The Trail: A Daily Diary of Campaign 2008

there is the professional world of warcraft power leveling here. welcome.

there is the professional world of warcraft power leveling here. welcome.

I voted for Bill Clinton twice and was always defending him with my Republican husband. However, I was shocked, then disappointed which turned into anger when he made those comments in SC. He truly showed his colors.

Maybe Shuster could have worded it differently, but it's very difficult to do so. I have found out that the Clintons will prostitute themselves to win an elected office. It's not about the American voters, it's about them.

If Hillary Clinton is nominated, I will stay home this November, and my WASP republican husband who would have voted for Senator Obama will vote for John McCain.

By the way, I'm a naturalized American who happens to be black and form friendships based on commonalities and character.

Shame on you Bill and Hillary.

As I watch MSNBC mostly because of Hardball, my wife and I have honestly been shocked at how so much more positive and overall coverage of the democratic campaign has been towards the rookie Obama, as opposed to the short shrift and negative comments that have been given to the veteran Clinton. It's blatantly clear, they don't like the Clintons, and their coverage reflects it. The comments by Chris Mathews and David Shuster are the most visible signs of their lop sided coverage, and possible bias. I don't wish unemployment for Mr. Shuster, I can rest assured that his ilk can find a job at FOX, seems all the failed journalists are finding spots there.

MSNBC SUCKS and so does GE.

David Shuster is simply speaking a foul mouth who should never work in this business again. Where was the FCC when he called President Clinton and Mrs. Clinton "pimps"? It is time reporters like David are put out of business.

Is there a more gutless news organization than MSNBC apparently headed by cowardly lion types. Dumped Imus, now Shuster, both made distasteful remarks, but not job losing remarks. In fact the heads of MSNBC and their suck up correspondents are themselves being pimped by the holier than thou Clintons. Hope Chelsea enjoyed her dinner playing up to the young super delegate.

Is there a more gutless news organization than MSNBC apparently headed by cowardly lion types. Dumped Imus, now Shuster, both made distasteful remarks, but not job losing remarks. In fact the heads of MSNBC and their suck up corresponds are themselves being pimped by the holier than thou Clintons. Hope Chelsea enjoyed her dinner playing up to the young super delegate.

The silencing of the media by the Clinton campaign is disturbing. Civil liberty always trumps political correctness. Yes, Schuster should apologize, which he did. But there seems to be a jumping of the Clinton campaign whenever ANYTHING negative is said by the media. Shuster's comment was in a discussion setting, not a news report. I believe we still have freedom of speech, don't we. This is a very disturbing trend. I am a feminist who has long worked in a male dominated setting. How about going after Glen Beck of Fox for using the term,"Pimping," with regard to a female. Has he been suspended yet?

The silencing of the media by the Clinton campaign is disturbing. Civil liberty always trumps political correctness. Yes, Schuster should apologize, which he did. But there seems to be a jumping of the Clinton campaign whenever ANYTHING negative is said by the media. Shuster's comment was in a discussion setting, not a news report. I believe we still have freedom of speech, don't we. This is a very disturbing trend. I am a feminist who has long worked in a male dominated setting. How about going after Glen Beck of Fox for using the term,"Pimping," with regard to a female. Has he been suspended yet?

Shuster got suspended because he spoke the truth? Maybe his language could have been better selected but the thought is very close to the center of the mark. Just this morning it was reported that the Hillbilly team has been calling a super delagate and wooing him with a promise of lunch with their daughter. Why not lunch with Hillary or Bill? (Actually now that I think about it this would definately sway him to the other camp!)Why do they offer their daughter? Is is because they know that a 19 year boy might find their daughter attractive and perhaps might sway his vote to their side? I wonder if they promised anything else beside dinner?? Listen HILLYBILLY- you can't graze on both sides of the fence and than complain that no one wants to drink your milk!

Maybe Texas should remember the NAFTA-duo.
Where does NAU leave amendment #2?
Mexicans crossing the border and getting
guns?

So where does the North American Union
leave the 2nd Amendment? Do Mexicans get
to practice it? DOUBT IT!

I think Texas should remember the NAFTA-duo

I can see it now. If Hillary becomes President, she will turn on the tears whenever something doesn't suit her. She will have her aides threaten and get people fired for the least infraction. The media better start looking for other jobs, because there's going to be a lot of things said about her and her family that she doesn't like. If she can't handle one comment by one reporter, how is she going to handle the scrutiny of the world as President?

As a citizen, it worries me when I see a broadcasting news organization personally attacking Senator Hillary Clinton and her family in such a slanderous, inappropriate manner. This has happened on not just one occasion. As a stockholder, I can only come to the conclusion that this is a pattern that has been developed from attitudes of the top management in the company and passed to those who blurt out the slanderous statements. Chris Matthews and David Shuster have apologized to Senator Clinton, but the irreparable harm has been done. They should be history.

Day after day Bill Clinton was raked over the coals as racist for saying that it was his view that Obama's inconsistent statements about Iraq were a "fairytale". Would NBC allow someone to say that Oprah was "pimping" because she was calling Superdelegates or is that too close to racist?

MSNBC responds by asking their employees to apologize, and in the case of Mr Shuster, they suspend him.This is not good enough. Chris Matthews and David Shuster should have been fired.

Any news organization should hold the public's trust that it will always report fair and unbiased news. This is not unbiased news. I might as well be watching the Fox Network. I continue to be discouraged in this company and it's management's attitudes, and find it necessary to review whether I want to continue my investment.

As a citizen, it worries me when I see a broadcasting news organization personally attacking Senator Hillary Clinton and her family in such a slanderous, inappropriate manner. This has happened on not just one occasion. As a stockholder, I can only come to the conclusion that this is a pattern that has been developed from attitudes of the top management in the company and passed to those who blurt out the slanderous statements. Chris Matthews and David Shuster have apologized to Senator Clinton, but the irreparable harm has been done. They should be history.

Day after day Bill Clinton was raked over the coals as racist for saying that it was his view that Obama's inconsistent statements about Iraq were a "fairytale". Would NBC allow someone to say that Oprah was "pimping" because she was calling Superdelegates or is that too close to racist?

MSNBC responds by asking their employees to apologize, and in the case of Mr Shuster, they suspend him.This is not good enough. Chris Matthews and David Shuster should have been fired.

Any news organization should hold the public's trust that it will always report fair and unbiased news. This is not unbiased news. I might as well be watching the Fox Network. I continue to be discouraged in this company and it's management's attitudes, and find it necessary to review whether I want to continue my investment.

As a citizen, it worries me when I see a broadcasting news organization personally attacking Senator Hillary Clinton and her family in such a slanderous, inappropriate manner. This has happened on not just one occasion. As a stockholder, I can only come to the conclusion that this is a pattern that has been developed from attitudes of the top management in the company and passed to those who blurt out the slanderous statements. Chris Matthews and David Shuster have apologized to Senator Clinton, but the irreparable harm has been done. They should be history.

Day after day Bill Clinton was raked over the coals as racist for saying that it was his view that Obama's inconsistent statements about Iraq were a "fairytale". Would NBC allow someone to say that Oprah was "pimping" because she was calling Superdelegates or is that too close to racist?

MSNBC responds by asking their employees to apologize, and in the case of Mr Shuster, they suspend him.This is not good enough. Chris Matthews and David Shuster should have been fired.

Any news organization should hold the public's trust that it will always report fair and unbiased news. This is not unbiased news. I might as well be watching the Fox Network. I continue to be discouraged in this company and it's management's attitudes, and find it necessary to review whether I want to continue my investment.

I agree totally with Adam! To be a President not only requires a sense of reality, but also maturity, which Mrs. Clinton doesn't demonstrate, when she won't forgive a young, reporter for making a silly comment! Now I hope msnbc puts Mr. Shuster back on air and stops this Clinton Nonsense!

I have been loyal to MSNBC/NBC but I must say I am truly disgusted of late with their unfair, biased reporting. I have been switching to Fox NOISE (very sad) because there I don't expect anything better. I am happy that Schuster was suspended...can anyone image if her had used the word"PIMPED" in a sentence with Obama...TUCKER should be the next to go, he is vile...I must admit I am a cable news junkie but I have had enough. I am turning them off.

I have been loyal to MSNBC/NBC but I must say I am truly disgusted of late with their unfair biased reporting. I have been switching to Fox NOISE (very sad) because at least there I don't expect anything better. I am happy that Schuster was suspended...can anyone image if her had used the word"PIMPED" in a sentence with Obama...TUCKER should be the next to go, he is vile...I must admit I am a cable news junkie but I have had enough. I am turning them off.

I think this entire "oversensitivity" thing is getting out of hand. To punish an entire network and, particularly it's viewers for a silly comment that isn't even offensive if considered in context is absurd. Is that the kind of over-reaction to a silliness that we want in a President. I think that to be president requires a sense of reality that is clearly not being demonstrated by Clinton here. The comment might have been vaguely inappropriate, but the reaction is stunningly inappropriate for someone who wants to lead the country.

The bias at MSNBC is well known and there is no point in beating a dead horse on this issue. Many people now tend to rank them with Fox News in terms of objectivity. Which now leaves us with CNN.
I don't get upset with MSNBC. I just refuse to watch them anymore.

David Shuster gave the public less than a full apology.

Chris Matthews apology has not been widely reported. He had to be dragged kicking and screaming by NBC brass when he offered up an apology. He falls into that group that can best be described as a phony-not genuine.

What I find disturbing are the many posts here that defend Shuster and continue to go after Clinton. Sexism is alive at MSNBC and elsewhere.

This is nothing but a setup of John McCain by the Clinton machine. Shuster was probably paid well for this stunt. Once you all are sufficiently outraged at Shuster's remark about 27-year-old Chelsea, they will dredge up this 1998 remark by John McCain about 15-year-old Chelsea. You people are too easy. No wonder the Clintons have such low regard for the masses.
http://www.salon.com/news/1998/06/25newsb.html

This is nothing but a setup of John McCain by the Clinton machine. Shuster was probably paid well for this stunt. Once you all are sufficiently outraged at Shuster's remark about 27-year-old Chelsea, they will dredge up this 1998 remark by John McCain about 15-year-old Chelsea. You people are too easy. No wonder the Clintons have such low regard for the masses.
http://www.salon.com/news/1998/06/25newsb.html

Mrs Clinton,

Canyou please stop changing the subject and show us your TAX RETURNS?!! Many thanks, in advance.

A Concerned Citizen

Mrs Clinton,

Canyou please stop changing the subject and show us your TAX RETURNS?!! Many thanks, in advance.

A Concerned Citizen

As a live long broadcast journalist I am terribly disappointed at the lack of quality we're seeing in young men like Shuster. The sexism raging on MSNBC and unfortunately other television and radio stations shouldn't be a surprise. Broadcasting tolerates a few women here and there - few if any in ownership - few in management and a few on air. Shuster should be fire and the best way to protest is turn off MSNBC and let their advertisers know why are you doing so!

The remark of David Shuster is unfortunate and uncalled for."pimped out" connotes that she is a prostitute. Chelsea is a fine woman who shunned the spotlight and she is within her rights to campaign for her mother and not talk to reporters if she doesn't want to. Her aides have all the rights to protect her from all unwanted intrusions. Those who think that the remark of David is okay because of their hatred for the Clintons are nothing but low-life morons with no breeding. It only shows how poorly these people were raised. These characters are the best arguement why we should legalize abortions.

David is a fine journalist but he made an unfortunate remark in his zeal to put down Hillary and promote Obama. Personally he has all the right to be pro-obama but as a journalist, you don't take sides. THE JOB OF A JOURNALIST IS TO IBNFORM THE PEOPLE AND PRESENT FAIR AND BALANCED VIEWS REGARDLESS OF HIS POLITICAL LEANINGS AND IDEOLOGIES.IF YOU CANNOT DO THIS, LEAVE THE PROFESSION AND ALLOW OTHERS WHO CAN DO IT FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE AND YOUR COUNTRY.

It is sheer arrogance for any reporter or journalist to demand interviews

Looks like some enterprising capitalist is offering http://www.PimpChelsea.com for sale on EBAY & Craigs List for 100K!!! Hey I have a piece of Jesus toast for sale and some authentic (I swear) crumbs from the Last Supper...But "seroiusly", what's the BIG DEAL?? The word PIMP is now in the common vernacular and to pretend offense at it's use illuminates the thinly veiled motives of the REAL OPPORTUNISTS.
C'mon Hilary, pony up for a cute little domain name for Chelsea, she's been humpin ...oops I mean stumpin for ya! She deserves some help from her Mama..

I was really amused to see all the T-Shirts and other schlock that's being sold at the expense of Chelsea and then there's that PimpChelsea.Com (see at: http://www.PimpChelsea.com ) domain name that someone wants to sell for a mere $100,000.00 on EBAY and Craigslist ! Isn't America Great ?? Where else would we put all those politicians so that we can all have this much fun ?

By the way, David Shuster made the comment about that ugly duckling Chelsea getting pimped out by her mom and dad and not anyone from the Obama camp. This is all so funny. I mean, come on everybody: 'Make Love Not War !' ;

Here's the kind of "change" that Obama represents. He aims to change the Democratic Party into a form of Republican appeasement agency:

http://boston.com/news/local/connecticut/articles/2006/03/31/obama_rallies_state_democrats_throws_support_behind_lieberman/

Hey, I have a scoop for the empty suits in MSNBC. How about showing this video of Arnold and then discuss with Maria and Oprah how to treat women.. This should be on Hardball with the BOOR Chris Matthews interviewing the Brazilian dancer

http://www.depresident.com/arnold-brazil-video.asp

MSNBC obviously has issues within their hosts that more than once have denigrated women. MSNBC needs to quickly "clean house". Imus, Mathews, Scaborough, and now Schuster have all stuck their foot in it and I'm not sure if it's not been to get attention. They're injecting themselves in the news rather than reporting. The suits need to examine themselves and find work exterminating bugs.

Of course the comment by the MSNBC analyst was inappropriate and the offensive analogy never would have been used if the person discussed was a male. The reporter has publicly apologized and been suspended by the network. Now it is time to move on.

However, if the Clinton campaign continues to repeat its objections, as by refusing to participate in the Cleveland debate, the action will be seen by many as another ploy to gain sympathy for its candidate among certain voters.

It's worth remembering, unfortunately, that MSNBC is not the only media organization that has shown bias in its coverage.

every woman that posts on this post should ask themselves how many times they have called a man an arsehole...before they come out and say a statement that given is a bad choice of words is sexist. It was clear what he intended. Don't twist his words....the meaning were crystal clear!!! Hillary is playing on your intelligence and if you sucker up to it then to bad for you and unfortunately me and the rest of america because we also have to put up with her....also i wonder what her campaign will do when mccain picks either rice or sarah(alaska's governor) as vp...they can't cry anymore can they?

OOOK, the clintons want to play rough?

And bully the press into submission at every unlikely opportuity?

Well, let's have pictures of Chelsea as a child, right up to the point where her mouth changed shape. Inexplicably. So that it no longer was at all the same. And wonder why.?

She wants to be part of Hillary's thing?
Well, then she's part of the whooole thing.

Shuster should be punished for that sexist comment. It's funny how degrading and hostile terms for women from hiphop music is seeping into regular everyday life and men think that's OK. Whether or not the Clintons are using their daughter, she's an adult and can make her own decisions. But to call an upstanding woman essentially a prostitute for no good reason is not acceptable in political or any other reasonable discourse. If he doesn't understand that, Shuster needs to take the hiphop off his ipod and listen to some less sexist music to gain perspective on how his attitude towards women has become tainted.

Shusters apology was lame.

If some dumb reporter talked about my kids llike that I would would probably punch them in the nose. Hillary should avoid supporting MSNBC for the rest of the primaries. There is definately a anti women bias in the media and in the right wing. Even Obamas supporters are clearly anti women in their comments. I thought we were done with hate politics but between Obamas supporters and Bushes lackies it looks like we're going to have 8 more years of keep women in their place politics.

I personally have been feeling turned off by MSNBC with all the negative Hillary coverage. Seems to me they have a similar problem with her just Fox has with all democrats. CNN looks better and better every day.

David Schuster is not a law abiding person. He is a lawless thug. I worked side by side with him in Little Rock covering the Whitewater trials and he was extremely abusive to me. He harassed me inside of the Federal courthouse in Little Rock and on the grounds of the Whitehouse. His harassment of me continued for months. I filed a complaint against him with the federal marshalls and with the local station who employed him. Nothing was done about him. I am not surprised that he would abuse the nation's airwaves with his unlawful characterizations of Chelsea Clinton. Not only should he be fired, he should be sued for defamation, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law for intentional harassment. He should have been prosecuted for what he did to me in Arkansas and in DC and the only reason he wasn't was because he was a Clinton hater. Given his history of harassment, he should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, and immediately. Judith Haney, USNewsLink

To Phil Graham and others at MSNBC. We got suckered by the NY Times when Cheney was feeding Ms. Miller phony stories that convinced the American people to go to war. Now we are being fed all this apple pie about a man we know nothing about--Obama, who if nominated, will have the least experience of the any president in modern history. To the "pimp" remark--Matthews has surrounded himself with underlings who help carry the Clinton hate water for him. Matthews has allowed himself to become corrupted by his perceived power. Like Imus, who thought he was irreplacable. Matthews thinks he can do or say anything. He is a pathetic creature--His hateful obsesseion with the Clintons will send him down any back alley--Mike Barnaby, Scarborough, Tucker, and many of Matthews' guests suck up to him by attacking the Clintons for a return visit to his show. Chris Matthews needs a psychiatrist to determine why he hates women, especially Hillary Clinton. He's no journalist-reporter--He's behaving like a noisy fish wife. What in the dickens are the higher-ups as MSNBC thinking? I have concluded they have to be setting the tone for all this Clinton bashing and the Obama Variety Show. I hope the sane Dan Abrams, will go to the top brass and explain that MSNBC is now in the gutter? Maybe they will listen to Mr. Abrams to save themselves and MSNBC. I will get my news from CNN. Not the Obama network.
Daria

When a campaign expresses "disgust" or calls something "inappropriate" in response to an offhand remark the intent is to make the campaign appear besieged and put upon. "Look, see how the big, bad media doesn't like us? We just want to do good and look what they do!" So much whining is only designed to gather the sympathy of people on the fence. Pull it together, American electorate, there's nothing Schuster has to apologize for, he was just making an observation and expressing his opinion on that observation.

Re: David Shuster

While his choice of words related to Chelsea Clinton was incorrect, the underlying thought was on point. The Clintons on this subject are playing both sides of the game and on one hand using their daughter to influence super delegates and voters yet restricting her access to the press. If she, the daughter is in the game promoting her Mother then she is should be available for questioning. After all she is 28, not 18.

Indeed given the Clinton's history (and skill) at spinning a situation, as well as questionable sincerity, I am not convinced that MSNBC has not been played to elicit more sympathetic free press.

Shuster has apologized as he should, and I understand he has been temporarily suspended which to me is excessive, but I hope MSNBC will stand behind one of it many reputable reporters and bring him back on air as soon as possible.

Further, MSNBC should insist that the Clinton's make Chelsea available to Shuster to personally receive his apologize and then participate in a one-on-one interview, which was the point of his commentary. That was the point of his comments

David Shuster should be fired. He is the only one who has been pimped by Chris Matthew. Both of them should go.

David Shuster should be fired. He is the only one who has been pimped by Chris Matthew. Both of them should go.

Men need to be very careful how they use the term pimp. When Jim Rome says he has to "pimp" a product, the term is less offensive because A) he is talking about selling you an object in order to get money for himself (i.e. his show) and (B) as a male the term signifies he is the master of the product. With an object such as a razor, that's not much of a problem....

When a man states that the "object" being pimped out is a woman... that is very offensive. By definition it objectifies the woman. To refer to a woman as being "pimped out", even today, means to sell a woman's body for money and calls her a prostitute. Remember Ms. Clinton was being referred to as the object being pimped out and not the pimp; therefore, she was being refered to as a prostitute. No other politician's child has been referred to as prostitute... That is why what Jim Rome says is not that big a deal but this is.

Speaking of pimping out! Last night, Keith Olbermann offered is own apology to the Clintons on behalf of MSNBC. That's because if Hillary boycotts debates on MSNBC, it will take a hit to their ad revenue and market share. And poor Olbermann wouldn't is post-debate analysis with Matthews which has raised him to a "credible" political pundit rather than just a left-wing Bush hater.

For all of MSNBC's trashing of Fox News (it started with Olbermann, now they are all doing it), MSNBC is no better, and Shuster's comment is evidence of just how much MSNBC has has co-opted Fox News' schtick. It's time the public turned off these 24 hour cable channels.

Yeah, this is what Obama is going to do to you: latte drinking, caucus going, living on HOPE and good speeches whose jobs are getting shipped away soon...

Posted by: vs_sv | February 9, 2008 09:48 AM

See why for the most part educated folks vote for obama? You and that article are totally begging the question....have you ever heard of nafta? Obama addressed the root of the problem clinton supported elevating the problem...what good is it who supported a company or not? The law that allows this kinds of things to happen was enacted by the clintons and obama vehemently opposed it...do your research before you drop posts on here...americans are not fools and can see throuh bs

Yeah, this is what Obama is going to do to you: latte drinking, caucus going, living on HOPE and good speeches whose jobs are getting shipped away soon...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-galesburg_obama_webfeb01,0,4286527.story

This is what Obama will finally do to you ....

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-galesburg_obama_webfeb01,0,4286527.story

azeezwale, I suggest you study the dictionary definition of "pimp", "pimped", and "pimping" before sharing your ignorant view of what is or is not derogatory. It is a patently misogynist term, regardless of whether it finds daily use among your lowlife cohort.

Posted by: PutDownTheKoolaid
If hillary clinton is who you have chosen to champion gender issues as is right now then i am sorry, women are back to square one...take a look at the facts bill cheated not once, not twice not "thrice".. Hillary was weak when strength mattered the most...if she had divorced bill...i would have gladly voted for her but she was weak...If i have a daughter....clintons history would serve as "do nots" lesson book for her...the worst part is hillary is using gender issues for political gain which is sad "the very same thing men are accused of doing: using women"...koolaid or whatever your postname is, next time before you come to the table to argue with me about grammar...please be sure you have taken at least english 101 and have a college degree...You never take words of context...no no no...people who argued it's a poor choice of words: I couldn't agree more, but offensive is going way too far....how many women have called men arseholes....truck load if not all...do we then say you folks are from moral hell..no!!! please if you are going to vote for hillary because she's a woman..by all means do so, but stop with this using gender card at every stop...it's irritating to say the least and does not address the gender issues we have...as hillary herself puts it...hot air

Would he have to apology if he had said it about a Republican candidate's family member? I don't think so. There are two sets of rules for the media. If something gets said about a Dem, make them apologize. If something gets said about a Republican, too bad.

The strong reaction to this and other inappropriate media attacks on the Clinton family reflects the public outrage over the clear bias it sees in the coverage. No matter how innocent the incident it some how gets reported negatively when it comes to Hillary. Her daughter's active support described as prostitution? This reaction is not a Clinton campaign attack on a reporter, this is rather a public backlash to perceived unfairness.

It seems like Oprah baught all the media for Obama. Do those people even listen to themselves. I just hope to God that she runs for the white house even if she looses the primeraies. suites them right

All these years ... the mainstream media has been given carte blanche to insult and destroy the Clinton family.
Well, the chickens have come home to roost. Finally, Democrats are learning they CAN fight back. No more swift-boating!
"PIMPING"?
In my 50 years of watching presidential elections, the candidates' children have always had high visibility. No one ever referred to this as "PIMPING".
I hope this is the begining of the end of DUMMIED DOWN mainstream media talkshows, which are nothing but propaganda.
Same with right wing wacko radio.
The Telecommunications Act of 1996 needs to be revisited!

Pandering is also related to pimping but no sexual connotation is given it when used in it's politics sense (yet perhaps it should be given the nature of politicos). So I agree with Jayne and support Obama over the lying team of Clinton and Clinton who are, now that they are running out of cash, using anything they can to stay in the news. How dare Bill Clinton be so offended? Righteous indignation is, I believe, is for the righteous and he lost that right when he preyed on the insecurities of a young woman which made her name a synonym, for according to Bill,a non-sexual act. and as far as I've heard no one is inserting cigars up any part of his daughter's anatomy.

And I disagree with 'what if someone said that YOUR daughter was being "pimped out"? it was an unnecessary, inappropriate, and cruel comment.' Well,if my daughter was being pimped out , it would not be any of the above but a true statement. I believe that MS NBC has developed a pattern of truth telling which to some is offensive and support Chris Matthew's take on Hillary's connection to Bill as her greatest asset in running for office. If it were a lie why would the Clinton's be so upset? It is amazing how sensitive these attack dogs can be but only to their own sensitivities.

and as far as the cretin who made the statement about living in someone else's past; it has nothing to do with that but remembering and learning from history; cause if we don't we will have to repeat it and that means SHUDDER more Clintons.

It sounds as if some people have been watching MSNBC for much too long. If you do not like their coverage of the Clintons' campaign then stop watching the channel. I never watch Fox News because I do not like their programming. However, I have no problem with whomever or however they report the "news" because I don't watch the network. I am certain that many people enjoy Fox. Good for them.

There are so many sources for news and information (not just on TV). People should choose the source that is most reflective of their own personal taste and style.

A journalist is required to be a professional who has above average use of the english language. Regardless of the political affiliation, this is an extremely inappropriate word to use. End, period, amen!

Pandering is also related to pimping but no sexual connotation is given it when used in it's politics sense (yet perhaps it should be given the nature of politicos). So I agree with Jayne and support Obama over the lying team of Clinton and Clinton who are, now that they are running out of cash, using anything they can to stay in the news. How dare Bill Clinton be so offended? Righteous indignation is, I believe, is for the righteous and he lost that right when he preyed on the insecurities of a young woman which made her name a synonym, for according to Bill,a non-sexual act. and as far as I've heard no one is inserting cigars up any part of his daughter's anatomy.

And I disagree with 'what if someone said that YOUR daughter was being "pimped out"? it was an unnecessary, inappropriate, and cruel comment.' Well,if my daughter was being pimped out , it would not be any of the above but a true statement. I believe that MS NBC has developed a pattern of truth telling which to some is offensive and support Chris Matthew's take on Hillary's connection to Bill as her greatest asset in running for office. If it were a lie why would the Clintons be so upset? It is amazing how sensitive these attack dogs can be but only to their own sensitivities.

and as far as the cretin who made the statement about living in someone else's past; it has nothing to do with that but remembering and learning from history; cause if we don't we will have to repeat it and that means SHUDDER more Clintons.

Marion Berry (former DC mayor and Drug dealer/User) to endorse Obama ( a drug user). How is that for a MSNBC headline by Chris Matthews !!!

Let's see. Obama brings his wife and kids on the stage. Is that "Kindergarten Pimping" !!!

I know tis group will have convulsions when I ask them to go look at the point-by-point of misogynistic statements on MSNBC over the past weeks.

The BOTTOM LINE, is that almost EXACTLY HALF of those who voted in the Super Tuesday primaries were for Clinton, half for Obama. It would seem that the media would realize that their attempt to do to Clinton what the stepford-like followers of Rush, et al have tried to do to McCain has failed.

Be SMART America. STOP looking at the garbage and start looking at the POLICIES AND PROGRAMS of ALL the candidates. This is NOT "Access Hollywood". This country is in real trouble, and I do not doubt that when the Democrats win, that the recession, the housing crisis and the war will be placed SQUARELY on their shoulders, as if Bush, and the media's enabling of him never existed.

What passes for news coverage and political commentary in this country is beginning to look like the contents of a clogged up toilet.

This is in reference to the so called political commentator SHUSTER which could be spelled slightly different by exchanging us with an i. His comments about Chelsea were uncalled for and completely out of line.

You should return to the news world if YOUR OWNERS would let you.

I don't care who it is or what party affiliation the person is talking about, THIS character "SHUSTER" is out of line. If Harry Truman was around he would knock him on his keester. Such out and out political blow hard needs to fired and black listed. If he has a daughter, which I rather doubt, he would be not very happy if someone said anything about her and to do it on national TV would have been the last straw.

FIRE HIM!
Bob O'Donnell CWO USN(RETIRED and VIET NAM VET)

What passes for news coverage and political commentary in this country is beginning to look like the contents of a clogged up toilet.

This is in reference to the so called political commentator SHUSTER which could be spelled slightly different by exchanging us with an i. His comments about Chelsea were uncalled for and completely out of line.

You should return to the news world if YOUR OWNERS would let you.

I don't care who it is or what party affiliation the person is talking about, THIS character "SHUSTER" is out of line. If Harry Truman was around he would knock him on his keester. Such out and out political blow hard needs to fired and black listed. If he has a daughter, which I rather doubt, he would be not very happy if someone said anything about her and to do it on national TV would have been the last straw.

FIRE HIM!
Bob O'Donnell CWO USN(RETIRED and VIET NAM VET)

I do think the comment was inappropriate. He was right to apologize. Perhaps a suspension is called for as well.

However I am a bit shocked that so many people get upset about this sort of thing that seem to have forgotten that Bill Clinton seduced Monica Lewinsky, a 22 year old intern in the White House. I am sure her parents were disgusted and upset. Their daughter was humiliated and I don't recall an apology by the Bill Clinton at the time to either her or her parents.

The comment towards Chelsea was wrong, but seemed accidental. Perhaps the Clintons could show some compassion for David Shuster as opposed to just moral indignation.

My my, having a female and a black as our two top Democratic candidates is certainly an eye-opening experience so far, isn't it? Clinton and Obama's candidacies are pulling back the curtain on our culture. Do we like see, people? Our excellent female candidate is getting smeared left and right! Our excellent black candidate is next! This is not gonna be pretty...

The pimps at NBC would not dare to ask Obama about his drug usage but try to insult Chelsea. The Clintons should boycott NBC till Tim Russert apologizes on his show for his sidekicks behaviour.

It is a sad day that the most balanced commentator on MSNBC is Pat Buchanon !!!

David Shuster's vulgar tasteless remarks directed at the Clintons and their daughter might result in his termination from MSNBC. It will however make him a coveted prize recruit for the FOX News Network.

can't believe how right on these comments
are! Matthews and his posse make me want
to puke the way they trash those who they
dislike...this is not journalism. Yes
Abrams and Buchannan seem to have a fair
and balanced approach to the Clintons..
who would have thunk it?

And yes, Chelsea Clinton has every right to campaign for her mother -- this is an outrageous criticism. The obama-bots overstep their bounds, again, and again, and again --

Oh that's right -- he's above "old politics" -- just like his wonderful "supporters."

Oh please, Chris Matthews is a loud-mouth, coarsened human being, who has used the Clintons for years to make a name for himself. Why do you think he pounds others? Because it sells ... His attitude toward women should be a reason for him to lose that job. He should go back to a smaller audience, and not suffocate us with his hot-air bluster.

I didn't hear anyone saying that Bush's daughters were being pimped out when they worked on their dad's campaign.

The unfairness against the Clintons is disturbing and unbelievable.

Are David Shuster and Chris Matthews so afraid of Senator Clinton that they have to stoop to this kind of stupidity? This hatred of all things Clinton needs to stop.

I didn't hear anyone saying that Bush's daughters were being pimped out when they worked on their dad's campaign.

The unfairness against the Clintons is disturbing and unbelievable.

Are David Shuster and Chris Matthews so afraid of Senator Clinton that they have to stoop to this kind of stupidity? This hatred of all things Clinton needs to stop.

So, I guess Michelle Obama is being pimped out by the Obama campaign to soldify the black vote.
Obama grew up in Indonesia and Hawaii, and never had much interaction with black people. Michelle on the other hand grew up in Chicago and has real connections with the black community.
So, maybe MSNBC should do a report on how Michelle is being pimped out for a gangbang by the how black community.
This bias is ridiculous. If reporters support one candidate thats cool, but leave that at home. Seriously.

So, I guess Michelle Obama is being pimped out by the Obama campaign to soldify the black vote.
Obama grew up in Indonesia and Hawaii, and never had much interaction with black people. Michelle on the other hand grew up in Chicago and has real connections with the black community.
So, maybe MSNBC should do a report on how Michelle is being pimped out for a gangbang by the how black community.
This bias is ridiculous. If reporters support one candidate thats cool, but leave that at home. Seriously.

Chris Mathews, a democrat has built a great reputation as a journalist. He pointed out the TRUTH: l. Monica Lewinsky's affair with Clinton in the White House is a FACT. How can anyone accuse Chris Mathews for recalling a historical fact? Now, the question has arisen, what Bill Clinton will do in the Hillary White House? May be he should head the Internes Unit, White House!

With the amount of vitriol spewn here, I had to think long and hard about jumping into the fray. I am encouraged by the fact that there have been some reasoned posts as well, and thus I tepidly enter the water.

As a teacher, one of the things I have students explore is the "denotation" and the "connotation" of words. Denotation refers to the literal dictionary definition. Connotation refers to the implicit meaning given to a word in vernacular context.

I was under the impression that the definition of the word "pimp" was sexual in nature. I did find the comment offensive when I first read it. As I looked in Webster's Seventh Collegiate Dictionary, however, I was very surprised to find that as a noun, the word means a "procurer" or "pander(er)", and as a verb, it means "to act the pimp", i.e. to procure or to pander. Nothing at all was said about sex, which absolutely shocked me. So this is an example of a word that was used in my own youth and middle aged years almost strictly in a sexual connotation, even though the strict denotation is not related to sex. Although I was shocked by the comment, I now have to ask myself if perhaps the younger generation is actually returning to a connotation that matches the denotation. While the word "prostitute" is sexual in its denotation, we understand the metaphor when we say that a politician has prostituted himself to lobbyists and special interest groups. Most would acknowledge that as an analogy of "cheaply selling out", without actually implying that the politician in question had done something sexual.

Context and the setting in history are also very important in word usage. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. continually used the word "Negro" in his speeches. Can you imagine the fallout if anyone referred to Obama with that word today? The history of the way in which a word has been used has much to do with the way it is taken today. "Nigra" is a Latin word which simply translates as "black". I can't make italic text here so I will use quotation marks: "Pinus nigra" is the scientific name for a tree whose common name is "black pine". Spanish is a Romance language (descended from Latin, the language of the Romans), thus, in a Mexican restaurant, one who orders "frijoles negros" is ordering "black beans". In these two contexts, there is nothing racial whatsoever. I grew up in the last throes of the Jim Crow south. Some of my aged relatives used the word "negro"; some tried to be even more true to the Latin in using the term "niggra". Both of these terms devolved into the despicable slur that those of us who consider ourselves civilized will only refer to as "the N word". I must say that the majority of Caucasians in whose midst I grew up in the '50s and 60's loved using this pejorative term. A word that in its Latin origin simply meant "black", was mutated and given a connotation that is absolutely nauseating. Thus today, I will only use the word "negro" when it is encountered in a MLK speech or a story about Jackie Robinson beginning his career in the Negro leagues, etc., and even then only to explain that in that day and time, African Americans used that term with a sense of pride. I go on to say that because it is the root for the pejorative "N word", African Americans today do not find the word acceptable, and thus I will not tolerate the use of the word outside of its historical context. Use of the word to another on the playground results in a trip to the principal.

Even many words we consider inappropriate are found in the Christian bible: damnation, hell, harlot, etc. et. al, but it is the use of these words outside their religious intention that religious persons find offensive, not their use within that context.

During my childhood, to say that someone "sucks", was to say that the person was a homosexual. There was only one vernacular connotation, and it was clearly derogatory in a sexual manner. As I entered young adulthood, some people began using this term as a metaphor to say that something or someone was worthy of condemnation. The comparison to homosexuality was overtly obvious and the usage had a clear intent to invoke shock value. For the younger generation today, the metaphor has faded to an idiom. Young people know that there is some kind of negative connotation, but they do not know the original metaphorical comparison between male fellatio and the thing/person with which/whom it is being compared. Personally I still cringe every time I hear someone say that something or someone "sucks", but I realize that many young people have no historical understanding of the word. A hundred years ago, "queer" meant "strange", nothing else. When I was young, "queer" meant homosexual, yet "gay" simply meant "happy" or was a surname, nothing else. Consider walking up to a person who seems happy today and saying, "Wow, you really are gay tonight!" It is an understatement to say that would not be taken the same way it would have been 40 years ago.

I would posit that most people today understand that "pimp" has at least one sexual connotation. While most of my generation have used it solely to refer to one who makes appointments for prostitutes, I suppose that the younger generation today may be using it as what we teach children to refer to as "multiple meaning words". Obviously, many young people are now using it according to that definition I found in Webster: "to pander".

Still, this transition in meaning is not as far along as the term "sucks". So, I have to ask myself whether this young commentator used the word innocently to mean "pander", or clearly as a metaphor to slander the Clinton's for "prostituting out" their daughter? Or did he use it knowing that two generations of Americans would interpret it differently? Did he use it with the intent of being witty and edgy, calling out the differences between Obama's new generation and Hillary's old one? (For the record, I see great strengths in each as well as weaknesses in each.) I have my theory on which is correct, but I do not know with certainty. I will however, contrast this situation with one from six years ago and let readers draw their own conclusions.

A hundred years ago, as the U.S. and California in particular were attempting to enforce the Chinese exclusion act, the term "Chinaman" had become a particularly ugly slur. After about a year into his appointment as Secretary of State, Colin Powell used the term "Chinaman" as what he thought was a synonym for "a person of Chinese ethnicity or nationality". It was an honest mistake and he was shocked at the immediate and bitter reaction from the Chinese American community; he did not understand the reaction. After having a couple of days to learn the history of the word and all the context of its meaning, Powell made a statement explaining what he had thought the word meant, what he now understood that it meant, and a sincere apology to those who were offended.

So let us assume that Mr. Shuster was naive as to my generation's understanding of "pimp". Regardless of whether he thought of the word as a multiple meaning word, or only in its literal denotation, let us further assume that he used the word simply to mean "pander". Surely by now, he is well aware of the meaning my generation gives to the word. Thus understanding how much of his audience has interpreted the term, would not an honorable person come forth and do as Powell did, to clear the air and explain exactly what he meant? Or does Mr. Shuster prefer to keep the ambiguity alive? If he did as Powell, the controversy would begin to subside. Perhaps he does not desire that it subside. Mayhaps he knew the double entendre all along and the controversy now afoot is what he intended from the outset.

Hillary Clinton has always been very protective of her daughter. Remember when "Saturday Night Live" went after Chelea Clinton early in her husband's first term? She got on a plane and flew to New York, and no network ever did something like that again.

Good for Hillary Clinton. This is a woman who sticks up for her family, no matter what. I admire her.

scoates8,

You're completely full of it. Race card my arse. Obama IS THE RACE CARD BEING PLAYED. That is obvious to anyone but the utterly uninitiated.

Further, I don't believe you support Obama at all.

I think most of these Obama supporters are rightwingers out to destroy the true Democratic candidates.

Go back to freerepublic.com. No one is fooled by your type.

hmmm? There goes the race card again. This is exactly what Obama is talking about. You see it really is time for a change. I think some of us are afraid of change.

OK, I thought I was talking with rational people, but now I see that ezboy & the like are just escaped freepers on the prowl. I don't waste my time debating with freepers.

Done.

No one is being fooled by what is going on with Obama--he's a shill or a lamb being prepared for slaughter, but he's not a real "hope" for Democrats, that's for sure.

He's not a hope for change. The only change he is going to be doing is changing his Democrat uniform in for his conciliatory one of selling out to Republicans, should, god forbid, he be elected. It's a disaster waiting to happen, a perfect storm. And, because he's black, no one can say anything about it.

ezyboy, go back to your true blogging home at freerepublic.com.

I hope that all the Democrats can see what's in play here. Rightwingers posing as supporters of (and probably voting for)Obama in the primaries, only to have him destroyed later. It's a complete set-up and the real reason Obama is getting his kids-glove treatment in the media.

I see the rightwing shills are out in "support" of Obama. His candidacy is benefiting from rightwingers quite a bit. What I wonder is whether he himself is one as well. After all, his defense of the nuclear bill in Illinois was a perfect sell-out. His voting for the Dick Cheney energy bill was a perfect sell-out. I believe this guy is probably a rightwing shill in disguise.

I think he is being used and therefore that many Democrats are also being used--to prevent a real change from taking place.

The rightwing shills are out bandying about the same exact rhetoric aimed at the Clintons from the 90s. They are now simply in Obama uniforms.

Sick puppies, these rightwingers. I hope the Democrats can see through this obvious campaign to smear the real change agent in this race so that a fake can be proferred and either destroyed in the general election, or used as a shill of "unity" later.

We know what happened with the most recent "Uniter-not-a-divider."

David Shusters choice of language was unpleasant and offensive.

That said, David muffed (no pun intended) his chance to describe what my circle has been noting as "Selling Chelsea" for some time now. Since the unfortunate Tableau of Elder Satesmen/women Hillary was presented with at rallies with up to New Hampshire (Albright, et al) it is clear that the Clinton camp has taken more care to show younger faces in the backdrop of these events and other media due to concerns Obama was leading the youth vote. The cloistered Miss Clinton suddenly emerged from the wings to the reviewing stand, a physical and tangible (if silent) talisman, as if to say, "Here is my link to you, young voters". Suddenly she's all over, smiling and waving her support, out of the phone banks and on the stump. Pimped out is an ugly way to describe it, but selling is selling.

scoates8 - you hit the nail on the head. I amazed that the Clintons think that they deserve to return to the White House. Our job is to make sure we use our votes to prevent that from happening for the sake our country, our children and our families. I wish the Clintons a happy retirement outside public office.

Did the rightwingers force Bill to lie under oath? Did they force Bill to have an affiar with an intern? Did they force Bill and Hillary to collect cash from Marc Rich, in order to pardon him? Why can''t the Clintons release the list of names of donors to the Clinton Library Fund, so we know how many dictators and felons are on the list?

I'm confused, Shuster made the comment, but somehow Obama is interjected in to differences with the Clinton's and MSNBC.
Oh! wait a minute (fairytale campaign) (the Lyndon Johnson civil rights act)(I didnt inhail)(I didnt have sex with that woman)(filegate)(whitewater)(3 strikes)(mysterious suicide of best friend after failed health care plan)(Obama has not done enough spade work) shall I continue?
Is this the family that you want to represent America? Is there noone who can question the actions of this family? Oh great one, please help us see the light!

I am not trying to damage the Clintons. The Clintons have already done that themselves. The Clintons are already damaged

ezboy03,

That 'rap sheet' is the construction of rightwingers. I believe that you are most likely a rightwing shill posing as an Obama supporter. In fact, I believe there are many just like you out here in the blogosphere. That Obama has so many "independents" and Republicans supporting him is evidence that something is amiss. That he has shills posing as supporters and using the same rightwing propaganda recycled is further evidence that something is amiss. Meanwhile, all the Obama dirt likes unturned... for now!

Note to the Hip, Young and Clueless:

"Pimp My Ride" refers to big flashy tasteless cars that =pimps= drive to make an impression. The analogy doesn't denigrate anybody but pimps.

"Pimp her out" refers directly to arranging for the prostitution of a woman.

There's a difference. Shuster knows it, and he was using the second analogy in the most specific fashion possible--inferring the exploitation of a young woman for the profit of a pimp.

He refused to back down from the comment.

Keith Olbermann made an on-air apology on his behalf, using the words 'appalled,' 'furious' and 'dreadfully sorry.' As usual, Keith's got a clue. Check the video "A Comment About the Chelsea Comment," on his MSNBC site.

Mr. Shuster seems to have grown up watching David Letterman and his audience of puerile losers get a big kick out of Letterman's sexist jokes about "the Times Square hookers." There is nothing funny about prostitution and there is nothing to admire about the fact that creeps earn their pimp cred by hurting women. Those who try to trivialize this Shuster incident tell us more about themselves as Shuster did than they think. As for the P.C. police, that is what women have to deal with every day from men who, as John Stuart Mill said, "are not yet ready to live with an equal."

i am not an Obama fan and I do not think he is perfect at all, far from it. I personally feel he should sell his home and everything he has that is connected to rezko. But when I look at the long rap sheet of the Clintons, I would either vote for McCain or Obama, or sit at home. There is no way I can with good conscience vote for the Clintons again, knowing what I know. Our country deserves better

Mr. Shuster seems to have grown up watching David Letterman and his audience of puerile losers get a big kick out of Letterman's sexist jokes about "the Times Square hookers." There is nothing funny about prostitution and there is nothing to admire about the fact that creeps earn their pimp cred by hurting women. Those who try to trivialize this Shuster incident tell us more about themselves as Shuster did than they think. As for the P.C. police, that is what women have to deal with every day from men who, as John Stuart Mill said, "are not yet ready to live with an equal."

ezboy, I believe you are a rightwing shill posing as an Obama supporter. In fact, Obama's support from "independents" and Republicans is suspect, esp. in light of the recycled rightwing propaganda that his supposed supporters are spewing all over the web. I find that most of these supposed supporters are actually about destroying Clinton more than they are about electing Obama. Meanwhile, all the dirt on Obama remains unturned... for now.

The media has totally been anti-Clinton. That's the truth. What's unfortunate is that, with Hillary eliminated, the Democratic party is left with somebody without a record to talk about. Voting "present" does not constitute a record, a speech in 2002 is not a vote, and eloquence alone would not run the government.

I respectfully submit that people should look at the policies and ask themselves whether they would rather have an untested person run the country. Experience is not a bad thing. In fact, it is a good thing. If the race boils down to McCain vs. Obama, then McCain is the definite choice. Better the devil that you know...

Obama left the paper trails and obvious connection of his quid pro quo deals with Rezko open for public inspection. Sure, he gave Rezko's donations to charity. But he hasn't sold his home or even answered questions clearly about the 300,000 discount he received on his house, or the strange "coincidence" of Rezko's wife buying the adjacent lot supposed to be part of the original sale of the house, a piece of which was later sold to Obama by Rezko's wife. This is an OBVIOUS and CLEAR quid quo pro situation and Obama has not received a single minute of televised criticism for it. Amazing! What is this guy, the messiah?

My argument is that this is all being with-held, FOR NOW.

google "Clinton Convicts", and see the results, that is the legacy of the Clintons. Again, I am a great fan of Bill Clinton, but anyone with this kind of rap sheet should not be near the seat of power. Again you may disagree, but that's my belief and that's why I am voting to reject the Clintons.

Prove that. Where is the Rezko story and why hasn't 20/20 done a story on it?

I don't believe a word this scumbag says about a quid pro quo. He has absolutely nothing in writing. But Obama wrote 14 letters recommending Rezko developments in Chicago, all for projects that ended in bankruptcies and abandoned projects in the slums.

Nary a word on it.

Hillary had nothing to do with the Marc Rich pardon, give me a break. she was part and parcel of it. That's part of her "35 years" of public service.

Here is latest Clinton scandal brewing on ABC 20/20:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QPxtv6kcn7s

As i said I voted for Bill twice, I love Bill, but I believe it is time to turn the page. Our country deserves better and I do not believe Bill or Hillary deserves to spend another night in the White House. You may disagree and I respect your position.

"Obama has condemned the comments, it is time to move on."

Please provide a quote wherein Obama himself condemned the comments. I don't think you're right. His campaign manager condemned the comments, not Obama himself. There's a big difference. Obama needs to have stepped up much earlier in condemning the sexist remarks aimed at his opponent. His silence has been complicity.

lemoyneb:

Are you paying attention? We are not talking about an isolated incident at MSNBC. We are talking about a well-documented tendency, a trend, a proclivity, for sexist language and bashing, directly primarily at Hillary Clinton.

This is unacceptable. Perhaps this fellow Shuster is just being singled out as an example. However, Chris Matthews was already recently admonished and apologized on-air for it. Nevertheless, he and others continued.

MSNBC talk show hosts seem unable to help themselves. Misogyny is in the air there. They cannot resist it, esp. in connection with Hillary Clinton and family.

Were Obama similarly the object of such language, the whole nation would be in an uproar making the Imus scandal a petit mal by comparison. Try again.

I am not diminishing it, and I again repeat that those comments are over the line and inappropriate. But the guy that made the comments have been suspended. Obama has condemned the comments, it is time to move on. When Bob Johnson came on the stage in South Carolina to introduce Mrs. Clinton at a campaign rally, he chatised Obama, and also talked about Obama's drug use as a teenager, Mrs. Clinton came on stage shortly afterwards, and did not condemn Bob Johnson's inappropriate comments. For several days, Mrs Clinton maintained that she did not see anything wrong with the Bob Johnson's comments. Hillary finally said the comments were inappropriate at their next debate after the public uproar that followed Johnson's comments. So let's be fair, Obama has condemned the comments, it is time to move on. Flogging this issue is not going to get Hillary more votes, it is time to on. Both Shuster comments and Bob Johnson's comments have no place in the public domain, and we should all vigorously reject these kind of comments in the strongest possible terms.

Have you ever used poor judgement? Think you should be fired for it? We have become a hateful, judgemental people that want to see the other guy go down. Let's get him. After all, I would never do anything stupid---nor would anyone in my family. He screwed up, but hmm, listen to Limbaugh or Ann Coulter? Now there is real hatred.

Racism vs Sexism: The good and the bad about this election is that we can openly talk about these two painful inequalities, but that somehow because we choose Barak over Hillary, we are comfortable standing up against racism but sexism takes a back seat.
There is no way we should not be outraged that a taletened young lady who's name happens to end in Clinton, should be treated in the media this way under any circumstances!!
Why is it that Mitt's 4 sons can travel across the nation advocating his dad, and not a word get's said, except maybe an "Ah isn't that nice". On the other hand we have to listen to the media mention crying every other segment in reference to Hillary not Mitt.
There are 2 inequalities prevelent here and we can not let the media feel good about champion one while trouncing all over the other one.

I won't rehash these refuted Clinton "scandals." Many others have done a good job at this already.

But, Hillary Clinton had nothing to do with either the national archives release nor the Marc Rich pardon. However, Obama did as recently as 2005 receive a quid pro quo from an indicted political fixer named Rezko, in the form of a lower price on his house and the purchase of a piece of adjacent property from Rezko's wife. Nothing has been aired about this very real potential scandal directly involving Obama himself.

Obmama is no Mr. Clean, that's for sure.

Obama has condemned these comments himself, or has his campaign handlers done so? There is a vast difference. Were Obama himself to condemn these comments, his condemnation would receive very wide distribution. However, his handler's condemnation will draw no such attention.

If Obama had been insulted racially, Hillary herself would condemn the language. Obama has sat back and watched Hillary bashed by sexists for months. He's been silent.

This is not about bashing Obama. This is about a double standard that has to cease.

And, sexism affects over half of the people in the world. Likewise, it is a tornado ripping through people's lives. Don't diminish it.

The Clinton Scandals are real. I voted for Bill Clinton twice, and I still like him, but my love for my country trumps my loyalty to any party, cause or person. The Clinton scandals are not manufactured by the right wing, they are true.

I saw Bill Clinton lie on TV, I saw it, I was not told. I saw evidence that Bill collected money from Marc Rich (a felon) for his Library fund, and then granted Rich an executive pardon. Ex-prez Carter called Clinton's actions reprehensible, that is the bitter truth. This has nothing to the National review, right wing conspiracy, or anything like that. Up till today, the Clintons have refused to release the names of the donors to the Clinton library fund and Hillary' WH papers. That is the problem some of us have with the Clintons.

Let's be fair Obama has already condemned the comments. Please do not turn this issue into a national tragedy. A tornado affected TN and a few other southern states last Tuesday. There are other serious issues facing this country. Shuster has been suspended for his over the line, inappropriate comments, we should not allow his irresponsible comments like this to cloud other important news going on in the country now. I think we need to move on. Obama bashing or McCain bashing is not going to get anyone more votes, rather it would only make your candidate look desperate.

Most of the "Clinton scandals" if not all were manufactured by Richard Scaife's slime-rags, such at the National Review, aimed at destroying Clinton. People on the "left" buying into the scandal-mongering of the Clintons should see the documentary, "The Hunting of a President," before buying into the rightwing manufactured and packaged b.s. regarding the Clintons. Remember, these people had a lot to lose from a Clinton presidency--namely, the tax breaks that they later got from GW Bush.

We have had male presidents long enough in this country. They have yet to impress me on their abilities to do anything right. Maybe it is time we have a woman. After all they are true nutures of our children. The ultimate shame on all of us is we allow idiots like these gentlemen who are supposed to report the truth instead of their opinions and feelings injected into or made part of the news. I was almost swayed over to the Obama side of the house but will not do so amymore. Those of you who cannot see the ugliness in such comments either you aren't married, have no daughters, hate your spouses, your parents didn't teach you any manners or dicency, male pigs who are uncomfortable with women and their brains on many issues, or just plain stpid and have no respect for your mothers, sisters, and daughters.

Even with the shoe on the other foot it is not a comment fitting of your father or brother. We take things too lightly in this country. It is the same reason many us end up voting and electing idiots to the highest office in this country. We put those who run this country on the pedastal first, we complain about them, we make their lives miserable and allow those who should be held to the same standard get away with such comments.

What these gentlmen and many others have shown here is it takes a bigger ...... to know a smaller one. All they have shown is they are smaller than they think they really are. Shame on all of you who would agree or even allow such dispicable actions and situations. I hope when some one say something like this of your loved one you have the guts to remember how you disgraced another, regardless of the circumstances. Where I was brought up and raised I would have been over at your house to call on you. Simply put, you, all of you who work in the environment where you serve the public ought to be fired immediately for unprofessionalism and lack of sensitivity. You have no business in such positions of responsibility. Shame, shame, on all of you. Look at yourself in the mirror and and see if you see the picture of the woman who gave you life looking back at you.

Davestickler wrote: "At the same time, it's important to remember that the comments were made by a newsman, not by Obama or his campaign. Just as it wouldn't be fair to hold it against Hillary if a newsperson made a racist remark about Obama, it isn't fair to hold this against Obama. I recognize that this is unsatisfying, but it's also only fair."

Dave, had Obama been racially insulted, Hillary herself would rise to the occasion and condemn the abuse directly. Yet, nothing of the sort has happened in the national media even ONCE.

On the other hand, Hillary has been the object of continual, constant misogynist trash-talking, and Obama hasn't raised an objection himself even ONCE. This makes Obama complicit in the media's sexist treatment, just as the silence on Hillary's part under the reversed circumstances would amount to her complicity.

That's the double standard that Obama has enjoyed. He would do himself a great service were he to condemn all the sexist remarks aimed at his primary opposition. But my guess is that he won't.

to InspectorOh~

It is not true that Chelsea Clinton "blew off a 9-year old writer from Scholastic magazine". In fact, Ms Clinton apologized to the girl and explained that she was not giving interviews to anyone. She did ask the young student if she wanted to have a photo taken together. The young girl was "elated" and accepted the invitation. I saw some coverage of this on the teevee -most likely on MSNBC, BEFORE it commenced its full-fledged assault on Hillary and everything else Clinton - now including Chelsea.

The Clinton scandals of the 90s damaged President and Mrs. Clinton. The Media did not damage Mrs. Clinton. To be honest with you, I do not think Obama is getting a free ride, I have read a lot about his problem with rezko, his present votes etc, so I do not agree with you that he is getting a free ride.

To some of us Clintons = Scandals. I can list a few for you: Marc Rich Money for Pardon Scandal, Hugh Rodham Money for Pardon Scandal, Travelgate, Lying under oath(felon?), law license suspended for unethical behavior. That is the problem some of us have with the Clintons, this has nothing to do with the press or Obama. The Clintons have refused to release the names of the donors to the Clinton Library Fund and Hillary's White House papers. That's why i am not supporting Hillary's candidacy, nothing to do with the press.

Unless Howard Wolfson is Hillary in drag, Bill in disguise, or Chelsea wearing a Halloween costume, his behavior triggering this episode has no bearing on the Clintons' sensitivity/insensitivity. The guy's job is to defend Hillary and keep her name in the news. He's not paid to stay off the toes of you Clinton-haters but to stomp them.

Shuster's comments were inappropriate and out of line, and MSNBC made the right decision in suspending him. Furthermore, I agree that our society tends to look the other way when we see sexism.

I understand that the feelings this incident elicits certainly make it easier to vote for Hillary and harder to vote for Obama, because good people have an instinct to right wrongs.

At the same time, it's important to remember that the comments were made by a newsman, not by Obama or his campaign. Just as it wouldn't be fair to hold it against Hillary if a newsperson made a racist remark about Obama, it isn't fair to hold this against Obama. I recognize that this is unsatisfying, but it's also only fair.

People in public life - especially those in the media - should be setting higher standards of conduct. MSNBC did the right thing by suspending Shuster and issuing an apology. Other networks should follow their example. Many Americans - Republicans, Democrats, and Independents - are simply fed up with the constant barrage of trash.

It was only a matter of time before MSNBC became a horrid parody of itself, as Olbermann might say, "the worstest political commentators in the world ...".

Just listen to a little MSNBC "political analysis." There's the uber-glib Chris Matthews referring to Senator Hillary Clinton: "Mr. Clinton & his wife," or "The Clintons" or "Billary" etc. etc. Or just derisive laughter about Hillary. Follow that with a dollop of commentary by that deepest of know-nothings Pat Buchanan. Has anyone read his book? Why is this man given a prime spot on TV? How course and crude and empty can we get?

Yet, Chris Matthews who offends women daily is still employed. Wow, I sure don't get NBC's standards.

Something is seriously wrong at MSNBC. I sent this letter to Steve Capus several weeks ago, after the Matthews' commentary had reached a "climax" (that is, I believe that he receives what amounts to sexual gratification from it):

From: Rectenwald, Michael
Sent: Monday, January 21, 2008 7:55 PM
To: phil.griffin@nbc.com; steve.capus@nbc.com; letters@msnbc.com;
hardball@msnbc.com
Subject: From a guest and viewer: Chris Matthews's Obsessive Clinton Dementia

Dear MSNBC,

I have been viewer and a guest of your network for several years. I appeared numerous times on "Scarborough Country" before Joe moved to the "Morning Joe" show. I appeared, infamously, on Tucker, regarding the David Vitter mini-scandal.

Over the past months, I have been horrified at the treatment of Hillary Clinton by Chris Matthews. I find Chris Matthews to be nearly obsessed, in a sick way, with Hillary Clinton. This obsessiveness has not only been misogynist, it has also been downright insane.

Chris Matthews has a special, heavyweight hankering for Hillary hate. His animus appears to be especially personal, as if she's somehow slighted him, or refused him a date. He misses no opportunity to scorn her smile, ridicule her delivery, or sneer at the color of her dress. He spares nary a minute bolstering any opponent she might have, be he Obama, Edwards or even a Republican. He's like the DC sniper, lying in wait, always on the hunt for Hillary. His guests try to change the subject, embarrassed for his custom-fetishized caviling.

Matthews even appears to be embarrassed about his own behavior on occasion. His recent apology bears some witness to this. However, the singular case of ascribing her success to Bill Clinton's "messing around" is just the tip of the iceberg. His vitriol is much more widespread and deep.

As a Democrat and a liberal activist, I find it impossible to watch "Hardball" any longer. Matthews is unrepentant, despite his recent apology. I believe he will continue to bash Clinton irrationally for as long as he is on the air. I also think his misogyny will continue unabated after a while.

I urge you to remember the lesson of Imus, and do something before this recidivist misogynist makes an irrecoverable mistake.

Sincerely,

Michael D Rectenwald

Thanks, dpchen888

Cheers,
Michael.

James,

In fact, it was Hillary who was being likened to a "pimp," and thus Chelsea to a "prostitute." That's the analogy that Shuster set up, and the reason that he should be fired immediately. Please, like-minded people, please go to this page and click on the email addresses to send your emails to MSNBC brass to stop the misogyny!

http://www.legitgov.org/rectenwald_msnbc_on_matthews.html

Funny, if the Clinton campaign did not threaten to pull out of the debates MSNBC would not have suspended Shuster. Why the networks always have to be pressured to do what is right?

I say fire Phil Griffin, NBC news executive. The sexist comments from Imus, Matthews and Schuster demonstrate extremely poor leadership from a national news organization.

mrectenwald,

Not bad! I particularly enjoyed the line "let them go home to beat their wives in private."

I am an under 30-something Clinton supporter who is fed up with the abuse that she is subjected to.

If you cannot understand why Shuster's comment is offensive, then you are misogynist, except you just don't know it.

How many other children have campaigned for their parent? I wonder how Reagan would respond to such a reference to his daughter Maureen regarding her contributions during his bid for the presidency in 1980 and his reelection campaign in 1984! And what of the contributions of the current Bush's daughters to his recent presidential campaigns? Did anyone refer to them as pimps? How would Romney respond to his sons being called pimps? I suspect I could go on with similar references for every person who ran for public office in this country! Anyone who supports this kind of kindergarten name calling is evincing the level of decadence to which this country's "democratic process" has fallen. Where is substantive debate on the major pressing issues this country faces in 2008? Obfuscated by such dribble, I presume! I encourage Ms. Clinton to boycott the upcoming MSNBC debate.

James Hewett
West Hartford, CT

msnbc has a show called Sex Slaves in America, which it repeats often, and in prime time, after the political commentary. The show description says millions of women are bought/sold around the world. I am sick of reading this on my guide on my tv, sick of the use of women as a slave in the title. Kids and young people see this displayed week after week on msnbc, even if they don't watch it, this title and description keeps popping up. Why is this show on? Why does msnbc keep using this degrading subject as repeat entertainment after political shows???? Don't say the show is an expose documentary for the education of the public about a social problem, and thus insult my intelligence on the purpose of this show. My disgust is vast.

msnbc has a show called Sex Slaves in America, which it repeats often, and in prime time, after the political commentary. The show description says millions of women are bought/sold around the world. I am sick of reading this on my guide on my tv, sick of the use of women as a slave in the title. Kids and young people see this displayed week after week on msnbc, even if they don't watch it, this title and description keeps popping up. Why is this show on? Why does msnbc keep using this degrading subject as repeat entertainment after political shows???? Don't say the show is an expose documentary for the education of the public about a social problem, and thus insult my intelligence on the purpose of this show. My disgust is vast.

msnbc has a show called Sex Slaves in America, which it repeats often, and in prime time, after the political commentary. The show description says millions of women are bought/sold around the world. I am sick of reading this on my guide on my tv, sick of the use of women as a slave in the title. Kids and young people see this displayed week after week on msnbc, even if they don't watch it, this title and description keeps popping up. Why is this show on? Why does msnbc keep using this degrading subject as repeat entertainment after political shows???? Don't say the show is an expose documentary for the education of the public about a social problem, and thus insult my intelligence on the purpose of this show. My disgust is vast.

The Clinton scandals of the 90s damaged President and Mrs. Clinton. The Media did not damage Mrs. Clinton. To be honest with you, I do not think Obama is getting a free ride, I have read a lot about his problem with rezko, his present votes etc, so I do not agree with you that he is getting a free ride.

To some of us Clintons = Scandals. I can list a few for you: Marc Rich Money for Pardon Scandal, Hugh Rodham Money for Pardon Scandal, Travelgate, Lying under oath(felon?), law license suspended for unethical behavior. That is the problem some of us have with the Clintons, this has nothing to do with the press or Obama. The Clintons have refused to release the names of the donors to the Clinton Library Fund and Hillary's White House papers. That's why i am not supporting Hillary's candidacy, nothing to do with the press.

NBC should FIRE that pig-headed, attention grabbing Shuster. Everyone seems to say these offensive things and either pass it off as a joke or say they have been misquoted. Such fools.

Were you born this stupid or did you pick it up like a communicable disease? Dear god, what a moronic post.

Posted by: Spectator2 | February 8, 2008 05:33 PM

Bill Clinton did someone's daughter in the Oval Office, a girl younger than Chelsea and they get mad that someone commented that they pimped their daughter. The Clintons don't care about someone elses daughter but just say something about their daughter and all hell breaks loose.
Bill and Hillary are total hypocrites.

First off, let me state outright that I am in NO way a Hillary Clinton supporter. In fact, I will never vote for her under ANY circumstance. I am a proud independent who is praying for an Obama/Richardson ticket at this point.

With that said: this was a completely stupid and indefensible remark. Shuster is a sniveling little nebbish who speaks like he's the past victim of a nerve gas attack, and I literally have to mute the sound every time he is on. Not only are his mannerisms and voice completely irritating, but he has a big mouth and a pompous attitude to boot. If this whiny little chump is the left wing's idea of a great media spokesman, then its no wonder they cant create their own version of Fox News.

But MSNBC is full of them, with Chris Matthews being almost as unwatchable as Shuster, with his shifty eyed leering conman smirk of self satisfaction, as if he really thinks that he is unbearably adorable. MSNBC needs to clean house and start over, the experiment failed. We turn to new channels for the NEWS, not to watch some self-adoring chump like Matthews (and the EXTREMELY overrated Olbermann) mug for the camera and pretend he's our media hero.

Or almost just as bad, effete mousey vapid shallow little WASP mannequins like Contessa Brewer, Alex Witt, or that candy colored clown they call "Heidi" on CNN and their breathy phony "thankSOmuch" to everyone from the weathergirl to the paid "analysts" who seem to live in their greenroom, gushing over one and all as if theyd just rescued their baby from a housefire. These women need to be selling jewelry on QVC or hosting Romper Room, not reading hard news.

And dont even get me started on "Morning Joe", with Scarborough and his flaky sidekick MEEKA doing a pathetic Ronnie and Nancy schtick, right down to Meeka's nauseating stares of adoration at her manly host-fella. We need another Cronkite in a MAJOR way.

I was never crazy about Imus, but in retrospect, he was the best thing on MSNBC (and a damn site better than "Morning Joe" in any sane person's universe). As for Shuster, please, PLEASE, Dan Abrams, cut this loser loose permanently. Then work your way thru cutting and pruning the rest of your lame staff and grade Z anchors and anchorettes, and try turning yourself into a real news agency. Your ratings will thank you.

tismyseason,

What outlandish statements? The Clintons said nothing remotely racist. Rather, Obama's campaign, in a desperate move to win South Carolina, took some innocuous remarks, reframed them out of context, and fed them to a Clinton-scandal, race-patronizing, hungry press, who fed on it like a gourmet meal. In fact, Ob