Obama’s LAUNDRY LIST OF 58 LIES.
1.) Selma Got Me Born - LIAR, your parents felt safe enough to have you in 1961 - Selma had no effect on your birth, as Selma was in 1965. 2.) Father Was A Goat Herder - LIAR, he was a privileged, well educated youth, who went on to work with the Kenyan Government. 3.) Father Was A Proud Freedom Fighter - LIAR, he was part of one of the most corrupt and violent governments Kenya has ever had 4.) My Family Has Strong Ties To African Freedom - LIAR, your cousin Raila Odinga has created mass violence in attempting to overturn a legitimate election in 2007, in Kenya. It is the first widespread violence in decades. 5.) My Grandmother Has Always Been A Christian - LIAR, she does her daily Salat prayers at 5am according to her own interviews. Not to mention, Christianity wouldn’t allow her to have been one of 14 wives to 1 man. 6.) My Name is African Swahili - LIAR, your name is Arabic and ‘Baraka’ (from which Barack came) means ‘blessed’ in that language. Hussein is also Arabic and so is Obama. 7.) I Never Practiced Islam - LIAR, you practiced it daily at school, where you were registered as a Muslim and kept that faith for 31 years,until your wife made you change, so you could run for office. 8.) My School In Indonesia Was Christian - LIAR, you were registered as Muslim there and got in trouble in Koranic Studies for making faces (check your own book). 9.) I Was Fluent In Indonesian - LIAR, not one teacher says you could speak the language. 10.) Because I Lived In Indonesia, I Have More Foreign Experience - LIAR, you were there from the ages of 6 to 10, and couldn’t even speak the language. What did you learn, how to study the Koran and watch cartoons. 11.) I Am Stronger On Foreign Affairs - LIAR, except for Africa (surprise) and the Middle East (bigger surprise), you have never been anywhere else on the planet and thus have NO experience with our closest allies. 12.) I Blame My Early Drug Use On Ethnic Confusion - LIAR, you were quite content in high school to be Barry Obama, no mention of Kenya and no mention of struggle to identify - your classmates said you were just fine. 13.)An Ebony Article Moved Me To Run For Office - LIAR, Ebony has yet to find the article you mention in your book. It doesn’t, and never did, exist. 14.) A Life Magazine Article Changed My Outlook On Life - LIAR, Life has yet to find the article you mention in your book. It doesn’t, and never did, exist. 15.) I Won’t Run On A National Ticket In ‘08 - LIAR, here you are, despite saying, live on TV, that you would not have enough experience by then, and you are all about having experience first. 16.) Present Votes Are Common In Illinois - LIAR, they are common for YOU, but not many others have 130 NO VOTES. 17.) Oops, I Misvoted - LIAR, only when caught by church groups and democrats, did you beg to change your misvote. 18.) I Was A Professor Of Law - LIAR, you were a senior lecturer ON LEAVE. 19.) I Was A Constitutional Lawyer - LIAR, you were a senior lecturer ON LEAVE. 20.) Without Me, There Would Be No Ethics Bill - LIAR, you didn’t write it,introduce it, change it, or create it. 21.) The Ethics Bill Was Hard To Pass - LIAR, it took just 14 days from start to finish. 22.) I Wrote A Tough Nuclear Bill - LIAR, your bill was rejected by your own party for its pandering and lack of all regulation - mainly because of your Nuclear Donor, Exelon, from which David Axelrod came. 23.) I Have Released My State Records - LIAR, as of March, 2008, state bills you sponsored or voted for have yet to be released, exposing all the special interests pork hidden within. 24.) I Took On The Asbestos Altgeld Gardens Mess - LIAR, you were part of a large group of people who remedied Altgeld Gardens. You failed to mention anyone else but yourself, in your books. 25.) My Economics Bill Will Help America - LIAR, your 111 economic policies were just combined into a proposal which lost 99-0, and even YOU voted against your own bill. 26.) I Have Been A Bold Leader In Illinois - LIAR, even your own supporters claim to have not seen BOLD action on your part. 27.) I Passed 26 Of My Own Bills In One Year - LIAR, they were not YOUR bills, but rather handed to you, after their creation by a fellow Senator, to assist you in a future bid for higher office. 28.) No One Contacted Canada About NAFTA - LIAR, the Candian Government issued the names and a memo of the conversation your campaign had with them. 29.) I Am Tough On Terrorism - LIAR, you missed the Iran Resolution vote on terrorism and your good friend Ali Abunimah supports the destruction of Israel. 30.) I Am Not Acting As President Yet - LIAR, after the NAFTA Memo, a dead terrorist in the FARC, in Colombia, was found with a letter stating how you and he were working together on getting FARC recognized officially. 31.) I Didn’t Run Ads In Florida - LIAR, you allowed national ads to run 8-12 times per day for two weeks - and you still lost. 32.) I Won Michigan - LIAR, no you didn’t. 33.) I won Nevada - LIAR, no you did not. 34.) I Want All Votes To Count - LIAR, you said let the delegates decide. 35.) I Want Americans To Decide - LIAR, you prefer caucuses that limit the vote, confuse the voters, force a public vote, and only operate during small windows of time. 36.) I passed 900 Bills in the State Senate - LIAR, you passed 26, most of which you didn’t write yourself. 37.) My Campaign Was Extorted By A Friend - LIAR, that friend is threatening to sue if you do not stop saying this. Obama has stopped saying this. 38.) I Believe In Fairness, Not Tactics - LIAR, you used tactics to eliminate Alice Palmer from running against you. 39.) I Don’t Take PAC Money - LIAR, you take loads of it. 40.) I don’t Have Lobbyists - LIAR, you have over 47 lobbyists, and counting. 41.) My Campaign Had Nothing To Do With The 1984 Ad - LIAR, your own campaign worker made the ad on his Apple in one afternoon. 42.) My Campaign Never Took Over MySpace - LIAR, Tom, who started MySpace issued a warning about this advertising to MySpace clients. 43.) I Inspire People With My Words - LIAR, you inspire people with other people’s words. 44.) I Have Passed Bills In The U.S. Senate - LIAR, you have passed A BILL in the U.S. Senate - for Africa, which shows YOUR priorities. 45.) I Have Always Been Against Iraq - LIAR, you weren’t in office to vote against it AND you have voted to fund it every single time, unlike Kucinich, who seems to be out gutting you Obama. You also seem to be stepping back from your departure date - AGAIN. 46.) I Have Always Supported Universal Health Care - LIAR, your plan leaves us all to pay the 15,000,000 who don’t have to buy it. 47.) I Only Found Out About My Investment Conflicts Via Mail - LIAR, both companies you site as having sent you letters about this conflict have no record of any such letter ever being created or sent. 48.) I Am As Patriotic As Anyone - LIAR, you won’t wear a flag pin and you don’t put your hand over your heart during the Anthem. 49.) My Wife Didn’t Mean What She Said About Pride In Country - LIAR, your wife’s words follow lock-step in the vain of Wright and Farrahkan, in relation to their contempt and hatred of America. 50.) Wal-Mart Is A Company I Wouldn’t Support - LIAR, your wife has received nearly a quarter of a million dollars through Treehouse, which is connected to Wal-Mart. 51.) Treehouse Is A Small Company - LIAR, the CEO of Treehouse last year, made more than the CEO of Wal-Mart, according to public records. 52.) University Of Chicago Hospital Pay Is Fair - LIAR, your wife’s pay raise was nearly 150% her already bloated rate and the hospital is a Non-Profit Hospital, which made $100,000,000 in the last 3 years. They overcharge blacks VS whites for services, and overcharge everyone in general by 538%! 53.)I Barely Know Rezko - Only 5 Billed Hours - LIAR, you have known him for 17 years, and decided to do a real estate deal with him during a time when he was proven to be under investigation. Despite this, you divided your property and had them take off $300K before the mortgage problems started. Then Rezko’s wife buys the lot beside it that you can’t afford, saving you $625,000. 54.) My Donations Have Been Checked Thoroughly - LIAR, you only gave back Hsu ($72K) and Rezko ($150K) their money when publically called on their involvement in your campaigns. 55.) My Church Is Like Any Other Christian Church - LIAR, your church is so extreme, the pastor who married you, Rev. Wright, just got done blaming the US for 9/11 and named Louis Farrahkan their person of the year. 56.) I Disagree With My Church All The Time - LIAR, you still have yet to repudiate Wright, who married you and your wife, and you still donate large sums of money to assist the church in furthering its message - hatred and revenge. You donated in 2006 alone, $22,500 to the church that you so terribly disagree with. That is nearly $500 PER WEEK - that sure is disagreement, Senator Obama. 57.) I Have Clean Connections Despite Rezko - LIAR, you are not only connected to Exelon and Rezko, you are also connected to Hillary PAC supporter Mr. Hsu, AND an Iraqi Billionaire of ill repute, Nadhmi Auchi, who ripped off people in the Food For Oil, Iraqi deal. Seems Mr. Auchi may have helped Obama buy his million dollar property long before Obama had millions of dollars. Wonder what favors Mr. Auchi expects, when Obama leaves Iraq free to be taken over by special interests such as him. 58.) I never heard sermons like Rev. Wright’s, that have been in videos all day, You Tube - LIAR! 3 days later during your Mea Culpa BS speech you said “Did I hear controversial statements while I sat in that church? Yes I did.” Site Sponsors
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ELECTION 2008 Obama worked with terrorist Senator helped fund organization that rejects 'racist' Israel's existence -------------------------- ------------------------- ----------------------------- Posted: February 24, 2008 5:44 pm Eastern By Aaron Klein © 2008 WorldNetDaily Sen. Barack Obama JERUSALEM – The board of a nonprofit organization on which Sen. Barack Obama served as a paid director alongside a confessed domestic terrorist granted funding to a controversial Arab group that mourns the establishment of Israel as a "catastrophe" and supports intense immigration reform, including providing drivers licenses and education to illegal aliens. The co-founder of the Arab group in question, Columbia University professor Rashid Khalidi, also has held a fundraiser for Obama. Khalidi is a harsh critic of Israel, has made statements supportive of Palestinian terror and reportedly has worked on behalf of the Palestine Liberation Organization while it was involved in anti-Western terrorism and was labeled by the State Department as a terror group. In 2001, the Woods Fund, a Chicago-based nonprofit that describes itself as a group helping the disadvantaged, provided a $40,000 grant to the Arab American Action Network, or AAAN, for which Khalidi's wife, Mona, serves as president. The Fund provided a second grant to the AAAN for $35,000 in 2002. Obama was a director of the Woods Fund board from 1999 to Dec. 11, 2002, according to the Fund's website. According to tax filings, Obama received compensation of $6,000 per year for his service in 1999 and 2000.
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Obama served on the Wood's Fund board alongside William C. Ayers, a member of the Weathermen terrorist group which sought to overthrow of the U.S. government and took responsibility for bombing the U.S. Capitol in 1971. Ayers, who still serves on the Woods Fund board, contributed $200 to Obama's senatorial campaign fund and has served on panels with Obama at numerous public speaking engagements. Ayers admitted to involvement in the bombings of U.S. governmental buildings in the 1970s. He is a professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago. The $40,000 grant from Obama's Woods Fund to the AAAN constituted about a fifth of the Arab group's reported grants for 2001, according to tax filings obtained by WND. The $35,000 Woods Fund grant in 2002 also constituted about one-fifth of AAAN's reported grants for that year. The AAAN, headquartered in the heart of Chicago's Palestinian immigrant community, describes itself as working to "empower Chicago-area Arab immigrants and Arab Americans through the combined strategies of community organizing, advocacy, education and social services, leadership development, and forging productive relationships with other communities." It reportedly has worked on projects with the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, which supports open boarders and education for illegal aliens. The AAAN in 2005 sent a letter to New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson in which it called a billboard opposing a North Carolina-New Mexico joint initiative to deny driver's licenses to illegal aliens a "bigoted attack on Arabs and Muslims." Speakers at AAAN dinners and events routinely have taken an anti-Israel line. The group co-sponsored a Palestinian art exhibit, titled, "The Subject of Palestine," that featured works related to what some Palestinians call the "Nakba" or "catastrophe" of Israel's founding in 1948. According to the widely discredited Nakba narrative, Jews in 1948 forcibly expelled hundreds of thousands - some Palestinians claim over one million - Arabs from their homes and then took over the territory. (Story continues below) Historically, about 600,000 Arabs fled Israel after surrounding Arab countries warned they would destroy the Jewish state in 1948. Some Arabs also were driven out by Jewish forces while they were trying to push back invading Arab armies. At the same time, over 800,000 Jews were expelled or left Arab countries under threat after Israel was founded. The theme of AAAN's Nakba art exhibit, held at DePaul University in 2005, was "the compelling and continuing tragedy of Palestinian life ... under [Israeli] occupation ... home demolition ... statelessness ... bereavement ... martyrdom, and ... the heroic struggle for life, for safety, and for freedom." Another AAAN initiative, titled, "Al Nakba 1948 as experienced by Chicago Palestinians," seeks documents related to the "catastrophe" of Israel's founding. A post on the AAAN site asked users: "Do you have photos, letters or other memories you could share about Al-Nakba-1948?" That posting was recently removed. The AAAN website currently states the entire site is under construction. Pro-PLO advocate held Obama fundraiser, describes Obama as 'sympathetic' AAAN co-founder Rashid Khalidi was reportedly a director of the official PLO press agency WAFA in Beirut from 1976 to 1982, while the PLO committed scores of anti-Western attacks and was labeled by the U.S. as a terror group. Khalidi's wife, AAAN President Mona Khalidi, was reportedly WAFA's English translator during that period. Rashid Khalidi at times has denied working directly for the PLO but Palestinian diplomatic sources in Ramallah told WND he indeed directed WAFA. Khalidi also advised the Palestinian delegation to the Madrid Conference in 1991. During documented speeches and public events, Khalidi has called Israel an "apartheid system in creation" and a destructive "racist" state. He has multiple times expressed support for Palestinian terror, calling suicide bombings response to "Israeli aggression." He dedicated his 1986 book, "Under Siege," to "those who gave their lives ... in defense of the cause of Palestine and independence of Lebanon." Critics assailed the book as excusing Palestinian terrorism. While the Woods Fund's contribution to Khalidi's AAAN might be perceived as a one-time run in with Obama, the presidential hopeful and Khalidi evidence a deeper relationship. According to a professor at the University of Chicago who said he has known Obama for 12 years, the Democratic presidential hopeful first befriended Khalidi when the two worked together at the university. The professor spoke on condition of anonymity. Khalidi lectured at the University of Chicago until 2003 while Obama taught law there from 1993 until his election to the Senate in 2004. Khalidi in 2000 held what was described as a successful fundraiser for Obama's failed bid for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, a fact not denied by Khalidi. Speaking in a joint interview with WND and the John Batchelor Show of New York's WABC Radio and Los Angeles' KFI Radio, Khalidi was asked about his 2000 fundraiser for Obama. "I was just doing my duties as a Chicago resident to help my local politician," Khalidi stated. Khalidi said he supports Obama for president "because he is the only candidate who has expressed sympathy for the Palestinian cause." Khalidi also lauded Obama for "saying he supports talks with Iran. If the U.S. can talk with the Soviet Union during the Cold War, there is no reason it can't talk with the Iranians." Asked about Obama's role funding the AAAN, Khalidi claimed he had "never heard of the Woods Fund until it popped up on a bunch of blogs a few months ago." He terminated the call when petitioned further about his links with Obama. Contacted by phone, Mona Khalidi refused to answer WND's questions about the AAAN's involvement with Obama. Obama's campaign headquarters did not reply to a list of WND questions sent by e-mail to the senator's press office. Obama, American terrorist in same circles Obama served on the board with Ayers, who was a Weathermen leader and has written about his involvement with the group's bombings of the New York City Police headquarters in 1970, the Capitol in 1971 and the Pentagon in 1972. "I don't regret setting bombs. I feel we didn't do enough," Ayers told the New York Times in an interview released on Sept. 11, 2001 "Everything was absolutely ideal on the day I bombed the Pentagon," Ayers wrote in his memoirs, titled "Fugitive Days." He continued with a disclaimer that he didn't personally set the bombs, but his group set the explosives and planned the attack. A $200 campaign contribution is listed on April 2, 2001 by the "Friends of Barack Obama" campaign fund. The two taught appeared speaking together at several public events, including a 1997 University of Chicago panel entitled, "Should a child ever be called a 'super predator?'" and another panel for the University of Illinois in April 2002, entitled, "Intellectuals: Who Needs Them?" The charges against Ayers were dropped in 1974 because of prosecutorial misconduct, including illegal surveillance. Ayers is married to another notorious Weathermen terrorist, Bernadine Dohrn, who has also served on panels with Obama. Dohrn was once on the FBI's Top 10 Most Wanted List and was described by J. Edgar Hoover as the "most dangerous woman in America." Ayers and Dohrn raised the son of Weathermen terrorist Kathy Boudin, who was serving a sentence for participating in a 1981 murder and robbery that left 4 people dead. Obama advisor wants talks with terrorists The revelations about Obama's relationship with Khalidi follows a recent WND article quoting Israeli security officials who expressed "concern" about Robert Malley, an adviser to Obama who has advocated negotiations with Hamas and providing international assistance to the terrorist group. Malley, a principal Obama foreign policy adviser, has penned numerous opinion articles, many of them co-written with a former adviser to the late Palestinian Authority President Yasser Arafat, petitioning for dialogue with Hamas and blasting Israel for numerous policies he says harm the Palestinian cause. Malley also previously penned a well-circulated New York Review of Books piece largely blaming Israel for the collapse of the Israeli-Palestinian negotiations at Camp David in 2000 when Arafat turned down a Palestinian state in the West Bank, Gaza and eastern sections of Jerusalem and instead returned to the Middle East to launch an intifada, or terrorist campaign, against the Jewish state. Malley's contentions have been strongly refuted by key participants at Camp David, including President Bill Clinton, then-Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak and primary U.S. envoy to the Middle East Dennis Ross, all of whom squarely blamed Arafat's refusal to make peace for the talks' failure.
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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Obama: Don't pander to homophobes
In a bid for the black church vote, the candidate is about to tour South Carolina with antigay gospel singer Donnie McClurkin at his side. He doesn't need to. By James Hannaham Oct. 26, 2007 | Sen. Barack Obama's decision to tour South Carolina with gospel entertainer Donnie McClurkin, a self-proclaimed "former homosexual" who believes it is his mission to turn gays straight, suggests that Obama can't live without the support of the homophobic contingent of the black community and the black church in particular. But African-American politicians have already proved that black support is not contingent on homophobia. Few people remember that in 2004, the only presidential candidate besides Dennis Kucinich to support gay marriage was the Rev. Al Sharpton -- both a mainstream black leader and a minister. Sharpton, Jesse Jackson and Obama have all spoken out in favor of gay rights and against black homophobia. So does including McClurkin on his "Embrace the Change" tour signal a retreat on Obama's part? Can tacking on an appearance by the openly gay Rev. Andy Sidden make up for McClurkin? (And wouldn't you love to be backstage on this tour?) It may be that the realpolitik of the black church operates more subtly than the Obama campaign has yet understood. There has always been a certain degree of "give" between sacred and secular black culture. The overly serious demagogues are almost always cut down to size by larger-than-life fictional counterparts. For every Rev. Willie Wilson, the homophobic Washington, D.C., minister who claimed that lesbianism was "about to take over" the black community, there's a Sherman Hemsley playing hothead Deacon Ernest Frye on the sitcom "Amen," with black viewers laughing along. For every Donnie McClurkin, there's a pop-culture hero like Tyler Perry's drag matriarch Madea. The media tends to use the black church as a barometer of community standards, but I think in real life, black people compartmentalize more than they get credit for, the way many Irish Catholics balance their deep faith with their deep irony. Preachers may denounce gays on Sunday, but on Saturday night, a certain percentage of the congregation rented "Madea's Family Reunion," or danced and drank all night listening to R. Kelly's "Trapped in the Closet." Black culture can accommodate everything from the Winans and McClurkin to Richard Pryor and Prince, who gets away with bawdy liberalism, gender-bending and old-time religion, too. Black American churchgoers may absorb homophobic rhetoric, and preachers may promote fear and misunderstanding, like Wilson, who claimed of lesbianism, "It ain't real." (As if he would know.) But the more general message of the black church seems to be that one should love the sinner and not the sin, and that Jesus can change homosexuals. These mandates may be misguided, but they are thankfully nonviolent, thanks to the legacy of Dr. King. Moreover, few black evangelicals here pounce on the issue with as much intolerance and vitriol as the religious in Nigeria or Jamaica, for example, where the church promotes violence against gays and homo homicide is even celebrated in the campaign songs of political parties. The ersatz black Jerry Falwells and Jesse Helmses, like Wilson, Chicago's Bishop Eddie Long and Los Angeles' Bishop Noel Jones, don't represent mainstream black thought the way those who touched the hem of MLK's garment, like Jesse Jackson, do. Note that the backlash at Sidden's inclusion has not come from black church organizations so much as gay groups criticizing Obama for retaining McClurkin. McClurkin, for his part, hasn't even pulled out in response, though Obama has virtually done somersaults to justify McClurkin's inclusion. On Thursday, as the tour began, Obama supporters from the African-American religious community and LGBT campaign leaders collaborated on a letter to the public that attempted to clarify their candidate's decision to keep McClurkin onboard, stating, "We believe that the only way for these two sides to find common ground is to do so together." Obama's gay advocates obviously support him regardless of this fumble. But his gay critics are right to ask why he thinks getting homosexuals to sit at the same table with antigay and allegedly "ex-gay" Christians represents some kind of balance. Had McClurkin been a Holocaust denier, my money says Obama would be "embracing a change" in his tour's entertainment lineup, lickety-split. It shouldn't surprise anyone that Obama is playing to both sides -- that seems to be what he's best at. He means well, but you know what they say about the highways in hell. However, adding Sidden to the mix without giving McClurkin the shaft was enough of an afterthought to incense the gay community without fixing the problem. Did Obama overestimate the depth of the black community's homophobia and unintentionally solidify the stereotype about him -- that he's the white man's black candidate? Well, if Sharpton refuses to pander to the homophobic faction of the black church, why should anybody else? -- By James Hannaham Salon About Salon Contact & Help Corrections Advertise in Salon Salon Personals Salon Jobs Salon Mobile Salon Newsletter RSS Feeds Salon Premium: Premium log in What is Salon Premium? From the directory: Government North Korea Lebanon Riots Austria Kenya Bill Gates Egypt Germany Saudi Arabia Sexual Harassment Italy Sri Lanka Donald Trump A & E Books Comics Community: Table Talk & The WELL Life News & Politics Opinion Sports Tech & Business Letters Investor Relations Privacy Policy Terms of Service Copyright ©2008 Salon Media Group, Inc. Reproduction of material from any Salon pages without written permission is strictly prohibited. SALON® is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office as a trademark of Salon Media Group Inc. ============================================================= There are photographs showing Barack Obama without his hand over his heart while the U.S. national anthem is being played.
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wonder why stocks dropping wall street is coalescing against Obama Presidency Report alleges Illinois senator attended radical Muslim school as a child • CNN reporter visits Indonesia school in question, sees no radicalism • Former classmate calls school "general," with multiple religions JAKARTA, Indonesia (CNN) -- Allegations that Sen. Barack Obama was educated in a radical Muslim school known as a "madrassa" are not accurate, according to CNN reporting. Insight Magazine, which is owned by the same company as The Washington Times, reported on its Web site last week that associates of Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-New York, had unearthed information the Illinois Democrat and likely presidential candidate attended a Muslim religious school known for teaching the most fundamentalist form of Islam. Obama lived in Indonesia as a child, from 1967 to 1971, with his mother and stepfather and has acknowledged attending a Muslim school, but an aide said it was not a madrassa. (Watch video of Obama's school) Insight attributed the information in its article to an unnamed source, who said it was discovered by "researchers connected to Senator Clinton." A spokesman for Clinton, who is also weighing a White House bid, denied that the campaign was the source of the Obama claim. He called the story "an obvious right-wing hit job." Insight stood by its story in a response posted on its Web site Monday afternoon. The Insight article was cited several times Friday on Fox News and was also referenced by the New York Post, The Glenn Beck program on CNN Headline News and a number of political blogs. (Watch how the Obama "gossip" spread) School not a madrassa But reporting by CNN in Jakarta, Indonesia and Washington, D.C., shows the allegations that Obama attended a madrassa to be false. CNN dispatched Senior International Correspondent John Vause to Jakarta to investigate. He visited the Basuki school, which Obama attended from 1969 to 1971. "This is a public school. We don't focus on religion," Hardi Priyono, deputy headmaster of the Basuki school, told Vause. "In our daily lives, we try to respect religion, but we don't give preferential treatment." Vause reported he saw boys and girls dressed in neat school uniforms playing outside the school, while teachers were dressed in Western-style clothes. "I came here to Barack Obama's elementary school in Jakarta looking for what some are calling an Islamic madrassa ... like the ones that teach hate and violence in Pakistan and Afghanistan," Vause said on the "Situation Room" Monday. "I've been to those madrassas in Pakistan ... this school is nothing like that." Vause also interviewed one of Obama's Basuki classmates, Bandug Winadijanto, who claims that not a lot has changed at the school since the two men were pupils. Insight reported that Obama's political opponents believed the school promoted Wahhabism, a fundamentalist form of Islam, "and are seeking to prove it." "It's not (an) Islamic school. It's general," Winadijanto said. "There is a lot of Christians, Buddhists, also Confucian. ... So that's a mixed school." The Obama aide described Fox News' broadcasting of the Insight story "appallingly irresponsible." Fox News executive Bill Shine told CNN "Reliable Sources" anchor Howard Kurtz that some of the network's hosts were simply expressing their opinions and repeatedly cited Insight as the source of the allegations. Obama has noted in his two books, "Dreams From My Father" and "The Audacity of Hope," that he spent two years in a Muslim school and another two years in a Catholic school while living in Indonesia from age 6 to 10. Find this article at: http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/01/22/obama.madrassa/index.html SAVE THIS | EMAIL THIS | Close Check the box to include the list of links referenced in the article. http://www.streamaudio.com/stations/player/pages/newplayer/index_win.asp?Owner=&public=&headertext=WNTP_AM&Station=WNTP_AM&Mac=No&OptIn=no&Streamtype=&filename= Urban Legends Home News & Issues Urban Legends Search over 1.4 million articles by over 600 expertsSearch Urban LegendsThe BasicsCurrent ULs & HoaxesClassicsEmailPrintSign up for the Urban Legends Newsletter Discuss in My Forum David's Urban Legends Blog By David Emery, About.com Guide to Urban Legends since 1997 My BioMy BlogMy Forum Add to: iGoogleMy Yahoo!RSSBarack Obama: No Hand on Heart During National Anthem? Tuesday October 30, 2007 A couple dozen folks have forwarded me a photo showing Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama neglecting to place his hand over his heart during the national anthem at Senator Tom Harkin's Steak Fry event on September 16 in Indianola, Iowa. The accompanying email text reads: Barack Hussein Obama's photo (that's his real name)... the article said he REFUSED TO NOT ONLY PUT HIS HAND ON HIS HEART DURING THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE, BUT REFUSED TO SAY THE PLEDGE... how in the hell can a man like this expect to be our next Commander-in-Chief???? The photo, taken by Danny Frazier Wilcox for Time magazine, is authentic. A video attributed to ABC News appears to confirm that the picture was snapped during a rendition of the national anthem, but the claim that Obama "refused to say the Pledge" is unsubstantiated. The implication, obviously, is that failing to display the proper hand-over-heart etiquette constitutes evidence that Barack Obama is unpatriotic and therefore unfit to hold the office of president. Some even speculated that it was an intentional gesture of dissent on the candidate's part, to which an Obama spokesperson replied on Inside Edition, "Sometimes he does, sometimes he doesn't [put his hand on his heart]. In no way was he making any sort of statement, and any suggestion to the contrary is ridiculous." Not that it will make a difference to some, but Obama's campaign was quick to supply photos of Obama properly saluting the flag on other occasions which can be viewed at MediaMatters.org. More Barack Obama rumors: • Is Barack Obama a Muslim? • Does Barack Obama Belong to a Racist Black Church? Comments (217)See All Posts PrevNextSponsored Links The Real Barack Obama The truth behind the canditate - "Barack Obama Exposed" - Free! www.HumanEvents.com Obama Campaign Website Help elect Barack Obama President of the United States: Sign-up now BarackObama.com Barak Obama: Yes or No? 30-Second Poll. Do You Like Barak Obama? www.indpolls.com/barak-obama Leave a CommentComments October 30, 2007 at 5:54 pm(1) Q.J. Quillose says: Whether Obama does sometimes repect our country and traditions by placing his hand over his heart shows he is not repectful of the country he wants to lead as the president. Never should he hold the highest office of the USA. He should never been elected as senator, either. October 30, 2007 at 8:16 pm(2) drhiii says: What video? Where can one find this video? Stuff like this gets passed around and it could be used to state a lot of things. I could say Gov. Richardson is pandering to the camera by facing it instead of the flag and that is more real than saying Obama did not saing. If you will note, each person’s mouth is closed. Ah, technology, where one person can tell a lie, and the next 100 can repeat as a truth. October 30, 2007 at 10:05 pm(3) M. J. Bee says: Barack Hussein Obama - His failure to place his hand over his heart speaks volumes about his idelogy as well as his character. “Sometimes he does and sometimes he doesn’t”… Isn’t that special?! Barack Hussein Obama isn’t fit to hold public office in this country. His failure to pay tribute to our flag (not to mention his brazen attitude) about it is demeaning and degrading to America. This goes hand in hand with his decision not to wear an American Flag lapel pin. He’s FINISHED. Do I question his patriotism? ABSOLUTELY… and so should you. October 30, 2007 at 10:50 pm(4) Jesse king says: other countries have elected dubious leaders, why not usa??/ October 30, 2007 at 11:04 pm(5) Sara says: true, it does seem a little strange that a man who wants to lead a country wont partake in its commmon rituals, but you know what? thats his constitutional right. so whether he does or doesnt is completely irrelavent because hes not being disrespectful while not saying the plegde, so i dont really see a problem here. October 30, 2007 at 11:34 pm(6) Joe says: The things Obama activly supports and does far outweighs the negative things that Bush does and positive lies he tells. How many pictures of Bush lieing do we need to see to know that he lies? October 31, 2007 at 12:13 am(7) Dave says: Yeah, Obama is unpatriotic ‘cuz he doesn’t have his hand over his heart and someone wrote it was during the PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE. Must be true, I saw it in an email. But what about the pictures of our President reading a book upside down, or our president, looking through, binoculars with the caps on them. Those must be true too, I mean, I saw it in my email… October 31, 2007 at 12:22 am(8) Don says: Any person who does not respect our county’s flag should not be president of our wonderful country and should not be allowed to0 hold any public office. In fact he should not even be a citizen! What kind of degenerate leader would he be! WOW! I’m glad we are shownthis now! October 31, 2007 at 5:59 am(9) Barak says: INFIDELS…I dare you to question my patriotism! Oh yeah, I did Hillary last night and Bill did cleanup on us both afterwards. October 31, 2007 at 8:48 am(10) Micki Smith says: I can’t understand B.Obama. He knew when at a public function, all eyes would be on the candidates during the Pledge of Allegiance. Whether he meant his lack of “hand on his heart” to be a statement or not was his choice, but he also knew what this choice would mean to Americans. Boo to him. October 31, 2007 at 9:59 am(11) Liz says:
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I don’t put my hand over my heart or say the pledge for very personal reasons but love my country very much. You can’t judge a person’s loyalty by such a gesture. October 31, 2007 at 10:12 am(12) M Martinez says: Maybe Barack wants to point out the ludacracy of people claiming he is unpatriotic while we have a president in office that goes against the constitution on a daily basis. Maybe we should be more concerned with actions where they count. I’m sorry but I’d much rather have a leader who doesn’t place his hand on his heart but also doesn’t pump trillions of dollars into a useless war than a president who places his hand on his heart but laughs all the way to the bank (with my money!). October 31, 2007 at 11:06 am(13) Andy (Scotland) says: Pretty crazy. Who cares. Surely it’s more important to judge his qualifications and policies. October 31, 2007 at 12:11 pm(14) Dave says: For those of you who think this is no big deal, consider this: When we place our hand over our heart, we are not swearing allegiance to a red, white and blue bed linen. Many people have fought and died for what the flag represents. For our leaders not to recognize and honor that sacrifice is insulting and gives insight to their idea of our national sovereignty. October 31, 2007 at 12:37 pm(15) Desi says: I don’t believe there is anything wrong with it. I don’t think a simple thing like the pledge of allegiance is a big deal. And the petty comments about his middle name are absurd. I know plenty who do not pledge their allegiance, because their allegiance is first and foremost to God. You don’t blindly follow a country, you follow your heart, and if someone is president, they should be worried about the right path to take, not tradition. October 31, 2007 at 1:18 pm(16) darren says: According to the photo, Obama is twice as tall as Hillary. Should we believe that also?? A single picture doesn’t tell a story. October 31, 2007 at 1:37 pm(17) Roy says: While I am not in any way a supporter of Obama, I need to clarify something. Placing your hand over your heart during the National Anthem is not proper protocol. The hand should be placed over the heart only during the pledge to the American flag. October 31, 2007 at 1:55 pm(18) Keith says: I don’t really like the man, but I’ve been wrong too. As some others here have been. I was taught in school to salute during the pledge but not during the anthem. Until now, I thought that was correct… The Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem The pledge of allegiance should be rendered by standing at attention, facing the flag, and saluting. When the national anthem is played or sung, citizens should stand at attention and salute at the first note and hold the salute through the last note. The salute is directed to the flag, if displayed, otherwise to the music. usflag.org I get it right next time at soccer, VB, BB, football. Always learning, Keith October 31, 2007 at 1:59 pm(19) Nightbiker says: Desi -you don’t think such a ’simple thing as the Pledge of Allegiance’ is a big deal?? Many of us DO, however. Many of us still get a lump in our throat, and our heart beats a little stronger during the National Anthem, and many of us DO proudly solute the Flag of the United States of America. To many of us, it IS a big deal. It shows pride in ones’ country, and a willingness to follow and defend its’ tenets, what it stands for. If he is blase’ about it, why should we believe he would be serious about defending the constitution? October 31, 2007 at 4:22 pm(20) Tony says: If you want to talk about disrespecting the flag you can easily find numberous photos of Pres. G. W. Bush stepping on a flag emprinted carpet, standing over a flag decorated cake, etc. All of these are in direct violation of the United States Code Title 4 Chapter 1 — The Flag. Is anyone getting their panties in a wad over these? October 31, 2007 at 5:39 pm(21) jammer says: I don’t like Obama, but this whole picture is blown way out of proportion. Don’t worry though,I don’t think Obama will be our next president anyway. October 31, 2007 at 7:15 pm(22) yomama says: When did Bush lie? If MSNC or CNN told you that: you should question it! IF somebody tells you something atrocious, and you stick up for it (Obama and no USA dedication — only IF he feels like it), YOU should question that! Maybe he won’t feel like doing certain things IN office. When in doubt: the bum goes out. October 31, 2007 at 7:32 pm(23) Patriot says: As a decorated veteran who defended this country for 24 years and would do so again if called upon, I find this to be outrageous. I have seen young men and women seriously injured or dead because this country asked them to stand up and they did. Why the hell does a presidential candidate think he can honor the flag only when the mood strikes him? How disrespectful to every one of us who stood up when asked. I want a president that knows what is like to be in harms way, so that they understand what they are doing when they send our young men and women to fight a war or conflict. I want a president who will stand up and salute the flag that I and many others have stood and many given their lives for. I respect this country and her veterens because if it weren’t for them, where would our beloved country be today? October 31, 2007 at 8:29 pm(24) C. A. Vries says: The fact that he did not properly salute the flag during the National Anthem, intentionally or not, does not make him unfit for the Presidency. His political views and policy goals are what make him unfit for the Presidency. I’d like to see more said about his ridiculous policy ideas and less about where his hand is or how he dances. October 31, 2007 at 9:14 pm(25) Allan Howard says: Sometimes yes, sometimes no, well he needs to make it alltimes yes if he wants to get all time votes October 31, 2007 at 9:17 pm(26) Softball911 says: Wow! Everyone wants to condemn George Bush? First of all, whomever voted for a president who reads books upside down or tries to see something through binoculars with the caps on, should really question what it was that made them vote for him in the first place. My view on this picture of Obama; it is good that we see this now, not after he wins office! There are too many people that paid the ultimate sacrifice of their lives to give us the ability to be whom we are. Why on earth should anyone hold public office that doesn’t respect our patriotism? Yes, as an American, Obama has the right to do it “sometimes” but, as the President of the United States of America, you must hold a higher standard and set presendence for your followers. How could you even think of putting another person in office that is so “whishy-washy” when it comes to principles this country was founded on to begin with? Save yourself time and energy…one less candidate to worry about in my book! October 31, 2007 at 10:30 pm(27) David says: http://www.snopes.com/politics/obama/anthem.asp you can see the video at the bottom of the page, he clearly doesn’t put his hand over his heart for the entire song. November 1, 2007 at 1:15 am(28) LouEllenHedley says: During rendition of the national anthem— when the flag is displayed — all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart; men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold the headdress at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; and individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note; and when the flag is not displayed, all present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed. §302. National motto References: U.S. Code Army Regulation 840-10 Navy Flag Regulations Navy NTP-13B November 1, 2007 at 9:27 am(29) Michael Carr says: So Barack is sometimes patriotic, and MediaMatters, the far left place that dishonestly created lies about Rush’s and O’Reilly’s comments, has pictures where he has put his hand on his heart. MM has zero credibility. They are flat-out far left partisan liars. It is already apparent that Barack does not have what it takes to be prsident, now that the focus has shifted from the pretty-face phase to substance. I will forward this picture to everyone I know. November 1, 2007 at 9:48 am(30) bill says: I find it purely indicative of the American People’s distrust of government in general when I see people’s ridiculous comments that it’s ok for Obama to lie when GW does it all the time. So, you’ve accepted that they are all going to lie and you use that to defend Obama’s lack of respect. What a crock. As usual with liberals, you will use any excuse at hand to defend lack of respect for this country. God bless the USA. November 1, 2007 at 10:44 am(31) V.Okland says: What integrity? How did this person ever get to be a political figure in MY country. if he wants to be a Commander in Chief, then he needs to go back to his own land, his own people. Why would we even consider taking a chance of placing this individual or any other of his descent in our highest office. i have come to learn that you can not trust any of them. If this person, were to become President of the United States, we would never have “America the Free” again. I love my country and I have never been a hater of people, however, circumstances change and they made me change when they took so many innocent Americans away from us. HE is not to be trusted. November 1, 2007 at 10:59 am(32) ajc says: Many people do not place their hands over their hearts during the National Anthem. It is not a rule. Most sing along or stand respectfully at attention, which it appears Obama is doing during the playing of the National Anthem. Clinton & Harkin are close-mouthed and Richardson is singing along. If it was indeed during the pledge of allegiance, how about picking on the women with their mouths shut. Come on news people -get your stories and photos straight and quit giving the American public something to gripe about. Everyone in the photo was showing respect in their own proper way, something the public would do well to try to emulate. November 1, 2007 at 10:59 am(33) Jo says: When you disrespect the flag, you disrepect me. Not a big deal? All you who think that this is not a big deal are mis-informed. This is a huge deal. This man is paid by my tax dollars and yours, yet he apparently thinks the rules are different for him. To come to attention, place your hand over your heart (when not in uniform) during BOTH the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem - is expected, is proper and is the LEAST any of us can do for our country. I for one am tired of all the PC comments of how this isn’t a big deal, that isn’t a big deal. At what point do we say Enough? Some things are a big deal. November 1, 2007 at 11:40 am(34) Diann says: I attended the same private school in Hawaii as Obama. Every morning at about 7:50 am the national anthem was played over loudspeakers throughout the campus while members of the ROTC raised the flag. - Every day.- Students from grades 1-12 were expected to stand still in silence while the anthem played. We were not required to put our hands on our hearts. Consider this for what it’s worth. Two cents worth from a conservative Republican. November 1, 2007 at 11:46 am(35) 888 says: Man, are there are a lot of stupid, gullible people in this country….No wonder George W. Bush is our president. Here we are, faced with a military-breaking, budget-draining quagmire in Iraq, and people are too stupid or lazy to take the time to really educate themselves, so instead they focus on these utterly fake issues stirred up by propagandists. Yep, we deserve what we get in 2008. Based on a lot of the comments here, we are simply too damned dumb and intellectually lazy to survive as a superpower. November 1, 2007 at 12:56 pm(36) Robert says: I have to laugh at the people who post their coments here without even reading this article sdaying it was all a lie and fake. Those people are the same type of people who FORWARD TO EVERYBODY YOU KNOW. just mindless followers being used by the people who make these lies.. November 1, 2007 at 1:36 pm(37) Nicholas says: He says he is Christian. I do not keep up with him politically, so I will not speak on politics. I will speak on the fact that “sometimes he puts his hand over his heart, and sometimes he does not”! The hand over the heart is respect for our flag respect for our country. Someone that wants to lead a nation needs to have respect for it. If he does not have respect for a country (all the time) that he wants to represent. How do we know that he does not respect his religion enough to admit he is Muslim? How do you know that because he says he is Christian that he is not truly a Muslim? Maybe he does not respect Allah like Muslims should. Just like he does not respect our country enough to put his hand over his heart all the time while the ANTHEM is played? Someone who wants to lead a nation needs to respect the nation. He may just maybe “be Christian” but it is hard for me to take in when he disrespects our flag like a Muslim that is anti-American would and not just Muslims anyone anti-American. I have no respect for any man that claims to be an American and does not respect the flag that has been through so much. Anyone that wants to put me down is more than welcome to. I am just stating how I feel about him saying he is “Christian”. November 1, 2007 at 1:41 pm(38) Tom J says: This is the most important thing people can find to argue about in this presidential campaign??? The ‘rules’ have changed over the years, and depending on where you live(d) in the US. I remember boys when were told to salute, and girls to put their hand over their heart. Anyone else remember that? November 1, 2007 at 1:44 pm(39) JT says: Who gives a rat’s you-know-what. This type of talk is always bogus, anyone who believes it is proof of the saying there is a sucker born every minute. At least he can speak better than a 10th grader, unlike our current C-I-C… November 1, 2007 at 2:38 pm(40) Rachel says: I am always amazed at how ignorant and mean-spirited people who consider themselves religious and conservative tend to be. And how can I take them seriously when some of these folks can’t even spell and make complete sentences in their posts. I guess I know who they voted for in 2004. November 1, 2007 at 3:30 pm(41) princetrumpet says: The major problem here is that he doesn’t understand how important symbolism is. Remember, this action comes on the heels of his public display of not wearing a flag lapel pin anymore. It’s not an isolated incident. Substance is important but a president that doesn’t understand symbolism has no depth of understanding of the people he wishes to govern. November 1, 2007 at 4:18 pm(42) Bill Clinton says: I can’t wait to see what life will be like under Barak “No more USA” Obama or Hillary “I am THE bitch” Clinton is like…..NOT! Ya’ll complain about GW, but wait until we have to pay for the Demonazi’s sins……… Not enough ice in the universe to cool hell down if that happens. November 1, 2007 at 4:29 pm(43) Michelle says: I’d like to respond to Nicholas who brought up the idea of religon. What does religion have to do with putting your hand over your heart during the national anthem? If I’m not mistaken, America was based on religous freedom and whether Barack Obama is a Christian or a Muslim has no influence on his “patriotism” or his decision to put his hand over his heart during the anthem. Why does it matter what religion he is? And just to clarify, Obama is not a Muslim and I don’t believe he claims to be. He is in fact a Christian. There are numerous people in this country with Muslim names but are not practicers of the Islamic faith. Perhaps you should do your research on the Democratic candidate before accusing him of making false claims. November 1, 2007 at 4:30 pm(44) Brian says: It looks like he is using a sporting event anthem stance. November 1, 2007 at 7:12 pm(45) Tim says: Hey Darren (comment 16), it’s called perspective. The photographer is standing closer to Obama than Hillary. This causes communist one to appear larger than communist two. Four years of college and a photography degree say I’m right. Contrary to what your liberal comrades want you to believe, not everything is a conspiracy. November 1, 2007 at 7:42 pm(46) Diana Wilson says: If you look carefully at the picture of Barak Obama without his hand over his heart, Hillary Clinton and the lady to the right of her have shadows that do not match with the other things in the picture, and there is no shadow cast by the flag, leading me to believe that this picture has been faked. November 1, 2007 at 7:58 pm(47) Tim says: “If you look carefully at the picture”, Diana, you will notice that everything on the stage is in fact casting the same shadow. The reason you can’t see the flag’s shadow is because it is behind the flag. Also, “If you look carefully”, Barack is spelled with a “c” and the “lady to the right” of Hillary is Ruth Harkin, whose name appears in the caption. Again, not everything is a conspiracy. November 2, 2007 at 1:53 am(48) S L Campos says: I find it interesting that so many people have chosen to pin-point this incident. There are criminal acts being committed in the our country every day and it is in my opinion that this man is being spot-lighted because of the color of his skin and not his civil servant track record. He has stated as well proven his allegiance to his Country of birth. He, in no way, no more than anyone else, had a choice in his name as it has been amplified to imply something heinous. For those still evolving from the sludge of ignorance, he is of bi-racial birth to a White mother and a Black father, something else he had no choice in. He followed all of the proper ‘hand signals’ when they swore him into office as a Senator and when he was an attorney…where are those pictures? How many adults are leading by example for our children today with God being ushered out of our schools are structured when the Pledge of Allegiance is being said? Or taking the needed steps to address why our ever growing mexican population can come here…documented or not…and raise their country’s flag ABOVE the flag of the country that houses, medicates and feeds them and their newly American born children. Where was this uproar and passion by our opiniated God-loving liberty loving Americans? Must be somewhere in our court system…nope. Non-Higher Power believers took their passion there and had very little resistance in having God, Seals and Flags removed. This man was put into office by tax-paying voting constituents of White, Black, Asian, Latin, and whatever combo of people Illinois may have and is doing a great job so far….and it didnt take the ballots getting lost in Florida for the opportunity! So on your next lazy day, when the anthem is playing and you choice to ’sit this one out’, remember you too are still an American! November 2, 2007 at 8:33 am(49) Mary says: Let’s see. W. is faithful to his wife and correctly salutes the flag. But he is responsible for the death of over 4000 Americans and thousands of Iraqi and making the Middle East a quagmire. So he’s more moral and a more competent, patriotic President? November 2, 2007 at 9:00 am(50) NavyDavy says: wah wah….he didn’t put his hand over his heart wah wah…..but its ok for bush to break the law with illegal wiretpping, spying on US citizens, etc etc etc…..if thats not good enough, how about all the repuke rednecks that won’t take off their s**tkicker cowboy hats or gomer baseball caps when the anthem is played……repukes are so full of it….. ps keep your kids out of the bathroom stalls there are repukes on the loose….. November 2, 2007 at 9:03 am(51) Jim says: Racism, bigotry and religious intolerance are alive and well in our great country. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder so the “I hate Obamas” in this land will pile on with a vengenance just as the “Hillary is a BITCH” group or “Mitt is this or Rudy is that” crowd does to discredit a candidate. Hate and vilify whom you want folks and send your email garbage to all your friends, which may include me. No matter, because when it comes time to vote, I will attempt to cast mine for the man or woman, white or black, Republican or Democrat who I believe is best qualified to lead our nation. November 2, 2007 at 9:05 am(52) steve says: I don’t understand how some of these comments can say it’s alright for a person who wants to be President to, all BS aside, REFUSE to show respect to the flag by placing his hand over his heart. And, if he doesn’t recite the Pledge of Allegiance, why? He says he’s a Christian… Does the phrase ‘One nation, under God’ bother him? What else does?? Pity… I grew up reciting the pledge every morning in school… I think it would do us good to return to that moment of respect… If you’re not comfortable with it, there are other places on the face of the earth that will gladly allow you in…. November 2, 2007 at 9:09 am(53) Terry says: I’ve seen one comment that you can’t judge a person’s loyalty by a gesture. Not true - actions speak louder than words and can give great insight into a persons character. I’ve seen other comments comparing Bush to the Senator - fact is that’s not the question. The question is, is a man who is asking us to place out faith in him to lead our country and Military forces as Commander in Chief worthy to do so if he doesn’t even respect the pledge to our country, or those who do. I say he’s unfit to lead - and the comment, sometimes he does, sometimes he doesn’t speaks volumes. November 2, 2007 at 9:34 am(54) castanea says: Love the way rightwingers will use any means, other than a candidate’s policies or proposals, to claim s/he is unfit to lead America. I’d much rather have a president who doesn’t always put his hand over his heart when the anthem is played and who is smart enough not to lead us into the morass that is the occupation of Iraq, than one who does put his hand on his heart, and who is dimwitted enough to squander American lives and tax dollars on a pointless war. A few years ago, an apparently authentic photograph showing Bush autographing a small American flag was circulated. His actions were in direct violation of established flag etiquette, yet I’ve heard nary a peep from rightwing hypocrites about it. Go figure. November 2, 2007 at 9:59 am(55) Howard says: While not mentioned in any of the Barack related comments, Title 4, United States Code, Chapter 1- The Flag, Sec 4. Pledge of Allegiance to the flag; manner of delivery; specifies that persons not in uniform shall place their right hand over their heart during the pledge. There is no statutory penalty assessed for failure to adhere to the code, however it becomes apparent that those so failing are ignorant of the law, and that is no excuse for any of us, especially those who wish to be officials on high office. November 2, 2007 at 10:03 am(56) Ken Cook says: People make mistakes - of omission or commission. I must say it was a foolish error whether intentional or unintentional for a man who wants to serve a nation mostly filled with people who would take offense to his failure to make a small, effortless gesture which to the vast majority is almost considered a sacred act. November 2, 2007 at 12:02 pm(57) VETERAN says: Those of you that do not see a problem with this are probably the same type of people that would desicrate our flag. And beleive in God We Trust should be removed from our government facilities and currency. Are you really that lobotomized by the left. November 2, 2007 at 12:26 pm(58) Sherrie says: I suppose some of you prefer your leaders with their hands in your pocket or in someone else’s pants. I don’t care where the Senator’s hand is during the pledge - it’s a ritual, a facade anyone can (and they do) adopt, signifying nothing. It’s superficial and doesn’t tell us anything. November 2, 2007 at 12:37 pm(59) James B says: I’m amazed at how many of the commentors apparently did not read the article. The photo was not taken during the pledge. It was not taken during the pledge. It was not taken during the pledge. It was the National Anthem. However, they are still writing about the pledge. I guess you hear and see what you want to. November 2, 2007 at 1:28 pm(60) Milan says: A PICTURE OF GEORGE BUSH NOT PUTTING HIS HAND ON HIS HEART DURING THE NATIONAL ANTHEM!!! Click on the link and you are going to see something that will hurt your soul. It is a picture of George W. Bush putting his hand over his STOMACH not on his heart during the national anthem. Oh my god George W. Bush is SOOOO unpatriotic. What is he trying to say? That our Americans are obese? Or is it that our hearts our REALLY located where our stomachs are? Or maybe he is showing where he hides his weapons of mass destruction. Get real guys. If you are going to slam Barack Obama for not having his hand over his heart then you guys better be slamming everyone else in this country. Including your president. I can hear it now: “The man who is leading our country and representing us to the rest of the world is not putting his hand over his heart? OMG how dare he!” November 2, 2007 at 1:28 pm(61) Marsha says: Sometimes I say the Pledge without putting my hand on my heart. Not very often, but sometimes. It doesn’t mean that I’m not patriotic. I wonder how many people even know why we PUT our hand over our heart? In any case, it doesn’t mean he isn’t patriotic. Let’s decide whether or not to vote for him for other reasons, like whether or not he has enough experience, and look at the things he actually does for the country. November 2, 2007 at 1:42 pm(62) Milan says: Ok I need to put one more comment on this thing. It makes me so sad to see how gullible and easily influenced people are. And there are some people who find that silly chain e-mail more believable due to the fact that he is black and has a Muslim name. Don’t try to deny it people because it’s true! Not for everyone but for some people their true racism and prejudice is rising up to the surface because of this. That saddens me… It shows that people are stilled bigoted in this country. November 2, 2007 at 3:18 pm(63) Georgia says: I’d like to know where in the Constitution is states that we must place our hand over our heart during the National Anthem. Personally I believe that, considering some renditions, the appropriate place for ones hands is so that the fingers can be in the ears. As for Mr. Obama’s name: is he required to change his name because he is running for a Federal office? November 2, 2007 at 4:08 pm(64) Devan Nielsen says:
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Title 36 or the U.S. Code, which states the following: During a rendition of the national anthem, when the flag is displayed (A) all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart; (B) men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold the headdress at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; By that standard, everybody in the picture (Obama, Richardson, Clinton, and Ruth Harkin) was infringing the Code, as they had their backs to the flag. On the other hand, the Code refers specifically to “Patriotic and National Observances.” We welcome the opinion of protocol experts, but we are not sure that a steak fry qualifies as a “Patriotic Observance,” even in Iowa. Since the steak fry was awash with flags, it is quite possible that the aforementioned political candidates were facing the flag and had their backs to the flag at the same time. November 2, 2007 at 5:44 pm(65) Duste says: As I read these comments about the good Senator not willing to respect the flag unless he feels like it, and the apparent approval these actions meet with from some of the other folks comments it really makes me think that this country has had a severe memory lapse.The flag is a symbol of our country, and all the good things it stands for.If you really think it doesn’t matter that this man, who aspires to lead this country, doesn’t have the patriotic sense to salute our flag,when he know’s this will go out around the country, then you must wonder what other lapses he may knowingly allow to happen if he is elected President.Many of the comments decry the “quagmire” we are currently in Iraq. We haven’t even been there as long as we were involved in WW II.We have less casualities in 4 years than they had in 24 HOURS on the Normandy beaches in France in 1944.Read more history and watch less MSNBC or CNN.If you want to talk about a quagmire maybe you should think about all the other conflicts this country has had to endure to protect the freedoms we all enjoy as Americans.And I suppose maybe you might remember that we were attacked first.Unless you believe some of these celebrity liberal crackpots who say we did it to ourselves Do you people really believe that this is a matter of supporting our country “if you feel like it”? This is our country.It’s far from perfect,no doubt,but consider the alternatives worldwide.In a lot of places in the world your anti-government/anti-president comments would secure you a spot in a mass grave with a bullet in your head.Hundreds of thousands of good men and women have died to protect and preserve that flag and all that it stands for,he should’ve shown his respect if for no other reason than to honor that sacrifice.A man like that, whatever his political plans are, doesn’t need to be a President. For those of you that don’t think this lapse of respect for our flag and what it represents matters then think about these places for a minute or two…. Pearl Harbor Guadalcanal Belleau Wood Chateau Thierry Bastogne Monte Cassino Midway Chosin Khe Sanh Manila Iwo Jima Arlington Gettysburg Shiloh Okinawa Saipan Beirut Remagen St. Lo Tarawa Antietam Concord Lexington Bunker Hill Anzio And the list goes on….. November 2, 2007 at 5:57 pm(66) Charles says: I think him not putting his hand over his heart is appauling. It shows he really does not have any respect for the american flag or the values that it represents. Every one can now see that he has another agenda in mind if he becomes president. I would not vote for this man to lead anything but his back to where ever he came from. November 2, 2007 at 7:01 pm(67) Rebecca says: The hand over the heart is a civilian’s version of a salute. Men in uniform salute. Men in hats remove hat, placing it at left shoulder so hand is over heart. Civilians put their hands over their heart. It dates back to the day the Pledge was written and other than being UNAMERICAN, there is NO REASON to not STAND properly during the Pledge of Allegiance or the National Anthem! November 2, 2007 at 7:36 pm(68) sally says: You would vote for someone not born and raised in this country? Their are alot of lies out their and all about money too. Do you know foreiners are trying to take over this Country, think about what is going on long and hard!!! November 2, 2007 at 8:42 pm(69) Julie says: Thank goodness we live in a country that gives citizens, as well as political candidates, freedom of expression. However, various comments made about the actions of our current or past presidents are not relevant to the discussion about the actions of Mr. Obama. As a presidential candidate, his actions must stand on their own merits, or the lack of them. As citizens and registered voters, it is our responsibility to observe these candidates and determine their appropriateness to hold an office. If a candidate is inconsistent in what he/she says or does, what type of message does that send to us? Some commenters say placing your hand over your heart doesn’t matter. If it doesn’t matter, then why is there such a debate over it? Bottom line, it obviously does matter to a lot of people. Afterall, that is a symbolic gesture that citizens make to show loyalty and respect for this country. One good thing that has come from Obama’s action has been to raise the discussion about the protocol for doing this during the Pledge or the National Anthem, or even during both just to be patriotic. Isn’t it curious that we as citizens aren’t sure what is appropriate protocol? Is that an education issue? I guess that is a topic for another day, but we need to learn what is appropriate before we can say for sure that Obama blew it or not. If he is wishy-washy about it himself, then he probably doesn’t know either! If so many people are not sure about Obama’s religion, he needs to clarify that for us. Public speculation will not help his campaign. If he chooses not to, what message does that send? Some commenters say his religion doesn’t matter. If it doesn’t matter, then why is there such a debate over it? Bottom line, it obviously does matter to a lot of people. And, thank goodness we have the right to vote. But, with that comes responsibility. Hopefully, voters will educate themselves and see past someone’s physical appearance, gender, and ability (or not) to charm the public. Hopefully, voters will demand that a candidiate disclose the reasons for making certain personal choices, in addition to the reasons for taking a particular stand on issues that will impact us as a nation. Hopefully, voters will be proactive (before the election) rather than reactive with negative comments (after ballots have been cast). And, if you don’t vote, then should you even participate in the discussion? If we aren’t part of the solution, then we must be part of the problem. If we don’t hold candidates - and elected officials - to certain expectations of leadership and accountability, then we are negligent as citizens. We need to remind these people that they are there to represent us and to make decisions that will make this country better and stronger. What characteristics do you want to see in your representative? If you don’t see those traits in a candidate before the election, I doubt that you will see them after voting that person into office. November 2, 2007 at 9:15 pm(70) Ruby says: Oh for crying out loud! Only a few people realize that Obama is showing respect for the NATIONAL ANTHEM, NOT the Pledge! (Read the caption again will you?) What IS tremendously important is how things can get blown out of whack! I’d bet most of the people who have written critizing Obama don’t ALWAYS place their hand over their heart when they hear the National Anthem…do YOU? How about when your local TV station signs off or comes on playing the National Anthem, do you stand up THEN in the privacy of your home and place your hand over your heart?! Come on! Get a life! If we can have presidents who cheat on their wives, why can’t we have one who sometimes doesn’t place his hand over his heart when he HEARS THE NATIONAL ANTHEM!? Ever think his fingers might have had barbeque sauce on them and he didn’t want to mess up his shirt? Oh, and by the way, I’m not an Obama supporter. I’m just tired of people spreading lies to support their point of view. Why not just say you don’t like the man and his politics?! Why lie?! Sheesh! November 2, 2007 at 10:43 pm(71) Amber says: More racist, Republican-inspired hate! Shame on them! November 2, 2007 at 10:58 pm(72) Paul B. says: Having been taught from childhood by my parents (Dad’s a WW II vet), my school, 4-H and various other organizations to stand respectfully at attention (and to take my cap off if I’m wearing one) during the playing of the National Athem, but not to place my hand over my heart–that jesture was reserved for the Pledge of Alligence, which was (and is) the actual swearing of an oath, I find it amusing, appalling and educational how irrational right-wing nuts can get over an simple act of respect by an individual they oviously hate. Their comments are not about respecting the flag (many of their comments actually are disrespectful to the very freedoms and Constitution it represents). Their about slandering a man they don’t happen to like. Think about this for a moment (if you can): When it becomes illegal to burn the American Flag in political protest, it will no longer represent freedom. November 3, 2007 at 2:52 am(73) JAM says: I have always been taught to stand with respect and my hand over my heart to our National Anthem. I have no problem educating those around me if needed. My husband and I both had grandfathers and other relatives who LAID THEIR LIVES ON THE LINE FOR YOU! Thank them all and thank God (same God whether you are Christian, Jewish, or Muslim) that we can all live in a country where we can express our opinions freely without fear. We should take every opportunity to remember how we got where we are today. We should all show respect and honor every time we see our flag or hear the National Anthem. It makes a huge difference to me that a candidate for President of the United States does not show proper respect for our National Anthem. The candidates can all practice slick lines to recite - it is the moments they are caught “off-guard” that may reveal their character. No one is perfect, but our National Anthem and our flag are the ultimate symbols of our country and our freedom, and the price that was paid by others for our freedom! Let’s all work to honor our great country every chance we get. November 3, 2007 at 3:34 am(74) EmmettO'Sullivan says: I said all along from the first time I heard his name I would not vote for him just for that simple reason. Call me ignorant and a racist all you want. He has a snowballs chance in hell of getting elected President of the United States! November 3, 2007 at 1:09 pm(75) Dave says: THIS IS A DOCTORED PHOTOGRAPH! 1. NOTICE NO-ONE IS FACING THE FLAG. 2. THE FLAG IS PERFECLTY FLAT AND HANGING Magically IN MID-AIR 3. Nobody isn’t their actual height: • Barack Obama — Height: 6' 1½” in the photo he’s 6’9” - the top of the 34” folding chair should be at wrists • Governor Bill Richardson height 6’ in the photo he’s 7’4” • Hilary Clinton Height: 5'6'’ in the photo she’s 4’3” • Ruth Harkin Height: in the photo she’s 5’4” November 3, 2007 at 7:11 pm(76) Sarah says: “He sometimes does, and sometimes doesn’t..” I’m sorry but if you are going be the Commander in Chief you better know American traditions and abide by them 100% of the time…a President isn’t just a politician but the Commander of the entire military and should abide by all rules, regulations and traditions of the military and the United States….Barrack’s pathectic attempt at presidency is insane…who would vote for this man??? No respect for those who made this country what it is today!! If thousands upson thousands of men and women can die to make this country free then he should at least make an effort to place his damn hand over his heart and show some respect….what a loser! November 3, 2007 at 11:15 pm(77) Ruby says: Someone needs to ask him if he is elected president,what bible will he want to be sworn in on. Given his back ground,I do wander. Does anyone think he is for America or running to bring it down? November 4, 2007 at 12:28 pm(78) Jackie Casey says: After reading the many varied opinions, I can absolutely, without any doubt say, God help our country. I remember when I was younger and in school, there were these little clicks (groups of people), who if you were friends with this one group you were not suppose to talk to the other group. I hated it then and I hate it now. I talked to everybody, which didn’t go over real well with some of the people, but after awhile I noticed alot of the other people realized how much better it was to get along and we had some really good years in that school, we may of had differences, but we had our school and community in common. We, as a nation, have our differences, but we have one flag and one nation. We need to pull together if we are going to survive, as our world is changing and a house divided will not stand. Whether you are Democrat, Republican, Independant, Libertarian, Green Party or any other affiliation, you are first and foremost an American. So if you feel strongly about an issue that is your decision, but you’ll not ever convince anyone you are right and they are wrong by name calling, all you will do is create hard feelings. Obama’s mind may have been somewhere else, I know everyone can relate to that. Our President may make mistakes, but so do I. I remember him in my prayers, as this is my country he’s leading and I love it. Let’s pull together, not apart, and find some common ground. I think it is better to dwell on the positive and let go of the negative. Vote for who your heart leads you to vote for, but make sure you make an well informed decisions. Watch the debates and listen, truely listen, then cast your vote. I’m glad I was blessed to be born and raised an American, in a country where I can worship God and voice my opinion and read yours. November 4, 2007 at 3:24 pm(79) Michaela Informed Student... says: WHY not just come out and say you don’t want a Black president, or a minority president, YOU NEO NAZIS!!! Why should any minority swear to any flag that stands for every discrimination, racism, and injustice he/she has ever endured because the constitution can be applied in any way White leaders wish…?? “With liberty and justice for some…” that is the correct ending…AND REMEMBER, as far as UPHOLDING THE CONSTITUTION goes…Minorities had to FIGHT to have it amended to include them, so you’ll excuse my cynacism at not being considered fully human but only 3/4ths…. November 4, 2007 at 3:27 pm(80) Meo says: During the times Barack opts to NOT hold his hand over his heart is, in my mind, his way of being defiant, disrespectful and categorically unpatriotic. If he ever says he doesn’t mean to disrespect the USA, to me, that’s pure fiction and definitely a Freudian Slip if there ever was one! November 4, 2007 at 6:40 pm(81) JG says: I don’t know what is going on in the lives of some people. But, it sure looks to me like they are putting a lot of energy into showing their ignorance, closed minds and racism. I am not giving an opinion of this stupid bit of “stuff” (I am a lady, so will keep it clean). Tha reason is - I was not there in person to see just what was what, and I am sure not a single one of you were there either! In my 79 years I have learned not to make statements unless I can prove them, or I preface them with “in my opinion”. I give kudos to comments made by Robert (36), JT (39), Rachel (40), SL Campos(48) and Ruby (70), to name a few. They are using good common sense. Some others of you are running around like Chicken Little - “the sky is falling” - remember that one? Just think about it! I am not afraid to say the I (a white 79 yr. old widow stand behind Barack Obama. I read his wonderful book. I can usually tell which peope have or have not read it by some of the things they say. So many mis-quotes, isn’t it a shame! November 4, 2007 at 8:31 pm(82) Paul says: > Oh it’s relevant Sara. Watch and see just how relevant it will be at the polls next year. November 4, 2007 at 10:46 pm(83) Bill says: This whole thing is a great example of how the right wing works. Cherry pick the facts and add an outright lie (Obama didn’t have his hand over his heart during the Pledge Of Allegience), then when the lie is revealed, making the whole charge suspect (it was the National Anthem, not during the Pledge) and the whole truth is shown to be other than the allegation (here are some other pictures of him with his hand over his heart), ignore the totality of the facts and start another argument (What? He doesn’t put his hand over his heart every time?? Then he’s not patriotic enough to be President!!) I’ll wager that the lie that the picture was taken during the Pledge was added because most people don’t know that it is proper to put your hand over your heart for the Anthem, which would make this seem like less of a crime. If only people in this country were as interested in substance as in symbols! November 4, 2007 at 11:03 pm(84) Mark says: Well now lets see… Whoever sent you that is as ignorant as they are saying everyone else…when we were in grade school we were taught that you put your hand over your heart for both, when some of us were in scouts were taught the same….when some of us were in the military we were taught the same just different ways for uniform and non uniform…go to a ball game and look at all the ignorant people…we should teach our kids the law and to show respect for both the pledge and anthem so that the people who have worked so hard to build and keep this country free can be honored. Your source is ignorant as proved below… During rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. Men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. — United States Code, Title 36, Chapter 10, Sec. 171 or a good resource… http://stockholm.usembassy.gov/usflag/flag_code.html That’s my beef I have with you liberals is that you think because you say so…it is so. That is not the way the founding fathers set it up… take the time to do it right or don’t do it at all…eh? However if I were there and had to listen to this awful rendition of the anthem I may have not noticed it for what it was either…listen to it…that ought to be against the law!!!! http://rawstory.com/news/2007/Obama_doesnt_put_hand_over_heart_1022.html November 5, 2007 at 10:40 am(85) RC says: As an outside observer I find this very sinister and Orwellian coming from the supposed ‘Land of the Free’! November 5, 2007 at 1:17 pm(86) ST says: “Sometimes he, sometimes he doesn’t…” doesn’t cut it for me. I need a leader that’s 100% respectful of my country and 100% patriotic. I don’t care if you agree or dis-agree with what the actions of the country under one president or another. This person must always be an American and honor our traditions and ceremonies. November 5, 2007 at 2:23 pm(87) Armin Soto says: Dear Gringos, I understand your current president is undoubtely a “real patriot”, and I pressume he certainly puts his hand over his heart and surely sings the anthem as loud as he can, so if those are the signs you reach in your candidates, it´s no wonder the poor perception the world have of your country today. November 5, 2007 at 6:06 pm(88) JC of MD says: Here’s the US Code. It says the law in the United States is that you put your frigging hand over your frigging heart when the frigging national anthem plays. Is that too difficult a concept for you Democrats to follow? I’m sure Nancy Pelosi will now try to get it changed…… November 5, 2007 at 9:01 pm(89) TWL says: Typical Right-Wing Wacko desperation tripe! Probably comes from a madrassa run by the Swift Boat Veterans or some other bilge boys. Let’s not discuss policy or performance!! Oh, noooooo. That’s far too time consuming and tiresome. Let’s instead draw convenient, disproportionate conclusions from a photo that represents 1/500th of a second of a 2 hour public appearance. This is a perfect microcosm if the intellectual poppycock that earned this country eight years of “W”. So…sometimes he puts his hand on his heart and sometimes he doesn’t….”Dagnabit, Cletus! Get a Rope!” November 6, 2007 at 9:33 am(90) Carol says: If Barack Obama is a Muslim, maybe he is exactly who we need in office. Since the USA wants to police Muslim countries and tell them how to live, it would be appropriate for a Muslim to be heading the operation. Frankly I think Americans focus too much on trivial things like where someone’s hand is placed, rather than focusing on the things that matter ie: the amount of homeless people in our country, abused woman and children, lack of medical for the majority of our citzens, neglect of our elderly, lack of education for our children, drug control, gangs, graft etc. etc.. I don’t care about where his hand is placed during the pledge I worry where the current administrations hands are placed as they send our boys to fight a war that can’t be won, so they can make money selling their tanks, jeeps etc. and making huge profits off high oil prices. November 6, 2007 at 4:10 pm(91) Raymond A. Patrone, Lt Col, USAF, Ret. says: Senator Obama wants to lead this country as its President; yet, he apparently does not understand the responsibilities of a leader. In his failure to properly display the respect of the flag whose country it represents, he has demonstrated that he is not fit to lead this nation as a senator, let alone, its President. Many tasks that a leader is expected to demonstrate are symbolic in nature, but they, nevertheless, are important to the effectiveness of that leader. It is obvious to me that Mr. Obama never learned that important lesson. Vote for him for President? Not on your life! November 6, 2007 at 4:30 pm(92) brittany says: First off …. We are at war , a future leader who is not patriotic would only cause more lives lost to the war. Second this was during the NATIONAL ANTHEM … That’s right the song we sing for our fallen heroes, Its not about constitutional rights its about respect, and in the ARMY which he would be commander and chief of , We had to learn the national anthem and pay respect to it. As the leader he too would have to follow this, as should all Americans. And personally I believe if you don’t respect the Flag and the country you should perhaps travel a little more so you realize how good you have it in a nation that cries every time it gets its feelings hurt and is full of greed. Remember who died so you can have ur freedom. November 7, 2007 at 12:12 am(93) C Minard says: Today I received a email with picture with an additional comment that he was sworn in using the Koran not the Bible. Does anyone know if this is true?? November 7, 2007 at 1:07 am(94) Ceenitall says: First off, what is a steak fry? Second, this was not during the pledge but the national anthem. A lot of people don’t put their hand over their heart during the anthem but do during the pledge. This is not a big deal, and I am not even a democrat!!! November 7, 2007 at 1:15 am(95) Bob Johnson says: The photo appears to me as an altered photo. When the people are compared to certain items in the photo and background there’s some discrepancies. Regardless of who supposedly took the photo, it’s not accurate as far as I’m concerned. Some of the media has been known to alter photos. And, I do not like either Osama or Hillary as potential candidate. November 7, 2007 at 4:14 am(96) A U.S. Soldier says: You know lots of people don’t place their hands over their hearts and it has nothing to do with not respecting the traditions of our country. I have served this country going on nine years fought in Iraq, Afghanistan, and did the force protection thing in Kosovo and I don’t do hand over my heart thing nor say the pledge. Why you ask, because I don’t. I respect the fact that he is standing there not doing it and getting judge rather than doing it just to please a bunch of fake as patriots who think he should just to please them. even me being the true patriot that I am who fought and still serves without any complaining thinks that what he is doing is wrong. This is what makes America the place that it is. November 7, 2007 at 7:26 pm(97) Rob says: You got to be kidding me…. Is he an American? Or is he a pretender? He is not a Contender for the President of our great Nation! This man honestly scares me! Even if he did say the pledge…no pin, weird, no hand over heart, scary November 7, 2007 at 10:59 pm(98) W. Bush says: Yeah, I’m thrilled. http://www.pensitoreview.com/images/photo-george-bush-finger.jpg November 8, 2007 at 1:26 am(99) Deborah White says: Here’s a link to Sen. Obama’s explanation of this silly non-event: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071107/ap_on_el_pr/obama_photo_2 November 8, 2007 at 4:40 am(100) cynsational522 says: Here is a link to a clip of the video at the Steak Fry (cut and paste): http://rawstory.com/news/2007/Obama_doesnt_put_hand_over_heart_1022.html As you can see, Mr. Obama is mouthing the words of the National Anthem, while it is being sung by the woman. He started mouthing the words at “gave proof through the night, that our flag was still there…” and when the camera came back to him, he was mouthing the words “and the home of the brave”. He showed his respect, by facing the woman who was singing the anthem, singing along and then clapping when she finished. The fact that he did not have his hand over his heart, doesn’t mean a thing. That is his choice. This is America, where people do still have choice. Many people do not hold their hand over their heart during the National Anthem (just go to a major league baseball game and look around while the Anthem is being sung). Just read Mr. Obama’s comments to the incident for yourself (cut and paste): http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071107/ap_on_el_pr/obama_photo_2 November 8, 2007 at 10:54 am(101) tha says: Some people sing, some don’t during the national anthem. But during the pledge, yes I do put my hand on my chest so as to be respectful to my country. And I don’t necessarily like to wear pins on my clothes either. So what’s the big fuss about? Our future president was maybe singing and forgot to put his hand on his chest. Woopee,doo. Give the man a break. If you can run this country all by yourself, how come you’re NOT on the presidential campaign, why are you not being elected to be future president. November 8, 2007 at 5:32 pm(102) Bob says: According the video on ABCNEWS.COM - http://abcnews.go.com/Video/playerIndex?id=3759803 it was during the playing of the National Anthem. Still, I’m retired Navy and when the Anthem is played - you place your hand over your heart. I think, even more unfortunately, is the caterwailing of the “singer” with her horrific rendition. November 8, 2007 at 6:44 pm(103) OMG says: What drivel! The amazingly stupid idiotic issues Americans concern themselves with. Iraq with upwards of 4000 American soldiers dead, an economy on the brink of a recession, global warming, gas prices rising, immigration, U.S. human/civil rights violations, illegal wiretapping, the unpatriotic Patriot Act, Cheney and possible impeachment… and all that is talked about on ‘News’ networks is Obama not putting his hand over his heart during the national anthem? you got to be f***king kidding me. Get a life and an education you all. Focus on some real issues. November 8, 2007 at 11:10 pm(104) Mark says: it’s real easy to call anyone who doesn’t vote for the black person a racist. Means he doesn’t have to have any qualification to be president. And for everyone trying to say the pic is fake, well, Obama says it isn’t… so it probably isn’t. Just sayin… November 9, 2007 at 9:59 pm(105) Laura C says: OMG you people are killing me! First of all, the photo is real, not doctored. I’ve seen the video on tv, CNN, Fox News, they all showed it, long before it was on this website. Secondly, regarding the comment that Obama should go back to his own country. Yes, he should. Except, oops, here he is. Because, duh, he is an American you dopes! I mean, HELLO??? Did you all forget that in this country it is REQUIRED that you be BORN a US citizen to ever become president of the US??? (Sorry Ahnold…) I guess the man is so brilliant that he managed to find some loophole in the constitution. Look, everyone is hung up on his name. I admit, I am in no hurry to elect someone who has a name that sounds like people who want us dead. But he is an American. An inexperienced American who has no business being Pres of this country, but an American nontheless. November 10, 2007 at 10:47 pm(106) Kevin says: What’s the big fuss over Obama not putting his hand on his heart? We elected “W” after he went AWOL from the Texas Air Guard and lost his piloting credentials. Now, he’s the head of all our armed forces.. If those of you all upset over a hand not on the heart had thought about “W”’s actions, we wouldn’t be in the situation our country currently is in. November 11, 2007 at 4:08 am(107) Susan says: Oh good grief. People should grow up. This “hand-over-heart” silly litmus test for “patriotism” is beyond stupid. Many of us don’t always jump to place our hands over our hearts every time we hear the national anthem nor do we expect our politicians to always be so formal. Those who scream the loudest about manic “patriotism” are simply redneck jingoists who like to make a huge, blustery, obnoxious display of their so-called “patriotism.” Give it a rest. There are many more important things going on in this country than to nitpick every single movement made by every single candidate. We have George W. Bush now, for heaven’s sake. No one but Romney could be worse. November 11, 2007 at 10:43 pm(108) Jennifer says: The courtesy of silence and attention to the flag during the national anthem is indeed the only Requirement. He fit the bill. November 13, 2007 at 11:44 am(109) Devon says: Interesting. I’ve been to countless baseball games, and out of thousands of people, I might see a hand full with their hand over their heart during the national anthem. I also find it funny that the none of the meida personelle or on lookers were even paying attention to the person singing. Should we track down the journalists, and refuse to read their news papers or watch their news? Should we find the random by standers and interogate them about their political pasts? Comon people. Whether you like Sen. Obama or not, you have to admit that this photo is a pathetic attempt to find the man non-patriotic, and anti-American. November 13, 2007 at 1:48 pm(110) Phat Pimp Money says: Obama is a fraud as a senator and an insult as a candidate for president. Theres simply no way around it. Your either respectful of our country or your not, There is no sometimes. Do you think that sometimes he’d support a kkk lynching, and sometimes he wouldnt? Give me a break. November 13, 2007 at 2:56 pm(111) Boise Republican says: All senators and representatives should know flag and anthem etiquette - as should all citizents. Ignorance of flag and anthem etiquette is inexcusable, especially for presidential-hopefuls, and offensive to thousands of citizens. This is a major part of American culture, not a fly-by-night trend! It’s a shame that this wonderful country has so many irreverent, uncaring “citizens.” Proper antehm etiquette requires those present to stand and face the flag or music (if the flag isn’t present) upon the first note. Those in uniform should offer the military salute; men should remove their headwear, and hold it with their right hand over their heart; those not wearing headwear should place their right hand over their heart; all should remain in this position through the last note. Non-US citizens (those not US born or naturalized) should stand during the song. Get more info from the Army Institute of Heraldry. November 13, 2007 at 9:05 pm(112) Christopher Marohn says: Obama, didn’t salute the flag, big deal. I am sorry that people feel that is a slap in the face. It is the act of a honest man. one that will not conform when it is popular. One that will stand up when the time is right. he is a great leader and should be president. For we need a man that will stand up from the popular idea. Not cower behind lies and false hoods. November 14, 2007 at 12:28 am(113) Bella says: all I can say is woopy do, build a bridge fellas November 14, 2007 at 4:22 pm(114) nps says: The fact that he’s ashamed to be seen with his white grandmother who took care of him while growing up. The fact that his name is Hussein, Does this ring a bell. He’s not worthy to hold an official U.S. office. Just think of how many Muslim terrorist he’ll welcome to this country. After all, he’s got Muslim blood in his body and blood is thicker than water! We will definitely not vote for Barack Hussein Obama! I don’t think he’s a trustworthy person to begin with! November 15, 2007 at 12:18 am(115) Ron Franklin says: So Obama made a mistake and didn’t salute. not Putting your hand on your heart during the anthem doesn’t make you unpatriotic. He did make a mistake though since he is a political candidate. It’s just another “red meat” email for the right wingers to say a liberal is Unpatriotic. If you go to a ball game not every person puts there hand on their heart. Does that make them Unpatriotic? I think not. Just because we aren’t yelling Go USA at every opportunity doesn’t make us less Patriotic. I don’t support Obama because to me he’s an empty suit but there’s no proof that he is unpatriotic. Just because a rightwinger says he is doesn’t make it so. November 15, 2007 at 12:25 pm(116) Charliemac says: right, wrong each to his own opioion I don’t care EXCEPT for the fact the after being born and raised in America and for 70 years had a good life (and the majority of us do)I think it is only right to salute our country and support it. If y’all look (and listen) to the video on youtube you will see Obama singing the National Anthem why he didn’t put his over his heart is amazing. BUT something else, what was disgusting was the way the National Anthem was being sung. I don’t like, nor appreciate, someone improvising on something as important as that song and further she didn’t have a good voice anyway. The point is, as a nation, we need to get back to the basics and collectively agree to agree on the way to salute the American flag and give respect when the national anthem is being sung. Remember,if the freedom you have in America were to be taken away (and you had to live in countries like Iraq) how would you feel then. November 16, 2007 at 9:37 am(117) joe says: oh no! he didn’t put his hand over his heart during the NATIONAL ANTHEM (not the pledge of allegiance) FIRE AND BRIMSTONE WILL RAIN DOWN UPON US!!! REPENT SINNERS, REPENT! KEEP TOSSING DIRTY SLANDER AT ANYONE NOT ON THE REPUBLICANS SIDE! REPUBLICANS FOR LIFE! SCREW THE PRESIDENCY…WE NEED A NEW REPUBLICAN DICTATOR BECAUSE OBAMA DIDN’T PUT HIS HAND OVER HIS HEART. who the f cares, you idiots November 16, 2007 at 10:33 am(118) LAPA says: Charliemac and others who strongly beleive in symbolism,
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Not everyone needs a symbol as a means for showing respect to their country or any other treasured value for that matter. I am a Female veteran of the first Gulf War. I do not fly a flag outside my home and I don’t take offense at others not placing their hands over their hearts for the National Anthem. I see Americans and the freedoms we enjoy so differently that most Americans. I UNDERSTAND very intimately what we have here, because I have experienced the opposite. The memory that haunts me and keeps me grounded is that of a young woman came up to me in a Saudi market place in the middle of the desert, only her eyes visible through the black cloth that covered her in the 100-degree heat. She seemed so awed with me. There was little English she could speak or understand. But her eyes said so much more than I needed to hear. She wanted what girls and women in this country take for granted. She wanted freedom. It was not MY decision that allowed me to be born an American. So for me, flying the flag the way so many Americans do who have no idea how fortunate they are to be American, is the equivolent of FLAUNTING the flag, of saying too bad you wretched schmucks weren’t born here. But I am also not blinded by my GRATITUDE for having been so blessed as to have been born in this country instead of Saudi Arabia or some other restrictive nation. I do not follow any president blindly. And I do not chose a president based on whether he uses symbolism to show patriotism. Those men who fought to attain and later to retain our freedoms here did so to also provide us the freedom to think for ourselves. I am eternally grateful to those who made that sacrifice and to their families. But I would rather elect a president who uses his action to show his love and dedication for this country, rathere than someone who merely knows all the protocols that other people feel makes him patriotic. November 16, 2007 at 12:26 pm(119) Erin Orchard says: Many people are placing far too much stock on a gesture that really has little to do with whether or not Obama would be a great leader. When judging a candidate, how about looking at their credentials, words, history and enthusiasm for change rather than a gesture which truly means nothing. The great thing about living in America is that we have the freedom to choose and Obama, like all of us, has the right to choose to not put his hand over his heart. It’s an empty gesture anyhow and I’d rather focus on his words and actions than where his hands are. So many people get their panties in a bind over the most trivial of things in an attempt to derail a strong candidate. Let’s focus on the things that matter instead of things like pins and hand gestures! November 16, 2007 at 1:27 pm(120) Chris says: Hey, I’ve got a bumper sticker that says, “I support the troops.” All you phony Americans who perform community service and donate to charities and just pretenders to my awesome American-ness! November 19, 2007 at 4:54 pm(121) Phil says: What a waste of time. He is still one of the best candidates to run this country. I guess this is all you Retardicans can dig up on him! Pathetic. Get to the real issues! Oh wait, I forgot, You lose on all the real issues. Now I understand why this crap is so important to you! November 19, 2007 at 5:18 pm(122) R.J. says: I guess Phil is going to start throwing food or something next! “A waste of time…” is a liberal House and Senate dragging the same issues in front of committees that everyone knows will not (should not) be passed anyway. Tax dollars at work I guess. The video is very subjective. It’s unfortunate that so many people think this is no big deal, of course many people think “Hitlery” Clinton would make a great president too! Where is this country going? Our Constitution is rarely used and political figures take The Pledge of Allegiance and The National Anthem for granted. It appears that people are so concerned with changing our country that they’ve forgotten what makes the United States so great! It will eventually be too late to learn from these mistakes! November 19, 2007 at 5:31 pm(123) R.J. says: I now understand, while reading over this web page, why I’m not a liberal…I’m so very grateful! Anyone who doesn’t see a problem with not saluting our flag or showing gestures during The National Anthem or The Pledge of Allegiance needs to realize just what they are taking for granted! I have never seen (in the united States) anyone not salute the flag during The National Anthem or The Pledge of allegiance. What’s “pathetic” as described above, is how many people want so badly to make excuses for Obama (we all saw the same video) only because they hate Republicans. How weak is that! November 20, 2007 at 9:21 am(124) stephan says: Think about it: it’s a photograph. He might have raised his hand to his heart a split second later. But while I’m here, lest get to the root of the commentary here against Obama: how far has the past eight years of mindless, patriotic BS advanced the integrity of this nation of 280 million nationally and internationally. Nationalism is a BAD thing. My grandfather was alive and served in the German army during WWII and he used to tell me about the perils of patriotism and xenophobia. He said they were hoodwinked with guilt and false pride. Obama is an intelligent and conscientious leader, that’s much better on both accounts of the jerks that hijacked out land in 2000 and 2004. November 21, 2007 at 10:00 am(125) Jacob Burleson says: I think Obama, like everyone else, should raise his hand to his heart. It is, after all,o something he was probably raised doing. Addressing the fact that sometimes he does and sometimes he doesn’t gives me the idea that he is patriotic whenever he feels like it. “President Obama is due to address the nation today whenever he feels like getting out of bed.” November 21, 2007 at 3:40 pm(126) Bill says: To Dave: President Bush read the book right-side up. You should watch FarenHYPE 9 11, which features the teacher who was present on that morning. However, I do like Whoopie’s joke about the president waving to Stevie Wonder! November 21, 2007 at 10:43 pm(127) eterte says: Obama is a muslim by birthright. Therefore as a muslim, he is the enemy of america. Get rid his jihad loving ass out of power immediatley! November 22, 2007 at 5:33 pm(128) Casper - Denmark says: Now I understand how Gore (IQ=190) could loose to Bush (IQ=90), judging from the comments above it seems that 85% of politically interested americans are dimwits… Political patriotism has (post 9/11) been reduced to the ability to appear in the vicinity of flags, veterans and bibles, and to a lesser degree to act in ways brave and beneficial to your country. November 22, 2007 at 8:30 pm(129) Glenn says: I have enough troubles with politicans being not only liers, opportunitists looking for more power and mostly not some one I’d bring home to dinner, Obama has booted me out of his ‘camp’ for ever… I was shot at, and my generation was spit on for serving our country and supporting these freedoms for people like him and all the other liers and cheats that surface on the public feeding trough. I don’t have to like it, and I don’t. But our guys are still dieing all over the world for the same bunch of “leaders”, the names just change… JMHO November 23, 2007 at 9:41 am(130) R.J. says: Casper makes an interesting point, Al Gore has an IQ of 190 and is still one of the biggest policical flops in History! What’s more is the reference to patriotism post 9/11. You are condescending to people who actually expect our political representitives to adhere to US protocol! That’s what is wrong with patriotisim today! We have idiots like this, outwardly assuming political stances taken by other’s because we may not agree with their weak ideology. Obama not follow US potocol is what’s relevant. Your points are weak at best to have such condescension in your tone! November 24, 2007 at 8:29 pm(131) Anna Wallace says: The Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem The pledge of allegiance should be rendered by standing at attention, facing the flag, and saluting. When the national anthem is played or sung, citizens should stand at attention and salute at the first note and hold the salute through the last note. The salute is directed to the flag, if displayed, otherwise to the music. November 28, 2007 at 9:58 am(132) Ed Richardson says: Even the smallest child is quick to put his/her hand over the heart when pledging the allegiance to the flag. It is clear That Obama’s heart is somewhere else when remembering to put the hand over the heart becomes an effort to be remembered. It is only a symbol of our respect and love for our country. What country does Obama love? Or better, what country would he like to love? November 29, 2007 at 9:29 am(133) doug says: IT REALLY WORRIES ME WHEN A COUNTRY AS GREAT AS OURS IS MORE WORRIED IF HUSSEIN(A TRADITIONAL AMERICAN NAME) SINGS OR EVEN KNOWS THE WORDS TO UOR NATIONAL ANTHEM RATHER THAN FOCUSING ON A REALLY IMPORTANT ISSUE; THIS MAN HAS’NT GOT THE EXPERIENCE TO OPERATE A LEMONADE STAND AND HE IS A SERIOUS CONTENDER FOR THE PRESIDENTACY!!! COME ON ALL YOU KOOL-AID DRINKING LIBS. ATLEAST TRY TO REMEMBER J.F.K. WHEN LOOKING FOR A NOMINEE AND STOP TRYING THE SHOCK SALE OF A WOMAN OR A BLACK BOTH OF WHOM WOULD REPRESENT A DAMN GREEK TRAGEDY TO THIS COUNTRY. MORALS.MORALS.MORALS. WHERE DID THEY ESCAPE TO? DID YOUR NEW SPEAKER REMOVE THEM WITH ALL THE DIGNITY THE OLD GUARD HAD. BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU ARE ASKING FOR BECAUSE SOMETHINGS ARE NOT REVERSABLE,AND YES I AM REFERING TO THE ELECTION OF THIS LOW DOWN,NO COUNT UNPATRIOTIC,MAN. OR FOR THAT MATTER HIS EVIL COUNTERPART WITCH HILLARY. December 2, 2007 at 10:21 am(134) Rinski says: I am conservative and consider myself very patriotic. I was raised by my liberal parents and attended public schools when I was young. I was taught to place my hand over my heart for the Pledge of Allegiance and to stand at attention facing the flag for the National Anthem. I have stood at attention without placing my hand over my heart at schools, many sporting events, etc simply because I honestly didn’t know I was supposed to place my hand over my heart. I absolutely will going forward. I would like to say that I think Obama is a good guy. I don’t think he hates our country or is unpatriotic. I absolutely wouldn’t vote for him because of his views on several issues but I can see why liberals like him. Although, I find it odd that he didn’t take time to determine the proper etiquette to follow for these moments that are sure to be recorded while he’s running for public office. I’m surprised his support staff is stating that he places his hand over his heart for the National Anthem when he “feels” like it. I think claiming that he didn’t know would have been a much easier explanation for everyone to accept. December 3, 2007 at 12:14 am(135) Winston says: This may be the most be the sadest thing I have ever heard. There are people who feel that Barak should not president over not putting his hand over chest during the national anthem. That is completely retarded. Lets completely forget about his political policies and concentrate on whether or not he puts his hand over chest. Because thats how in America Presidents are elected not on polices or views but on whether or not they put their hand over there chest during the national anthem. Grow up. thank god this is all he’s doing, he could be a bumbling idiot who reads books upside down to small children during a national disater. December 5, 2007 at 1:51 am(136) Preston says: From the The Book of Etiquette by Emily Post states: The National Anthem Everyone, even very young children, should rise and remain standing during the playing of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” It is not easy to sing, and you need not do so if you do not have the necessary range or “ear,” but you must stand quietly until you hear “O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.” If you are on the way to your seat at a sports event, or in any public place, when the strain, ‘Oh say, can you see, by the dawn’s early light,” sounds, stop where you are and stand at attention until the end. Don’t talk, chew gum loudly, eat or smoke during the singing of the anthem. No where does it state that it is mandatory to place the hand over the heart while it is being played. I learned this over 60 years ago when we were involved with WWII. Preston December 5, 2007 at 7:20 pm(137) C. Lee says: First of all, I wonder how accurate that photo is. Almost anything can be done with PhotoShop these days (I should know, I’m a freelance photo editor) and it isn’t too difficult to edit a photo like that. One simple enough way would be to take two photos, from the same angle, one before the pledge starts (with Obama’s hand down) and another during (with the other’s hand over their hearts), and copying Obama without hand-over-heart onto the second photo. A bit of editing to make it look natural, and voila! Secondly, the question here is more than whether he puts his hand over his heart during the pledge. If the photo is real, the question is why didn’t he put his hand over his heart while he was on stage at a statewide event in front of an audience? December 12, 2007 at 11:25 am(138) Diane says: Is it a urban legend, or truth, that Obama is a closet Wahabi Muslim (radical sect) & has covered with joining a Christian church. Also, is it truth or fiction, when taking office he refused to place his hand on the Bible & took his oath with hand on the Koran. And suppose the slips of showing unpatriotic moves are just that, slipups - chinks in his “political face”. Does this guy have a deadly hidden agenda, or are these suspicions unfounded? Hmmmm. Bears some research, I’d say, before anyone casts a vote in the upcoming election. December 13, 2007 at 4:53 pm(139) me says: The pledge of alliegance and the national anthem are two totally different things. The pledge is the pledge and the national anthem is a song. However, either way it has been a long held AMERICAN tradition to place the hand over the heart for either event. Any reason given to only do it “sometimes,” is not a reasonable answer. So, is it still bad if I speed, but only do it sometimes? or what about giving respect to the military, can I salute my officer only sometimes. yeah sure you could only salute sometimes, but then you would just have a marine boot up your ass when you didn’t. We’re talking about giving respect to an officer versus giving respect to your entire country and the dog that lives here. There is no excuse for lousy, or lazy men running for office of the USA to not be able to beat good ol’ Hilary Clinton to the fastest draw of the saluting hand. December 13, 2007 at 4:57 pm(140) me says: So was it the pledge of alleigance or the national anthem? December 14, 2007 at 7:01 am(141) Europa says: Ok, so this is how The United States elect thier leader. Apparently it doesn’t matter what their views are on healthcare, wellfare and umemployment, the hand must be on the heart. No wonder you always elect jackasses… December 14, 2007 at 12:15 pm(142) Military Family Member says: One might say he shows “strong character” by his personal convictions. I say to you this man has no right to serve the People of the United States of America! If he has no regard for our National Anthem and what it stands for, who does he serve — the ACLU? December 18, 2007 at 10:03 am(143) Cindy says: It’s always been tradition to place your hand on your heart during The Pledge of Alligiance but when did it become necessary to place your hand on your heart during the National Anthem? Growing up we never did and I’m sure we would have been told to had it been proper. December 28, 2007 at 11:32 am(144) Raen says: Think about this- do you fold your hands every single time you pray? If you sit in some other position, does it not count? And for those who are so caught up in details that my above main point doesn’t get to you, you might respond better to the technicality that this incidence wasn’t during the pledge, it was during the anthem, when the point is to listen, not act. December 31, 2007 at 4:00 pm(145) dave says: sure can tell who has served their country and who hasnt! When ever in a public situation the MC/speaker will announce please face the flag as the Anthem is played, some salute, some put their hand over their heart, others do nothing, depends on training. Same with a U.S. flag passing by in a parade, training and patriotism shows. The allegiance has probably been more standardized thru out the U.S. Regardless of his ‘foreign schooling’ he wants to be the commander in chief, he should learn what is correct and do it, its hard enough to command respect, without displaying outright disrespect for the country. And I’ll say here as I always say, no one has the right to serve in public office unless they have served their country first. January 1, 2008 at 10:08 am(146) dstrong says: I am appauled by this picture. What was he thinking. Shame on us if he ever gets elected into presidency. If one is to proud for any reason to not put there hand on their heart while reciting the pledge of allegiance, they have no busines running for president. What a total lack of respect and I don’t care who you are. I AM AN AMERICAN AND PROUD OF IT. January 2, 2008 at 5:50 am(147) Informed Justice says: The picture was taken during a rendition, albeit botched, of the NATIONAL ANTHEM not the pledge of allegiance. Maybe my years of schooling and scouts have served me wrong but you do NOT place your hand on your heart during the National Anthem. Believe half of what you see and none of what you hear. January 3, 2008 at 3:23 pm(148) Cecilia says: The President of the United States must be a leader, and his/her patriotism to the country must NEVER be in question. January 5, 2008 at 9:56 pm(149) Susie says: I am appauled by this hoax email and embarrassed that family members don’t check out an email before they send this off to others. I replied “to all” who were sent this email with me because I fell it’s racist. It took me 2 minutes to find out it was a hoax. Some racist, unintelligent person was angry I replied to him when I replied to everyone. He even sent me a red-faced yahoo smiley at the end of his email letting me know that he did not appreciate my email informing him it was a hoax. I inclueded a website showing him it was a hoax. Now, if it were true wouldn’t it be all over the news? Poor Mr. Obama, and all who are treated in a racist way when he has dedicated his life to public service. I’d like to know what the racist do to help their fellow man. I am not a Barack Obama lover; in fact, I am voing for John McCain, but I am sick to death with having to put up with emotional creeps who want to “believe what I want to believe,” and they’re annoyed that I showed them the truth. Still, another family member sent the same email out to me later, and he had erased the first family member’s request to know if the bogus email was true. I have little respect and am ashamed that these people are my relatives. After all, this man is not playing the race card saying it’s time a black man get in to the president’s office. I am glad about that because the truth is he isn’t a black or white man biologically or spirtually. I wish him all the best! January 6, 2008 at 1:13 pm(150) courtnee says: ummm first of all saying that obama didn’t put his hand on his heart is considered to be raciest is just stupid. Just because i think barak is the antichrist doesnt mean im rachist grow the f up! I dont go around saying people are racist twords white people when they say they hate busch! By the way everyone voting for obmam is stupid! and me saying that doesnt mean im racist so SUSSSIE or what ever your name is stop playing the race card its really annoying! January 6, 2008 at 5:20 pm(151) Asya says: After wataching the video of Senator Obama at the event, I do not think that he refused to be a patriotic American. I said refused. As you look at the video you can clearly see him singing along with the song, nodding, (not as much as Hillary) but his overall body language was in agreeance with what the song represents and his history as an American. My only suppose is that he just got caught in the momment and but he was still very reverent and even clapped and nodded good job to his collegues. So, he’s a person who made one honest mistake. Were the others being non-American for not singing? I mean really. I do understand that someone would notice this and even question. I don’t think it’s necessary to say that he’s not worthy of being our President. We knew that Gerogy wasn’t worthy on the secong time around. He had a real chance to prove that. Barak hasn’t done enough in my eyes to prove that he’s not worthy. He deserves a chance and I actually don’t think that he’ll let us down. January 7, 2008 at 9:41 pm(152) Richard says: So this gentleman feels he can put his hand over his heart during the National Anthem when he feels like it, and leave his hands down by his zipper when he feels like doing that? And he thinks we will let him get away with that kind of disrespect for our flag and our nation? Then he is an idiot, unfit for office! He hasn’t been elected President, and already he is acting as if he is above the rules that the rest of us gladly follow. We already have a President who thinks the rules don’t apply to him. We don’t need another of that ilk in the White House. January 8, 2008 at 1:39 am(153) Sunan Joop says: Barack Hussein Obama is a self-acknowledged active member of the Trinity United Church of Christ. This is an all-black “Christian” church whose website clearly states that their members must, among other things support an allegiance to Africa (not the USA). That’s why he hesitates to show the traditionally accepted demonstration of allegiance to the United States of America, which is the hand over the heart. His heart belongs to Africa - - first and always. Is this man the kind of person you want running THIS country? Perhaps he should run for office in Africa. January 8, 2008 at 4:24 pm(154) stink says: It’s no wonder we have Shrub as a pres for 8 years. People are so easily dupped into believing anything. the picture is during the National Anthem at Tom Harkin’s BBQ. Most people do not put they hand over their heart during the Anthem. This is very common. Clinton and Richardson are the ones not following convention in my opinion. January 8, 2008 at 6:31 pm(155) Charles says: I noticed someone said that Obama doesnt have to respect our Flag by saying the pledge or placing his hand over his heart because that is his Constitutional right. Well, you know that might be true for an average person but NOT for a SENATOR or someone that wants to be OUR PRESIDENT. If he doesnt appreciate America than he needs to GET OUT!!! January 8, 2008 at 6:42 pm(156) annoymus says: We are learning about this in social studies class and its unfair to believe rumors when you haven’t even checked to see if they are true. How is it that SEVENTH GRADERS know this and adults don’t? Check your sources!! Don’t judge! January 8, 2008 at 7:28 pm(157) R.P. says: First of all, NO Obama is not Muslim. He is a Christian. and NO, Obama was not sworn in on a copy of the Koran. he was sworn in on a copy of the Bible BECAUSE HE IS A CHRISTIAN, just like everybody freakin’ else except Rep. Ellison, who is the 1st and only Muslim in Congress. Rep. Ellison was sworn in on a copy of the Koran, once owned by Thomas Jefferson, in Jan. of 2007. a book once owned by a Christian from a time when tolerance and education were actually valued. January 8, 2008 at 8:42 pm(158) R.P. says: In response to #156, kudos to you, annonymus. So sad to see a bunch of adults acting like preschoolers isn’t it? January 8, 2008 at 8:57 pm(159) R.P. says: In response to #153, the TUCC’s 10 point vision, #4 includes “a non-negotiable COMMITMENT TO AFRICA.” The vision as well as the rest of the TUCC’s web site DO NOT claim this commitment at the expense of an individual’s commitment to country. I can see the argument, but i know far too many Christians who belong to Churches with odd clauses in their vision or mission statements. Half the time they don’t even know the clauses still exist and they only belong to this church or that, because their family and / or community congregate there. If you don’t like the man, then just say you don’t like the man and be done with it. No one person is perfect - GW certainly isn’t. I too am not perfect, are you? The only perfect human that ever existed was Jesus and even he lost his temper once in the synagogue. January 11, 2008 at 6:47 am(160) Lynne says: IN RESPONSE TO Post #14, PLEASE DAVE! So, if someone puts hand over heart during Pledge or Anthem then next day goes out and commits murder, are they a better American than someone who didn’t put hand over heart?! Give me a break!!! It is aboslutely meaningless nonsense. Get in a tizzy about something that actually matters! January 11, 2008 at 12:08 pm(161) GEB says: The fact that he has disrespect for the flag (and therefore his country) is only one little eeny teeny reason to not vote for him. His policies and views on the issues (when he provides one) provide many major gigantor reasons to send him packing. God Bless and help America. January 11, 2008 at 10:23 pm(162) shafer says: I’ve seen the video from where this picture was extracted. Not only does he not place his hand over his heart during the national anthem, he is also fidgiting back and forth, anixious for the song to end. While the other people on the podium, hands over hearts remain still and respectful. “sometimes yes, sometimes no”. Its not a question of I’ll follow the tradition on occasion, It’s a question of do I respect what the flag stands for….Mainly the men and women who have given their lives for that flag. Also reading your version of debunking the hate emails that are being sent your basis of information to debunk them is your reading of Barack’s three books…I find no proof either for or against any of these statements from just reading his own account of his history. January 12, 2008 at 6:56 pm(163) Grace says: I was raised on a military base and went to a military school. I was taught that you place your hand over your heart during the pledge of allegiance. During the national anthem, you place your hand over your heart only if you are in uniform, otherwise, you stand at attention. I do not find anythign disrespectful about not placing one’s hand over one’s heart during the national anthem. January 13, 2008 at 11:35 am(164) Bruce says: BO…just another flip flopper. Yeah, he can say he was against the war from the beginning, hell, he was not even where he was supposed to be on the day of the vote and he did not vote…so it is easy to say that now. I think he had it ALL planned out. He is a wolf in sheep’s clothing and just like the rest of those left wing lib people, he wants to take advantage of those who cannot make a decision on their own in their poor miserable boring life. January 13, 2008 at 10:08 pm(165) steve says: Most of you probably never even served in the military or did anything to defend your country. You are probably a bunch of arm chair quarterbacks. January 14, 2008 at 3:51 pm(166) G. Mitchell says: This is not the Pledge of Allegiance, where it is customary to place your hand over your heart every time. This is the National Anthem. Think about when they play the anthem at a ball game. Most take their hats off. Some salute. Some put their hands over their hearts. Some just stand reverently. I guess if you want to attack a person, you’ll find a way. When I heard this rumor, I was told, “Did you hear Obama turned his back on the flag?” Turns out the whole stage had their backs to the flag. January 14, 2008 at 7:09 pm(167) Rick says: I’m not an Obama supporter, but isn’t it odd that no one else is “facing” the flag as is customary during the pledge or anthem, or whatever was really going on? I didn’t take my hat off in a church one time. I should burn for such a thing. Grow up America. George W. Places his hand over his heart correctly, and look at what he’s done to the country. January 14, 2008 at 7:30 pm(168) Nancy says: I think not saluting the Flag is a seriouse thing especially for someone who wants to be our President. That is not to say he is not worthy. Look what we have in the White House God help us get thru what is left of his term maybe we can salvage what is left and pull back together. There are so many things that are wrong these days,no prayer in schools, everyone having to worry about offending someone with an innocent statement. We need to get back to basics in this country and start caring about each other. We need to let the government know we are tired of them taking care of themselves and forgetting the people who put them in office. I watch sports when the National Anthem is played and I am always disappointed at what I see but if we are not teaching our children when they are young and in school (because we are afraid of offending someone) what can we expect. If someone is offended by our National Anthem or anything else American I say go somewhere else. January 16, 2008 at 1:57 am(169) rene says: It is sad to even read some of your comments and to even see that some of you are willing to accept that it is ok for some individual trying to hold the highest office in this country not to respect the very essence of what the United States stands for, the flag is not just a piece of cloth, it is the symbol of freedom, a symbol of liberty. May I remind every single one of you that this beautiful country is right now in war, that in this very minute someone is dying for your freedom, and you are going to tell me that it is ok for this human being that wants to be our next president not to salute our flag, our anthem, heeeeeell no. IT IS NOT OK, if he doesn’t have the respect for this country than he should not even hold the office in the senate let along the president, and by the way what does our current (whatever) president have to do with this morons ideology. January 16, 2008 at 12:40 pm(170) lisa says: This is ridiculous? What has this country come to? Of all the thousands of men and women who have fought, died, and are still fighting, we want a man like Obama to be our president! If he was at all intelligent he would have at least acted like he had respect and saluted the flag. I personally am not part of the armed forces, but my father was and to think that a person wanting to be President would refuse, or even “forget” to salute our flag is so unworthy. What would our forefathers think of all of this crap? It’s time for us as Americans to get things back in prospective. January 16, 2008 at 10:24 pm(171) Jen says: Oh come on now people… dislike Obama for the right reasons (ie: you disagree with his politics), not because of some story you read on email… #1: It’s the national anthem… I don’t put my hand over my heart for the national anthem, do you? I can’t count the number of times I see men remove their hats and place them behind their back. #2: So… it’s bad that he fidgets on stage? Really? We’re going to go there? Who *doesn’t* fidget a little bit (unless you’re wearing a US armed forces uniform) ? #3: No one else saluted the flag, so are none of them worthy? Would you all assail Hilary or another Democrat for that? Anyway, why should they *have* to salute the flag after the anthem? It’s a matter of respect mostly relegated to the military (unless you’re dealing with raising/lowering/parade). #4: For all those people talking about how awful it is that he wouldn’t wear an American flag pin… While pins are *technically* ok (as long as they are worn on the left lapel)… please do me a favor and brush up on your flag etiquette. How many people display their flags in poor weather? How many people leave their flags out at night without a light shining upon it? How many people let their flag touch the ground or become worn and frayed? How many people throw their flags out when they become worn (newsflash, you’re supposed to BURN it)? Did you know it’s NOT ACCEPTABLE to wear the flag (as on a tshirt, or the like, especially if there is writing on it)? Did you know it’s NOT ACCEPTABLE to use decorations with the flag on them (ie: napkins, plates, etc)? How many people are guilty of violating any one of these etiquette rules? I can honestly say that, outside of government buildings, I have yet to see more than two or three people displaying the flag in a properly patriotic manner. Why am I saying this? Perhaps, just perhaps, people should look at their own behavior when throwing stones at another. This sort of rumor-spreading, hate-mongering behavior gets us (as a country) nowhere. Just because *gasp* Obama might have violated some etiquette rules does not preclude him from being a capable and effective leader (no… his politics do that enough on their own). We, as a nation, need to start looking at more than past sexual relations and past history with alcohol and start looking at relevant points like the politician’s capability to lead and position on issues important to Americans (the tanking economy, Social Security…). If you hate Obama because he’s black or because *gasp* he forgot to salute and you neglect to actually look into what he stands for, you’re doing this country a disservice. January 18, 2008 at 7:20 pm(172) henry Stilton says: This is not an urban myth that needs debunking. He was one of six who made a very clear statement. It doesn’t matter because he is not electable. The truth not covering your heart as an American LET ALONE AS A PRESEDENTIAL CANDIDATE IS LUDICROUS! He was sending a message to his real constituents overseas. There is no reason to give him a second thought because he will absolutely never take the office of the Presidency. January 21, 2008 at 1:33 am(173) Danny Williamson says: All four of them are not even facing the flag which is behind them! They were actually listening to to someone sing the National Athem. At sporting events you will see thousands of people looking just like Obama every day! It’s not like he got drunk and shot someone in the face. January 24, 2008 at 12:07 am(174) Erick says: Hire a president that touts the Constitution. That single document is your ticket to freedom if you can manage to live responsibly. Only ONE candidate recited the pledge of allegiance and that was Huckabee, this while other candidates including Ms Clinton just rolled their eyes as if it didn’t matter. If you don’t like the fact that he’s a Christian, Consider a Muslim for President. Then, and only then will it be legal to beat your children to death for not believing in Muslim Ideology. Blood runs deep, and always will. Huckabee has my vote. January 25, 2008 at 7:09 pm(175) Mary says: I never place my hand over my heart during the National Anthem but I do when I recite the Pledge of Allegiance. That’s the way I was brought up. January 25, 2008 at 8:13 pm(176) ReHar says: Sara is an idot!!!! January 26, 2008 at 9:23 pm(177) teacherman says: Here is a picture from Fox News no less of President Bush with his hand… you be the judge… during the national anthem so do we impeach him? January 28, 2008 at 9:02 pm(178) Jess says: People should be ashamed of themselves. No one in their right mind would run for president and reach the primaries if they could care less about this country. Stop making up idiotic rumors about Obama. Maybe you’re upset that an African American is running for president. Maybe you just like Clinton or Edwards. In any case, stop spreading rumors that Obama’s Muslim and unpatriotic. January 29, 2008 at 5:15 pm(179) stephanie says: WOW..Did ANYONE ever stop to wonder if MAYBE the REASON the man did not follow proper protocal was because he is uneducated in AMERICAN TRADITIONS?? Wasn’t he raised by atheist, non-practicing muslim parents in a muslim country?? WOW I am sure they instilled AMERICAN Patriotism to his core of values. January 29, 2008 at 7:00 pm(180) Leona says: It is okay for American citizens not to place their hand over their heart during the national anthem (which is the improper method) because it is their constitutional right. However, becoming President means becoming the Commander in Chief which does entail certain rules. The military people have to obey commands placed on them by the government. These military people are no longer private citizens, they are property of the United States Government. They do not have a choice but to salute the flag. It is military regulations. Is Obama stating that he cannot guarantee that he can follow the rules all the time? Is he setting an example for our military that it is okay to be disobedient? Commander in Chief is the head of the military. What is he stating to our military? January 29, 2008 at 7:47 pm(181) shawnna says: aaaaahh this is absolutly pointless not everyone puts thier hand over thier heart and it doesnt matter so why put it out all over the place!! just because he doesnt do that doesnt mean he doesnt respect this country. i dont put my hand over my heart so are you going to put that all over to. January 30, 2008 at 12:16 am(182) Steely Dan says: This is why the half the world hates you and the other giggles at you, America. I feel sorry for the millions of sensible Americans who are tarnished by those who believe not having your hand over your heart during a national anthem is treason. January 31, 2008 at 7:13 am(183) Monica says: In this day and age we should more be worried about who is going to do the best job for the people not whose hand is where. Like who is going to fight for our troops to come home. That is silly of everyone to think he is not a real american when our schools can’t do the pledge anymore cause of everyone complaining about but now you want to complain that he isn’t real..What is is that this country is in deed of help and everyone needs to focuse on who that is not because the man didn’t put is hand over his heart. We worrie more about that than how many troops have died in the useless war that isn’t getting us anything but more troops dead and other people are getting rich off the war. If we are going to be politicaly correct then lets do that…The USA Can’t say the real reason why they are cause we still have to pretend that race isn’t an issue but in all reality it always has and always will be an issue in the USA. The darker your skin the more USA don’t like you and don’t get me wrong some people bring themselves more problems than they need but racism is still alive and people still judge on that and that alone. No, I am a white person but I have seen in all my life. Everyone pretending that it don’t exist anymore and noone is doing anything about it. The USA is the only country with many different cultrals and different faiths….That scares most but at rhe same time even if you a white jew you can get you butt kicked just for that factor…We need all need to wake up and see what is really important..Our kids aren’t safe and we aren’t safe….Would you like it if someone kicked you butt just because you were born…No, and you wouldn’t like have to worrie about walking down the sreet and being beat just beause of your faith or race….We let all the races in the USA but we torture them for being here…Lets just live our lives and leave everyone alone if you not helping stay to your self don’t make it worse. Like the saing goes if you have nothing nice to say the don’t say it at all that goes for action to…If you can’t help then don’t make do anything to make it worse. January 31, 2008 at 12:36 pm(184) Mari says: Amazing that the hate-mongers strike again. We must respond to this sort of hate speech that was used because my guess is that the net and airwaves will be flooded with it. People in my party understand that after the Bush Administration foibles, most thinking people will insist on a change of parties in the White House. It will take years to get us back to a morality that once again allows us to have prides in diversity, love of country, the American Dream as evidenced by Obama. For those circulating this lie, shame on them. Seems before wasting all that effort in hating, they would take the time to research its veracity. However, so many lies lately, so people have probably given up checking. I am sad to say, my party has blown the last 8 years and we need to apologize to Americans for Republican excesses. January 31, 2008 at 2:20 pm(185) Kelly says: Read the United States Flag Code people. §171. Conduct during playing During rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. Men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should render the military salute at the first note of the anthem and retain this position until the last note. When the flag is not displayed, those present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed there. No pride in our country from our leader will be a big mistake. February 1, 2008 at 8:33 pm(186) Iva Rose says: This man wants to be Commander in Chief. I don’t think so. This is no way to win the respect of those in uniform who give so much every single day so everyone else can sit on their lazy butts and constantly complain. Those serving our country deserve so much better. February 1, 2008 at 8:58 pm(187) Ruby says: Kelly (185), How many people do you know that actually KNOW they’re supposed to put their hand over their heart when they hear the National Anthem? How many people actually DO IT? And I’m sure there are people who can’t do it–like those who are PLAYING the National Anthem in the band. Duh! Why can’t people who want to make a mountain out of this mole hill get a life? Find something else about his politics, something REAL, that you don’t like and scream about that! This is such a dead issue….Sheesh! I wouldn’t be making another comment about this issue except I keep getting the same D*$@ forward every week! And I e-mail the sender back with the facts! When will the craziness end? Sigh! February 3, 2008 at 12:52 am(188) John Q says: Personally, I think the whole hand on heart ritual is kinda silly. People who judge others’ “patriotism” by their adherence to empty ritual clearly have no idea what it means to support the ideals of this country. February 3, 2008 at 7:50 pm(189) Beth says: Since this email was sent to me AGAIN recently, it was on my mind tonight when I watched the start of the Superbowl. I noticed that some athletes had their hand over their heart, some stood politely, and that a large group of servicepeople in fatigues did not salute. I found this further confuses things for those of us watching from home. Were the servicepeople actually filmed during the singing of the national anthem or was it a “prerecording”. Either way, based on what I saw at this national sporting event, and what people have posted here, there is a big range in what we have been taught to do to show respect during the national anthem. I was taught to stand respectfully at attention and to only cover my heart when reciting the pledge. As many others have said, there’s so much more for us to consider in choosing our next president! Whomever you support, please don’t perpetuate lies and half-truths by forwarding these types of hate-emails. Not so many years ago (before the WWW), if you spread these type of rumors about someone, you could be sued for libel. Please check your facts with one or more of the great websites dedicated to this purpose before sending on a forward, positive or negative. February 4, 2008 at 9:51 am(190) Jeff says: OH my GOD!! He didn’t put his hand on his chest!!! That is so bad!!! I think he must hate AMERICA!!!! Hahahaha! ARE YOU SERIOUS??!!! Get a life!!! Barack will be President, and he WILL one of the best leaders for this hurting country EVER!!!! February 4, 2008 at 1:12 pm(191) Andrew G says: I’ve seen and heard enough motivational speakers in my life to be able to identify Mr.B’s real talent.He has never given and real info on how he will make this “Change” happen.If you want to feel good,go to church,we’re electing a Commander in Cheif. February 4, 2008 at 1:21 pm(192) Proud U.S. Airman says: OMG~ You say to worry about the “real” issues? You say “Iraq with upwards of 4000 American soldiers dead” Those soldiers would tell you that the National Anthem IS a big deal. That singing that, hearing it when you are in a country 3000 miles away from anyone that loves you, reminds you of all the people back home. All the people back home that have no IDEA, NO CLUE what they see on a daily basis and obviously DON’T CARE as long as they can continue to bask in the freedom that they provide. Susan~ You say “Those who scream the loudest about manic “patriotism” are simply redneck jingoists who like to make a huge, blustery, obnoxious display of their so-called “patriotism.” I’m serving my country, I wear the uniform and I’ve been to Iraq protecting YOUR “patriotism”. You seem to have no idea what that flag and that song represent. Serve a term in Iraq, see your best friends die, see enough suffering to last you a lifetime, then you can sit back and say that those of us that KNOW, truly KNOW the price of freedom are simply “jingoists”. However, I hope you realize that because of such people, you are able to post your nattering here! Sleep well, your “rednecks” have your back!!! For those that asked, yes, everytime the National Anthem plays I stand and pay my respects. At the ball game, at the mall, at Sea World when they open and I’m standing out there with my children. YOU BET YOUR A** I DO!!! How else would I expect my children and others to learn if I can’t teach by example. I would rather teach the ignorant around me rather than breed it!!! It may be “simple symbolism”, but for some of us, that “simple symbol” is what got us through some very cold, lonely and scary nights. RESPECT THAT! February 4, 2008 at 2:59 pm(193) Brenda says: How superficial. I don’t give a rip if he puts his hand over his heart! I don’t always do so when I hear the anthem played. Does that make me unpatriotic? No. My father and brother both served this country as Marines, as did many other people in my family! I sent care packages to Iraq every month for our soldiers, sent e-mail cards almost everyday, started a local support group and I have caucused every election year since I was old enough to vote. But, let one of you catch me at a ballgame during the National Anthem without my hand over my heart and all of the sudden I am unpatriotic!! Get a life!! And actually read about the candidates and thier positions before passing judgement by means of a damn picture you got in an e-mail!!! February 4, 2008 at 4:03 pm(194) Paul says: wow I saw the super bowl yesterday where pretty much no one during the anthem had their hand of their heart what disrespectful jerks (sarcasm). Most people probably think that you put your hand on your heart only during the pledge not the anthem not saying Obama doesn’t but as usual its just a stupid overblown story that only the far right could come up with. By the way to the clown who said don’t believe CNN or CNBC sorry moron I would never believe a word that comes out of anyone on Fox News because you all are so brain washed its fun to hear your rantings against the other news networks when fox news has been proven to be the least informative news network. February 4, 2008 at 8:22 pm(195) Marc Sanders says: Obama should not hold any office on state or national level. He is a muslim and it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know this. Anybody is the USA that says or does anything to publicly reject the patriotic emblems of America need to pack their bags and move to another country. Those in public office should be held to a higher standard. The Bible says to whom much is given much more is required. Oh yes I am a Christian. And those who say church and state should be separate are mislead. Our country was founded on one God the God of the Israelites and his son Jesus. I’ve got many quotes and prayers that our forfathers offered up for this country in its infant years. Abraham Lincoln and George Washingto called the nation to a fast to overcome the problems we faced. Any Christiand or American that votes for Obama is not a true follower. Obama after Kerry lost the last Presidental election was interviewed on Meet the press and hear is basically what he said. The republicans won because of the moral vote of the people. He was asked what do the democrates have to do to win. He said get on the peoples level. From that time on he has focused on making the people believe he is for them. He is a Muslim that joined the Church of Christ for a vote. The Muslim religion will have a lot to do with the end of the world as spoke of in the Book of Revelations. by the way if you don’t believe the Bible just read Matthew chapter 25 and look at today. Wow it was wrote over 2000 years ago and predicted the problems we are in today. Christians better pray for the write man to go into office because if Obama goes in Christianity and our alliance with Israel is doomed and the saints will soon be Raptured out. Don’t vote democrate or republican vote God show me who do you want to lead this nation. PS Israel wanted a king and they got King Saul and he was too good to be true but in the end he rose up with pride and all he cared about was self and lead the nation astray. God help us, not Ali, not Buddha, not Hindu but Jesus Christ King of Kings February 5, 2008 at 8:24 pm(196) Jonathan Edward Schilling says: When I 1st heard about this, I was disgusted. This man will absolutely NOT get my vote. February 5, 2008 at 8:55 pm(197) KV says: Well unfortunately, it appears that 80% of Americans (based on the opinions written here) either can’t read/write or both. Of course we already new that with “W”…anyway, if a hand over the heart during the National Anthem is the biggest problem that anyone can find…well, then that should say something…at least he wasn’t picking his nose. Sad to see too all of the “Christian” people who are completely not exemplifying Christ…I am pretty sure that God is more interested in how you treat your neighbor than whether you follow protocol. It is very frightening to me that our country is this ignorant…and explains so much about why the rest of the world can’t stand us!!! I love my country and have the utmost respect for the men and women that have given and continue to give their lives so that the very people talking within this blog can say all of the stupid and ignorant things that they do. I did read someone’s comment about the type of leader we should and shouldn’t have. Sadly it appears that we are not actually in 2008, but rather in 1958…racism, bigotry and sexism is alive and well…we were kidding ourselves all along. This country does need prayer…but not because someone doesn’t put their hand over their heart. Think about it people! February 6, 2008 at 9:35 am(198) leslie says: That picture is so fake i could photoshop ten times better. and even if he did salute then who cares? Alot of people dont salute..i dont see what the big deal is. Is our president suppost to be holy and perfect? February 6, 2008 at 9:39 am(199) diana says: Obama doesnt have to salute the flag if he doesnt want to. The fact that he didnt salute doesnt make him a bad future president. I dont salute the flag..is there something wrong with that? NO! I didnt think so. Does it make you an american saluting the flag? The reason that Obama didnt salute the flag could have been because of religion. Is there something wrong with religion now? I DIDNT THIK SO.!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yeah and what?? I can speak my mind if I want. And I’ll say it LOUD AND PROUD.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! February 6, 2008 at 7:35 pm(200) yolanda says: Kudos Anonymous!!! I think yours was the best post on the site..you have put us all in our place! you have responded well (and everything was spelled correctly!!) Tell your social studies teacher, and your parents, Thank You!! February 8, 2008 at 3:59 pm(201) Dave Peterson says: So, you want to vote for Barack Obama? Get ready for: The NAACP will be funded by the government. The black collage fund will be funded by the government. Jessie Jackson and Al Sharpton will have unlimited power. All businesses will be required to have at least 51% black employees. Affirmative action will become law everywhere. Welfare recipient’s will receive a huge annual raise. Black inner-city kids will receive unlimited “vouchers” to attend private schools. You will begin to see wide spread desegregation in all cities. This year I may be voting Republican….. February 8, 2008 at 3:59 pm(202) Adam in Cali says: What other true investigators (not conspiracy theorists and gulllible e-mail readers) have noted, also, is that no one knows whether or not the Pledge of Allegience had even yet started (or just ended) when this picture was snapped. It’s purposefully dubious and temper-inflaming. And it’s distributed by no-nothings via email, not CNN or ABC (et all) news. Those facts alone should be enough to, at the very least, question the statements, if not discount it all together. Americans really need to learn to think for themselves. February 10, 2008 at 10:31 am(203) Steve says: Can America afford to gamble our freedom. What if? What if obama, (which certainly has a muslim ring to it) becomes our next leader? He may be legit, he may be a good christian and the color of his skin is not a factor. But there are too many signs and symptoms of a mole running for president and that’s not a risk this country should feel so cavalier about. If his birth name was Al Sharpton or Jesse Jackson or J.C. Watts I’d feel much better. BARACK sounds like a dictator. HUSSAIN sounds like the enemies we’re fighting. OBAMA, ryhmes with OSAMA! WAKE UP AMERICA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! February 12, 2008 at 2:01 pm(204) Dave L. says: I’m not an Obama supporter either. I’m a veteran & member of the VFW. What REALLY makes me mad about that video is how who ever was singing our national anthem absolutely MURDERED it. I hear this at sporting events, etc & it seems that most singers have their own rendition of our nations anthem. Most of the time it absolutely disgusting. As far as Obama & the hand over his heart, that could have been an oversight. I am worried that he chooses not to wear a flag pin on his lapel, thats NOT an oversight. February 13, 2008 at 1:54 am(205) sandra weston says:
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I have a son in the United States Marine Core. I am shocked and upset by this!! Do we really want this man being our Commander and Chief?? Do you want this man directing your son or daughter that is serving in Afganistan and Iraq, or other??? I certainly wouldn’t. I mean if he can not respect the anthem or the flag, then how in the world could he possibly be able to feel for our young people other there??? At least the others were patriotic!! February 13, 2008 at 1:56 am(206) Tiffany Vess says: You know this rendition of the Anthem was kinda disrespectful too! Not so good!! I have heard better. It is appalling that he not reverence the flag. February 13, 2008 at 6:39 pm(207) JC says: I’ve been reading the comments and there is only one thing I have to contribute that hasn’t already been said. I really had to laugh when someone said that Obama rhymns with Osama. Is that what makes him a terrorist? Well, Bush rhymns with Tush. Does that make him an ass? February 14, 2008 at 7:03 am(208) olddoggy says: The first time I saw this lout he gestured a young female aid to open a door for him even as she was hardly able to hold on to arm fulls of his papers and such.I said to my family at the time “the D party is in big trouble if they run this jerk” February 15, 2008 at 7:51 am(209) Jared says: Thank-youuuuuuu, How can people not see that obama is a freakin muslim, what the hell…so weare going to have a racist black muslim in office, wowwwww, this is freakin great…Im moving to Mexico if when he gets elected! February 15, 2008 at 11:00 am(210) Bob Jackson says: IS THERE ANY HOPE? We are such a gullible people. WHO, pray tell - established the PROPER ETIQUETTE for the National Anthem? The Anthem became formalized as our National Anthem in 1931. I had Never heard of etiquette extending beyond what Emily Post (the Czar of etiquette for so many years) who wrote; The National Anthem: Everyone, even very young children, should rise and remain standing during the playing of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” It is not easy to sing, and you need not do so if you do not have the necessary range or “ear,” but you must stand quietly until you hear “O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.” If you are on the way to your seat at a sports event, or in any public place, when the strain, ‘Oh say, can you see, by the dawn’s early light,” sounds, stop where you are and stand at attention until the end. Don’t talk, chew gum loudly, eat or smoke during the singing of the anthem. TO ME, IT’S COUNTER TO INITIATE ANY ACTS THAT DIFFER FROM WHAT’S NOTED ABOVE. But I’ve adapted to “What Others Do” - to deflect attention. But BE CLEAR “THE HAND OVER THE HEART” IS NOT the symbolic posture FORMALLY and consistently expected (up until, maybe the 1960’s.) Barak Obama is a patriotic, honorable, highly-intelligent, respectful and positive individual. If you elect not to be supportive of him - O.K. Support whom you wish, but don’t support your candidate by CREATING DISHONEST, MISLEADING & DISHONORABLE AND MANUFACTURED LIES about this honorable man! February 15, 2008 at 5:15 pm(211) Will Willer says: You’ve got to love the Republicans here. As long as their president sticks his hand on his heart during the national anthem, it’s perfectly okay to lie his way into a trillion-dollar war and kill thousands of Americans. What a sick joke you people are. By the way, I don’t even support Obama. But this junk is ridiculous. February 15, 2008 at 9:20 pm(212) blondieone says: This whole topic is stupid. Whether or not someone holds their hand over their heart during the National Anthem does not determine their patriotism and to say it does is just bullsh*t. I don’t always put my hand over my heart and it doesn’t mean anything. I was taught, as many others have been, that if you are facing the flag then you can put your hand over your heart. If not, you don’t need to. Why didn’t the other turn around and face the flag? Too busy posing for photos?? Do you really think that a man who is running for President this year would stand up in front of a crowd of people and try to make a statement about his patriotism?? Come on you morons…you do have brains, right? You could have a terrorist standing there with their hand over their heart and a bomb strapped to their chest ready to go off at any second. Hand over the heart proves nothing. God, what a lot of idiots. I didn’t realize we had so many stupid people in this country. By the way, I’m Republican and I am not voting for the guy. February 16, 2008 at 11:25 am(213) Paddy says: PEOPLE…..Please observe any wildly popular public event, specifcally football and NASCAR. Observe the patriotism there….you will be either disgusted at the sight…or reminded of your own folly and unattentiveness, at times. Yet….I dare say most of those observed ARE good Americans. “I heard it in an email” P E R F E C T Observation February 17, 2008 at 10:43 pm(214) Mel says: You are supposed to put your hand over your heart during the “Pledge of Allgiance” not during the National Anthem. People need to be able to filter thru these types of negative propaganda and get to the truth. Obama is not a Muslim! Do some research people. February 21, 2008 at 12:11 am(215) paul says:
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think about this. Barrack [Hussein] Obama. enough said February 21, 2008 at 6:31 pm(216) Morphisto says: The pledge of allegiance is stupid and the whole idea of borders and one country or people being better than another is retarded. I respect people who won’t engage in that kind of fascism. The National anthem is terrible, too: All that war nonsense in it. “America the Beautiful” is a much better song to represent our country and is our national anthem as far as I'm concerned. February 22, 2008 at 9:43 am(217) j.t. says:
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UNITED STATES CODE TITLE 36 CHAPTER 10 PATRIOTIC CUSTOMS * § 170. National anthem; Star-Spangled Banner. * § 171. Conduct during playing. * § 172. Pledge of allegiance to the flag; manner of delivery. § 176. Respect for flag. § 177. Conduct during hoisting, lowering or passing of flag. * § 178. Modification of rules and customs by President. §170. National anthem; Star-Spangled Banner The composition consisting of the words and music known as The Star-Spangled Banner is designated the national anthem of the United States of America. §171. Conduct during playing During rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. Men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should render the military salute at the first note of the anthem and retain this position until the last note. When the flag is not displayed, those present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed there. §172. Pledge of allegiance to the flag; manner of delivery The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, ‘I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.’, should be rendered by standing at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. When not in uniform men should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should remain silent, face the flag, and render the military salute. Leave a Comment Leave a Comment Name Email (never displayed) URL Your Comment Line and paragraph breaks are automatic. Some HTML allowed Say It! Sponsored Links Barack Obama, 1961- Take A Close Look At Barack Obama's Life And Career at Biography.com®. www.Biography.com Learn what Obama would do Short videos-many topics. In his own words. An independent web site www.askobamanow.com Obama or Hillary? Who would you vote for? Take our fast poll and win! BigCurrentEvents.com Barack Obama Follow Obama's Bid for the Dem. Candidacy & Oval Office w/ The Post WashingtonPost.com/Politics "2008 Diet Of The Year" Amazing Chinese Weight Loss Secret. As Seen On CNN, NBC, CBS & Fox News www.Wu-YiSource.com