating more terrorist home and abroad by his drone wars and removing of our rights (continuing Patriot act and NDAA).

      • 16 votes
      #2.14 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:58 AM EST

      FedupwithFed

      Yep but you forget Bush did it as he was President so he should have known the CIA was lying to him.Also the Democrats only voted that way cause Bush was president and they wanted to make the Republicans look bad for the next election.

      • 1 vote
      #2.15 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:06 AM EST

      Couldn't have said it better myself. Since when is our foreign policy dictated by the Israeli terrorists? Republicans seem to think this is perfectly OK.

      • 12 votes
      #2.16 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:06 AM EST

      Hagel was right and is right, about the lobby guys from isreal. Imagine that, Obama picks an honest republican, and the right wing goes nuts. lol It's time for somebody to get Isreal, off it's high horse and make it join the human race. Defend your country but get out of Gaza and the west bank, and stop taking their water please. Every terror attack has it's roots in the murders committed against the palestinians. The end of isreal's apartheid policies and expansionist policies will end terror. and nobody has to die.

      • 18 votes
      #2.17 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:07 AM EST

      "Israel has always fought their own battles against their enemies(and have always defeated them)."

      Now that's the funniest thing I've read all morning. Looks like someone needs to pick up a history book, or even a Bible for that matter.

      • 10 votes
      #2.18 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:14 AM EST

      coldwarrior777 ...(#2)..."America first and too hell with the jews"

      I'm curious....What do you and all your Anti-Semite friends think of one of P.0bama's other Nominee's....

      That would be for Treasury Secretary.....Do you fall in line as an 0bamabot, putting your hatred aside ???

      You know, the guy that ate too many Hostess Cupcakes when he was learning to sign his name...

      http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images?_adv_prop=image&fr=slv8-&va=hostess+cupcakes

      That would be Jack Lew, the Jew......another one that can be counted as a Green Job, recycled from the Bill Clinton Administration:

      Tell the truth:

      I wonder how all the Anti-Semites that frequent here feel about P.0bama picking one of these to be in charge of all the money in the United States ?!?!?!?!?

      "Jacob Joseph "Jack" Lew"

      Lew is an Orthodox Jew who observes the Jewish Sabbath [46][47] and attends Congregation Beth Sholom. [48]

      Interviewed in a 2010 article, Lew's former boss on the National Security Council, Sandy Berger, commented that "Lew's faith never got in the way of performing his duties."[46] Berger also said that Lew's commitment to his family was also extremely important, but that Lew "was able to balance the requirements, which was very, very hard—and he was determined to observe his religious traditions."[46]

      A 2011 press release from the Religion News Service noted that Lew also "has extensive connections in the American Jewish community," and that he might be able to help President Obama "build a more friendly rapport" with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.[49]""

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

      NOT A JEW IN NAME ONLY (JINO).......A real practicing ORTHODOX JEW

      What say you coldwarrior777

      Hey Fedup.....

      • 6 votes
      #2.19 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:18 AM EST

      Lobbying is not an extension of the PEOPLE. It is an extension of MONEY through corporates.

      So the "Jewish Lobby" is more a "Lobby" and less "Jewish" - just like any other lobby. The #1 thing Americans should be concerned about is the influence of money in the politics and public policy. Jewish Chinese Islamic ... are all labels that are used to suit purpose at that time.

      • 4 votes
      #2.20 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:26 AM EST

      Fedup-

      September 15, 2004
      John Kerry tells radio host Don Imus that we shouldn't have gone to war "under the current circumstances. I voted based on weapons of mass destruction."

      He supported the invasion and conquer of Iraq based on the lies from Bush II, like so many others, but changed his mind when he became aware of the truth. Obama fortunately saw through Bush II from the beginning.

      • 11 votes
      #2.21 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:28 AM EST

      @Mike - "he might be able to help President Obama ..." sums up the argument that Hagel made. Why don't we see the language "he might be able to Jewish Community mend relationships with the US president..."?

      That kind of language does indicate that indeed it is a problem in American politics. Anytime anybody makes a statement that in the smallest possible way hurts Jewish community - we don't have to cry out antisemitism. Please.... Jewish community is better than that.

      • 2 votes
      #2.22 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:36 AM EST

      Dick-2100935...(#2.20)...."He supported the invasion and conquer of Iraq based on the lies from Bush II, like so many others, but changed his mind when he became aware of the truth"

      Really.....My Apologies to those that already know the truth to have to post this for the Low-Information P.0bama supporters...:

      PRE-BUSH

      Democrat Quotes on
      Iraq Weapons of Mass
      Destruction

      "One way or the other, we are
      determined to deny Iraq the capacity to
      develop weapons of mass destruction and
      the missiles to deliver them. That
      is our bottom line."
      --President Bill Clinton, Feb.
      4, 1998

      "If Saddam
      rejects peace and we have to use force, our purpose is
      clear. We want to
      seriously diminish the threat posed by Iraq's weapons of
      mass destruction
      program."
      --President Bill Clinton, Feb.
      17,
      1998

      "Iraq is a long
      way from [here], but what happens there matters a great deal here. For the risks
      that the leaders of a rogue state will use nuclear,
      chemical or biological
      weapons against us or our allies is the greatest
      security threat we
      face."
      --Madeline Albright, Feb 18,
      1998

      "He will use
      those weapons of mass destruction again, as he has ten
      times since
      1983."
      --Sandy Berger, Clinton National
      Security Adviser,
      Feb, 18, 1998

      "[W]e urge you,
      after consulting with Congress, and consistent with the
      U.S. Constitution and
      laws, to take necessary actions (including, if
      appropriate, air and missile
      strikes on suspect Iraqi sites) to respond
      effectively to the threat posed by
      Iraq's refusal to end its weapons of mass
      destruction programs."
      Letter to
      President Clinton, signed by:
      --
      Democratic Senators Carl
      Levin, Tom Daschle, John Kerry, and others, Oct. 9,
      1998

      "Saddam Hussein has been engaged in the development
      of weapons of mass
      destruction technology which is a threat to countries in the
      region and he
      has made a mockery of the weapons inspection process."
      -Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D,
      CA), Dec.
      16, 1998

      "Hussein has ...
      chosen to spend his money on building weapons of mass
      destruction and palaces
      for his cronies."
      -- Madeline Albright, Clinton

      Secretary of State, Nov. 10, 1999
      _____________________________________________

      BUSH 43 IS ELECTED

      "There is no
      doubt
      that ... Saddam Hussein has reinvigorated his weapons programs. Reports

      indicate that biological, chemical and nuclear programs continue apace and
      may
      be back to pre-Gulf War status. In addition, Saddam continues to
      redefine
      delivery systems and is doubtless using the cover of a licit missile program to
      develop longer-range missiles that will threaten the
      United States and our
      allies."
      Letter to President Bush, Signed by:
      --
      Sen. Bob Graham (D, FL), and
      others, Dec 5, 2001

      "We begin with
      the common belief that Saddam Hussein is a tyrant and a
      threat to the peace and
      stability of the region. He has ignored the mandate of the United Nations and is
      building weapons of mass destruction and th! e
      means of delivering
      them."
      -- Sen. Carl Levin (D, MI),
      Sept. 19,
      2002

      "We know that he
      has stored secret supplies of biological and chemical
      weapons throughout his
      country."
      -- Al Gore, Sept. 23,
      2002

      "Iraq's search
      for weapons of mass destruction has proven impossible to
      deter and we should
      assume that it will continue for as long as Saddam is in
      power."
      -- Al Gore, Sept. 23,
      2002

      "We have known
      for many years that Saddam Hussein is seeking and
      developing weapons of mass
      destruction."
      -- Sen. Ted Kennedy (D, MA),

      Sept. 27, 2002

      "The last UN
      weapons inspectors left Iraq in October of 1998. We are
      confident that Saddam
      Hussein retains some stockpiles of chemical and
      biological weapons, and that he
      has since embarked on a crash course to
      build up his chemical and biological
      warfare capabilities. Intelligence
      reports indicate that he is seeking nuclear
      weapons..."
      -- Sen. Robert
      Byrd (D, WV),
      Oct. 3, 2002

      "I will be
      voting to give the President of the United States the
      authority to use force --
      if necessary -- to disarm Saddam Hussein because I
      believe that a deadly arsenal
      of weapons of mass destruction in his hands is
      a real and grave threat to our
      security."
      -- Sen. John F. Kerry (D, MA),

      Oct. 9, 2002

      "There is
      unmistakable evidence that Saddam Hussein is working
      aggressively to develop
      nuclear weapons and will likely have nuclear weapons
      within the next five years
      ... We also should remember we have always
      underestimated the progress Saddam
      has made in development of weapons of
      mass destruction."
      -- Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D, WV),
      Oct 10, 2002

      "He has
      systematically violated, over the course of the past 11 years,
      every significant
      UN resolution that has demanded that he disarm and destroy
      his chemical and
      biological weapons, and any nuclear capacity. This he has
      refused to
      do"
      -- Rep. Henry Waxman (D, CA),
      Oct. 10, 2002

      "In the four
      years since the inspectors left, intelligence reports show
      that Saddam Hussein
      has worked to rebuild his chemical and biological
      weapons stock, his missile
      delivery capability, and his nuclear program. He
      has also given aid, comfort,
      and sanctuary to terrorists, including al Qaeda
      members ... It is clear,
      however, that if left unchecked, Saddam Hussein
      will continue to increase his
      capacity to wage biological and chemical
      warfare, and will keep trying to
      develop nuclear weapons."
      -- Sen.
      Hillary Clinton (D, NY),
      Oct 10, 2002

      "We are in
      possession of what I think to be compelling evidence that
      Saddam Hussein has,
      and has had for a number of years, a developing capacity
      for the production and
      storage of weapons of mass destruction."
      -- Sen.
      Bob Graham (D, FL), Dec.
      8, 2002

      "Without
      question,
      we need to disarm Saddam Hussein. He is a brutal, murderous dictator,

      leading an oppressive regime ... He presents a particularly grievous threat

      because he is so consistently prone to miscalculation ... And now he is

      miscalculating America's response to his continued deceit and his consistent

      grasp for weapons of mass destruction ... So the threat of Saddam Hussein
      with
      weapons of mass destruction is real..."
      -- Sen. John F. Kerry (D,
      MA),
      Jan. 23. 2003

      http://www.davidstuff.com/political/wmdquotes.htm

      also on :

      http://www.snopes.com/politics/war/wmdquotes.asp

      • 9 votes
      #2.23 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:39 AM EST

      Israel should have no say about anything in this Country and when is this Country going to stop supporting Israel with 50 Billion dollars every year we call foreign aid, this new Congress is living proof they don't care about Americans !!!

      • 13 votes
      #2.24 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 10:11 AM EST

      Some did and some didn't. Obama was publicly opposed to the war and as is well documented democrats based their agreement on evidence Bush provided supposedly proving Saddam was building WMD. Evidence that proved false

      Larry and Dick...

      So just how did all those people (two million) die in Iraq

      http://www.moreorless.au.com/killers/hussein.html

      So just where did Syria get those WMD they are currently using?

      So you expect us to believe the LIES this administration is telling about Libya and bitch about LIES Bush told?

      Seems to me, there is no difference, yet you support Obamas lies!!

      Hey Mike!!

      • 7 votes
      #2.25 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 10:13 AM EST

      What can I say other than they were all wrong. Bush II, the military and everyone else realized after the invasion, conquer and through inspection of every inch of Iraq that there were no weapons of mass destruction.

      Politicians use references to things in order to support their agenda which at the time was to support inspections and sanctions against Iraq. No one, even in your out of context quotes, advocated invading Iraq before Bush II. I like many others think Bush II's agenda was to make amends for his father's screw up on not following through on the first Gulf War and rendering Sadam meaningless.

      You have to admit Bush II invaded Iraq on a moment of confusion in the American people after 9-11 which he helped create. Iraq and Sadam had nothing to do with 9-11, Al qaeda or the dooms day machine. This was Bush II biggest lie to Americans and the funny thing is that some people still believe those lies.

      • 10 votes
      #2.26 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 10:14 AM EST

      We need to get Israel and AIPAC out of the influence of our politicians and country. We don't owe Israel anything and the Israelis are just parasites wanting more US taxpayers money. We need politicians who will tell them to go pound sand.

      • 12 votes
      #2.27 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 10:19 AM EST

      WE OWE NOTHING TO AN APARTHEID WELFARED RACIST- jew priveleged country.Israel only causes PROBLEMS for the USA and the world. we need to kick this parasite to the CURB. yes there are some cool jews that actually agree with this post for the most part but the right winged, zionist ADL AIPAC ISRAELI FIRSTER JEWS ARE BETTER ONES ARE PIECES OF CRAP AND USA- a nation that tries to give equal rights to ALL RACES AND RELIGIONS SHOULD HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH THE JEWISH RACIST STATE. STOP AID TO THIS UGLY PLACE> people google SHARON- butcher of Beirut or Israel shin bet- torutrure and palestianian children killed by israel settlers- AND YOU WILL KNOW WHY they-(PALESTINAINS- whom do not have a military- resort to suicide missions- that is the onoy way they can fight back.

      • 13 votes
      #2.28 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 10:55 AM EST

      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0DJBrO5ux8

      Really sick......ignorance is bliss!

      Israel is NOT apartheid

      • 4 votes
      #2.29 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:14 AM EST

      fedup-

      you ever think the reason why israel is called little satan by palestinians is because they were installed in their territory by foriegn powers and religious zealots who hoped it would bring about the return of christ? how about after just 8 years after idependence they invaded egypt because they nationalized the suez canal and were forced to back-off only after pressure from the united states. how about the continued expansion of settlements on occupied palestinian land. or how the people of pwlestine are being cutoff from other territories and must pass through chekpoints to go to work or visit family. i cant imagine that people woud get upset after their entire neighborhood was demolished because a house down the street was a suspected home of an alleged terrorist. how would you feel if the kid down the street from you committed a crime and the punishment was the destruction of yours and every other house on the block.

      im not saying suicide bombing and the massacre of innocent people by palestinian terrorists is acceptable, im just saying try to expand your world view and understand why the average palestinian might see israel in an unfavorable light. how would you feel if we were conquered by china and they gave north america to the vikings because they discovered america first and then you and your family were forced to live in slums and every measure possible was taken to keep you and your neighbors in poverty.

      • 5 votes
      #2.30 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:16 AM EST

      I'm trying to figure out just exactly what business it is of Israels who we pick for defense secretary. Are they our 51st state? they might as well be they get more of my tax dollars than our other 50 states. Or are they our overlords who pull the strings of our puppet like government? I think it is both and I for one and pretty sick of it. It's time to cut the umbilical cord, take the training wheels off and see if Israel can stand on its own two feet without my tax dollars supporting them. Talk about a Nanny State, Israel gives unlimited unemployment to its citizens, you can collect unemployment from the day you turn 18 till the day you die without every having had a job or every having to look for a job, all you have to do is pretend to pray a lot. And guess where they get the money to play nanny to their ultra religious sects? the American tax payer. You would think the "stand on your own two feet fiscal conservatives" would be in an unroar about this but NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO, they gladly fork over billions or our tax dollars so that Israel can give it to their people while we struggle to pay the bills.

      • 7 votes
      #2.31 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:16 AM EST

      GTR5 ...(#2.26)..."We need to get Israel and AIPAC out of the influence of our politicians and country. We don't owe Israel anything and the Israelis are just parasites wanting more US taxpayers money. We need politicians who will tell them to go pound sand."

      So, can I put you in the camp that will vigorously oppose the appointment of Jack Lew, the Jew as Treasury Secretary ???....You know, Turbo Tax Timmy and FED Bernanke secretly sent $$ TRILLIONS $$ to their banking buddies all over the world.....Can you trust a Jew in charge of all the Nations Money to NOT secretly finance his friend Netanyahu ????

      How bout you ..sick of israel..(#2.27)....Are you writing and calling your Senators and Congressman and The WhiteHouse in opposition to Jack Lew ??????

      • 5 votes
      #2.32 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:21 AM EST

      Hagel, Is a guarantee we will be attacked by Al Qaeda type Islamic group. It shows by picking Hagel we are still and willing to be weak in the world. I don't know what Jews has to do with this, we are making ourselves look weak. You people want to blame who ever Obama names as a problem. Its like you people stopped thinking for yourselves any more. If Obama said Mickey Mouse was a bad cartoon to watch because he does not support green tech. You people would be all over it with you low life hate.

        #2.33 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:27 AM EST

        deprogrammer...(#2.30)....

        So, you're in agreement with Iran that Chuck Hagel will make a fine Secretary of Defence....

        • 1 vote
        #2.34 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:31 AM EST

        letsgo

        Do you even realize that Israel was attacked the day after it was officially independent? Do you even realize that they have been threatened with annihilation for decades by their Arab neighbors (in addition to Iran)? Do you even understand the root tension between the Hebrew and Islamic faiths that would motivate these Arab countries to despise them?

        Let me give you a scenario. Let's suppose that a black family moves into a white neighborhood. All of the white neighbors start writing hate-messages on their walls and leaving crap on the doorstep. Who is to blame, then?

        The black family? By your logic they would be, since they're the ones "having problems with all of their neighbors." But reality says that these white neighbors are just hateful and aggressive. It's no different in Israel's case surrounded by hostile Islamic countries.

        But they're the only functional democracy in the entire region where multiple religions are allowed to co-exist in peace.

        • 3 votes
        #2.35 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:52 AM EST

        Did you all know why we started the Iraq war ???

        Did you all know Sadam put a Contract on Jr.'s daddy that failed ???

        Did you all know that "W" lied to our congress about weapons of mass destruction to get revenge for daddy ???

        Did you all know Cheney's love for Oil was excuse for war ???

        Did you all know that Iraq's oil was red, now we have blood & debt for oil and revenge ???

        • 6 votes
        #2.36 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:55 AM EST

        catch 44,

        Do they all know that bushwhacker bush was the "Worst president Ever!"

        Do they know that the World Court in the Hague has a warrant out for bush for "WAR CRIMES?

        • 6 votes
        #2.37 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 12:30 PM EST

        catch44...(#2.35)....OK, Play your silly game....

        "Did you all know why we started the Iraq war ???"

        Because Iraq was in violation of at least Thirty-eleven UN Resolutions....and we had UN Consent after that little Kuwait thingy.....

        "Did you all know Sadam put a Contract on Jr.'s daddy that failed ???"

        You mean like JFK and Castro were both trying to assasinate each other....P.S....Castro won that one.

        "Did you all know that "W" lied to our congress about weapons of mass destruction to get revenge for daddy ???"

        Did you know that the majority of the Intelligence came from Bill Clinton's CIA during the transition ....What do you think...Bush 43 came in and erased all that Intel and started fresh ?? (see #2.22)

        "Did you all know Cheney's love for Oil was excuse for war ???"

        Then, do tell, why we never got a drop of oil....The Iraqi's should have been paying us all along with oil.

        " Did you all know that Iraq's oil was red, now we have blood & debt for oil and revenge ???"

        Mid-east oil is quite black and it burns ferociously.....How do we know that ??.....We put out all the oil well fires Saddam set..at great cost to us and risk to American Contractors...Good thing too, cause Oil Well fires cause Global Climate Change !!!

        • 1 vote
        #2.38 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 12:32 PM EST

        You need UPDATED your brain, he work very slow, slow thinking is unreal...

          #2.39 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 1:32 PM EST

          Mike in Delray,

          Israel is in violation of UN resolution 242, and would have dozens more against them if the US hadn't vetoed the rest.

          • 4 votes
          #2.40 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 2:38 PM EST

          fedup,

          your analogy is total crap. first of all the family wouldve had to confiscate the entire town, based on someone from across the state wanting them to move there because they felt bad about how the rest of the state turned a blind eye to crimes committed against their people. then the state must choose your mythical town to relocate them based on holy texts, that your town doesnt believe in, that said they lived there over 1000 years ago and the only way that the religion of the rest of the state would recieve their savior would be to move them to your town. then they separate the two main neighborhoods in the town and require the whites to go through checkpoints to the other side of town, thats if they even allow you to go there. not only that but you have no legitimate representation in the government of your town that was confiscated, and if someone from your block lashed out the people that now run your town will bulldoze your entire neighborhood.

          no sh*t israel was attacked the day after they claimed independence. what would you do if someone moved into your home and claimed it as their own because they used to live there, but it was over 1000 years ago? the only thing your analogy proves is that you are blindly beholden to your religion, a collection of stories put together by clergy at the council of trent, deciding which stories to put in and leave out. bet you didnt know that genius

          • 2 votes
          #2.41 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 3:05 PM EST

          Letsgoblues,

          Your analogy is total crap:

          First of all the family would not confiscate a town, but buy land there at triple price, but then the people who sold the land would pretend like they never sold it and try to take it back by force.

          Second, they would move there not because of the scripture, but because they still have family living there, even though that family was getting kicked out of their home, but they kept coming back.

          They would not "separate the two main neighborhoods in the town and require the whites to go through checkpoints" just for the fun of it. They would wall-in there own neighborhood, because they kept getting attacked, and believe it or not, some people really don't like getting blown to bits.

          "what would you do if someone moved into your home and claimed it as their own because they used to live there, but it was over 1000 years ago?" - not into your house, into the abandoned house next door, which you were never using, but convinced yourself that it belongs to you for no particular reason.

            #2.42 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 4:46 PM EST

            Mike in delray, Iran has made no such statement, only you and fox noise make those claims.

            • 1 vote
            #2.43 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 10:45 PM EST

            Bob James. Do you know Chuck Hagel personally? Do you know what is in his heart or mind? Your words are nothing more than a personal opinion and a very ignorant one at that. Who does your thinking for you? Rush Limbaugh?

            • 1 vote
            #2.44 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 12:07 PM EST
            Reply

            We need a trillion dollar stimulus, give the unemployed 800.00 dollars per week tax free, for two years and take 20% from the top, and give ten percent of that to the states to balance their budgets, this will stimulate growth and create jobs and more taxes. use the other ten percent to pay off the budget deficit, or to buy fuel saving cars for people living under the poverty level. This will stimulate the economy, by them saving money at the pump, and boosting manufacturing. Stop giving any aid to those who receive this money, but allow them to work, and make them pay taxes on any work they do. If they do not work, then have them train for work as a condition to get this money. this will stimulate the economy and bring in more tax revenues.

            • 1 vote
            #3 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:27 AM EST

            dale-763548

            We need a trillion dollar stimulus, give the unemployed 800.00 dollars per week tax free, for two years and take 20% from the top, and give ten percent of that to the states to balance their budgets, this will stimulate growth and create jobs and more taxes. use the other ten percent to pay off the budget deficit, or to buy fuel saving cars for people living under the poverty level. This will stimulate the economy, by them saving money at the pump, and boosting manufacturing. Stop giving any aid to those who receive this money, but allow them to work, and make them pay taxes on any work they do. If they do not work, then have them train for work as a condition to get this money. this will stimulate the economy and bring in more tax revenues.

            What jobs are you talking about? Republicans like Mitt are sending them all oversees.

            • 17 votes
            #3.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:44 AM EST

            why so angry Brenda? Your guy won! Sit back and watch him heal the world!

            • 11 votes
            #3.2 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:32 AM EST

            FedupwithFed

            why so angry Brenda? Your guy won! Sit back and watch him heal the world!

            He could have done that by now if the freaking Republicans would stop trying to block everything, especially in the house.

            • 21 votes
            #3.3 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:42 AM EST

            @Brenda,

            Democrats are also sending jobs overseas. Both parties agreed to free trade agreements. Both parties are ruining the country. Quit blaming just the Republicans. Your precious Democrats are just as corrupt. Your just too blind to see.

            • 14 votes
            #3.4 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 7:49 AM EST

            We need a trillion dollar stimulus, give the unemployed 800.00 dollars per week tax free, for two years and take 20% from the top, and give ten percent of that to the states to balance their budgets, this will stimulate growth and create jobs and more taxes. use the other ten percent to pay off the budget deficit,

            Dale: So your idea is to borrow money to pay off debt? Wow.

            • 11 votes
            #3.5 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 7:52 AM EST

            The criminals and culprits for the economic mess in US, Britain, France and PIIGS in Europe are the oil rich Sunni rulers of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, Qatar and other Sunni Arab League nations, oil companies and their lobbyists.

            They pushed us into Iraqi wars; manipulated oil prices higher (from $30 to $145 at one time) and made themselves richer and pushed us to streets.

            The same gangsters are trying similar tricks on Syria and Iran.

            To reduce our economic worries and debts, remove sanctions on Iranian oil.

            Oil price was around $40 in 2009 and now it is more than $110 due to sanctions on Iranian oil.

            • 6 votes
            #3.6 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:59 AM EST

            Brenda,

            "What jobs are you talking about?" Oh I don't know. How about all those thousands of "shovel ready" jobs. Maybe in 2014, or2015, or NEVER.

            And let's talk about Obama healing the world as you claim he would have done except for those damn republicans. Who the h!ll do you think he is? Jesus Christ? Do you worship at the alter of Obama every morning. I don't think he is the worst president ever. He's just ineffective. It's his job to lead. Something he has yet to do. And perhap's an idiot like you is one of the reasons he gets so vilified on these comment boards. Because according to you he can do no wrong. What do you say we just pettition the vatican for his sainthood status now.

            • 15 votes
            #3.7 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:05 AM EST

            Jobs are just busy work. a system of controlling the people. there is plenty that needs to be done right here in America. Roads, schools etc. instead the rich keep taking the resources and getting the optimum profit they can while they lower our standard of living intentionally. And guys like "fedupwithfed" help their cause every day with arrogant taunts and disinformation. Not to mention a plethora of insults. But there is a 50/50 chance that there is indeed a god. I wonder whats waiting for people like "FED" at the end of the rainbow. another failure.l

            • 3 votes
            #3.9 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:13 AM EST

            Rocky,

            of course you would. But then you probably truely believe O.J. and Casey Anthony were really innocent too. They were probably just being framed by the giant republican conspiracy. Or meybe you should put on your tin foil hat and go wait for the aliens.

            • 4 votes
            #3.10 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:18 AM EST

            brenda1964

            He could have done that by now if the freaking Republicans would stop trying to block everything, especially in the house.

            Brenda you must be short and fat to be so mad, but the sad thing is your not to smart either. Obama had total control of congress from 2008-2010 (I gave you the dates in case you forgot ) what did he do for the world then. Go sit down eat another moon pie.

            Read a history book or two then come back. I bet you think Bush owns this economy today. Wrong again your boy Obama owns it now you and Obama can only blame your selves for the mess Obama is about to get us into. Your not smart enough to see it, but you will when he pulls money out of your pocket. If your not on the Obama plan of food stamps, welfare, and Obama cell phone.

            • 7 votes
            #3.11 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 10:53 AM EST

            This past year alone, America guaranteed a 10 billion dollar loan to Israel, with America picking up all the interest and the fees. We gave Israel 1 billion dollars for their "Iron Dome' missile defense system and we also gave them their annual 3 billion dollar handout. The 3 billion dollar handout, amounts to approx. $500.00 for each man, woman and child in Israel.

            The Gross Domestic
            Product (GDP) in Israel was worth 242.93 billion US dollars in 2011, according
            to a report published by the World Bank. The GDP value of Israel is roughly
            equivalent to 0.39 percent of the world economy. Historically, from 1960 until
            2011, Israel GDP averaged 61.60 Billion USD reaching an all time high of 242.93
            Billion USD in December of 2011 and a record low of 2.60 Billion USD in
            December of 1962. The gross domestic product (GDP) measures of national income
            and output for a given country's economy. The gross domestic product (GDP) is
            equal to the total expenditures for all final goods and services produced
            within the country in a stipulated period of time.

            Total tax revenue of Texas was about 55 billion in fiscal year 2011 (as per Texas
            comptroller of public accounts).

            Why do we support these Jewish parasites and leaches, when they are clearly in a better economic situation than the USA, who is paying for 2 wars planned and sold by Zionists and is deeply in debt.

            Israel doesn't outright oppose Hagel, because they have AIPAC bribing our politicians to do it for them. AIPAC is a representative of a foreign government. Lindsey Graham, John McCain and Joe Lieberman are US senators more committed to Israel, than their constituents, who vote for them. These clowns must be voted out of office, along with Eric Cantor and the rest.

            • 6 votes
            #3.12 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 10:55 AM EST

            Dale,

            I was glad when the tax rate on the top percentages was increased. I would also like to see us take a long hard look at eliminating a lot of the loopholes that have been created over the years, many of which were specifically designed by Congress to benefit specific election donors. They are nothing more than payoffs for bribes. That said, what you propose is extreme and will only result in even more divisiveness and obstructionism in Washington. While I can also support giving people unemployment when they have lost their jobs, their unemployment benefits should not exceed what they earned when working. Unemployment benefits are designed to carry you over to your next job, not provide you with a cushy living while you lay around playing video games.

            You need to cool your jets.

            • 3 votes
            #3.13 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 10:58 AM EST

            paul,

            im so sick of this bitching about a lack of shovel ready jobs. there were some in the works until your supposed nobel republican governors refused the money. for example the regional high speed rail systems. governors, republican i might add, in wisconsin, ohio and florida turned down the money and said it should just be used to pay off the debt. or how about his idea to introduce another stimulous in the form of infrastructure repairs, again shot down by republicans. do you seriously not remeber this stuff or did you just not pay attention because your head was lodged so far us grover norquist's a**?

            • 3 votes
            #3.14 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:26 AM EST

            The GOP has no problem giving Israel 52 Billion each year in foreign aid but the Sandy aid bill is voted down !

            When is this nation going to stop supporting Israel !

            Did anyone tell Congress that we all broke ?

            • 4 votes
            #3.15 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 12:39 AM EST

            Paul-401431

            Brenda,

            "What jobs are you talking about?" Oh I don't know. How about all those thousands of "shovel ready" jobs. Maybe in 2014, or2015, or NEVER.

            And let's talk about Obama healing the world as you claim he would have done except for those damn republicans. Who the h!ll do you think he is? Jesus Christ? Do you worship at the alter of Obama every morning. I don't think he is the worst president ever. He's just ineffective. It's his job to lead. Something he has yet to do. And perhap's an idiot like you is one of the reasons he gets so vilified on these comment boards. Because according to you he can do no wrong. What do you say we just pettition the vatican for his sainthood status now.

            I don't think he is Jesus Christ, but I think he is doing a damn sight better then if we had a Republican in office like Mitt the twit or lyin Ryan. All during Bushes administration, the economy was going down down down. When asked, all he could say was "Economy's fine.", uh right. Thanks to Obama it's turning around. So yea, I think Obama saved the world by saving our economy even with Republicans fighting him tooth and nail. Now imagine what could have been possible if they didn't fight him tooth and nail.

            • 2 votes
            #3.16 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 3:49 AM EST

            Hagel is attacked by those who betrayed their own country for Israel. Shameless behavior on their part.

            • 4 votes
            #3.17 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 8:23 AM EST

            Let's see:

            Hagel hates Jews. So does Ahmadinejad.

            Hagel hates gays. So does Ahmadinejad.

            Hagel opposes sanctions on Iran, and defends Hamas and Hezbollah.

            Hagel wants to cut the DOD budget!

            .

            Conclusion:

            Of course I would want Chuck Hagel for secretary of defense...

            If I was the president of IRAN!!!

            • 5 votes
            #3.18 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 9:44 AM EST

            Hagel - good for US, bad for US industrial military complex and Israel who wants Americans to die and pay for Israel's security.

            • 4 votes
            #3.19 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 10:18 AM EST

            brenda1964

            He could have done that by now if the freaking Republicans would stop trying to block everything, especially in the house.

            Um, Brenda............... He's had control of the house since 2008. The republicans can't block anything.

            But hey, keep voting to send our tax dollars to our true friends like Pakistan, Egypt, Syria, North Korea, etc.............right?

            • 2 votes
            #3.20 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 11:01 AM EST

            rocky-2318920

            and 3rd was George Bush who tied with 8 others

            Man I hope you're talking about George HW Bush and not the Texas village idiot.

            • 2 votes
            #3.21 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 11:28 AM EST

            John-638398

            Um, Brenda............... He's had control of the house since 2008. The republicans can't block anything.

            John...what Country are you talking about? Not the United States. The Democrats gained control of the House in 2008 and lost control of the House in 2010. I don't know how to tell you this but time didn't stop in 2009 and the Republicans have been in charge of the house since...remember Boehner? And not only can they block Democratic proposals, they don't even have to bring them up for a vote.

            • 3 votes
            #3.22 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 11:32 AM EST

            John-638398

            brenda1964

            He could have done that by now if the freaking Republicans would stop trying to block everything, especially in the house.

            Um, Brenda............... He's had control of the house since 2008. The republicans can't block anything.

            But hey, keep voting to send our tax dollars to our true friends like Pakistan, Egypt, Syria, North Korea, etc.............right?

            Not sure what rock you have been living under or alternate reality, but the house is under Republican control for the past 2 years. Wow! Whatever glue your sniffing, could you post it? I want to go out and buy some right now.

            • 4 votes
            #3.23 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 12:02 PM EST
            Reply

            Ted Cruz, a freshman Senator from Texas, said that Hagel “would make war with Iran more likely because he's too nice to Iran.”

            The freshman Senator's wording does not make sense. The Repubs seem to think the only way to get their points across are to declare war.

            • 19 votes
            Reply#4 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:29 AM EST

            Electing him did not make sense either. Gerimandering is subverting democracy.

            Surprising that Israel is staying out of this nomination. They spent a lot of effort trying to influence the election.

            • 3 votes
            #4.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:49 AM EST

            Thank God, Romney was not elected!

            Instead of talking of wars, we would have war in Syria by now!

            • 6 votes
            #4.2 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:02 AM EST

            We don't need Israel to declare war ..we are heading that way anyways....................

            • 1 vote
            #4.3 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 10:34 AM EST

            Ed

            Why aren't you complaining about the Gerrymandering that has been going on in California for the last 50 years?? Could it be because it is done by the Democrats? They now control 2/3 of the State Legislature and 34 of the 55 Representatives in the House. Why aren't you complaining about that Gerrymandering?

            • 2 votes
            #4.4 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 12:20 PM EST

            The republicass have not brains, they are just coin machines...

            • 2 votes
            #4.5 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 1:42 PM EST

            Slodon,

            It's all gerimandering I object to.

            We need a system that equally represents every voter.

            • 1 vote
            #4.6 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 2:42 PM EST

            You mean actual vote being the only vote.

            That's been offered many times, but we all know why such system was rejected.

            That would mean that big cities would rule this country, while small towns would be screwed.

              #4.7 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:22 PM EST

              Eli,

              The education level of a city dweller is significantly higher than that of the rural dweller. It is more difficult to manipulate the voting intentions of the higher educated. Having the less educated, more manipulated portion making decisions for the whole country has led to some very bad outcomes.

              • 3 votes
              #4.8 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 9:30 AM EST

              slodon

              Ed

              Why aren't you complaining about the Gerrymandering that has been going on in California for the last 50 years?? Could it be because it is done by the Democrats? They now control 2/3 of the State Legislature and 34 of the 55 Representatives in the House. Why aren't you complaining about that Gerrymandering?

              Well Ed, let's see; Hispanic Americans are now the majority in California and they are predominantly Democrats. Most of Norther California leans Democratic, especially along the populated coast. Republicans are dominant in Orange County, parts of LA County and the area surrounding San Diego, but all in all they are the minority. During the last election, Republican registration dipped below 30%...could that be the reason? You guys still don't get it do you?

              • 2 votes
              #4.9 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 11:42 AM EST

              ED,

              I do not exactly disagree with you, but the problem is that many of those "uneducated" have guns, and when you tell them to stick to their little tractors and leave it to the "educated" to run the country, they tend to pick up those guns and start shooting.

              And no, taking those guns away from them doesn't work any more than prohibition or war on drugs.

                #4.10 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 9:16 PM EST

                I'm ready for our 51st state, Israel, to leave the union.

                I love Jews, married two of them and have 3 half jewish kids but I'm sick to death of Isrel's influence in the USA.

                They got into trouble by running rough shod over many, now let them figure a way out. We have better things to do.

                • 1 vote
                #4.11 - Tue Jan 15, 2013 12:05 AM EST

                If you loved Jews so much you would not be making statements like: "They got into trouble by running rough shod over many", it's not a claim that could be made by anyone who loves Jews, not anyone who is objective toward Jews, and especially not by someone who has proper knowledge of Jews.

                • 1 vote
                #4.12 - Tue Jan 15, 2013 12:24 AM EST
                Reply

                I could care less what Israel thinks about the President nominating Hagel. They have some nerve complaining about anything considering the billions of dollars in what seems like welfare that we give them regularly. You'd think they were the 51st state of America but in the Middle East. Can Israelis collect SS too?

                • 25 votes
                Reply#5 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:35 AM EST

                To: reality check 1

                The public wants to know, Jew or not a Jew

                Adam Sandler//AntidefamationLeague//Mossad Will Find You.com

                • 1 vote
                #5.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:49 AM EST

                Did you mean 58th state??

                • 3 votes
                #5.2 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:18 AM EST

                Say anything negative about Israel, and the labeling and veiled threats begin.

                • 4 votes
                #5.3 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 2:44 PM EST

                Say anything negative about Arab states, and the labeling and veiled threats continue.

                • 5 votes
                #5.4 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 4:48 PM EST

                Reality (you need some):

                1) If you read the article first, the israelis said they don't care who is nominated, it is tghe US business, and they will work with any DOD chief.

                2) I would be very upset about giving our dollars to Pakistan, our enemy in every sense of the word, rather than Israel. It seems that it has escaped you for some reason.

                3) I would think Puerto Rico is the 51st state. We give them everything, every financial support we give to our own states. But Israel spends the money here in the US. That seems to have escaped you too.

                  #5.5 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 11:57 AM EST

                  Israel spends OUR money here?

                  Pakistan is an ally. Israel is not.

                    #5.6 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 7:16 PM EST

                    No dave, neither Israel nor Pakistan is our ally. Both just suck up the US taxpayers money for nothing.

                      #5.7 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 7:30 PM EST

                      GTR,

                      Israel does a few thing in return:

                      1) They share technology, like Intel chips in your twitter.

                      2) They share intelligence and military training.

                      3) The money they get is spent right back in USA, in order to create jobs here.

                      Now, let's hear Dave tell us what Pakistan has been doing for USA.

                      • 1 vote
                      #5.8 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 9:20 PM EST
                      Reply

                      Notice that this writer mentions the Tea Party and the republicans as speaking out here in the US against Hagel but didn't say a word about all the various pro Israel organizations and Israel Lobby backers WHO WERE THE LOUDEST speaking out along with their fellow NEO CON Chicken Hawks like Kristol and so on. Didn't say anything about the republica gay log cabiner's who got help from Israel firsters to pay for their large adds. Is the writer afraid to mention all those verious pro Israel lobby groups 'horse in the race' ? or is it that he wants to cover up their involvement ? After all AIPAC isn't the only Israeli Lobby, its just the one that works the most behind the scenes. PRETTY HARD TO COVER UP !! All this just goes to prove Hagel right, the Israel Lobby causes a lot of trouble for those who speak out and criticize in any way the lobby and the far right leadership of israel that it represents. By the way, Netanyahu demands that Palestinians accept Israel as the "JEWISH STATE" he wasn't happy with them simply accepting Israel's existence as a state, he added the "JEWISH STATE" as a requirement. So doesn't it follow that the JEWISH STATE OF ISRAEL BE BACKED BY A JEWISH STATE OF ISRAEL LOBBY ? Netanyahu can't have it both ways nor can those seeking to shut down any and all criticizm of the JEWISH STATE's Illegal Settlement Misadventure.

                      I THINK ITS GREAT THAT LIGHT IS BEING CAST ON HOW WE SEEM TO HAVE COME TO THE PLACE THAT OUR POLITICAL CHOICES HAVE TO BE APPROVED BY ANOTHER COUNTRY'S FAN BASE, IN TOO MANY CASES ITS ISRAEL. ANYONE WANT TO IMAGINE THE REACTION IF THE CHINESE, THE RUSSIANS, THE FRENCH OR SOME ARAB COUNTRY AND THEIR VARIOUS LOBBY'S GOT INVOLVED AS MUCH AS ALL THE PRO ISRAEL LOBBY'S MIX IN OUR BUSINESS ? THERE WOULD BE HELL TO PAY !!! ITS HIGH TIME THAT ISRAEL'S LOBBY'S AND ITS 'FIRSTERS' GET THEIR NOSE OUT OF OUR BUSINESS, WE TAX PAYERS HAVE HAD ENOUGH.

                      • 18 votes
                      Reply#6 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:37 AM EST

                      Egads MSNBC is terrible and so political biased in all it's reporting that it just adds to the rift between parties and you miss the big picture.

                      • 8 votes
                      #6.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:51 AM EST

                      Thank you, Dennis, for spelling out so eloquently the most glaring and embarrassing shortcoming of our foreign policy. How Israel manages to garner such undue influence (and aid) over (and from) us has puzzled me for decades. Can our guilt over not having intervened quickly enough to avert the Holocaust still haunt us this much, two generations now after the fact? Or do we subscribe to the same literal-biblical messianic nonsense that compels otherwise ignorant evangelicals (think W) to court favor with these arrogant paranoiacs who occupy a tiny sliver of land that some deem holy? And now that Israel and its lobbyists have insinuated themselves so deeply into our foreign policy, it appears almost treasonous that some one like Hagel - or you and I, for that matter - should point out that progress towards peace in the ME does depend on engaging Teheran in dialogue, and not caving in to Israeli militarism. We should not have to clear every policy decision with Tel Aviv. Period. . .

                      For the record, I am a staunch Democrat - and a Jew. . .

                      • 14 votes
                      #6.2 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:19 AM EST

                      "Egads MSNBC is terrible and so political biased in all it's reporting that it just adds to the rift between parties and you miss the big picture."

                      • So you're saying MSNBC is just like Fox --- biased in all it's reporting that it just adds to the rift between parties and you miss the big picture.
                      • 4 votes
                      #6.3 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:16 AM EST

                      "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is struggling to head off a late populist surge by an even more right-wing candidate."

                      We have more danger on horizon.

                      Whether we like it or not, Jewish lobby, oil rich Sunni rulers of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Kuwait and co, their oil companies and their lobbyists determine foreign policies and actions.

                      Rest of acts are simple shows to fool that US politicians take decisions independently.

                      Can some explain why we went to Iraqi wars?

                      Can some give reasons for inventing Sunni extremist, Bosnia from no where in Europe?

                      Mind you: 9/11 was due to Saudis and Pakis.

                      • 4 votes
                      #6.4 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:09 AM EST

                      Charlie,

                      Now you might be beginning to see the truth. Neither side tells the whole truth, just the "truth" they want you to see. And by the way. Typing on bold and a larger font just makes you look like a little kid screaming for candy.

                      • 6 votes
                      #6.5 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:11 AM EST

                      Republicans consider anyone who tells the truth to be an extremist, a commie, socialist etc etc etc. I say we let the republicans have their "glorious south". We build a really high wall down the center and be done wit them. when they start trouble through the world, let them be the victims of the "blowback" And then I wont have to hear this propaganda anymore.

                      • 7 votes
                      #6.6 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:19 AM EST

                      Then you would have rather hostile state next door, and a wealthy one too, you might find yourself hearing something worse than just propaganda.

                        #6.7 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 4:50 PM EST

                        Jonathan;

                        The Iraq war was a disgrace and a huge mistake for which we will pay the rest of our lives.... and the next generations.

                          #6.8 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 12:25 PM EST
                          Reply

                          President Obama has nominated a very capable US Citizen Senator Hegel, for the position of the Secretary of Defense. He must be confirmed by the Senate after open hearings. Let Mr. Hegel justify why he is qualified for that position. It is highly improper for other senators to prejudge his credentials. His comments against Israeli Lobby say nothing detrimental against the state of Israel or its citizens. His comments that he prefers negotiations with Iran are really very constructive. Just saying that bombing Iran is a way to solve the problem
                          is foolish. His statement that he would like to negotiate with Hamas also should not disqualify him. At the end of Vietnam War Kissinger secretly met with Vietcong in Paris and ultimately decided to negotiate the terms to end the war. Vietcong had killed hundreds of US soldiers, but Kissinger still decided to negotiate with them when he thought it might end the war. ,Such is the situation in international politics. Lindsay Graham and his likes have just decided to oppose Obama on any issue they can think off. That is a shame, but such senators have no constructive suggestions. They are obstructive. They should not decide in advance whether Mr. Hegel is qualified or not. Let the entire senate have a chance to debate his nomination and vote to approve or disapprove.

                          • 10 votes
                          Reply#7 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:55 AM EST

                          Since Hagel is, in fact, a former Republican Senator, you would think that the Republicans would be glad to have him working in this administration. The fact that they immediately attacked him for remarks that were just the expression of concern that we allow the Israeli lobby to have too much influence, has nothing to do with Israel but is simply one more attack on the Obama administration. Let's face it, Obama could nominate Jesus Christ and the Republicans would attack. It isn't about the nominee. It's about obstructionism and discord. It's about spreading hate and disinformation and protecting the super wealthy from any kind of meaningful demands that they behave ethically.

                          • 6 votes
                          #7.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:06 AM EST
                          Reply

                          Warnings flew like salvos across the US media and beyond: Hagel is soft on Iran, and no friend of Israel. Tea Party and Republican critics of the moderate and pragmatic Hagel smelled blood.

                          lol

                          so are we being led by the jews now?

                          noooooot

                          keep to your area and live with your fu ckups isreal

                          we have our own to live with

                          poke your nose in the palistinians mess you made

                          but keep your snout out of our ass

                          • 11 votes
                          Reply#8 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:57 AM EST

                          He is pro Iran [moslem country] Anti Israel [our alley]. It looks like our president leans to the moslem site. Why? How was he raised, to what religion does he belong?

                          • 8 votes
                          Reply#9 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:02 AM EST

                          Youre an illiterate idiot.

                          • 16 votes
                          #9.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:25 AM EST

                          Henry,

                          I...I..I can't stop laughing!!! Please tell me that the third grade wasn't your "senior year". BUWWHAHAHA!!!

                          • 11 votes
                          #9.2 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 7:14 AM EST

                          Republicans called Kennedy "soft on communism" just before they had him killed.

                          • 5 votes
                          #9.3 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:21 AM EST

                          You people on the right say some stupid stuff. Please keep using henry as your spokesman. Thank You!

                          • 5 votes
                          #9.4 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:57 AM EST

                          Smitty what make you think he's on the right...The arrogance within the left never surprises me ....left or right we are all f%*$ed!!!!! WAKE UP!!!!

                          • 1 vote
                          #9.5 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:10 AM EST

                          This Shoutout goes to AGN RNGR,

                          You, Soldiers Of Fortune, are all alike, brainwashed, arrogant & naive.

                          You think you're better than everyone else, quick to judge, but you're mortal with the same common character flaws.

                          Colonel Kerby's words, Someone sold you on the idea that dying for a cause is, "Oh, so romantic". Well, that is the worst kind of all, the kinds of bulls---, there is. Dying is only one thing, BAD. Don't find that out, please.

                          Blackhawk down//Taps//Gardens of Stone//SNAFU//Hurt Locker//ConAir//Primadonnas//Graves Registration//Pat Tillman//RIP// The Boys In Company C//Heckle & Jeckle.com

                            #9.6 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 5:02 AM EST

                            John - Did Henry insult you in any way? why you use profanity in your reponse to him? Must you always prove that the liberal left cannot debate intelligently? must you always insult someone you don't even know?

                            • 1 vote
                            #9.7 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 12:32 PM EST
                            Reply

                            The same "voice" that led the Jews to the promised land also tempted Christ in the desert......"bow down before me and everything that you see around you, the nations and all of their splendor, will be yours." Do you not suppose that the evil one was alive and well in the Old Testament also?

                            • 5 votes
                            Reply#10 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:06 AM EST

                            The Devil show to Jesuschrist is is ALL READY IN CONTROL from many cultures (countries) also ISRAEL. for that reason when somebody call is he will be new King of Israel he said "My Kingdom is not from this World" , jews send him to the dead, more proof ?

                              #10.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 1:58 PM EST

                              i think you two geniuses are on the wrong site.

                              • 1 vote
                              #10.2 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 3:41 PM EST

                              More like in the wrong century.

                              Inquisition was dismissed a few centuries ago, but some people simply haven't noticed.

                              • 1 vote
                              #10.3 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 4:53 PM EST
                              Reply

                              Divided..Divided...Divided.....

                              Look at all you. Every article that comes out, everyone is divided. Your losing people....And you can't even see it.

                              • 3 votes
                              Reply#11 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:12 AM EST

                              the jews are masters in this game...

                                #11.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 2:01 PM EST

                                watch it there hitler jr.

                                • 3 votes
                                #11.2 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 3:42 PM EST

                                baco78 - the jews are masters in this game...

                                If people posted comments about blacks and Hispanics on an article like they have here about the Jews, MSNBC would shut this article down immediately.

                                Instead they happily provide a forum for anti-Jewish remarks.

                                • 1 vote
                                #11.3 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 11:34 PM EST
                                Reply

                                Where's the media and the huffington puffington post going to play the "old white men" race card now that Obama is putting another old white guy in a important position...or is that only apply when repubs put old white men in goverment positions?

                                • 6 votes
                                Reply#12 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:14 AM EST

                                Are you going to ask more stupid questions?

                                  #12.1 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 7:21 PM EST
                                  Reply

                                  Maybe it's about time someone in our government got antagonistic with Israel. Remember the USS Liberty!!!!!

                                  • 9 votes
                                  Reply#13 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:23 AM EST

                                  Thank you Chucklehead. Never forget the USS Liberty, 8 June 1967.

                                  • 4 votes
                                  #13.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 12:36 PM EST

                                  But be sure to forget USS Cole, don't anyone dare mention that one.

                                  • 2 votes
                                  #13.2 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 4:54 PM EST

                                  Let's not forget the SS St.Louis

                                  • 2 votes
                                  #13.3 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 6:30 AM EST

                                  Eli -America does not give billions to the attackers of the Cole, as we do to Israel. In fact, I believe the attackers of the Cole have been procecuted. We should be prosecuting the leaders of Israel for that attack. On the day of the attack, we should have bombed Israel into the stone age for their treachery. What other nation would attack the unarmed ship of their greatest benefactor purposely, as testimony from former Israeli pilots have indicated?

                                  6 November 1991: Columnists Evans and Novak
                                  publish interview with Dwight Porter, U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon in 1967, in
                                  which Porter says that during or immediately after the attack on the Liberty
                                  the CIA station chief showed him transcripts of intercepted Israeli messages.
                                  One has Israel ordering the attack on the Liberty, another has an Israeli pilot
                                  replying it's an American ship. When the order to attack is repeated, the pilot
                                  insists he can see the American flag. The pilot is told again: "Attack
                                  it."

                                  When Israel proudly displays artifacts from the attack on the Liberty in an Israeli museum, it reached an all time low. If you want more info on the Liberty, Eli, just respond.

                                  • 4 votes
                                  #13.4 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 9:59 AM EST

                                  Radical Iranian Ralph -

                                  What are you doing in Lebanon? or Syria? or Gaza? or Sudan? or Pakistan? or Egypt? what is it with your murderer fanatical ahmadinejad that you always support him against the US? homosexuality is not tolerated (at least in public) in Iran, so what is it?

                                  • 1 vote
                                  #13.5 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 12:37 PM EST

                                  farideh -I didn't mention Ahmadinejad. Get off those meds.

                                  Every word I posted is true and I am right here in the USA. I guess you can't stand the truth. Your attempt at insults reveal you to be a small minded, ignorant person.

                                  • 3 votes
                                  #13.6 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 1:43 PM EST

                                  Finished Mein Kampf little boy? Why aren't you bitching out England who taxed us without representation?

                                  • 1 vote
                                  #13.7 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 3:19 PM EST

                                  Well, may be Ralph is form USA, sitting in a trailer somewhere in the wastelands of Georgia with a Confederate flag flying over it, or may be siting in an underground bunker wearing a tin-foil hat.

                                  Either way, he clearly can never go to sleep without checking if there is a Jew hiding under his bed.

                                  • 1 vote
                                  #13.8 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 10:09 PM EST
                                  Reply

                                  He is pro Iran [moslem country] Anti Israel [our alley]. It looks like our president leans to the moslem site. Why? How was he raised, to what religion does he belong?

                                  More right wing krap. Anyone who questions the level of aid to Israel, the building of settlements outside its borders or actions is an anti Semite. Anyone who suggests dialog with Iran is an anti Semite and Muslim lover. Funny that the strategy of dealing with our own enemy during the cold war was constant dialog and even installing a private phone between the white house and Kremlin but the needs of Israel so out shadow our own that doing so with Iran is treated as near treason. The SOD whatever his beliefs has a sole responsibility of carrying out the policies of the president. He has no power to restrict aid or set policy. This is simply another right wing opportunity to bash the president. As for the president he's made it clear he doesn't blindly accept everything Israel does as he, like the majority of Americans believe Israel is no longer the victim and they are now the major roadblock to peace. He was elected anyway. Does that mean anything to you right wingers? To me it's about time we had a president that didn't jump when Israel told them too.

                                  • 17 votes
                                  Reply#14 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:24 AM EST

                                  couln't agree with you more, except for the issue of your digressing to trashing any political party. if we are ever going to solve problems in this country, it will have to be as a unified country, with people focused on the real issues, regardless of political persuasion, and not just from an emotional overreaction to issues they haven't clearly thought out. i continue to believe that there is hope for this country yet, that there are logical rational folks still left in this country, who are willing to look at issues, research information and formulate reasonable, plausible answers to the problems that plague this country.

                                  • 4 votes
                                  #14.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:35 AM EST

                                  "the needs of Israel so out shadow our own" - they sure don't, but support for Israel does not really involve us giving up any of our needs, we don't need Hamas to have a nicer place to aim at Israel, we don't need Hezbollah to control more ground, and we certainly don't need a nuclear Iran.

                                  "he's made it clear he doesn't blindly accept everything Israel does as he, like the majority of Americans believe Israel is no longer the victim and they are now the major roadblock to peace."

                                  True, Israel is no longer victim, but to say that they are "the major roadblock to peace." one has to be indeed either a fool or (yes I will say it) antisemite.

                                  The "major roadblock to peace" are those who shoot random rockets, blow themselves up on buses and jump people on highway. There is no way someone intelligent or objective can claim that building a wall to defend yourself is more of an obstacle to peace than any of those things.

                                  It is not Israel, but Palestinians who refuse to negotiate until after they are given everything they want, the president and the "majority of Americans" are perfectly aware of that.

                                  No, American president does not have to "jump when Israel told them too", but he should be fare and descent to Israel as an ally and a fellow democratic country.

                                  I, as an American citizen, will keep expecting that from, my president, and I believe that "majority of Americans" will agree with me.

                                  • 1 vote
                                  #14.2 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:09 PM EST

                                  Eli - The Palestinians have not been given everything they want, as you claim. They want their land back. They want a country with defined borders. Israel will not even define her own borders, because Israel wants more and more Arab land. Israel is a country led by thieves and murderers.

                                  Stop all aid to the parasites in Israel.

                                  • 5 votes
                                  #14.3 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 10:04 AM EST

                                  I see you'd rather have one that crawls to Mexico, China and Radical Islam. Way to go Adolph.

                                  • 1 vote
                                  #14.4 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 3:20 PM EST

                                  If Palestinians want a country with defined borders, all they have to do is come to the negotiation table and define those borders. Israel has always been open to negotiations.

                                  However, Fatah and Hamas refuse to negotiate because they wont settle for anything less than complete destruction of Israel. Those are the organizations led by thieves and murderers.

                                    #14.5 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 9:25 PM EST
                                    Reply

                                    it is amazing how easily some folks can become distracted from the real issue here and go off on tangents about race and political parties. the issue is whether or not Israel, or any other country, should be able to affect our choices for political appointments. Seems to me, this President, or any other, needs to consider what is best for "this" country when nominating someone. Absolutely, he/she wouldn't want to appoint someone who will alienate the United States from the other countries that we interact with, but that shouldn't be the primary consideration. Is Hagel qualified to do the job he is being appointed to or not? If so, then Isreal needs to find a way to deal with his appointment.

                                    • 12 votes
                                    Reply#15 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:28 AM EST

                                    Yes without a doubt he is qualified, and he has 2 purple hearts. I don't know why people think Israel should be allowed to dictate our policy or appointments to the presidents cabinet.

                                    Hagel would rather negotiate and use diplomacy than go to war, that just tells me that he knows the horrors our military is put through in war. Israel will need to find a way to deal with this, like they found a way to deal with Romneys loss.

                                    If the only way to be pro Israel is to be pro war with Iran than I think the majority of Americans are not going to be pro Israel for long.

                                    • 9 votes
                                    #15.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 8:13 AM EST

                                    Jan, You are right about one thing. The American people are tired of war. They are tired of funding foreign adventurism while the economy is still in distress. Until we get our own house in order, we need to refrain from leaping into wars in other peoples' houses. We cannot continue down that path without bankrupting the country.

                                    • 6 votes
                                    #15.2 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:12 AM EST
                                    Reply

                                    I'm hoping for a discussion of Israel, the government of Israel, and the actions of the government of Israel against the people of Palestine. I'm hoping we can air these subjects around the confirmation of Hagel for Secretary of State. I hope the subject is raised and kept in the public eye.

                                    We are overdue a discussion of our blind and unquestioning support of the government of Israel and its immoral actions against the people of Palestine. The world, largely, has turned against Israel, driven away by the immorality and, even, criminality of the actions of the government of Israel; here in the USA the same questions that have turned away Europe and the rest of the world are beginning to be asked.

                                    Let's ask those questions. I hope we have this discussion. I'm afraid we won't, however, in light of this article. We'll see if our politicians who would be most in favor of raising this subject now back off due to the objections of the government of Israel.

                                    Let's see whose side they're on.

                                    • 12 votes
                                    Reply#16 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:29 AM EST

                                    They are on the side of democracy that includes both USA and Israel, and not Islamism that includes the government of Iran and the terrorist organizations that claim to represent "the people of Palestine."

                                    • 1 vote
                                    #16.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:12 PM EST

                                    The Palestinians are cockroaches. A Palestinian murdered Robert Kennedy, Presidential candidate. The Palestinians in Jerusalem sided with Hitler in World War 2. The Palestinians cheered 9/11. The Palestinians were given land they didn't deserve, then lost it all in a war. I'll take Israel.

                                      #16.2 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 3:22 PM EST

                                      Skiby,

                                      I know you are just trying to help, but when you stoop down to you opponents level yo do more harm than good.

                                      Not Palestinians, followers of Hamas. Big difference.

                                      • 1 vote
                                      #16.3 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 11:54 PM EST
                                      Reply

                                      i cheered when i heard of this nomination, why not someone that will put America's welfare first and not Israel's. Makes you wonder what Lindsay Graham and his ilk are really afraid of and who is paying him -"donating to his reelection" to react so vehemently against this choice.

                                      gr

                                      • 13 votes
                                      Reply#17 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:30 AM EST

                                      Hey Dale Earnhart- 763548, 867-5309-Jenny

                                      You really need to follow the Past & Present News. Look up the Crooked Banking & Insurance firms, $88 Billion Gov't Bailout, Look up the $$ Billions spent every month to support the indecisive wars in Iraq & Afghan, Look up the continued Outsourcing of manufacturing jobs to China and the Far East. The Lobbyists, Millionaires in Congress & the Gov't are not concerned about you , me and Joe The Plumber.

                                      Stop your addictions to watching MTV and your 24-7 Call Of Duty marathon sessions with on-line gamers, and face reality.

                                      Stop handing with Mr. Cooper, Chico & the Man, smoking weed with Cheech, Chong, Michael Phelps and Justin Bieber.

                                      Hop aboard the next Peace Train with Cat Stevens and start learning Chinese from Jackie Chan or Bruce Lee if you're looking for any help.

                                      Stand or Fall, Red Skies at Night, I've seen Fire and I've seen Rain.com

                                      • 2 votes
                                      Reply#18 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:35 AM EST

                                      It's disgusting that this should even be a headline news story. Can you imagine "India Avoids Public Spat Over Nomination"? "Peru Avoids Spat..."? "Canada Avoids Spat..." Of course not. Why should we give a s**t what Israel thinks about how Americans and our elected officials choose to run things here? Please, God, grant us more politicians who put America's interests over Israel's!

                                      • 15 votes
                                      Reply#19 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:42 AM EST

                                      It appears the Netanyahu government, being unsuccessful at manipulating the presidential election, have decided to mind their own business. About time.

                                      • 11 votes
                                      Reply#20 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:44 AM EST

                                      Israel is a big part of the problem in the middle east, there could already have been peace but everytime it gets close Israel starts crap. They have no business saying anything about how we run our country. Its good to see Obama picking someone who has actually been to war and understands what its like, instead of the right wing chicken hawks like Bush and Chaney who never served in combat or never served period, jumping in to starting wars.

                                      • 13 votes
                                      Reply#21 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:48 AM EST

                                      So, is Israel to blame for unrest in Pakistan, Libya, Sudan...?

                                        #21.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:50 PM EST

                                        This Shoutout goes to McC-1976726- I'm a Clutz & a Schmuck and proud of it.

                                        You really give all U.S. Veterans a bad name when you show us, how little you know about Jewish people and the history of Israel. Next time you go to your VA hospital to see the doctor, be careful what you say, he or she might be jewish. I'm Catholic and not a bigot, like you. You need to take a seminar with Jackie Mason, so he can knock some sense into you, covering some these important topics.

                                        Auschwitz, Schindler's List, Voyage of the Damned, The Odessa File, Adoph Eichman, Josef Mengele, The Boys from Brazil, Golda Meir, the 1972 Summer Berlin Olympics, the 1967 Six day War, the 1973 Yom Kippur War, Peace Treaties-Agreements with Egypt, Palestine, staunch U.S. Allied in the Middle East, etc............

                                        The Night, Hanukkah Harry Saved Christmas.com

                                          #21.2 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 6:36 AM EST

                                          No. It is the palestinians who do not want to negotiate. Until they accept the existence of the state of Israel, negotiations cannot even begin.

                                            #21.3 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 7:04 AM EST

                                            janet - Why should the Palestinians recognize Israel as a state. The entire country is on land stolen from those Palestinians. The concept of giving Jews a homeland is a mistake. The land was never Englands or America's to give.

                                            "If I were an Arab leader, I would never sign an agreement with Israel.
                                            It is normal; we have taken their country. It is true God promised it to us,
                                            but how could that interest them? Our God is not theirs. There has been Anti -
                                            Semitism, the Nazis, Hitler, Auschwitz, but was that their fault ? They see but
                                            one thing: we have come and we have stolen their country. Why would they accept
                                            that?"

                                            David Ben Gurion (first Israeli PM, quoted by Nahum Goldmann
                                            in Le Paraddoxe Juif (The Jewish Paradox), pp121.

                                            "Jewish villages were built in the place of Arab villages. You do not
                                            even know the names of these Arab villages, and I do not blame you because
                                            geography books no longer exist. Not only do the books not exist, the Arab
                                            villages are not there either. Nahlal arose in the place of Mahlul; Kibbutz
                                            Gvat in the place of Jibta; Kibbutz Sarid in the place of Huneifis; and Kefar
                                            Yehushua in the place of Tal al-Shuman. There is not a single place built in
                                            this country that did not have a former Arab population."

                                            Moshe Dayan, address to the Technion, Haifa, reported in
                                            Haaretz, April 4, 1969.

                                            The Jews were not promised anything, since God only exists in their minds.

                                            • 1 vote
                                            #21.4 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 1:53 PM EST

                                            Right its only America that has the right to tell others what to do. Idiot.

                                              #21.5 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 3:23 PM EST

                                              Indeed, the land was not England's or America's, it always belonged to Jews.

                                              Of all the nations that currently still exist, it's Jews who were the first to build a country there.

                                              They haven't lost connection to that land since, no matter how many different nations invaded that land and tried to convince the world that it's theirs.

                                              Arabs are just another one of those invading nations, and they will have to back of sooner or later just like all others before them.

                                              • 1 vote
                                              #21.6 - Mon Jan 14, 2013 9:33 PM EST
                                              Reply

                                              Netanyahu states, "I do not interfere in the political appointments of the U.S. president. . . . "

                                              But he'll interfere in the political appointments of the American people! Hmm . . .

                                              • 9 votes
                                              Reply#22 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:48 AM EST

                                              I wish the majority of American people should realise the bad influence which the Jewish lobbying force has used cunningly to further its own interests and agenda at the expense of the majority. Case in point. It's was people with a Jewish ancestor name that pushed for the war in Iraq which indirectly led to the GFC.

                                              Some important names with connection to a Jewish ancestor: Paul Wolfowitz, Richard Perle, Scooter Libby, Douglas Feith and so on...

                                              It's about time that the majority of American people see the Jewish lobbying force for what it is: the wrecker of the US as a nation.

                                              • 10 votes
                                              Reply#23 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 7:01 AM EST

                                              JohnCitz is absolutely correct. Thank you. We don't owe Israel anything.

                                              • 5 votes
                                              #23.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 10:28 AM EST

                                              Just why is that lobby group more of a problem for us than say for instance the pharma industry..they cost of more personally than any other lobby. They control a huge portion of financial market so is this the stereotypical jealousy of money..that is you want more of their money and feel justified cause they have more than you?

                                              • 1 vote
                                              #23.2 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 11:25 AM EST

                                              "Jewish loobing force" is relly JEWISH BRIBE TEAM", focus: politicians...

                                              • 2 votes
                                              #23.3 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 2:12 PM EST

                                              So, they outbid your Arab lobby at the auction, huh?

                                                #23.4 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:53 PM EST
                                                Reply

                                                Get Israel's mitts off our political system already. I want our officials to work for us, not Israel.

                                                • 10 votes
                                                Reply#24 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 7:01 AM EST

                                                Don't you worry about a thing ... The shift in our officials is changing..We are not working with Israel we are working for the muslim brotherhood (thanks to Obama)...hope you will enjoy that......................

                                                • 2 votes
                                                #24.1 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 10:17 AM EST

                                                For Israel we are a Giant Cow, but inside give milk this cow give them DOLLARS !!!! $$$$ and we are they servants (thanks politicians, are so many in the congress)

                                                • 1 vote
                                                #24.2 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 2:17 PM EST

                                                But not for Pakistan, Egypt or Palestinians, right?

                                                  #24.3 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 5:54 PM EST
                                                  Reply

                                                  So, Senator Hagel will be working for United States, or is he gonna be working for Israel? If he is getting this job to defend Israel, then the Israeli keneset should vote for his nomination. SENATOR HAGEL IS WORKING FOR US AMERICANS FIRST AND FOREMOST, AND IT'S NOBODY'S BUSINESS WHO WE NOMINATE OR NOT.

                                                  • 12 votes
                                                  Reply#25 - Sun Jan 13, 2013 7:07 AM EST
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