It’s understandable that anyone wanting to make a political point will compare their opponent to Hitler. While obviously ridiculous hyperbole, it does push people’s buttons and can be effective ‘ especially to a simple-minded and easily frightened audience.
Recently, in my little town of Edmonds, I nearly got in trouble with the police over a Hitler incident. Some right-wing fringies were demonstrating against “Obamacare.” They had a poster of Obama with a Hitler moustache hanging from their card table. It angered me, so the poster ended up ripped up and on the ground. So that they wouldn’t press assault charges, I followed the policeman’s advice and apologized for denying them their free speech rights. The cop was right. I was wrong to react the way I did.
The episode caused me to consider the politics of comparing your enemy to Hitler. I love Jon Stewart’s Daily Show bit in which Lewis Black illustrates how Glenn Beck has Nazi Tourette’s. When discussing politics, I catch myself whenever I flirt with making a Hitler parallel. The last thing I want is “Nazi Tourette’s.”
As fascism is on the extreme right of the political spectrum and communism is on the extreme left, it seems more logical for leftists to insult their opponents with Hitler references. But lately in the USA it is the right-wingers who are calling people they fear are turning America into a “socialist state” fascist names. Right-wingers would more effectively impress anyone who knew anything about history, economics, or politics by comparing their opponents to Mao or Stalin rather than Hitler.
In my lifetime certain things have really pushed my button. My dad and I have sparred politically for 30 years. To me he’s too impressionable by the media. As he’s my own flesh and blood, I care how his brain is wired. I think that’s why I get really emotional when I say something like, “You can’t hug a child with nuclear arms,” and he responds with something like, “Nuke the whales.”
I’ve pondered why that Hitler moustache on President Obama pushed my button. Those people manning the card table at our town market were young. Their youth made their politics more poignant to me. And, while I can respect people for opposing health care for poor people on ideological grounds, to compare that with Hitler’s actions diminishes the horrors suffered by the victims of Hitler.
When caring citizens, on the left or the right, compare their opponents to Hitler and the Nazis, I fear that ‘ rather than elevating their cause ‘ they are diminishing the Holocaust and blurring the evil of Hitler himself. This accelerates the fading into history of the lessons we should have learned from the nightmare of the last century. The request of the victims of the Holocaust is that we never forget…not that we cheapen their loss with silly references and comparisons.
These thoughts were affirmed and crystallized quite succinctly in a recent op-ed that shares the German take on this. The piece ran in Der Spiegel, the German equivalent to our Time magazine.
I think anytime people equate their political opponents or their policies to Hitler and the Nazis, they illustrate a simplistic anti-intellectualism that is dangerous. It is tempting for me to fall into that same trap and to say that this kind of simple-minded demonizing and fear-mongering could actually lead us down the same path that led Germany astray. But I won’t.
If they’re the same ones I’ve seen around the Seattle area, the young Obama-Hitler people are followers of Lyndon LaRouche. Ironically, if anyone in American life could credibly be called a fascist, it’s LaRouche.
Posted by: Cascadian – Oct 22, 2010 2:20 PM
Facism,Communism and Socialism are cut from the same cloth. All are authoritarian and depend on state control. Facism grew out of the Socialist movement as the full name implies. Conservatisim favors less government control than any of the above. You might build a case that says the extreme of conservatism is anarchy but Rick is simply wrong to say fascism is the extreme of the right on the political spectrum. The connection was created to help the modern liberal avoid its extreme roots and paint conservatives with a negative image. You will note that modern liberals prefer to be called progressives.
Posted by: Jim – Oct 22, 2010 3:00 PM
Is Jim truly proposing that Nazism was a left wing movement? I continue to be amazed by Americans. And yes, I am one.
Posted by: Pam – Oct 22, 2010 3:54 PM
Whoa Rick it seems like you might benfit from some anger management. You are lucky they did not hit you with not only assault but criminal trespass and distruction of property The majority of the population is against Obamacare so chill man or you are going to give yourself a stroke. In London a few years ago people were comparing Bush to Hitler and I am sure you weren’t tearing their signs down or you wouldhave been in their nick and onto the Old Bailey. Personally for such outrageous behavior on your part I think you should have arrested and ordered to do some community service to show that you don’t own Edmonds. Didn’t you do some outragous thing like pulling up flags that the Lyons had put out around town because you did like their message. You can’t infringe on other peoples rights or messages, you need to chill before you do come up against someone who won’t back down and will put you in jail/
Posted by: Nancy – Oct 22, 2010 4:00 PM
Jim, you are correct that Fascism & Communism are both authoritarian. You don’t seem aware, however, that the philosophy you describe as “conservatism”, originated in the 18th century Enlightenment and evolved into 19th century Liberalism. 19th century Liberalism was based mainly on 2 intellectual sources: Adam Smith & Utilitarianism. These two being incompatible, by the 20th century the Adam Smithians evolved into Reagan-Thatcher conservatives. The Utilitarians became modern liberals or progressives. However, most current US conservatives[INVALID]especially Tea Party types[INVALID]stem from a darker heritage. Those who rejected Enlightenment thought, who supported monarchy, aristocracy, and religion…the distant ancestors of the fascists…have a lot in common with Palin, Beck, et al. They call themselves conservatives, but really are authoritarian radicals.
Posted by: Roe – Oct 22, 2010 4:08 PM
We were in Seattle last month and saw what may be the same group in the tacky tourist restaurant area to the west of Highway 99. I didn’t tear up their sign but I did tell them their mothers must be very proud of them. I got back a vacant stare, like they didn’t understand me. Bozos. I think Cascadian’s post may be right. Those young people seemed very LaRouchian.
Posted by: Don – Oct 22, 2010 5:11 PM
Rick’s rant actually shows how wrong he is. Facism in Germany, was a nationalist socialist movement, NOT a right wing movement, but no liberal would acknowledge that. I’d love for Rick to blog about how intolerant the LEFT is in this country. Seems to me that the leftists are the intolerant ones. Does Juan Williams and NPR ring a bell???
Posted by: jd – Oct 22, 2010 5:30 PM
Seems to me that Obamacare, or nationalized medical care where the government will dictate what medical procedures people will have shares something with Nazism [INVALID] total control of peoples lives. Using the IRS to go after people who do not buy what the government dictates is abusive government. And all the politicians who voted for this malfeasance while EXEMPTING themselves and their political allies from it reeks of elitists who ran the Nazi and Communist parties.
Posted by: sophie – Oct 22, 2010 5:37 PM
Pam, would you kindly explain to me the differences between stalinist communism and hitler nazism? Sincerely, one of those Americans. PS Bravo nancy,jim, and jd.
Posted by: Bill – Oct 22, 2010 7:16 PM
*shakes head at it all and wishes he could move to Europe permanently*
Posted by: JRod37 – Oct 22, 2010 7:25 PM
God bless you JRod37 but I would avoid Paris right about now lol
Posted by: Bill – Oct 22, 2010 7:27 PM
It reminds me of this: http://www.google.com/search?btnG=1&pws=0&q=bush+is+hitler
Posted by: travelbug – Oct 22, 2010 8:05 PM
A few thoughts: 1)”… where the government will dictate what medical procedures people will have shares something with Nazism, total control of peoples’ lives.” May I fairly presume the writer is opposed to government control of abortion? Do not many people who want government out of their lives have no qualms about government control of women’s lives? If a government has the power (right) to tell a woman she may not have an abortion, does that government also have the power (right) to tell a woman she must have an abortion? Also, how does one effectively outlaw spontaneous abortions? 2)Didn’t Romney as Gov of Mass. support and sign into a law a bill that put the power of the state into enforcing a coercive and onerous health care law? And, now he has flip-flopped. If he was capable of embarassment, he would be blushing. 3)On another note, is the political spectrum linear or cicular? At either side of 12 o’clock are the authitarians of the right and left, at 6 o’clock are the moderates of live and let live, and most people are in the area between 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock.
Posted by: Oscar – Oct 22, 2010 9:27 PM
What is the big issue with having a healthy society? If an individual can’t buy food they receive food stamps, if you can’t afford housing you receive Section 8 housing. Why are health issues different? Currently, if you are to sick to work the US you have no insurance so no health coverage. How do you get well to return to work without health coverage? I would think having a healthy society would be the goal of a civilized society. Don’t bring up the personal responsibility statement as no one wants to be sick. Illness happens to anyone. A civilized society works for the cure as all citizens benefit from a healthy society.
Posted by: Henry – Oct 22, 2010 9:48 PM
I agree. I will not tolerate the government dictating what medical procedures I will have. I would much prefer for-profit insurance companies making these decisions. They are far more likely to have my best interests at heart.
Posted by: Bob – Oct 22, 2010 10:50 PM
Ah, yes lets have the insurance companies and their death panels determine who gets what health care when. The health insurance companies bureaucrats will make sure we get the proper care without regard to the cost to their bottom line. It has worked so well for years in the USA. Just look at our life expectancy, infant mortality rates, and the percent of GDP we spend on health care. There can be no doubt the rest of the world is envious of us,and wishes they had our system.
Posted by: Felipe – Oct 23, 2010 12:15 AM
Hey Rick, check out your Traveler’s Helpline now and again… look at any thread with a particularly high number of replies. Inevitably, Godwin’s Law will get validated… And by the way Rick, where was your anger at people who were “diminishing the Holocaust” when they compared Bush to Hitler a few years ago? Or when the Serbs used Nazi imagery when protesting against NATO?
Posted by: Tom – Oct 23, 2010 3:01 AM
Rick I am totally against Obamacare as is most of the united states. But by posting what you did gives me pause about you personally. If a young person did what you did we would all say he was a hot head and should be punished by being arrested to curb future outbursts like this. You have admitted to committing a crime and not being sorry at all about it. If any of those kids or their parents read this blog you have handed them a lawsuit with your admission against your own interest. You actions had nothing to do with the Jews but your anger that conservative people were voicing their opinion and you did not like it. I think your limited “celebery” status has gone to you head to think you can dictate what people should think and they should march in line with your thoughts. A grown man dodisplaying this type of tantrum. I am not impressed. Is this the type of dictatorship your corporation is under?
Posted by: Ronald – Oct 23, 2010 4:29 AM
So because the Nazis had “national socialist” in their name, they were true blue socialists? However, in that case I’m confused as to why Nazi Germany was supporting Fascist Franco in the Spanish civil war and why the Soviets were opposing them and supporting the Loyalists. The logic then also follows that the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (North Korea) is a case of democracy run amok. It’s in their name, for heavens sake. Based on these examples, the Norwegians and Swedish who seem to like democratic socialism must be truely dangerous.
Posted by: Thomas, Vienna – Oct 23, 2010 5:00 AM
National Socialist German Workers Party is the genesis of what became known as NAZI. Most of the founders came from the socialist movement. Socialism is defined as government ownership or control of means of production and distribution. The first act of the Obama administration was a takeover of GM and the destruction of its captal base and a gift to the unions. Obama care seeks eventually a full takeover of the healthcare industry as the President had advocated a single payer plan. Socialism depends on censorship through political correctness as a beginning. The current mess caused by NPR in its treatment of it own (Juan Williams) is a great example. Socialism depends on disarming the public, hence the attacks on the second amendment. Obama advocates the redistribution of income, a centerpiece of socialism.
Posted by: Jim – Oct 23, 2010 8:39 AM
No Jim, sorry. Most of the original members of the National Socialist party were veterans, members of the Freikorps, a rabidly nationalist group of thugs. Ernst Rohm and some of the other leaders of the SA had vaguely socialist leanings, but they were thoroughy purged by Hitler in the Night of the Long Knives in 1934. Thomas has it right…you have to go beyond the simplistic and look at the complex collection of hatreds and resentments that is Nazism. The Nazis were financially supported by wealthy industrialists like the Krupp family, and the Nazis returned the favor by crushing labor unions. The Nazis were enthusiastically supported by the Catholic Church and the Lutheran Church in Germany because of their anti-intellectualism and anti-Jewish policies. All this sounds a lot more like Fox, the Koch brothers, and the Chamber of Commerce backing ultra right wing candidates than it does the current Democratic party. And as for redistribution of income, the Republicans since 1981 have done that quite effectively…income has been radically shifted to the richest 1% of the country. I guess that makes Reagan a socialist. Obama supports raising the income tax rate on the richest Americans from 36 to 39%…and that’s the end of American democracy?? really????
Posted by: Roe – Oct 23, 2010 10:09 AM
Funny how people comment about Beck, who quite obviously have never watched or listened to what he says. He is NOT a conservative…. he is a LIBERTARIAN (this is exactly the word he uses to describe himself). If you don’t know the difference, look it up!
Posted by: Mike – Oct 23, 2010 10:26 AM
Socialism is about empowering workers. The Nazis called themselves National Socialist but they were supported by the corporations like Krupps, Ford, GW Bush’s grandfather’s buseness, to reduce workers rights.Beck and Fox are supported by the Koch brothers who pay to create fear, corrupt our media and politicians, to steal from the commons in the oil and forest industries.
Posted by: Marc – Oct 23, 2010 11:13 AM
I read a survey that said that many of the people against ‘Obamacare’ are against it because it does not go far enough. Most surveys do not get that nuanced. The constitution says that GOVERNMENT may not limit free speech. It does not say that citizens may not, though destruction of property is another matter. But I feel your pain, Rick.
Posted by: sharon – Oct 23, 2010 11:45 AM
Jim, please distinguish between insurance and healthcare. I will soon have government insurance (Medicare) but the government will not supply my healthcare, though it sometimes does for veterans.
Posted by: sharon – Oct 23, 2010 11:50 AM
Jim said: Facism,Communism and Socialism are cut from the same cloth. All are authoritarian and depend on state control. Facism grew out of the Socialist movement as the full name implies… [etc.] All wrong, Jim. Every word. Please learn some history before you post again.
Posted by: Rick – Oct 23, 2010 12:13 PM
Marc, If you have ever lived under socialism, you would not feel empowered at all. The regulatory state cannot exist unless it curtails personal freedoms of individuals. The issues I have with Rick are the same ones I have with so-called liberals and progressives. They do not have any tolerance towards anybody with opposing views. Like a previous blogger commented, where was Rick’s condemnation of people equating Bush with Hitler? It’s okay by him since he obviously hates Bush, but if you do not stand by your own principles you are most definitely unprincipled. Lastly, if there were truly a competitive, market driven healthcare in this country, everybody could have coverage, if they wanted to. The truly poor and disadvantaged had coverages – it’s called Medicaid and Schip. IF and when Obamacare should ever be enacted, the astronomical costs WILL result in shortages, and denials of certain procedures. And if you are the unlucky ones who are too old or not a politically favored interest group by the Democrats (ie unions), then you will know what death panels are all about. And if Obamacare is so great, why did every politician who voted for it exempt themselves from it? Rick,if you were denied treatment, you are wealthy enough to pay for your own private doctor. Most people do not have that luxury, so unless you are willing to pay for what the average citizen will be denied because of your support of Obamacare, you should respect other peoples liberties. Or is the libertarian in you only surfacing when it comes to the legalization of pot?
Posted by: janet – Oct 23, 2010 12:26 PM
Fascism grew out of the upheaval of the Great Depression. It was effectively government coordination of industry and this required control of the developing labor movement in Europe and also in the US. What would have been described as “conservatives” collapsed in Italy, Germany and Spain. As the fascists gained power, they required a peaceful labor movement that would not create strikes. Since the communists were the driving force in the labor movement, that made fascist the total enemy of communism. Even FDR pushed through a fascist approach during the early days of the New Deal (the National Recovery Act). The Supreme Court struck it down in it’s entirety which started FDR along the path to try to stuff the Supreme Court by increasing the number of justices. Of course, all the historical context of fascism is lost except for the naked use of power which has also been the hallmark of communist states. From a political perspective, calling someone a fascist is just saying they are cramming their agenda down the people’s throat and the implied abuse of their power. I think this can be applied to either party at different times. If we continue using it freely, it will lose any meaning which is probably the best outcome. As a final comment, shame of you Rick. You are certainly old enough to have learned to ignore boobs with meaningless signs. You did nothing but enhance their self-esteem when the latter was required. You should have just laughed a little chuckle and told them they have no idea what the real Nazis were like.
Posted by: Ken – Oct 23, 2010 12:35 PM
I’m glad you realize that you were wrong to do what you did in Edmonds, Rick. As for the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act which your readers call ObamaCare, there are tens of millions who will now have health insurance.
Posted by: bk – Oct 23, 2010 12:36 PM
Regardless of where an ideology falls in the left/right political spectrum, it’s the ‘tactics’ that matter. I recently read “The Rise & Fall of The Third Reich” by William Schirer (who was actually in Germany during this time. This book (published in 1960 I believe) isn’t skewed by today’s political ideologies and I was amazed at the parallels between the Nazi ‘tactics’ and those used today by the far left (i.e control of media, use of violence, child indoctrination, etc.) I encourage anyone who hasn’t read this book, to take the time to do so. It is very enlightening material. BTW…. Janet is spot in in pointing out Rick’s hypocrisy. I truly believe that he is much farther left than he lets on.
Posted by: Mike – Oct 23, 2010 12:45 PM
I realize this violates the two post rule but since Rick (Steves?) has decided to comment I will be brief. I had a history minor in college and a political science major. I never said anything about “early members”. I used the term “founders”. The goal of the current administration is to control every facet of healthcare and single payer eliminates Insurance companies. Obama has clearly stated that this goal will take time to achieve and be done incrementally. This is contained in several Obama speeches. There is more but I will stand by my claims based on knowledge and historical fact. I now will now leave on a trip.
Posted by: Jim – Oct 23, 2010 12:46 PM
I am going to suggest a book for posters to read. It’s The Rise Fascism by F. L. Carlson. I’m sure that there are other academic books, but this is the one I read in college. First off, he points out that Fascism arose as a result of WWI not the Depression. The Depression helped fuel the development, but wasn’t the initiator. Also, he points out that fascism was different from either the liberal or conservative movements of the 19th century in that it had a very strong nationalist component. “…the term ‘the New Right’ has been coined to describe it.” If you read this book you will see that it is rather simplistic, to say nothing an illogical argument to say communists have totalitarian governments, fascist have totalitarian governments, ergo they are the same. It might be worthwhile picking up a book on logic as well as history. Pam
Posted by: Pam – Oct 23, 2010 1:13 PM
Bottom line, our President should never be compared or brought to likeness in any respect to the most vile white supremacist in known history. Period. Little wonder too many people outside this country have little respect for Americans: too much ignorance on overdrive when all people need to do is slow down and read history for themselves.
Posted by: Alfran – Oct 23, 2010 1:17 PM
You know Rick, health care is a major problem not just for the poor. I just got through reading an email from a friend who is a middle class self employed 60 year old. She is trying to get a new policy because her plan is now $1500.00 a month. Now this is a regular everyday middle class american who has worked all her life. How does someone like that pay a bill like that and that is not even her husband. My husband and I are one of the lucky (but hated in California) retired after 32 years of government work that only have to pay a portion of that. It really is so unfair and why don’t we want our society to be as healthy as possible. We have great educated scientist in this country who develope all these cures, buy they are not touchable by the common American. This is why the sane people out there get crazy sometimes and do what you did!
Posted by: Judy – Oct 23, 2010 2:23 PM
Why don’t people get it that people like Glen Beck, Rush Limbaugh, Fox and CNN are all entertainment, the entertainment industry. These people are making millions off of the backs of every person that buys into what they say to make money. It is only their “show” that they display to make MONEY. Study history and find out the TRUE facts not the facts of the entertainment industry!
Posted by: Judy – Oct 23, 2010 2:35 PM
Rick, I am deeply disappointed in your childish and churlish behavior. You are again acting like a spoiled child of privilege. Where is that famous tolerance that all liberals keep vomiting up in our faces? I only see the usual liberal hypocrisy. I have come to expect more from you after meeting you and attending your speaking engagements. You are made of better stuff. I am beginning to think you may be a bit schizophrenic. On one hand you are the well loved world’s best travel expert and then you become the childish, my way or the highway, bully. Too much cannabis? Still love you, but you’re pushing it.
Posted by: KenK – Oct 23, 2010 3:55 PM
Rick…. the reason Obama with a Hitler mustache ‘pushed your button’ was because it was YOUR guy being parodied! When it was Bush being compared to Hitler, you could give a rat’s ass! You were just exhibiting the ‘typical’ liberal double standard. Perhaps you need to look inside and see where your true values really are.
Posted by: Greg L – Oct 23, 2010 6:04 PM
I do not care if you call our present leaders socialist, fascist, Nazis, or communist, our Constitution is not being followed. Government can not continue spending money they do not have without collapse at some point, or we have high inflation and your money becomes worthless. Tea Party members are not stupid, they understand what it takes to be financially strong and that is what they are promoting. They know that the founding fathers put a lot of thought into their documents, and they have worked well over the years. Tea Party members are from many cultural backgrounds. Rick needs to stick to travel programs, etc., which he excels at. He needs to tame his anger, stop being occupied with his next alcoholic drink (on his shows); I do not want to ask what has he been smoking. Yes I have been to Europe, have family living there, have a degree, and unless our government takes it from me, have more wealth than a house. I do not consider myself a crackpot, but I believe our administration intends to make us a less powerful nation, and I do not go along with that idea. I know a lot of other citizens that agree with me.
Posted by: Linda – Oct 23, 2010 7:58 PM
Rick, While I agree a sign portraying Obama as Hitler could be considered offensive from the perspective of any somewhat rational person (whether they support the Presidnet or not), I would like to remind you that the first amendment does not only apply to only those people who share your point of view. Grow up please. alter
Posted by: Steve – Oct 23, 2010 8:03 PM
I notice people complaining about Rick’s “liberal double standard” and “usual liberal hypocrisy” but I do not notice any one writing about the double standareds and hypocrisy of the right. One poster wrote the “truly poor and disadvantaged had coverages-it’s called Medicaid and Schip.” But, the conservatives want government out of healthcare and these are government programs. Is it not hypocrisy to say the needy had Medicaid and Schip and advocate for the government to be out of healthcare? Or, at least nonrational? How about tea partiers wanting government out of Medicare when it is a goverment program? A double standard, they can have a government run program as long as they do not acknowledge it as one, but do not let anyone else have a government run health insurance program. Is this what they are saying? What principles are they standing on? The only principle I see them having is: “I got mine and screw you.” Am I taking the Bible too literally when I read I am to be my brothers’ keeper? Or, when I read Jesus saying, “Whatever you do to the least of my brothers you do to me.” As regarding personal freedoms of individuals being curtailed, let us not forget the Patriot Act (sic) was signed into law by Pres. G. W. Bush and it has arguably done more to curtail personal freedom than anyother act. Also, Pres. G. W. Bush and his minions kept in place the travel bans that have curtailed personal freedoms for years, and even now the conservatives rally to keep the travel bans for purely poltical reasons. More hypocrisy, saying you are for personal freedoms while denying personal freedoms. I have not noticed any response to a previous poster’s comment about insurance company death panels and denial of coverage. Where are the insurance defenders?
Posted by: Nels – Oct 23, 2010 8:14 PM
Would someone please explain to me how Rick violated anyone’s First Amendment rights? As I read the First Amendment it pertains to actions of the government, and I have not seen any evidence that Rick is the government, or an agent of the government. For that mater, NPR is not the government and thus did not, could not violate Juan Williams’s First Amendment rights. Maybe conservatives only support employers’ right to hire and fire whom they wish when it is people that disagree with them (the conservatives) who are getting fired. Should this be filed under the heading of Hypocrisy and Double Standards?
Posted by: Plato – Oct 23, 2010 8:27 PM
I personally think its unfair to Hitler, After all President Obama is not nearly as effective a leader as Hitler was.. He’s not fixed the Economy (which Hitler did) He’s only begun to get the US started on a massive infrastructure problem (which Hitler actually got huge amounts of finished) .. Maybe the difference is that President Obama is constantly being hamstrung by the Republicans and blue-dogs and Liberals in the Congress and Media* to be able to actually do any thing of any real lasting value. Not to say that President Obama dosen’t care about America, but he also isn’t nearly as Nationalist as Hitler was. *He basically gets it from all sides, one group is being obstructionist for no real reason, one group is being obstructionist for votes, and then his base lashes out in anger at him because the other two groups balk him. Its a no win situation.
Posted by: anonymous – Oct 24, 2010 1:30 AM
First and foremost the appauling issue here is that Rick committed a crime of assault and destruction of property. Is that how you want our youth to see you? A bully ??? Second he infringed on others freedom of speech which he would not allow anyone to do to him. Third why does this have to always be about left or right most americans are centrists, more and more are libertarians and independents. How can anyone defend Obamacare when we do not have the least amount of information of how it will be administered and impact people as it will not totally kick in for several years. On paper the broadstrokes may look good but the devil is in the detail. No one is opposing health care for poor people they are protesting the way it is to be administered to hit other people as well. Why is this blog filled with such polarized people especially people who have more liberal leaning, why no tolerance for the communication and free exchange of ideas the left democratics tout. Rick Ithink you want to live in a world with no rules, no laws and no consequences, where everyone should agree with you. On TV you come across as a happy go lucky affitable person who embraces mankind flaws and all. On this board to me you come across as a bully on a bully pulpit and that saddens me. For the last two years your blog has been filled with anger and critical rants what is up with that? Whst happened to man who made lemonade out of lemons.
Posted by: Lana – Oct 24, 2010 4:25 AM
To everyone criticizing Rick for tearing down the poster, he did admit that he was wrong and apologized. My impression is that Rick probably does believe in free speech for everyone, but he’s passionate about his own beliefs and expressed himself unfairly.
Posted by: Amy – Oct 24, 2010 5:56 AM
What is most galling to me is the pure arrogance and condescension that Rick exhibits. He calls anybody with opposing views as either simple-minded or not intellectual. Sorry to break this to you, Rick, but you are no intellectual, just another person with a viewpoint. You are not alone in having the right to express your opinions,. I think you need to do so real soul-searching and try to figure out exactly why you try to act tolerant when traveling, yet exhibit such intolerance at home. I think you are becoming the proverbial ugly American here.
Posted by: cecile – Oct 24, 2010 6:44 AM
Amy, Rick only apologized AFTER he was told he was going to be arrested . His first reaction was that of what he thought was right and what he thought he was entitled to do. If the police had not been called because of his violent disruptive action he would have walked away bragging about what he did instead of being quasi conciliatory sorry. This is not the Rick from the 90’s and early 2000’s who lived and let live. If your child came home and said he tore up posters in school because he did not like the message would you not punish him because that is not how our society deals with difference of opinion. That is why our society is like it is, no one takes responsiblity seriously nor the consequences that go with bad behavior. I don’t give a flame about WHY he did it what bothers me is that he DID it and could not control himself NOT to do it. If we are looking at him as a beacon of tolerance something has gone wrong in the last two years. Violence is violence.
Posted by: Lana – Oct 24, 2010 6:52 AM
Roe, I don’t know where you are getting your history from but why don’t you ask Dietrich Bonhoeffer or Maximilian Kolbe or the thousands of other Catholics and other Christians who were butchered how much they supported the Nazis. You are only showing your true feelings with a misinformed statement like that.
Posted by: bill – Oct 24, 2010 8:53 AM
Intolerance is the last refuge of those who have an ax to grind. It surprises me that so many of Rick’s readers rant. Of course most are anonymous and we know perceived anonymity is also a catalyst for similar eruptions like road rage. Ironically, spewers of hate and invective and even one-sided opinions rarely change the beliefs of anybody else. But I think venting on the internet behind a mask is much better than risky behavior behind the wheel. Incidentally, many Germans drive like near maniacs on the autobahn in addition to being quite outspoken and opinionated about their own beliefs and they often scorn the beliefs and actions of others. So we have to be cautious about anybody we hold up to be role models.
Posted by: b – Oct 24, 2010 9:14 AM
Hey everyone is entitled to a bad day once in a blue moon. Rick had his and he apologized and life goes on. I am still crazy about Rick and Nick Nolte and they certainly had their bad days.
Posted by: Audrey in Keizer, OR – Oct 24, 2010 9:28 AM
Rick, you say “I nearly got in trouble with the police over a Hitler incident.” No, Rick. You DID get into trouble with the police. They were called to handle a disturbance that YOU [INVALID]d. You just weren’t arrested or charged. You go on to say “Some right-wing fringies were demonstrating against “Obamacare.” They had a poster of Obama with a Hitler moustache hanging from their card table. It angered me, so the poster ended up ripped up and on the ground.” Tell me exactly how “the poster end up ripped up and on the ground”? Magic? A third party? Your evil twin? Why don’t you take responsibility for your own actions, and say “I tore up their poster and threw it on the ground”? Rick, I’m about your age, have two kids about the same age as yours, a loving wife like yours, and I have to say that if I behaved as childishly and as angrily as you in this situation, we would ALL be mortified, and I would be getting some counselling. I hope you are able to work through your problems dealing with ignorant people who do not agree with you.
Posted by: Joe – Oct 24, 2010 12:06 PM
Audrey, Rick has had other similar bad days which were documented inappropriate behavior. The young marine that tried to have a conversation with him and he blew past, the fact after the Lions club put out flags in Edmonds and he did not like the message, he unilaterally tore them out of the ground and disposed of them. His anger and inability to control himself is escalating and we all love and care for him but enabling bad behavior is pushing him closer to something he may not be able to get out of. I’ve seen a definite twist in him over the last two years and there is more darkness to his blogs and anger. Saying oh it is a bad day is not helping him. Like Joe I think he needs counseling. Divorce can turn your world on its head and maybe because he does not have Anne anymore to pull in the reins he has gone a little wild and sideways so maybe he needs a reality check from his fans who care for him and don’t want to see him lose all his credibility.
Posted by: Lana – Oct 24, 2010 12:49 PM
We seem to have become a nation of judges. Woe to the person who expresses a strong opinion which disagrees with one of our own beliefs. There are people being paid millions (ex. Maureen Dowd New York Times, Sean Hannity, Fox) for their opinions which, although biased, do inform and explain [INVALID] at least at the margins. Steves has a following and he has a point of view. It probably helps his business on one hand and hurts it on the other. But better a conviction of some kind than lying back in the weeds to sabotage somebody else’s.
Posted by: bill – Oct 24, 2010 1:30 PM
Cheap shot, Lana.
Posted by: Bill – Oct 24, 2010 2:53 PM
While I agree that Rick’s actions were wrong, his anger over the Nazi rhetoric is spot-on. Anyone making a comparison between Obama and Hitler is either uneducated or intentionally trying to stir hatred or both. I don’t agree with all the president’s actions, but to compare him to a genocidal psychopath is ridiculous. Those who call him a socialist have apparently never been to a real socialist country (aren’t you folks supposed to be great world travelers?).
Posted by: Brad – Oct 24, 2010 3:28 PM
Lana wrote, “How can anyone defend Obamacare when we do not have the least amount of information od how it will be administered and impact people as it will not totally kick in for several years.” May we just change one word in Lana’s statement? Let’s change defend to condemn and ask the question. It seems to me the lack of information has not stopped the pundits and politicians from commenting, and often making distortions.
Posted by: Socrates – Oct 24, 2010 5:33 PM
@Lana: What a sophomoric phrase to use. To attach Rick in such a manner only removes you from any creditable comment.
Posted by: Henry – Oct 25, 2010 1:23 AM
Why are Americans so full of hate? Everyday I read about this group hating that groups actions or words. Where does the hate come from? I took Rick’s advice and moved to Sweden in 2008. I can’t say I’ll live longer but I can say I’ll live happier because of the move. Mt wife and I travel around Europe with an annual trip to the US to visit family. We are very happy. Sure there is anger in Europe but not the hate I see when I visit the US. I just returned from a three week family visit to Oregon and the US news (and pundits) don’t have many good comments compared to European news. Seems their whole show is built on fear and hate. So thanks Rick for your advice and keep on traveling.
Posted by: Henry – Oct 25, 2010 1:36 AM
Socrates (?) Govenor Manchin just came out yesterday and said he had not idea what was in the 2,000 pages of the healthcare bill and had he known he and many more dems would not have voted for it
Posted by: Lana – Oct 25, 2010 4:07 AM
I classify myself as a civil libertarian, which in its simplest form, means that I oppose big government. I have several family members who are big-time liberals and Obama supporters. They’ve marched in pro-Obama parades and, although I vehemently disagree with them, it upsets me to learn about some of the rude/ignorant/profane comments that are yelled at them when they’re peacefully doing their thing. It also upsets me to learn that Rick did what he did. I realize that he apologized, but going off on some demonstrators tearing up a poster just seems crazy. Frankly, whenever I drive or walk by a group of people touting some political/ideological belief that I disagree with, I remind myself that it’s a free country and I just keep on driving/walking. For him to do what he did just seems nuts. Is that what he’s really like (a nut job) or was there more to the story? I have to believe there was more to it than that. I don’t want to believe that my PBS travel hero is starting to unravel. By the way, I’d love to hear his thoughts on the recent NPR incident.
Posted by: Sara M – Oct 25, 2010 7:07 AM
Hey, all of you people out there criticizing Rick, stop it RIGHT NOW! Might I remind you all that Rick (as he has often told us) spends 100 days a year in Europe. 100 days! Thus, he knows ALL about the world and is far, far more qualified than any of us to tell us what we need and what is best for us.
Posted by: KZ – Oct 25, 2010 8:03 AM
KZ, Grow up. If you rely only on what Rick Steve’s tell you, you really are a sorry lot. You do not know the qualifications of any of these bloggers by the way. I will guarantee that most are better educated than Rick and world travelers as well. I know I am. Sara, you won’t find Rick responding to the Juan Williams story because it’s just another example of the left’s intolerance and hypocrisy, two qualities that Rick only criticizes when he’s attacking anyone who does not share his viewpoints. No coincidence that instead of Rick responding to direct questions on this blog, he tries to show how he’s accomodating and open to his staffs differing viewpoints and suggestions on the Dubrovnik piece. Trying to show your much touted tolerance, Rick?
Posted by: jd – Oct 25, 2010 8:21 AM
JD, I can’t believe your as stupid as you come across. My post was meant to be facetious (look it up). I certainly do NOT rely only on Ricks information. That was just my point, that Ricks seems to have grown more arrogant the more he’s traveled and seems to think he has the answers to all of life’s problems. I think perhaps your the one who should grow up, or at least take some reading comprehension courses so you better understand a serious post from a sarcastic one.
Posted by: KZ – Oct 25, 2010 10:12 AM
I LOVE Obamacare! I’m going to apply to get on one of those Death Panels. I’m so looking forward to denying health care to my neighbor with the dog that barks all night, and those kids running on my lawn, and that young couple (they must be druggies) who play music when I want to watch reruns of Lawrence Welk. They’re all on my list, and oh I’ve got a long list…..I can’t wait! There’s lots of folks that gotta go, and I’m the one to get ’em gone!
Posted by: MyCrackpotTheories – Oct 25, 2010 12:53 PM
I can’t take reading these comments anymore. They have become just as combative as any political site.
Posted by: andy – Oct 25, 2010 1:09 PM
Sara, if our PBS hero is unraveling better he hear it from us than wind up in jail/ Men are bad about seeking counseling and women are enablers so if his behavior is worrisome better to hear that it is inappropriate than have him implode or explode. I have had the impression for awhile now that Rick has been too tightly wound and when someone spontanously unwinds it is not a pretty site.
Posted by: Lana – Oct 25, 2010 4:27 PM
What an amazing group of angry, angry people. Here’s something for the more conservative among us to chew on. I believe that the American flag is the symbol for the greatest nation of all time. I fought under that flag, and almost lost my life defending it. It is not against the law, nor should it be unlawful, for someone to deface or destroy the flag in the interest of expressing himself. Still, I am enraged by the idea of anyone defacing my flag. So, consider this. Even though the defacer has the absolute right to destroy or defile the flag, if he does it in front of me, he will not like the outcome, as I will take steps to rescue the flag or prevent its destruction, maybe throwing in a punch or two for good measure. I will do this in violation of the law, and I will take whatever punishment the law provides because I do not like the other person’s expression. I will not lose sleep over my illegal actions because I believe in something and am offended by the desecration of my flag. Now, before you all excoriate Rick and condemn his conduct, tell me you would stand silent and not react while someone defaced your flag. wbf
Posted by: wbfey – Oct 25, 2010 5:35 PM
Someone asked a simple question about why Rick’s blog about his ten favorite things to do in Europe had been removed. It was a harmless question and a non-controversial blog and was attracting some interesting responses. I think an explanation for its removal is due. Why not?
Posted by: louisa – Oct 26, 2010 5:40 AM
wbfey, How the heck can you compare the US Flag with a poster of Obama equated to Nazism? That US Flag represents the hard-earned and won liberties that all people have a right to express. Rick’s action showed his utter contempt for free speech and he should rightly be condemned for it.
Posted by: sophie – Oct 26, 2010 6:18 AM
Just out of curiosity, can anyone explain to me why a policeman would have mentioned the possibility of assault charges for the act of ripping up a poster? I could understand destruction of property, but why assault?
Posted by: Sara M – Oct 26, 2010 6:25 AM
Sara, I work in the court system and I can tell you that if an officer was going to charge with assault, there was more to the story than just ripping up a poster. I will guarantee that there must have been some type of threatening behavior on the part of Rick, but nowadays a lot of liberals are self-imploding.
Posted by: tam – Oct 26, 2010 6:48 AM
Rick, why did it take a cop to tell you that you were infringing on their rights. Typical left wing mentality, if you disagree with my politics I hate you, you a racist, you are evil. Rick Grow up and remember a good portion of your readers and customers are conservtative and these actions are considered spitting in our face. You just lost a long time customer.
Posted by: Joe – Oct 26, 2010 8:06 AM
Way to go Rick, I wouldn’t have done it but I understand your frustration and anger. How the wacko right can compare a kind and gentle man who only wants to help the American people to the biggest mass murderer in history is beyond me. Typical rt wing mentality ( to steal a phrase). Oh and to all you right wing conservatives who can’t stand Ricks political views, please stop reading Ricks blogs. Please do me and yourself a favor.
Posted by: Thomas – Oct 26, 2010 9:04 AM
Calling somebody a right-winger is a compliment for me. Today’s “right-wingers” are freedom-loving individualists that would have been called “classical liberals” in the 1920s. In stark contrast, Democrats really aren’t liberal thinkers at all; rather, they are precisely what would have been called “fascists” throughout history [INVALID] advocates of shifting money and power to an authoritarian government, ruled by “enlightened despots”. The left worships power-hungry authoritarians (Stalin, Mao, Castro, Obama…). The right despises them and instead, seeks individual freedom and prosperity for all. Most people in this country identify with conservatives over liberals and I think the leftwing is much more dangerous. Interesting news I read today about the head of NPR, Schiller (who fired Juan Williams in the NPR fiasco) in that she was a former tour guide in the Soviet Union. Former spies related how the Soviets manipulated these western “tour guides” into believing in their utopia. We all know how THAT reality turned out!
Posted by: janet – Oct 26, 2010 10:09 AM
Janet, check your thinking. You say that the left worships Stalin, Mao and Castro. Define the “left.” And I have to say shame on you for including Obama in a list with Mao, Castro and Stalin. What has Obama done that would make a rational person think like that? The liberals in America DO NOT WORSHIP these murderous despots, but you know that. Or maybe you don’t because your thinking has become so polluted by watching Fox News. I do think that you are a little paranoid.
Posted by: Thomas – Oct 26, 2010 10:56 AM
Hey Janet, I just checked Wikipedia for a definition of Fascism. Fascism is on the far right of the political spectrum. I suggest that you read the page since you have a misconception of what a Fascist is.
Posted by: Thomas – Oct 26, 2010 11:01 AM
Thomas you are using wikipedia seriously, check a dictionary, I checked Websters and it is a centralized form of government, no mention of far right. and as far as liberals supporting Mao and Castro, many left leaning movie starts are pro castro, michael moore, oliver stone etc…. and Anita Dunn did cite Mao and served under the obama admin in 2009. She cited him as one of her favorite political philosphers
Posted by: Joe – Oct 26, 2010 11:27 AM
In the disability rights community we have a saying that the only difference between right wingers and left wingers is that left wingers want to kill us off quickly (abortion, euthanasia, rationed healthcare), while right wingers want to kill us off slowly (cuts in Medicaid/Medicare and special education, abolition of ADA, limited access to healthcare). Quite frankly, I think both of you, liberals and conservatives, have fascistic tendencies and both of you scare the heck out of me at times. I’m not sure what the solution is for those of us who have been caught in the middle of both of you.
Posted by: Fairewood – Oct 26, 2010 11:40 AM
Thomas, What part of Obama’s presidency do you think DOESN’T equate him with totalitarians? He has taken over the auto industry, banking industry, healthcare industry, created Czars for everything without any Congressional approval, has full intentions to nationalize the energy sector with cap and trade .. the list goes on and on. If you cannot see his authoritarian, narcisstic tendencies, you are woefully ignorant.
Posted by: janet – Oct 26, 2010 12:00 PM
And it’s a well-known fact that the left loves dictators. Be it Mao, Chavez, Castro, even old Soviets, it is a well-established fact who they idolize and want to emulate. You cannot deny those relationships for real, can you? If so, your credibility is done, but I am more than happy to continue debating the issue because I AM tolerant of opposing views, even thought I may disagree.
Posted by: jd – Oct 26, 2010 12:04 PM
Hey Janet, Obama didn’t take over the Auto industry or the banking industry or the healthcare industry. In the case of the auto industry and banking industry he bailed them out. Saving millions of jobs ( oh how I almost wish that he didn’t bail out the banking industry). Oh, and by the way it was your pal Bush who started TARP. Geez, Obama resisted nationalizing banks ( I wish he would have). ANd your Glenn Beck inspired paranoia has led you to believe that Obama is hell bent on creating A Stalinist dictatorship that he is appointing czars. Hmm, did you know that Reagan had “czars” too? I guess he had a secret admiration for Stalin also. Oh yeah and I am denying that the left loves dictators. You are being small minded. I am a liberal, as are most of the people that I know and we look at Mao etc as murderous thugs who did nothing but ruin their societies. You are painting all of the left with a broad brush if you think that all of the left looks up to these dictators. If you believe that then you are totally misinformed and have no credibility. Debating you is like debating Pastor Phelps.
Posted by: Thomas – Oct 26, 2010 2:36 PM
Would someone (maybe Janet) explain to me when Obama took over Ford? Or the the health care industry? I still notice United Health, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, etc. are still writing health insurance. Also, please give the date when the government took over the Mayo Clinic, the Cleveland Clinic, Kaiser Permanete. etc. If the right is not power hungry please explain Cheney’s unitary president theory to me and how it was not a power grab. Also, the Patriot (sic) Act; if this was not an attempt to outlaw dissent what was it?
Posted by: Nels – Oct 26, 2010 8:19 PM
Rick, I am truly disappointed in you and your attitude. Why is it that the Left beleives in free speech as long as it’s something they agree with, yet get bent out of shape when someone else trys to express their own opinion. While I do not agree with the Hitler comparison, you can find just as many on the left using it as well. Just look at CNN and ‘Meathead’ Rob Reiner Compares Tea Party to Hitler, yet you don’t see the Right getting upset at him espousing his opinion. You should also note that we have a Democratic Nazi Party, yet no Republican Nazi Party, so actually the Left is closer aligned to Hitler than the Right.
Posted by: Chip – Oct 27, 2010 5:44 AM
Nels, By the sound of your name, maybe you are getting your news from your state-controlled press in Europe, but it is a well known fact that Obama HAS taken over GM and Chrysler. They have a controlling interest in the company, so it IS a nationalized, government-owned entity. He made sure, as all Democrat politicians do, to reward their union buddies by giving them ownership rights over the rightful creditors — basically usurping well-established bankruptcy laws. If you don’t think Obamacare is nationalized healthcare, all I can say is, I guess you want to wait until the whole bill is written before reading it, but the parts that are public record, show that the government wants to control the healthcare market. We are seeing how companies are raising their healthcare premiums for their employees as we speak. Companies like MacDonalds and Boeing will stop the healthcare coverages they provide unless the government grants them a waiver (which they did for MacDonalds). The effect of this is that the healthcare industry will be obliterated because of the policies of Obamacare, but that was the intent of the Dimocrats all along — march toward a single-payer system run by the government. Gee, that works great for the NHS in Britain, doesn’t it? If you need to be reminded, the Patriot Act was initiated because of 9/11, the greatest domestic terrorism perpetrated by radical Islamists. Bush had good reason for the Patriot Act. What’s Obama’s excuse? Anything else you need me to clarify for you?
Posted by: janet – Oct 27, 2010 8:14 AM
I think it’s funny that people on here are getting so worked up by Rick’s post. You know he is a liberal and yet read his blogs that are political in nature. I am not going to go read the blog of someone whose politics are on the opposite end of the spectrum than mine, and then argue with everything they say that I do not agree with. The real meaning of the post was not diminishing the Holocaust. Maybe you should reflect on that, and put an end to the petty comments and name calling.
Posted by: Jean – Oct 27, 2010 9:39 AM
Jean – That point of view never makes any sense to me. We’re only supposed to read material that we agree with and only engage in conversation and debate with people that we agree with? One of the hallmarks of a democratic society is to exchange different ideas and opinions and to engage in debate with people who don’t share our views. I am 50-50 as far as Rick’s political views are concerned, and I like to debate the topics that I don’t agree with him on. The problem is when people with completely opposing views become uncivilized, ignorant and rude with each other; but there’s nothing wrong with reading material you don’t agree with (how else would you become educated about opposing views?) and engaging people in spirited debate. Some people who comment on this blog have said “Why do you bother reading this blog if you are so against his political beliefs?” Well, why not? I want to hear what the opposite side has to say. That’s a good thing, right?
Posted by: Fairewood – Oct 27, 2010 10:23 AM
Jean, As Rick states in his opening remarks on this blog, “If you think it’s inappropriate for a travel writer to stir up discussion on his blog with political observations and insights gained from traveling abroad, you may not want to read any further.” If you do not want to hear other viewpoints, then maybe YOU should not read this blog further. I am constantly amazed at how people like you do not want to hear or read anything that may contradict what they believe. Are you that insecure about your principles that you do not want a free-flowing exchange of ideas and opinions? Would you have wanted to hear any of the lively debates that occurred when our Constitution or Declaration of Independence were written? If Rick wants to talk politics on his travel blog, he has a right, but we have a right to respond as well [INVALID] until or unless he shuts down [INVALID]native views on this site.
Posted by: janet – Oct 27, 2010 10:32 AM
Fairewood and Janet, You mistook my point. I am not insecure about my beliefs and do enjoy reading other people opinions. What bothers me is when adults act like children when it comes to politics. There is such a thing as good debating and there is also naming calling and talking down to people which I find childish and offensive (i.e. the “people like you” comment).
Posted by: Jean – Oct 27, 2010 4:35 PM
It seems that many people here are fixated on the Ward Cleaver persona which Rick portrays on TV. That one dimension is only part of who he is. Politically, there’s not much doubt about where he stands. If it upsets you so much, maybe you shouldn’t read the blog. I used to listen to Glenn Beck’s radio show years before he got famous. It was funny back then because politics was only a small part of it. Now, Beck has become a creature I don’t recognize. I can’t listen to more than five seconds of him without switching the channel. Seriously, why waste your time with reading this if it only raises your blood pressure?
Posted by: Brad – Oct 27, 2010 5:22 PM
And remember that the adult acting like a child here as it relates to politics, Jean, was Rick when he freaked out at someone exercising their right of free speech when expressing a viewpoint that Rick did not agree with. If you ask me, Rick sabatgoed his own credibility with that immature, childish move.
Posted by: sophie – Oct 27, 2010 6:21 PM
Rick, I’m really surprised and disappointed by this. I have always regarded you as a thoughtful liberal, and though I don’t always agree with your politics, I never thought of you as a knee-jerk democrat or someone easily swayed by emotion. I know that this election cycle has a lot of people uptight but I would have expected that a person as intelligent as yourself would be able to see beyond the hyperbole (of both sides) and maintain respect for individuals right to free speech, as well as recognizing that people of different ideological persuasions as yourself may actually have legitimate grievances, or positions that are as well thought-out as your own. The people of the United States have a right to expect responsible government and when that government oversteps its constitutional bounds (as I believe occurred under both Bush and Obama), Americans have a right to be upset. Barack Obama was voted in on a groundswell of angst over the actions of the Bush administration and I believe that this year we will see a new congress voted in on a similar groundswell over the actions of the Obama administration. Regardless of the current political climate, I would hope that you as a patriotic American would be quick to defend the rights of individuals to voice their opinions regardless of how they might align with your own.
Posted by: Joe Schmo – Oct 27, 2010 7:36 PM
Janet thank you for your comments. Since Janet is of Scottish origin, am I to assume you are from Scotland and have first hand knowledge of the UK health system? I am only making this assumption since you made one based on my name. Did not GM and Chrysler execs go to Washington asking for a bailout after their incompetence got their companies in trouble? What would have been the effect on the economy if the bailout had not occured? How many suppliers would have gone out of business and what would happen to their employees? I did not notice your answer to when the government took over Ford; they must have since you wrote Obama nationalised the auto industry. Why do critics of government run healthcare systems only bring up the UK or Canadian systems shortcomings? I have not heard or read anywhere where anyone is proposing we adopt the systems they have with no adjustments made. Why no mention of the Norwegian healthcare system, or the French? “The healthcare industry will be obliterated …” Are you serious? You mean good bye Eli Lilly, Johnson&Johnson, Bristol Myers Squibb, Mayo Clinic, Sloan Kettering, etc., etc. Since you seem to be so strongly opposed to any government run healthcare system, may I safely assume you want to end Medicare and Medicaid,and shut down the VA hospitals and all hospitals and medical facilities on US military installions. Should the US Navy scrap their hospital ships? BTW, what is the life expectancy, infant mortality rates, percent of GDP spend on health care in Norway, France, Canada, the UK, and Japan compared to the USA? Re Patriot Act The act is law,and as you note was passed under BushII; I do not see your point, ” What’s Obama’s excuse.” Is he and AG Holder supposed to ignore the law so they can be critised for not enforcing laws Congress has passed?
Posted by: Nels – Oct 27, 2010 9:11 PM
What does this have to do with travel? The people you attacked were expressing their right to free speech. Your actions indicate an intolerance for free speech, unless it is speech you approve of…Between this incident and your childish comments about leaving the US due to gun violence,I’d say you need to do some growing up
Posted by: km – Oct 28, 2010 4:02 AM
Actually, Nels, GM and Chrysler got into the mess they were in because of their union contract obligations. I will be the first to say that GM management should never have agreed to those union concessions in the first place. At the time of the “bailouts” I was very vocal in stating that GM and Chrysler SHOULD go through a structured bankrupty instead of having the taxpayers essentiallyl bail out the unions pension plans. My criticism of nationalized healthcare applies to ALL countries, be it France, Germany, Canada and Norway. The fact is, the US healthcare system is (soon to be was after the mandates of Obamacare) the best in the world. Where I live, Canadians by the droves come to seek medical procedures in the US over their own system. The US has among other things the best cancer treatments and survival rates ANYWHERE. Where the US healthcare system could have been improved on was in allowing the free market exchange of insurance between the states. Economic freedom and market driven economies are what makes people able to attain wealth, which guarentees them of more choices and freedoms, and a higher living standard.
Posted by: janet – Oct 28, 2010 11:37 AM
Janet, I doubt if we wcould ever have free market exchange of insurance between states as long as AHIP has an anti-trust exemption. Perhaps it is just a matter of decinitions, but I do not think the USA has the best healthcare in the world. The best medical care in the world if one can afford it I will agree we have. Healthcare to me is more than medical treatment; it involves nutrition education, physical education, etc. A more holistic approach. We seem to lack a wellness component, and only see a medical practioner to treat our illnesses. Look at obesity rates in USA. Recently the military has said over 25% of people 18 to 24 are too fat to enlist. Thank you for your time and comments!
Posted by: Nels – Oct 28, 2010 7:29 PM
Let’s cut the nonsense and get to the honest reason why conservative right-wingers are opposed to Obama. Obama is a strong, well-educated African-American male and they don’t want the presidency of a strong African-American male to be a success. These people are a bunch of money-obsessed Nietzsche-Ayn Rand nuts and they want to put all minorities and all the “weaker” members of society back in their “place,” just as they were in the good old 1950’s. Simple as that.
Posted by: Moderate – Oct 29, 2010 5:42 AM
The problem today is the depth to which both sides have fallen. The right refers to Obama as a socialist. He is not a socialist, but he does belive in robust social programs and raising taxes on the “rich” to pay for them. At the same time, Obama refuses to have a reasonable discussion with conservatives, and instead refers to them as the “enemy” who needs to sit in the “back of the bus.” For someone who campaigned on bring red and blue together, it is a strange way to attempt in. What we need today is another Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton who could work the other side.
Posted by: T.J. – Oct 29, 2010 12:22 PM
The problem today is the depth to which both sides have fallen. The right refers to Obama as a socialist. He is not a socialist, but he does belive in robust social programs and raising taxes on the “rich” to pay for them. At the same time, Obama refuses to have a reasonable discussion with conservatives, and instead refers to them as the “enemy” who needs to sit in the “back of the bus.” For someone who campaigned on bring red and blue together, it is a strange way to attempt in. What we need today is another Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton who could work the other side.
Posted by: T.J. – Oct 29, 2010 12:22 PM
Moderate, what a laugh did you see him on Jon Stewart he looked like a buffoon. A TV host calling a respected leader (?) “dude”. Being poked at by one of the biggest liberal alive. It was like a car wreck you were forced to watch.
Posted by: Maureen – Oct 29, 2010 2:54 PM
Dear Maureen, You’re post is kind of vague and inarticulate, so I really know how to respond. That is the inherent nature of Jon Stewart’s show. Sarah Palin acted pretty idiotically in a more serious interview environment and was eaten alive by people who aren’t exactly heavy weights.
Posted by: Moderate – Oct 29, 2010 5:18 PM
Good for Rick, although he should have let them arrest him as a form of civil disobedience. Hey right wing wackos, go crawl back into your holes.
Posted by: Michael – Oct 29, 2010 7:25 PM
I am amazed that so many people have reacted so emotionally to Rick’s blog and miss the fact that he didn’t have to mention this to anyone. I see the blog as an opportunity for self reflection on all the issues raised by the incident. I did not vote for then-Senator Obama when he ran for president. However, he is now my president and whether I agree or disagree with him on a particular issue, I am offended that anyone would paint a Hitler mustache on his picture in lieu of actually expressing a coherent political thought. With all the comments that people have made about the recent healthcare bill, political parties, etc., please remember that the President does not pass laws-Congress passes laws. The last thing I did before leaving on a trip to England (despite the terror alert) was fill out and mail in my ballot for the upcoming election. So instead of venting your political frustration in Rick’s direction, voice it with your ballot and actually vote next tuesday.
Posted by: Sheila Twohey – Oct 30, 2010 6:31 AM
Hey Rick, Just wondering if you were planning attending Jon Stewart’s rally on the Mall. News is reporting some people carrying posters with pictures of Republicans dressed as Hitler. Are you going to denounce them and rip up those placards as well? Sheila, voting is but one form of protestation. I totally disagree with you thinking that people should not debate issues whether it’s on blogs or attending rallies. Public discourse is what makes a democracy work.
Posted by: jd – Oct 30, 2010 2:56 PM
JD…… I hope you mean a ‘Republic’, which is what we are supposed to be. A democracy is two wolves and a sheep deciding what to have for dinner!
Posted by: Mike – Oct 30, 2010 3:20 PM
JD is correct. A picture from MSNBC of th