by Mike Dorning
BERLIN--Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama came to a city once divided by the Cold War and sustained in crisis by the Atlantic Alliance to call today for a strengthened commitment to international alliances for an era of new threats.
In a setting that evoked historic addresses by Presidents John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan, Obama came not as the leader of the free world but as a candidate for the office. The speech offered an opportunity for him to demonstrate his capacity to represent American ideals to the international public.
Obama drew a crowd that stretched much of the way down a nearly mile-long mall in front the site of the speech, Berlin's Victory Column, which marks 19th century military successes. At the beginning and end of the speech, the European crowd chanted Obama's campaign slogan in English: "Yes, we can."
Berlin Police estimated more than 200,000 people were at the speech, more than twice as large a crowd as Obama has drawn at any event in the United States.
Obama used the imagery of the Berlin Wall to argue that the challenges of the modern era demand a strengthen rather than diminished commitment to the Atlantic Alliance that defeated the Soviet Union in the Cold War and to international alliances elsewhere.
"The greatest danger of all is to allow new walls to divide us from one another," Obama said.
"The walls between old allies on either side of the Atlantic cannot stand. The walls between the countries with the most and those with the least cannot stand. The walls between races and tribes; natives and immigrants; Christian and Muslim and Jew cannot stand," he continued. "These now are the walls we must tear down. "
The theme of the speech reflected criticism made both by Democrats and Europeans that the unilateral approach the Bush Administration pursued in response to global terrorism and particularly in entering the Iraq War has been counterproductive, though Obama did not name the president in the speech.
As he did in his speech on race relations and often has in his career, Obama suggested both the United States and Europe have legitimate grievances about the performance of their alliance but nonetheless have a greater common purpose.
"On both sides of the Atlantic, we have drifted apart, and forgotten our shared destiny," Obama said.
"In Europe, the view that America is part of what has gone wrong in our world, rather than a force to help make it right, has become all too common," he added. "In America, there are voices that deride and deny the importance of Europe's role in our security and our future."
But Obama, who is running for president and spoke most importantly to an audience at home, provided a defense of America as a nation with special purpose.
"We've made our share of mistakes, and there are times when our actions around the world have not lived up to our best intentions," he said.
"But I also know how much I love America," he continued. "I know that for more than two centuries, we have strived - at great cost and great sacrifice - to form a more perfect union; to seek, with other nations, a more hopeful world."
Comments
Again....I can't for the life of me understand why the media would cover this and not some millionare telling us the price of milk in the aisle of the handi mart.
Posted by: bill "Hussein" r. | July 24, 2008 2:35 PM
I believe everything starts locally. Obama wants countries to get along. Yet for 20 years he attended a parish that has a message, once brought to light, drives a wedge between Americans. I conclude he has no experience uniting people, and now he wants to unite countries ?
Posted by: Hmm | July 24, 2008 2:49 PM
Imagine that. A candidate for president using diplomacy instead of my way or the highway.
If only Dubya could have figured that out early one, we wouldn't be wasting away in Iraqiville and maybe we would have had the resources to put into Afghanistan to get Al Queda and and their Taliban comforters.
Posted by: Doug "Hussein" Zook | July 24, 2008 2:50 PM
It's great to see that the World doesn't hate us as much as we think. All the World wants is change for the better. It would be a great idea for the world to look upon the U.S. favorably.
Posted by: trish | July 24, 2008 3:06 PM
Hmmm...I agree. We need more unity shown to us by Bush/McBush Administration. My way or the highway and Bomb Bomb Bomb Iran is a great first step.
Posted by: bill "Hussein" r. | July 24, 2008 3:19 PM
Why wouldn't they love him, they're socialists, so is he. The only thing Obama loves is Obama and he proved it today - it's about him and his ego.
Posted by: Virginia | July 24, 2008 3:24 PM
To bill "Hussein" r.: Perhaps it would be helpful for you to take the time to understand what constitutes news and what does not. As an African-American candidate for the US Presidency, Obama gave a major overseas speech drawing a audience of over 200,000 in a country who's citizens aren't exactly happy with US policy. That's pretty significant and denying that is to blindly play party politics.
Posted by: Ambient | July 24, 2008 3:24 PM
Thats what um talking about! That is what I call - RESPECT. Some want fear, but Barack wants unity. That is what I call leadership. Looks like Oregon all over again. What a beautiful sea of HOPE. Touching.
Posted by: Keith Lifetime Chicagoan and Southsider | July 24, 2008 3:29 PM
ambient - i'm pretty sure that's exactly the point bill was making. it's called sarcasm.
Posted by: chad_broski | July 24, 2008 3:32 PM
The arrogance of Mr. Obama is astonishing. He rides in an "Air Force One" type plain. He designs a Presidential seal for himself. He tours military fronts as if he were a commander in chief. He addresses international audiences, adorning himself with the mantle of the leader of a superpower. And the man is only a few percentage points ahead of his opponent (who has a good deal of experience and foreign relations credentials) to be in a forthcoming general election.
What's most troubling is how Obama's fans surround him as some form of cult figure, a savior of some sort. . Obama is simply a combinantion of the ignorance and inexperience of GW Bush; the leftist rhetoric of Jimmy Carter; and the vacuous pop-culture appeal of Bill Clinton. Unlike certain previous Democratic Presidents (JFK, Roosevelt, Truman, Johnson), Mr. Obama is all style, no substance and, if elected, America will suffer greatly because of him.
Posted by: Alex Garcia | July 24, 2008 3:33 PM
Unite people?! 200,000 germans attended his speech! and cheered him! Obama is trying to do what the last president should have, bring people together for a common goal. People keep attacking him for things other people did. This man is passionate about making all the wrongs we have lived through with Bush, right. I am a huge Clinton fan but this man inspires me to do better and live better, this is before he gets in office. What does Bush or McCain inspire you to do? What do the Republicans inspire you to do?
Posted by: Rob | July 24, 2008 3:34 PM
I did not get a chance to read the transcipt of his speach.
Did he mention jelly donuts?
Posted by: Jim | July 24, 2008 3:35 PM
To Ambient.: Perhaps you should re-read Hussein's comment and allow your ability to detect sarcasm take over. I believe his point was that this IS much more important than McCain standing in a milk isle.
Posted by: Mark | July 24, 2008 3:36 PM
We love you Barack! You make a Sox fan from the south side of Chicago proud! Thanks for helping us heal...."We've made our share of mistakes, and there are times when our actions around the world have not lived up to our best intentions," he said.
BHO 08!
Posted by: ChgoGrrl | July 24, 2008 3:37 PM
Posted by: Ambient | July 24, 2008 3:24 PM
I believe chad covered it quite nicely.
Thanks...
Maybe I use sarcasm a little too much....but the trenches in the swamp get a bit fiesty sometimes.
Posted by: bill "Hussein" r. | July 24, 2008 3:39 PM
There's no question that most Americans realize that we're not going to win any wars on terrorism or any economic wars. Most Americans realize that the global economy, presented to you no less than by the Republican party, has changed our ability to dominate the rest of the world.
McCain wants to stay - alone - in Iraq until they get with OUR program. In the meantime, we need more troops in Afghanistan, where the real terrorists are "chillin'."
McCain and Googles say they also want to send more troops to Afghanistan, but the availability of troops is dwindling - unless we start giving international furlongs.
So bottom line: either move with the Global Economy, or get stuck in some time warp and start punching everyone and everything that attempts to get in OUR WAY.
Posted by: Bud McFarlin | July 24, 2008 3:46 PM
Actually, "they" are not socialists - they are Germans, and only about 8% of them vote for a socialist kind of party in the context that we Americans would understand as being socialist. The Social Democrat party is center left, the Christian Democrats are center right. Get your facts straight before you write some hogwash.
By the way, just got back from the Obama speech - fabulous. Asking for more help from NATO countries in the Middle East conflicts - something that will never work under a McCain presidency.
Posted by: ex_printersrow | July 24, 2008 3:52 PM
who cares what the world thinks
Posted by: patriot | July 24, 2008 3:54 PM
Ich bin ein Obamer
Posted by: Mike Koutsouris | July 24, 2008 3:58 PM
Ex-Printers Row:
Excellent points, i.e. that the vast majority of Berliners did not attend Mr. Obama's speech and, quite possibly, the vast majority of Germans may disagree with many of Mr. Obama's leftist leanings. ;)
Posted by: Alex Garcia | July 24, 2008 4:01 PM
During the primary, Obama trashed Hillary and all of the "unity" went out the window. But now he's over in Germany calling from "unity"? How does the "uniting" theme work for us here in the US? That's what I want to know.
Posted by: Ryan | July 24, 2008 4:11 PM
Mike Koutsouris, very clever. I hope you start something with that. I will repeat it. Illinois and Chicago must be very proud 'tho you wouldn't know it sometimes from the comments in The Trib.
Posted by: naschkatzehussein | July 24, 2008 4:12 PM
Maybe obama can move to germany when he loses in november...what a joke he is! He's gonna save the world..the messiah.... yeh right!
Don't forget jeremiah wright,bill ayers, michael phleger....
Posted by: brian | July 24, 2008 4:14 PM
Cups! Cups! We need more cups! We have all this Kool-Aid but we've run out of cups!
Posted by: Ned | July 24, 2008 4:17 PM
yes, that is correct, Alex.
Most of the attendees (ca. 140,000) in Berlin are actually American left-wing Obama supporters. The other 60,000 are Americans who formerly supported the Republican party.
Posted by: ex_printersrow | July 24, 2008 4:19 PM
What a great speech by President Obama!
What a great political moment!
It was really nice of Grampy McBush to dare Obama to take an oversea's trip!
I'm just going to sit back and listen to the Republic Party minions on here cry because at this point that's pretty much all they have left to do.
Posted by: John E | July 24, 2008 4:19 PM
to Alex G - What is astonishing to me is how you feel comfortable commenting on someone's arrogance without even taking the time to proofread your rant. I am sure Sen. Obama is traveling Europe in a "plane."
To the critics, first Obama isn't qualified enough for the job. Now he is taking proactive steps, doing some homework as it were, in order TO prepare himself properly for the job and still receiving negative attention for THAT. As opposed to complaining about Obama's actions, why not ask what YOUR candidates are doing to prepare themselves to be worthy of the job.
Posted by: daniel j m. | July 24, 2008 4:22 PM
That's what I want to know.
Posted by: Ryan | July 24, 2008 4:11 PM
I think you may be a bit naive if you think Hillary is the victim of trashing. They all got trashed. Obama, Hillary, McBush, Mitt, Hucklberry....that's politics son. You need to get over it and vote on the issues.
Posted by: bill "Hussein" r. | July 24, 2008 4:23 PM
alex - a few questions for you:
1) exactly what "foreign relations credentials" does mccain have other than getting shot down in vietnam? i'm being serious.
2) what makes you think obama is a "leftist"? do you know what a "leftist" is? or are you just displaying your skills at parroting right-wing talking points? because if you've paid any attention to his campaign or the election in general, you'd realize he's actually a centrist.
Posted by: chad_broski | July 24, 2008 4:23 PM
The German people never stopped liking America. If they had, they wouldn't have elected a chancellor who has made no secret of her admiration for America. Merkel sees America as "a force that has brought freedom to the peoples of the world." And in France, Pres. Sarkozy was elected saying things like "America can count on France." Yet in Obama's mind: "In Europe, the view that America is part of what has gone wrong in our world, rather than a force to help make it right, has become all too common."
If it's all too common, how were Sarkozy and Merkel elected? Maybe Obama just wants to believe that people see America as a force for evil.
Posted by: JB | July 24, 2008 4:27 PM
Look at that picture. To me it's not so much showing support of a man many know little about...yet, but just the whole world's wonderful relief that the idiot Chimp will soon be heading back to his Texas village .
Posted by: Gort | July 24, 2008 4:28 PM
[[Ex-Printers Row: Excellent points, i.e. that the vast majority of Berliners did not attend Mr. Obama's speech and, quite possibly, the vast majority of Germans may disagree with many of Mr. Obama's leftist leanings. ;) Posted by: Alex Garcia | July 24, 2008 4:01 PM]]
brilliant observation, that the "vast majority" of the 3.5 million people who live in berlin did not attend the speech. just brilliant.
Posted by: IMH(ussein)O | July 24, 2008 4:30 PM
Braack. Yip yippie yay! Cheerleading himself all the way!
Now do your job Senator.
Posted by: Obama Nanny State | July 24, 2008 4:31 PM
yes Alex, that is correct - not a German in sight at the event.
Only Americans who formerly voted republican. Amazing to hear them all chant Yes We Can. Nearly brought a tear to my eye. Nearly.
Posted by: ex_printersrow | July 24, 2008 4:32 PM
Nobody says that in Europe there are many people who support Obama for his idea socialist.
Besides the curiosity of seeing the first black candidate who can reach the presidency of the most powerful country in the world.
Obama wants to be like JFK, and its ease of the word help, but his arrogance disassembles the rest. He speaks and speaks, when the reality of today is crude, and not enough to feed, give a job, pay the mortgage and the kids return to the war.
You can say nice speeches, but I don't think that will solve the real problems, let Obama to Hollywood to continue with his arrogance of being the savior of the motherland, immaculate.
Just to see their real friends to find out what kind of man is.
Posted by: Nuccia | July 24, 2008 4:50 PM
Mean while back in Chicago:
In addition to a land deal, Sen. Barack Obama's ties to indicted dealmaker Antoin "Tony" Rezko include an internship the senator provided the son of a contributor at the request of Rezko, an Obama spokesman confirmed Saturday.
John Aramanda served as an intern for Obama for about a month in 2005, said Obama spokesman Robert Gibbs. His father is Joseph Aramanda, a Rezko business associate who was named as an unindicted co-conspirator in a federal corruption case against Rezko.
Posted by: Truth | July 24, 2008 4:52 PM
Wow, 200,000 Germans. I'm sure they will all be voting in November too. Keep campaigning overseas, Barack. McCain already has your lead down to 4 percentage points. Won't be long now...
Posted by: RLC | July 24, 2008 4:53 PM
Ryan, please cite one thing Obama did to "trash" Hillary. I genuinely want to know how you're keeping score--not to fight with you, but just to check, because my memory of the primary is different. In my recollection (and I was genuinely undecided until pretty late in the game) she did more to "trash" him than the other way around. (Frankly, that's what turned me off...) Be specific, and I'll listen. I genuinely want to know what you're calling "trashing" from Obama himself.
Posted by: ohioan | July 24, 2008 5:00 PM
Won't be long now...
Posted by: RLC | July 24, 2008 4:53 PM
Actually, it won't be until November...when he is swept into office by a wide margin :)
Posted by: Jolly Roger | July 24, 2008 5:02 PM
As this man has done time and time again, as he has won over the minds of the American people, he is now winning over the minds of the Europeans and from people from all over the world, Ladies and Gentlemen, The next President of the United States of America... Can we say landslide!
Posted by: Kris | July 24, 2008 5:04 PM
Thankfully, we stopped letting Europeans decide our rulers in 1776.
Posted by: 1776: Great Year | July 24, 2008 5:05 PM
Got news for you Obama fans, the large crowd wasn't there to hear Obama talk. If you noticed they were all young people. Young people that were there for the two very popular bands that preceded him with a concert. Gotta give him credit for orchestrating more hype for you morons to buy into. I've always found that whenever someone is pushing a hard sales job what they are selling isn't worth buying, if it were it would sell on it's own merits. Right now the media are running around like a bunch of used car salesman and I'm not buying.
Posted by: The whole picture | July 24, 2008 5:06 PM
Isn't it wonderful to see American Flags waving instead of I HATE AMERICA Protest signs? For 8 yrs we have been hated abroad.....those waving American Flags were so nice to see
Posted by: tr | July 24, 2008 5:10 PM
AN AMERICAN STORY
It is wonderful that the World loves America under the leadership of Barack Obama and looks forward to cooperating with America again in friendship, peace and economics.
America, Europe, Asia, South America and the World are looking forward to cooperating and working with Barack Obama.
Constitutional Law Professor and Harvard Law Scholar Barack Obama will be the smartest and most beloved President in American History.
America Loves Barack Obama
America Loves Barack Obama
America Loves Barack Obama
Germany Loves Barack Obama
Germany Loves Barack Obama
Germany Loves Barack Obama
France Loves Barack Obama
France Loves Barack Obama
France Loves Barack Obama
England Loves Barack Obama
England Loves Barack Obama
England Loves Barack Obama
Russia Loves Barack Obama
Russia Loves Barack Obama
Russia Loves Barack Obama
Italy Loves Barack Obama
Italy Loves Barack Obama
Italy Loves Barack Obama
Mexico Loves Barack Obama
Mexico Loves Barack Obama
Mexico Loves Barack Obama
Venezuela Loves Barack Obama
Venezuela Loves Barack Obama
Venezuela Loves Barack Obama
Brazil Loves Barack Obama
Brazil Loves Barack Obama
Brazil Loves Barack Obama
Spain Loves Barack Obama
Spain Loves Barack Obama
Spain Loves Barack Obama
Hillary Loves Barack Obama
Hillary Loves Barack Obama
Hillary Loves Barack Obama
It is wonderful that the World loves America under the leadership of Barack Obama and looks forward to cooperating with America again in friendship, peace and economics.
Posted by: America and World Love President Barack Obama | July 24, 2008 5:12 PM
daniel j.m.:
Equally astonishing is how you were apparently compelled to reply without first checking to make sure that you are using proper punctuation throughout your post.
Anyway, you appear quite smitten and very defensive of your savior, the presumptuous Democratic nominee. I'd like to ask you - What foreign policy credentials does your glorious leader bring to the table? "Hope" and "Change"? The adaoration of the American and European left?
Regards,
Alex
Posted by: Alex Garcia | July 24, 2008 5:24 PM
McCain is SO going to lose.
Posted by: bluesky | July 24, 2008 5:26 PM
We were in Berlin for a week in May and had opportunities to talk with 'real people' there; don't believe for a minute that the Germans (and most Europeans) dislike Americans (well, OK, maybe it's our AMEX cards they like the most, but that's another topic). They have an intense interest in the upcoming US elections and, almost to a person, still can't understand why our country has been so arrogant and misguided for the last eight years. Sad to see that an earlier poster indicated they were 'socialists'; he/she had best not level that charge at them in person -- it's all too indicative of the bully attitude and name-throwing we've been subjected to during the Bush regime. We're better than that!
Posted by: Dwain | July 24, 2008 5:31 PM
Chad Broski:
Since you're being so serious, a few responses to your questions:
1) McCain has several terms in the U.S. Senate and the resulting foreign relations and policy experience. In other words, far more experience than the one-termer Barack, who only recently felt compelled to bolster his foreign policy credentials now that he is desirous of a higher office;
2) Indeed, I do know what a leftist is. In fact, I'm married to a recovering one. Anyway, read some of Mr. Obama's writings while at the University of Chicago and, previously, at Harvard. They leave a pretty strong impression regarding his leanings.
Posted by: Alex Garcia | July 24, 2008 5:32 PM
PS - Reading this board, I'm becoming confirmed in my opinion that it's the less educated people who hate O'Bama the most.
Posted by: bluesky | July 24, 2008 5:32 PM
Got news for you Obama fans, the large crowd wasn't there to hear Obama talk. If you noticed they were all young people. Young people that were there for the two very popular bands that preceded him with a concert.
Posted by: The whole picture | July 24, 2008 5:06 PM
Yes, but the bands PRECEDED his speech, so if that was the only draw, why didn't the crowds leave after the bands finished?
Alex Garcia, the whole POINT is to try to look Presidential. If he didn't look Presidential, the media and you guys would be all over him for that. How about closing mouth to prevent the toads from leaping out and just vote for the candidate of your choice?
Maybe Obama should now throw down the gauntlet for McCain to go over and make a speech at the same location. Would be interesting to see what would happen...
It's baffling to read the negativitons [my word] in this comment section. Truth is, I'd be glad to see a crowd like this for McCain in an overseas location. This is a positive event, as tr at 5:10PM so aptly stated.
Posted by: DD | July 24, 2008 5:33 PM
Maybe Obama should move to Germany and run for office. I don't recall that Germany will be electing our President. As for McCain, he has moved into a close tie in the polls with Obama. Maybe he isn't like as much as the liberal media thinks. I think in Nov, Obama and the dems are going to be very suprised when BHO is defeated and sent back to Illinois with a close second.
Posted by: Jerry | July 24, 2008 5:33 PM
Ahhh, what do they know? Thousands cheered Hitler there too. When they vote in an US election, then it means something.
Posted by: wing nut | July 24, 2008 5:37 PM
Wow, 200,000 Germans. I'm sure they will all be voting in November too. Keep campaigning overseas, Barack. McCain already has your lead down to 4 percentage points. Won't be long now...
Posted by: RLC | July 24, 2008 5:38 PM
Who is Mike Dorning?
Look at what you wrote:
"...Obama came not as the leader of the free world but as a candidate for the office."
Excuse me, he's not even the official candidate yet. Talk about Modern Liberal bias!
Posted by: Alz | July 24, 2008 5:38 PM
(Ex-Printers Row:
Excellent points, i.e. that the vast majority of Berliners did not attend Mr. Obama's speech and, quite possibly, the vast majority of Germans may disagree with many of Mr. Obama's leftist leanings. ;))
The vast majority of Germans did not agree with Ronald Reagan's right-wing leanings, but he was still popular in Germany and around the world.
;)
Posted by: scoobydoo | July 24, 2008 5:39 PM
Good for Berlin. I hope that they let him raise their taxes and give away millions to illegal in their country.
My favorite quote from obama as he started one his hype speaches...."America is the greatest country in the world! (selected crowd cheers) Are you ready for change?" Crowd cheers again.
Posted by: BDD | July 24, 2008 5:41 PM
Watched THE speech and although I knew Obama was running for President of the USA I also learned he is seeking coronation as King of the World! Wow! As a Danish-American (I use the hyphenated version as it is so cool) I was deeply offended that he chose to stand in front of a monument to the Prussian Wars that enslaved Denmark, along with many others. If Obama should be defeated maybe he could tear down some walls and make peace in Chicago where there seems to be a lot of unrest.
Posted by: LH | July 24, 2008 5:42 PM
This just in: McCain is linked to Chicago crime boss Tony Rezko. It was learned today that Republican Presidential Nominee John McCain has been linked intimately to Chicago crime boss Tony Rezko. A spokesman for the McCain campaign, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, has reluctantly admitted that McCain does regularly associate with a known associate of Tony Rezko. "McCain has been seen talking to this associate in the Senate chambers on several occasions and he has also debated with him from time to time." said the source.
John McCain angrily denied having any links to Rezko but the proof is there. "McCain definately knows a guy who has met Tony Rezko...of that I am sure" said another tipster from McCain's campaign. If this is true, the news could be devistating to the McCain campaign. "For a man of his stature, to associate with an associate of an indicted Chicago crime boss is simply unacceptable in this day and age." said a high level McCain campaign employee and head of 3 powerful PACs.
Posted by: Jerry | July 24, 2008 5:48 PM
Couple of points:
1. Ich bin ein Beginer!!!
2. 200,000?? Milions listened and cheered Hitler, besides there were two free concerts before his speech.
3. Did you listen to the speech?? No??? Here:
"The walls between old allies on either side of the Atlantic cannot stand. The walls between the countries with the most and those with the least cannot stand. The walls between races and tribes; natives and immigrants; Christian and Muslim and Jew cannot stand. These now are the walls we must tear down. "
He want to tear down the dividing walls?? What walls?? What is he talking about? World was never more open then now. I swear he lives in his own little buble, and now he pretends to be the man of the WORLD?? A Diplomat?? Go to school Barack!! School of Life!! Acting out like his a president.... man..... I am mad... He is really ignorant and stock up.
Chewing gum when he talks to people?? Ignorant and disrepectful...
4. Why do people blindly believe him!!! Wow..... I am speechles...
5. People read some history!!! And remember that History repeats itself over and over again, you can not please the entire world.... USA should look at its own intrest, and nobodys else. Nobody is going to help us when we will be in need... Hell they are not helping us now ( except few countries )
Posted by: Marcin Swierzowski | July 24, 2008 5:49 PM
Obama-mania! The Germans have had a history, by the way, of loving good speakers with bad ideas. What's really amusing to me though is that the left gives Obama all this credit, calls him intelligent, and so forth, and all he does is READ what has been written for him from a teleprompter. Just like your nightly news anchor does. When Obama doesn't have the teleprompter, he stumbles over Uh, Uh, Uh, and says some really dumb things. Like he tried to take credit for being on the Senate Banking Committee which he isn't even a member of when speaking of freezing Iran's assets potentially. But, he looks good on camera, makes whites filled with white guilt feel better about themselves and can read from a teleprompter really well. I saw this same sort of insanity when Carter ran in 1976 and you see how that turned out. Worst inflation and unemployment rates ever.
Posted by: James | July 24, 2008 5:50 PM
Let's try something.
Let's have McCain go to Germany, anytime between now & November. Wonder what the response would be.
Conservatives need to face reality for once. McCain, (or Romney, Thompson, Gulianni, etc) would never get this type of incredible response overseas like Obama has. & remember, many foreigners actually know as much or more about US politics then most Americans here.
Play it down or spin it anyway you want. Obama is fearlessly crushing conservatives all over the place & your fox & rush have completely fallen apart & are inaffective agianst the onslaught.
Posted by: RomanB | July 24, 2008 5:55 PM
(McCain has several terms in the U.S. Senate and the resulting foreign relations and policy experience.)
McCain was Ahmad Chalabi's greatest backer in Washington, DC, before Chalabi was identified as an Iranian ally and double agent.
McCain continues to back the Iraqi War regardless of the fact that the environment has become explosively unstable.
McCain has talked openly about throwing Russia out of the G8 and of bombing Iran. Irresponsible to say the least.
As Republicans go, I would trust Dick Lugar far more for his foreign policy experience. McCain 'is a hotheaded maverick who believes in force, force, and more force. I seriously doubt he has the restraint and wisdom necessary to enter the presidency.
O'Bama does not have much foreign policy experience, but he carries one critical quality -- his consistent approach in taking a hard look at the entire picture, questioning every bit of data thoroughly, seeking feedback from advisers of all stripes (including his critics), before making a decision.
Those are the qualities of a President.
He may not become a soundbite president but he will restore some intellect and depth to the office.
Posted by: scoobydoo | July 24, 2008 5:59 PM
Hey, the world knows a true leader when it sees one.
Posted by: Augustus | July 24, 2008 6:06 PM
What a speech in Germany! Here is the man to try and heal the world issues! Treat countries with respect! What a theory. And STILL, some cannot hear and understand what he says. We have not had a leader like this in decades - who hopes for peace - I am SO proud of Obama and apparently so are a lot of other people around the world. When are you also going to understand that most Americans and peoples around the world do NOT want wars and killing. It is going to be the leaders that tell OUR message of peace - and we have finally found one that will talk for us!
Posted by: EFoster | July 24, 2008 6:07 PM
"Let's try something.
Let's have McCain go to Germany, anytime between now & November. Wonder what the response would be.
Conservatives need to face reality for once. McCain, (or Romney, Thompson, Gulianni, etc) would never get this type of incredible response overseas like Obama has. & remember, many foreigners actually know as much or more about US politics then most Americans here.
Play it down or spin it anyway you want. Obama is fearlessly crushing conservatives all over the place & your fox & rush have completely fallen apart & are inaffective agianst the onslaught.
"
Roman B. .......
Ignorant!!!
Why would I care about what Europe cares? Do you truly believe the Europe is looking over OUR interest? They want whatever is best for us?
I want a president that will look over OUR interest and not
" ohh look Europeans like us again " Everybody is looking over their own interest.
"I know my country has not perfected itself " Why is is excusing us, he does not represent me nor the country. Ignorant........
Posted by: Marcin Swierzowski | July 24, 2008 6:14 PM
To all you Peace LOvers!!!!
Once again I will say read some history... Neville Chamberlain ( Psst... he believed in history )
"if you want peace prepare for war"
Posted by: Marcin Swierzowski | July 24, 2008 6:22 PM
I was at a dinner party recently and the conversation quickly devolved into a Barack Obama informercial. After quietly listening for, oh, probably 30 minutes, I had the audacity to say something complimentary of John McCain. The looks and reactions I received were almost as if I had clubbed a baby seal or something.
Not too long after that, I was in Brussels for business and attended a series of receptions over the course of the week that I was there. Repeatedly, despite my best efforts, the European hosts would turn the topics of discussion to politics and, again, I would have to listen to Obama infomercials and no one wanted to hear otherwise.
In short, there is a new cult of personality brewin' folks, and it is called the Church of Barack. It really does give you pause.
Posted by: Bill | July 24, 2008 6:24 PM
Marcin Swierzowski, you used the term "ignorant" to describe Barack Obama and his speech in Berlin. Read your post again and explain to the group how the author of this rambling, almost unreadable post gets to call ANYBODY "ignorant".
Posted by: Susana | July 24, 2008 6:37 PM
Good thing the Germans aren't voting for Obamalama...what arrogance the man has. Speaking in a foreign country and disparages the USA, how bold he is! What are his actual policies, what are his accomplishments? An empty suit. The media O'basm continues.
Posted by: Hermann | July 24, 2008 6:38 PM
I hope his words regarding walls can be taken literally after seeing Israel's Separation/Apartheid Wall. FREE PALESTINE!
http://www.theironwall.ps/
Posted by: Matt | July 24, 2008 6:40 PM
I disagree. After having watched this speech I came away with the impression that it actually reaffirmed and supported neo-conservative agenda; the view of the world composed of us "allies" against these threats - terrorists Iran China Russia. Ironic for Obama to speak about breaking walls while at the same time asking the world (European allies) to unite and stand up to these threats: hence in reality building walls. There is no real difference between Obama's speech and the current President's speeches in my opinion. Obama's speech looked like a campaign speech geared towards the US audience more so than a ground breaking diplomacy speech. It was comical to have a US potential president give a speech in Berlin concerning Europe; Iraq (the elephant in the room) merely a side note. And, why is it that Obama chose to speak in Berlin about a conflict years ago. If he wanted to evoke ground breaking Reagan what he should have done is give a speech about the world and breaking walls..... in Iraq. But unlike Reagan Obama had no balls to confront the issues where they lay because a predictably peaceful Europe is a better safer speech backdrop than just coming out of the woods Iraq. Man and you'd think with the way some Dems on Capitol Hill just took and ran with the story of Iraq supporting Obama's plan to withdraw---you'd think Obama would draw crowds upon crowds in Iraq.... BUT in Berlin, the odds of people chanting "yes we can" are more likely and go more with the campaign v Iraq where the odds of "death to America" are more likely and go less with his campaign. It all makes you wonder if Reagans speech would have had the same effect had he given it in the Philippines instead of Germany.
Posted by: Moe | July 24, 2008 6:43 PM
Posted by: Bill | July 24, 2008 6:24 PM
So, you're not getting it, are you? Sorry you keep embarrassing yourself. One man's "infomercial" is another man's compliment.
Posted by: DD | July 24, 2008 6:55 PM
HEY BLUESKY HAVE YOU SEEN THE LATEST POLLS, THAT JUST CAME OUT TODAY, MCCAIN IS LEADING obama IN THREE STATES THAT obamaWAS AHEAD BEFORE, AND AGAIN IN AN WSJ-NBC POLL MCCAIN BEATS obama 53% TO 35% AS BEING MORE PRESIDENTIAL, SO BEFORE YOU GO OFF AND SHOOT YOUR LIBERAL MOUTH THAT MCCAIN IS GOING TO LOSE, I WOULD START READING SOME OF THESE POLLS, EMPTY SUITMAN SHOULD BE IN DOUBLE DIGITS ABOVE MCCAIN , BUT HE SURE AIN'T IS HE?????? THIS LOVEFEST, THIS MESSIAH CORONATION OF obama BY THE PRESS AND MEDIA IS GOING TO BACKFIRE, IT IS SICKENING ALL THIS GUSHING, AND KNEELING AT obama's FEET, AND THIS SPEECH TODAY SOME OF THE LAST LINES CAME OUT OF ONE OF BUSH'S INAUGREAL SPEECHES, LIKE BILL CLINTON SAID, HE IS A FAIRYTALE!!!! HE IS NOTHING BUT PHOTO OPTS, SPEECHES, WORDS, NO SUBSTANCE AND THE PEOPLE ARE BEGINNING TO SEE THIS, I CAN NO WAY IMAGINE HIM OUR PRESIDENT, HE LOOKS LIKE A BOY. I CANNOT STAND HIS ARROGANCE, ELIETISM, HE ACTS LIKE HE IS BETTER THEN EVERYONE, HILLARY NEVER ACTED LIKE THAT. THIS PRESS AND MEDIA ARE A TRAVESTY, NO CREDIBILITY, REMEMBER EVERYONE SNL??? HILLARY WAS SO RIGHT ABOUT THE PRESS AND MEDIA ESPECIALLY MSNBC!!!!
Posted by: sandra | July 24, 2008 6:56 PM
alex - nice try, but i was looking for specifics. what SPECIFIC foreign relations experience does mccain have from his long tenure in the senate? what treaties has he negotiated? what expertise does he have in dealing with foreign leaders? it seems as if every chance he gets, he displays his foreign policy ignorance (claiming al qaeda was being supported by the iranians, constantly mixing up shi'a and sunni, etc.)
as for his "leftist" leanings, perhaps you could point us to some reading material?
Posted by: Anonymous | July 24, 2008 7:06 PM
1 point and I'll let you yahoos bicker about everything...
John McCain would draw about 50 people if he held the same event in Berlin.
Obama for Prez!!!!!!
Posted by: Bones | July 24, 2008 7:10 PM
Isn't it wonderful to see American Flags waving instead of I HATE AMERICA Protest signs? For 8 yrs we have been hated abroad.....those waving American Flags were so nice to see
Posted by: tr | July 24, 2008 5:10 PM
See, this is the exact purpose of this publicity stunt. Yes, and by the looks of President's Bush visit to Albania there was no shortage of American flags there either. I'd be more impressed if I'd see these American flags abroad....... in Iraq.
Posted by: Moe | July 24, 2008 7:12 PM
These are the same European countries that asserted, via numerous UN Security Council Resolutions, yes, that Iraq possessed, used, and was propagating weapons of mass distruction, yes ? These are the same European countries who rejected the recent USA annual intelligence report that concluded Iran is no longer developing nuclear weapons ?
Posted by: Hussein al Hussein al Hussein | July 24, 2008 7:19 PM
The Republicans had their little clock running to show how long it's been since Obama went to Iraq. Well, now he has gone there and they aren't happy with the way he's carrying himself. What's he SUPPOSED to do..go over there with his head hanging down and acting like an ILLITERATE HILLBILLY????? As far as Wright, the south side priest, etc., you're beating a dead horse. That's ALREADY been hashed out AGAIN AND AGAIN OVER AND OVER.The average person...if you don't know by NOW...is more concerned about what's going to affect THEM...like losing their HOME!!!!! Which issues do you think are going to carry more weight in Nov.????? Do you REALLY think we want MORE OF THE LAST 7 YEARS?????
Posted by: Mary Dawson | July 24, 2008 7:23 PM
Just a couple of weeks ago, McCain et al were carping about Obama not having made any recent trips to Iraq. NOW they're complaining that he's made this trip and the only thing in the news is: the trip! Well, duh! So what's more news-worthy? Obama pictured with a high profile general, or Grampy McCain in a sexy golf cart? I'm so glad to be done with boring old white guys (and I'm a boring middle-aged white woman).
To all who hope to scare everyone with your reminders of Wright, etc., I have to tell you that people are going to be a whole lot smarter this time around. Of course, you're the same group who either believed all the Swiftboat type of slander or were helping to spread that garbage.
You were also the ones who were lining up for the Kool-aid in 2000 and again in 2004.
Thank goodness the US has been given another chance.
Posted by: Emmy in Evanston IL | July 24, 2008 7:24 PM
I'm just curious...are we going to have mass suicides if Obama DOESN'T get elected?
Posted by: Ned | July 24, 2008 7:26 PM
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/worldnews/article-1038120/Beware-Obamania-As-vis
its-Britain-presidential-hopeful-resembles-young-Tony-Blair.html
Read it. It's ok to have faith and believe if you can face facts.
Posted by: nick | July 24, 2008 7:27 PM
Ted Sorensen must have had a hand in drafting this speech. Not that Barack can't turn his own memorable phrases. But Sorensen wrote the JFK Berlin speech we see excerpted so often in Letterman's "Great Moments in Presidential Speeches".
The press and public should be ecstatic that an American would be received this way in Europe.
Right wing press, however: nothing but venom.
Do they ever get a clue that, at this stage in the game, attacking Barack is in fact an attack on America?
Posted by: ornery | July 24, 2008 7:47 PM
Bill, just a small correction:
That's the Church of St. Barack.
Posted by: ornery | July 24, 2008 7:52 PM
In short, there is a new cult of personality brewin' folks, and it is called the Church of Barack. It really does give you pause.
Posted by: Bill | July 24, 2008 6:24 PM
_________________________
Nope. Doesn't give me pause. I am all in favor of it. Liberal media bias? Bring it on, love it. Obama adoration? Yep! Great! It is all good! The more liberals that get elected, the better. If connies hate it, it makes me very happy.The more liberal bias the better! I can only hope the liberal media bais totally destroys the rethuglican party in this country. Then we would really have a great socialist state and we'd take care ofthose that need it.
Posted by: tried and true American | July 24, 2008 7:59 PM
Mean while back in Chicago:
In addition to a land deal, Sen. Barack Obama's ties to indicted dealmaker Antoin "Tony" Rezko include an internship the senator provided the son of a contributor at the request of Rezko, an Obama spokesman confirmed Saturday.
John Aramanda served as an intern for Obama for about a month in 2005, said Obama spokesman Robert Gibbs. His father is Joseph Aramanda, a Rezko business associate who was named as an unindicted co-conspirator in a federal corruption case against Rezko.
Posted by: Truth | July 24, 2008 4:52 PM
Uh, "truth", are you that naive that you think obama is the only politician to ever give an internship to a friend or a donor's kid? Wake up, son!
People like you, along with the likes of the rest of the dittoes on this board parroting Fox news blurbs, are pitiful, yet still quite freightening. Please do us all a big favor and focus on what really matters.
Posted by: Don W | July 24, 2008 8:03 PM
It's good to see something more than multi-national dissention and extreme privacy, but Barack don't forget about restoring the true "Alliance" again!
Posted by: Kenta Sato | July 24, 2008 8:24 PM
Mccain is a tool that shadows himself in Bush's footsteps. I love to hear the word 'socialist' because that is all the empty ammunition republicans have anymore; Time to deflate your egos, little republican dolls.
As for Obama, watch out for middle-class tax breaks; we may have enough dollars in our pocket to finally pay the bills....
Posted by: FL Native | July 24, 2008 8:35 PM
If we wanted a rock star leading the country we'd vote for Mick Jaggar! Osamabama can't even clean up and fix his own hood, the South side of Chicago, much less the country..
ARE YOU KIDDING ME???
Posted by: mariah | July 24, 2008 8:43 PM
Remember people, it is very important that the US be popular amongst the Europeans. In fact their favor is the only thing we should strive for, despite the fact that they created a currency designed specifically to undermine our economy and the fact that we compete directly with them in a number of markets. But America is bad and has been bad, and particularly white American men are bad, so if we don't do well, we probably deserve it.
Go Obama.
Posted by: PJ | July 24, 2008 9:00 PM
Obama brings dignity back.
McCain is so lost.
Posted by: dignity 101 | July 24, 2008 9:03 PM
don't forget the 50 million german-americans!!!!
Posted by: Lou Schumann | July 24, 2008 9:12 PM
For all you nobama fans, please name me one accomplishment that barack obama has had in his career??? I'm waiting..
waiting...
still waiting...
still waiting.....
Still waiting...
wait..community organizer...friend of jeremiah wright...friend of bill ayers the terrorist....friend of phleger...nice accomplistments nobama!
MCCAIN in 08!
Posted by: brian | July 24, 2008 9:46 PM
I'm concerned about USA politics since long time ago as I'm involved in my life. I'm Italian but I feel myself a citizen of the World. George W. Bush is the worst President ever elected. I like John McCain but he is definitely too old. I would have any doubt which candidate I would choose: Obama fo sure. I didn't know anything about him before he became a candidate. I attended almost all the debates taken through the campaign trail. Obama appeared the most impressive candidate I've ever seen. Don't be wrong again America.
Posted by: Andrea | July 24, 2008 9:58 PM
This guy is starting to scare the hell out of me.
Adoring masses... overflowing emotions... saving the world...
Frightening.
Posted by: PRJ | July 24, 2008 10:10 PM
Again same question. Does that mean the Germans are less racist now than they were 6mths ago when i was there?
Posted by: fedupwidstupid | July 24, 2008 10:17 PM
Wonder how the injured troops at Ramstein felt when they found out that instead of visiting them he went shopping. Some guy for commander in chief.
Of course he skipped troop meetings in Iraq and Afghanistan, too, so what's the surprise.
Posted by: Crazy Politico | July 24, 2008 10:17 PM
Can someone please tell Barrack to come home. The city in which he is from has had taxes and crime sky rocket, the mortgage boom went bust, banks are failing, people are loosing their jobs and he wants to talk to Europe? This does not make any sense to me. I would rather have him tell us how he will fix these issues rather than travel the world in 30 days.
How can a thinking person vote for him if he has no plan, not a strategy ..
Posted by: Stan | July 24, 2008 10:26 PM
If 200,000 cheering germans like obama that must mean he is OK because they make all those great cars that people want to buy plus beer and sausage. The news of this big crowd convinces me to vote for the big O.
Seriously, many Germans differ sharply with some of Senator Obama's recent statements such as his big Carrot and big Stick policy and his call for increased participation by the Germans in fighting terrorism. The differences are as deep with Obama as with Bush. Obama is a curiousity to the Germans, not someone they take seriously.
Posted by: ejhickey | July 24, 2008 11:01 PM
If 200,000 cheering germans like obama that must mean he is OK because they make all those great cars that people want to buy plus beer and sausage. The news of this big crowd convinces me to vote for the big O.
Seriously, many Germans differ sharply with some of Senator Obama's recent statements such as his big Carrot and big Stick policy and his call for increased participation by the Germans in fighting terrorism. The differences are as deep with Obama as with Bush. Obama is a curiousity to the Germans, not someone they take seriously.
Posted by: ejhickey | July 24, 2008 11:01 PM
Even Hitler was loved in Germany. Who cares what Europeans think?
Posted by: Barack Baby | July 24, 2008 11:08 PM
First off, I heard on the radio that there was a good reason for such a big crowd..... a couple of popular music groups were orchestrated so that they went on just prior to Obama's speech. (this wasn't the first concert set up prior to speaking)
My mouth dropped open when I heard him act apologetic about the U.S> "my country has not perfected itself" "our actions around the world have not lived up to our best intentions". That made more than a few people angry.
He seems to want to put out this super humble person, but I don't want him speaking for me in such a way that he has.
I'm curious about his views on whites paying reperations for slavery.....anyone hear anything on that issue, or is he saving the best for if he's elected??
Posted by: Teresa | July 24, 2008 11:10 PM
How can Barack unite a country and world plauged
with violence when he can't even help his own state or neighborhood that has blacks killing each in record numbers since Barack Hussain was in power? He is a fraud.
Posted by: Barack Baby | July 24, 2008 11:12 PM
This is the difference between Bush and Obama - Bush wants to rule the world. Obama wants to lead it. Subtle but important. McCain? He apparently wants hang around the Moo and Oink with the kid who restocks the dairy case.
Posted by: maddog | July 24, 2008 11:31 PM
This is the difference between Bush and Obama - Bush wants to rule the world. Obama wants to lead it. Subtle but important. McCain? He apparently wants hang around the Moo and Oink with the kid who restocks the dairy case.
Posted by: maddog | July 24, 2008 11:31 PM
What's most interesting to me is that Obama only holds a very slight edge and is tied in some polls with McCain. But you'd never know if from the press. It's still not impossible that McCain could poll this off. Just because people aren't excited about McCain like Obama's supporters are excited about Obama doesn't mean McCain won't get elected. Will it spark a second Civil War? Stay tuned, folks...
Posted by: Ned | July 24, 2008 11:59 PM
NYU and UCLA researchers have found that liberals have greater cognitive skills meaning that they have a strong capacity for recognizing solutions and solving problems. Conservatives on the other hand are unable to process new information against their philosophy and mindset. Therefore conservatives are unable to comprehend what liberals are trying to accomplish.
So your anti-Obama rants are expected to continue. Obama supporters: just ignore the bashers, for they can not help themselves.
Posted by: Abe Vigoda | July 25, 2008 12:03 AM
The similarities to Hitler are endless...
Posted by: Outraged |